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Concern
You want to upgrade your vehicle with aftermarket equipment,
but you're worried about putting the vehicle's warranty at
risk. It's no wonder. How many times have you heard someone
at a automobile dealership say that unless the dealer
installs your aftermarket equipment you will automatically
void your new car warranty? This common misconception has
been repeated often enough to be widely believed — though it
is completely false.
The Reality
Most vehicle owners are not aware they are protected by
federal law: the Magnuson-Moss Warranty — Federal Trade
Commission Improvement Act of performance does not void a
vehicle manufacturer's original warranty, unless the
warranty clearly and conspicuously states that aftermarket
equipment voids the warranty. Most states have warranty
statutes, which provide further protections for vehicle
owners.
In other words, a dealer can't get out of the legal warranty
obligation merely because you install aftermarket equipment.
To find out if any aftermarket equipment automatically voids
your vehicle's warranty, check the owner's manual. It is
likely the language you are looking for appears under a
heading such as "What Is Not Covered" Although the language
seems negative, remember your vehicle manufacturer is simply
saying they do not cover the aftermarket products
themselves. They are not saying that the products would void
the vehicle warranty.
New Car Vehicle Dealer Obligations
Fact: A dealer must prove (not just say) that
aftermarket equipment caused the need for repairs before he
can deny warranty coverage on that basis.
Your Rights
Point out to the dealer the provision of the Magnuson-Moss
Act. Require that they explain how the aftermarket equipment
caused the problem. If they can't (or the explanation sounds
questionable) it is your legal right to demand they comply
with the warranty.
Fact: If you are still being unfairly denied warranty
coverage, there is recourse. The Federal Trade Commission,
which administers the Magnuson-Moss Act, monitors compliance
with warranty issues. Direct complaints to the FTC at (202)
326-3128.
The Magnuson-Moss Act
For "The Businesspersons Guide to Federal Warranty Law" and
the full requirements of the Magnuson-Moss Act, visit the
FTC's web site by clicking here.
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