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Martin warranty for guitars & basses

13/100 Warranty ScoreRanked 9 of 9 brandsVaries by model line
The short version

Martin doesn't cover everything, but keeps whole instrument covered to 1 year. That full coverage is the same as most of the 9 brands we compared, which typically cover nothing in full. You don't need to register to get this coverage.

From Martin's published warranty, checked October 2026.

What's covered

Full coverage: everything, parts and laborPartial coverage: some parts only, you usually pay labor
Purchase5 yrs10 yrs+Full: NonePartial: to 1 year
  • Partial coverageWhole instrument1 year
Varies by model line

Martin words its warranty differently for some lines. This page shows the least generous one.

  • Little Martin, Backpacker and 1 Series ukulelesFull: None. Partial to 1 year
  • Acoustic guitars and ukuleles (lifetime-warranty models)Full: None. Partial to lifetime
  • Acoustic guitarsFull: None. Partial to lifetime
The fine print, decoded

What it leaves out

  • Accidental breaks and misuse
  • Cracks
  • Noise
  • Normal wear and tear
Good to know before you buy
  • Covers the original owner only and ends if you sell or give away the instrument.
  • Must be bought from an authorized Martin dealer in the US or Canada. Keep your receipt.
  • You pay shipping and insurance to send it in for repair.
  • Unauthorized repairs or permanent modifications void the warranty.
  • Covers the original owner only, and only if bought from an authorized Martin dealer.
  • Registering within 30 days is recommended; otherwise keep your receipt to prove you are the original owner.

How other brands compare for guitars & basses

Compare all 9 brands
Where you buy it matters

How long stores give you to return it

Longest return window first, for guitars & basses.

  1. WalmartMost items90 days
  2. Guitar CenterMost items45 days
  3. Music & ArtsMost items30 days from delivery
  4. SweetwaterMost items30 days from delivery

From each store's published return policy, using its rule for guitars & basses where it has one. Member and holiday extensions aren't counted. Check yours before you buy.

Work at Martin and see something out of date? Send us the current terms and we'll check and update this page.Suggest a correction

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