Can a dealer VOID my warranty?

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is the federal law that governs consumer product warranties. Passed by Congress in 1975, the Act requires manufacturers and sellers of consumer products to provide consumers with detailed information about warranty coverage.

Aftermarket Accessories, Routine Maintenance, and Repairs: What about my Warranty?

Let’s be honest, our vehicles are like a member of our family. We want to take care of them and customize them, but we were told that using independent repair shops, or adding specialty parts or aftermarket accessories would void the warranty.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, issued a consumer alert explaining auto warranties and the right to use shops and accessories at the owner’s discretion. In this alert, the FTC confirmed that “The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act makes it illegal for companies to void your warranty or deny coverage under the warranty simply because you used an aftermarket part;” and defines an “aftermarket’ part is a part made by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer or the original equipment manufacturer.”

The alert outlines and explains provisions in the law specifically for car and truck owners and notes that a consumer has the right to patronize independent retail stores and repair shops for parts and service without fear of voiding the new car warranty. The dealer/vehicle manufacturer has the right to deny a warranty repair but they must demonstrate that the aftermarket part caused the problem. The warranty remains in effect for all other covered parts.