In Maryland, the state’s version of the lemon law is technically known as the “Automobile Warranty Enforcement Law.” Regardless of what it is called, it is important that those people who think their new car is a lemon know what has to be done to get a new car or a refund.
Under Maryland Law, What Is A Lemon?
For a car to be considered a lemon, under Maryland law, all the following criteria must be met:
* The car was purchased new
* The manufacturer’s warranty is still in effect
* The defect affects the cars safety, use, or value
* Within two years or 24,000 miles, the manufacturer has tried four times to rectify the problem or one time if the problem is related to the brakes or steering. This also applies if the car has been unavailable for use for 30 days or more.
Filing A Claim:
Filing a lemon law claim in Maryland is somewhat complicated. Many people find it to be in their favor to hire an attorney who specializes in this area.
Do not wait until the two years is up. Contact the vehicle manufacturer after the second attempt to fix the problem. Do everything in writing when you communicate with the manufacturer and provide copies of work orders and invoices that pertain to the specific problem. Identical information must be given to the office of the Maryland Attorney General.
After receipt of your claim, the manufacturer has 30 days to fix the problem. If, after the final attempt at repair, the problem still exists, it is wise to consult with an attorney who is intimate with the lemon law in Maryland.
Resolution Of The Claim:
If the manufacturer fails to accommodate your claim, call for arbitration. The decision of the arbiter is binding on the manufacturer, but not on you. If the decision favors the manufacturer, you are free to take legal action against the manufacturer. If this is the only avenue left, your attorney has three years from the date the vehicle was delivered to you to file the case.
Pursuing a lemon law claim is not easy. If you are having problems in Maryland, you are invited to contact the Krohn & Moss, Ltd. Consumer Law Center®.
