Notifying the Manufacturer in Washington, D.C.

D.C.’s lemon law depends on reporting the nonconformity during the coverage window (§ 50-502). Notifying the manufacturer (or its authorized dealer) and documenting it protects your claim.

Report within the window

The remedy hinges on the defect being reported within the first 18,000 miles or two years from original delivery, whichever is earlier (§ 50-502). Raise the defect promptly with the manufacturer or an authorized dealer and get it on a repair order — and make sure any safety dimension is noted, since one failed safety repair can meet the presumption.

Put the manufacturer on notice

As repairs mount, notify the manufacturer in writing:

1. Your details — name, address, VIN, purchase/delivery date, mileage.
2. The defect — describe the nonconformity, flagging any safety aspect, and how it substantially impairs the vehicle.
3. The repair history — dates, dealers, and out-of-service days.
4. A demand — ask the manufacturer to conform the vehicle, and note you’ll pursue your lemon-law remedy (via the Arbitration Board) if it can’t.
5. Keep proof — a copy and any mailing receipt.

What happens next

• The manufacturer gets the chance to repair the defect.
• If it can’t conform the vehicle, you submit the claim to the Board of Consumer Claims Arbitration — the mandatory first forum.
• If you prevail, you choose refund or replacement.

Watch the clock

Report early within the 18,000-mile/two-year window, and remember any court action must be filed within four years of delivery (§ 50-507). See statute of limitations.

Bottom line

Report the defect within 18,000 miles or two years, flag any safety aspect, and put the manufacturer on notice in writing. Early, documented notice protects the remedy. Get a free case review.

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