State lemon law · checked October 23, 2026
Verified against the statute / official state publicationMd. Code, Com. Law §§14-1501–14-1504
| Presumption window | Defects must be reported within 24 months / 18,000 miles, whichever comes first. |
|---|---|
| Same defect | 4+ repair attempts |
| Safety defect | 1+ attempt(s) — A brake or steering failure that keeps the vehicle from passing Maryland safety inspection: 1 attempt. |
| Days out of service | 30+ calendar days |
The presumption is the set of numbers that shifts the burden to the manufacturer. A claim can exist outside the presumption — it is a shortcut, not the whole road. Read why.
The reasonable allowance for use is CAPPED at 15% of the purchase price (§14-1503). The refund also includes license, registration, and similar charges.
Written notice to the manufacturer by certified mail, return receipt requested, during the warranty period. The manufacturer then has 30 days to complete repairs.
Dispute route: Arbitration is not mandatory in Maryland, and using it does not toll the 3-year filing deadline.
Attorney's fees: A court may award reasonable attorney's fees to a prevailing plaintiff (§14-1502(l)) — but a claim found frivolous can be charged the other side's fees.
Suit must be filed within 3 years of original delivery. Using the manufacturer's arbitration does NOT extend this deadline.
| New vehicles | Covered |
|---|---|
| Leased vehicles | Covered |
| Used vehicles | Covered in defined situations — see notes |
| Motorcycles | Covered |
| RV / motor home | Covered — chassis / powertrain only |
Your repair-log tracker, the Maryland notice letter, the buyback worksheet on Maryland's formula, and your deadline calendar.
Checked October 23, 2026. Laws change; if your claim is close to a line, verify the current statute or ask a lawyer in Maryland. This page is information, not legal advice.