Frequently Asked Questions
About Martin Guitars
How long have Martin guitars been made?
C. F. Martin Sr. founded the company in 1833. Six generations of the Martin family have guided the company since its inception.
Where are Martin guitars made?
The manufacturing facilities are located in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, USA. Additional information about our production can be found on our website.
Do you offer tours of your facility?
Yes, we offer public tours. Please check our official website for the current tour schedule, availability, and to make any required reservations.
Are you currently hiring?
All open positions are posted on our official website. You can view current opportunities and apply online there.
Care & Maintenance
How do I clean my guitar?
Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the entire instrument after each use. For more thorough cleaning, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid commercial polishes and cleaners, especially those containing silicone, as they can damage the finish. Never apply liquids directly to the guitar.
How should I humidify my guitar?
Maintaining a stable environment between 45-55% relative humidity is crucial. Use a high-quality soundhole humidifier for your acoustic guitar during dry conditions, especially in winter or in arid climates. Always keep the guitar in its case when humidifying.
What is the proper way to tune my guitar?
Always turn the tuning machines gently. For pegs with buttons on the face of the headstock (e.g., strings 1, 2, 5, & 6), turn counter-clockwise to raise the pitch and clockwise to lower it. For the remaining pegs, turn clockwise to raise the pitch and counter-clockwise to lower it.
What is the warranty on my Martin guitar?
Martin acoustic guitars have a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover normal wear, damage from alterations, accidents, or lack of maintenance. Proof of purchase is required. For complete details, please refer to the warranty card included with your guitar.
Repairs & Service
How do I get my Martin guitar serviced?
We recommend contacting an authorized Martin service center for all repairs. A list of authorized service centers can be found on our website. For help finding a service center, please contact us online.
I have a broken tuning machine. Can I get a replacement?
Replacement tuning machines and parts are available. Please visit our website’s parts section to identify the correct model and order replacements.
The finish on my guitar is checking. Is this covered by the warranty?
Finish checking—the small cracks in the finish that can occur with temperature changes—is considered a natural characteristic and is not covered under the warranty. It does not affect the tonal quality or structural integrity of the instrument.
I need a part, like a bridge or a pickguard. Where can I find one?
Many common replacement parts are available for purchase directly through our website.
Products & Specifications
How can I find out when my guitar was made?
You can determine the year your guitar was built by using the serial number lookup tool on our website.
Where can I find specifications for my guitar?
Specifications for current models are listed on our website. For information on older or discontinued models, you can often find details in the archived sections of our site or by contacting us online.
What strings does Martin recommend?
Martin strings are designed and engineered specifically for our guitars, and we highly recommend them for optimal performance and tone. While other brands can be used, we cannot guarantee their performance or that they will not adversely affect the instrument.
Do you make left-handed guitars?
Yes, we produce many of our popular models in left-handed configurations. Availability may vary. Please check our website for current left-handed offerings.
Do you make custom guitars?
Yes, through our Custom Shop, you can create a uniquely personalized Martin guitar. You can work with a authorized dealer to design your instrument.
Where can I buy Martin guitars and accessories?
Our instruments and accessories are sold through a worldwide network of authorized dealers. You can find a dealer near you by using the dealer locator on our website.
Do you sell guitars directly to consumers?
We do not sell instruments directly. All sales are conducted through our authorized retail dealers.
Shipping & Returns
How do I return a product I purchased?
All returns must be processed through the authorized dealer where the guitar was originally purchased. Please contact them directly for their specific return policy and procedures.
My question isn’t listed here. How can I get help?
For further assistance, please reach out to us through the contact form available on our website. We are happy to help.