Magnuson-Moss Act: Vehicle Modifications and Warranty

[Alex8181]

Disclaimer: For the official wording and language about the Magnuson-Moss act please refer to the Federal Trade Commission Website: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/...s/warranty.htm

It is common for new car owners to be concerned about modifying their car and worrying about voiding there warranty. The following should be good information to consider if you?re worrying about that next modification.

Although the Magnuson-Moss Act was a law designed to protect consumers for any product worth over $25, it has become a large part of the automotive industry. We have all heard of stories in which dealerships have refused to honor a warranty because of modification to the vehicle. Under the Magnusson-Moss Act, a dealership or manufacturer cannot deny warranty coverage solely because the consumer has installed aftermarket parts. This does not give tuners an excuse though, to throw anything they want on the car. If the manufacturer or dealership determines the mechanical problem is fully or even partially due to an aftermarket part, they have the legal right to deny coverage or repair under the warranty. The purpose of the act, in regards to automobiles, is so manufacturers cannot require consumers to purchase the OEM parts. If you decide to use a Fram or Mobil 1 oil filter as opposed to the factory oil filter, this is where the act will protect you by not voiding your warranty. What this all means is that, although you can modify your vehicle with aftermarket parts, you should make sure you being smart about your modifications. No need to waste a good warranty while it?s there.