Columbia, Maryland: By the Numbers
Columbia - located between Baltimore and Washington DC - is near some of the most prominent military, industrial, commercial, and tech hubs on the planet. All of this economic activity means there is a constant stream of traffic on the roads. Even a single defective vehicle can lead to severe consequences if not dealt with properly.
Population of Baltimore-Columbia Township Metro
2.8M+
Cars Registered in Maryland
2M+
Size of Baltimore-Columbia Township Metro
210 Square Miles
What is the Lemon Law in Columbia, Maryland?
Maryland's lemon law exists to protect consumers who purchase a vehicle with manufacturer defects. If your car shows signs of mechanical issues - and the authorized repair facility cannot successfully complete warranty repairs - you may be entitled to a buyback or a replacement vehicle.
Under Maryland's lemon law, your defective car, light truck, or motorcycle must meet the following qualifications:
- The manufacturer’s authorized repair facility has made a reasonable number of attempts (typically at least 4) to fix the defect, but the attempts were unsuccessful.
- The vehicle has been out of service for warranty-covered repairs for 30 or more cumulative days (does not have to be consecutive).
Maryland lemon law applies to new vehicles purchased/ leased within the state.
The defect must be reported to the dealer or manufacturer while the warranty is valid.
The defect must substantially impair the vehicle's functionality, safety, or value.
Vehicle must be driven for less than 18,000 miles and been owned for less than 24 months.
Consumers have three years to file a Maryland lemon law claim after the delivery date. We recommend starting the process to file a lemon law claim immediately after it meets the criteria - as waiting could potentially compromise your settlement.
How Does a Car Qualify as a Lemon in Columbia, Maryland?
For a vehicle to be considered a lemon in Columbia, MD, it must meet these foundational conditions:
The defect was reported to the manufacturer within the terms of the original warranty.
The vehicle was purchased or leased in the state of Maryland.
Get a FREE Maryland Lemon Law Case Evaluation
We provide free, no-obligation consultations to Maryland vehicle owners who believe they have purchased a lemon. We will review your case, examine the warranty details, and explain your options to pursue a resolution under the state's lemon law.
Maryland Lemon Law Requirements
The defect must be reported to the manufacturer within 24 months of purchase or before 18,000 miles, whichever comes first.
The manufacturer’s authorized repair technicians must be given at least 4 attempts to fix the defect or the vehicle must be out of service for 30 or more cumulative days.
The defect must significantly impair the vehicle's safety, use, or value.
Are Used Cars Covered under Maryland Lemon Law?
No, Maryland's lemon law applies only to new vehicles - either purchased or leased. However, some used vehicles may qualify for protection under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act if sold with a warranty. Get in touch with a Columbia lemon law attorney to learn about your options.
Breach of Warranty
Maryland's lemon law holds manufacturers accountable for defects originating at the factory. If the manufacturer fails to resolve issues with a defective vehicle, you may be able to pursue compensation for breach of warranty.
To prove a breach of warranty in Maryland, you must show:
The manufacturer promised the vehicle would function as promised.
You reasonably expected the vehicle to perform as intended.
The manufacturer failed to fulfill the warranty.
The warranty violation resulted in damages or extra costs.
You initially notified the manufacturer of the issue within the warranty period.
Be sure to keep detailed documentation of all repair attempts and communication with the manufacturer to support your claim.
Exceptions to Maryland Lemon Law
Your vehicle may not qualify for lemon law protection if:
It was purchased used or "as-is".
The defect was caused by owner abuse, neglect, or after-market modifications.
The vehicle is a motorhome, RV, or part of a large commercial vehicle.
The defect does not significantly impair the vehicle's safety, use, or value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Columbia Lemon Law Cases
Most lemon law cases in Columbia we see are rooted in defects affecting vehicle components, including (but not limited to):
Engine failures
Electrical malfunctions
Brake defects
Alignment problems
Transmission issues
Steering system malfunctions
Each case is unique, so keep thorough records of all repair attempts and communications with the manufacturer.
Speak to an Experienced Columbia Lemon Law Attorney
At Robison Lemon Law Group LLC, we have helped many consumers navigate Maryland's lemon law. Contact us for a FREE consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Lemon Car Buyback & Refund Calculator
Use the calculator below to calculate an estimate for the amount you may be entitled to in the case of a repurchase.