D.C.'s Repair-Attempt Presumption (§ 50-501)

Washington, D.C.’s lemon-law presumption is among the most consumer-friendly in the country. It’s set by D.C. Code § 50-501, and meeting it presumes the manufacturer has had a reasonable number of attempts to fix the vehicle.

The three triggers

Within the first 18,000 miles or two years from original delivery (whichever is earlier), the presumption arises if any of these occurs:

1. One safety attempt — a safety-related nonconformity has been subject to repair one or more times and still exists; OR
2. Four general attempts — the same (non-safety) nonconformity has been subject to repair four or more times and persists; OR
3. 30 days out of service — the vehicle is out of service for repair of any nonconformities for a cumulative 30 days or more.

The one-attempt safety rule

The standout is the one-attempt safety rule. For a defect that affects safety — brakes, steering, stalling, airbags — a single failed repair can satisfy the presumption. That’s far more protective than the three- or four-attempt thresholds most states require for any defect. Document the safety nature of the defect clearly.

What counts as a repair attempt

• A visit to the manufacturer or an authorized dealer for the same nonconformity. See which repair shop.
• Independent-shop and DIY repairs don’t count — and can trigger an abuse defense.
• Keep a repair order for every visit describing the problem in your words.

Substantial impairment still required

The presumption speaks to how many attempts are reasonable — you still must show the defect substantially impairs the use, market value, or safety of the vehicle. See qualifying defects.

Bottom line

In D.C., one repair attempt for a safety defect — or four for a general defect, or 30 days out of service — presumes a reasonable number of attempts within the 18,000-mile/two-year window. Document the safety nature of the defect and every visit. Get a free case review.

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