You can technically customize your vehicle. You can do whatever you want to it because you own it, but doing so could void your warranty. However, a federal law in the United States known as the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act expressly prevents producers from pressuring their customers to use their brand-name goods or a certain service. As stated in the act:
The use of any product-related item or service (except than those freebies given in accordance with the guarantee’s terms) that is identified by brand, trade, or corporate name is not a condition of any consumer product warrantor’s explicit or implied warranty.
In essence, the Act guarantees that customers won’t lose their warranty if they don’t take their cars to reputable dealers and shops for repairs and maintenance. Therefore, if you own an Audi, the Magnuson Moss Guarantee Act permits you to look for reasonably priced parts from other dealers without jeopardizing your Audi warranty.
But what if you want to tune your car rather than just fix or maintain it? The Federal Trade Commission takes the following stance on the matter:
The manufacturer or dealer has the right to refuse coverage for an aftermarket or recycled part and to charge you for any necessary repairs if it turns out that the aftermarket or recycled part was in fact flawed or improperly installed and it damaged another item that is covered by the warranty.
Therefore, if performance tuning your car results in an upgrade that breaks down a stock part, your dealer may void the warranty on that part. Audi cannot refuse to fix your car or breach your warranty, for instance, if you tune your engine and the next day your sound system stops operating.
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Audi warranty void due to exhaust?
I’ve never heard of someone having their warranty cancelled because they installed aftermarket exhaust. Many Audi dealers will gladly do an exhaust installation for you.
Of course, neither the exhaust itself nor any harm to other parts caused expressly by installing the exhaust will be covered.
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Please supply us with the shipping address so that we can put together a very competitive price.
What alterations void the warranty?
What Voids the Warranty on Your Car?
- Racing your car will void the majority of your warranties without a doubt.
- When you take your car to the dealer for maintenance, aftermarket modifications will cause concern.
- Even though your car is built for off-road driving, your warranty might not always cover you.
A warranty is invalid if what?
A merchant may decide not to uphold the conditions of a warranty by deeming it void in specific instances, particularly when a customer has used a product for a purpose different than what was intended. The Magnuson-Moss Guarantee Act, a federal statute that governs the majority of consumer purchases in the United States, or other state laws may strongly forbid merchants from attempting to void a warranty, however this does happen occasionally.
State laws add another layer and frequently greater consumer safeguards while the federal statute lays the foundation for U.S. consumers. You might be covered by an implied guarantee even if your written warranty is null and void.
The main topic of this article is whether or not a merchant can void a guarantee. For more articles concerning your consumer warranty rights, visit “Product Warranties and Returns.”
Acceptable Reasons for Voiding a Warranty
Understanding your warranty’s provisions in full, especially if it is a limited warranty, will help you safeguard your interests and prevent having your warranty revoked. Full warranties, which are legally obligated to cover any repairs or replacements related to faults during the guarantee term, are significantly less common than limited ones.
Therefore, the maker or particular product determines the causes for voiding a limited warranty. Knowing a warranty’s terms and restrictions will typically help you determine when and under what circumstances it can be revoked. It’s also a good idea to keep your receipt because it can be the only proof of the transaction.
When making a significant purchase, ponder the following:
- How long will your purchase be covered by the warranty?
- If the product breaks, does the warranty cover repair, replacement, or a refund?
- Who should you get in touch with and how do you get warranty service?
- Which components and issues fall within the warranty’s coverage? Which are expressly disallowed?
- Does the guarantee also apply to “consequential damages” like the price of damaged food in the event that a freezer malfunctions?
- Exist any unauthorized uses, alterations, or modifications to the product that can void the warranty? Federal law stipulates that in order to void a written guarantee, the merchant must demonstrate that the alteration constituted the root of the fault.
- If a warranty is supposedly “lifetime,” does it refer to the lifespan of the item or the owner?
- Is the retailer a respectable business?
The following are some of the most frequent grounds for which merchants void warranties:
- The guarantee period is over.
- The flaw or component is not covered.
- Misuse of the product or improper maintenance are to blame for its failure.
- You significantly altered the item, which has had an impact on its performance.
When Merchants Cannot Invalidate a Warranty
In order to benefit from a full warranty’s benefits, retailers cannot demand that customers fill out a registration card, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which upholds federal consumer rules. While relatively few restrictions may be made to complete warranties, the consumer must be made aware of the precise bounds of any reduced warranties.
The following are some additional warranty requirements or restrictions that the FTC deems unreasonable, and whose compliance will not render a warranty void:
- requiring physical visits to warranty service centers when returning products (also called “carry back”)
- requiring customers to return a vehicle (or watercraft) that is not roadworthy or that, if operated, poses a danger of human injury or further damage
- requiring clients to pay for shipping or shipping insurance
- Making the client liable for any goods lost or stolen during shipping
- requesting the return of goods in their original packing
- requesting the customer to elaborate on the nature or cause of the defect (as opposed to simply describing how it failed)
The phrases “sold as is” or “with all flaws,” although are permitted in other jurisdictions, may not be used by merchants to disclaim an implicit warranty in some states. For additional details, see “What is an Implied Warranty?” Another resource is “Facts for Consumers: Warranties” from the FTC.
Real-Life Examples of Warranty Limitations
Limited warranties have different conditions from one firm to the next, and occasionally even within a single company’s product line. The examples below demonstrate this variety:
- Apple: “Jailbreaking” an iPhone, which allows users to run unapproved software by circumventing built-in restrictions, destroys the device’s warranty. However, breaking into jail is legal.
- For as long as the initial buyer owns their property, Kohler’s lifetime limited warranty is valid for its faucets. The guarantee will be void if incorrect cleaning and care are used, according to the policy.
- Chevrolet: The first three years or 36,000 miles are covered by the “bumper-to-bumper” warranty. The policy excludes coverage for the clutch, coolant hoses, and engine radiator, among other things.
- Integrity Windows & Doors: The company’s 10-year limited guarantee covers stress cracks brought on by manufacturing flaws. Non-glass parts of windows “placed within one mile of a sea coast” are not covered.
- Buck Knives: With a few restrictions, the knife manufacturer’s “forever” warranty is practically a lifetime warranty. Knives harmed by abuse, carelessness, tampering, or self-repair are not covered.
What actions could invalidate the car’s warranty?
The law that outlines what completely or partially nullifies an automotive warranty is known as the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act. Extended warranties aren’t governed by the same laws because they are technically considered car service contracts. Below are some of the more typical situations, but you should read the terms and conditions to understand what could make the coverage worthless.
#1 Getting Work Done in an Unauthorized Repair Shop
Warranty: While getting someone other than your dealer to work on your automobile won’t normally breach your warranty, if your manufacturer or dealer offers free repairs under the conditions of the warranty, they could specify where these need to be done.
Extended warranties and VSCs are frequent reasons for claim denials. Also keep in mind that certain extended warranties may state the region to which coverage is applicable.
#2 Doing Your Own Repairs
Warranty: The Federal Trade Commission, a consumer protection organization, states that coverage may be withheld if you make your own repair mistakes that result in a problem, albeit the warranty provider would have to show this. However, the warranty provider cannot revoke the coverage only because you handled the repair; any other car parts covered by the guarantee’s terms would continue to be covered regardless.
Extended warranties and VSCs are quite likely to render any claims you might have void.
#3 Not Sticking to the Routine Maintenance Schedule
Warranty: The routine maintenance schedule for your vehicle is detailed in your owner’s manual. This schedule often calls for tasks like tire rotation, fluid level checks, and oil changes. You run the danger of your warranty being voided if you don’t adhere to this timetable.
VSC: In the same way, disregarding the necessary maintenance tasks that keep you and your car safe can void an extended warranty.
#4 No Paperwork
Warranty: The Federal Trade Commission advises maintaining thorough records and receipts of all work performed on your car. Even if you strictly followed the maintenance schedule, your insurance policy may be voided if you don’t have the documentationspecifically, invoices and receipts that explain the work done and who performed it.
In order for the provider to determine if you have adhered to the maintenance plan and receive coverage, you must always keep detailed records of any work performed. Otherwise, your request may be denied.
#5 Modifying Your Car with Aftermarket or Recycled Parts
Warranty: If you utilize aftermarket or recycled parts that are defective or improperly installed and your vehicle is damaged as a result, the manufacturer may refuse to provide coverage. However, this would only apply to the broken parts, and the maker would have to prove that the installation of aftermarket or recycled parts or their use caused the issue.
If the manufacturer offers particular parts for free as part of the warranty coverage, they may also stipulate that these must be used.
Extended warranty/VSC: Modifying your car should be done cautiously as it is a typical reason for claims to be denied.
What auto modifications violate your warranty? The suspension may need to be improved, or turbochargers may need to be installed. Manufacturer upgrades and modifications made by authorized dealers are safer alterations that are less likely to invalidate your policy. However, we still advise being cautious and carefully reviewing the terms of your plan.
Is a cold air intake a warranty breaker?
A Cold Air Intake Work my factory warranty be void? No. If an aftermarket part (such as a Cold Air Inductions, Inc. part) is used in a repair, the manufacturer of a warranted product (in this case, a car), may not void or refuse warranty coverage of the repair in the United States.
What kinds of maintenance fixes would nullify the warranty?
A factory warranty can be quite useful in helping you avoid paying for expensive repairs. Each protection plan does, however, come with instructions that must be followed in order to maintain your coverage. When coping with a breakdown, breaking them could force you to pay out of cash.
No matter if you have a factory warranty or an extended warranty for a used automobile, each will have certain requirements to prevent you from nullifying the warranty. Our specialists came up with a list of the top 8 ways to void your factory warranty so you don’t experience this.
Top 8 Ways To Void Your Warranty
1. Title Concerns
A salvage title is among the situations that void warranties the most frequently. Your full warranty will be canceled if your car has been in a serious accident and has been deemed a total loss or received a salvage title. Finding an extended warranty can be challenging if you unintentionally bought a salvage-titled car up until now.
You won’t need to worry about paying for covered auto repairs or routine maintenance ever again thanks to the launch of our newest protection plan, EnduranceAdvantageTM. EnduranceAdvantage, unlike most plans, does not have a lengthy list of exclusions or apply to salvaged or rebuilt automobiles. Don’t go another mile without the industry-revolutionizing vehicle protection. To begin right now, submit a free, no-obligation estimate request.
2. Modifications Voiding the Warranty
Many people like to modify their cars as a hobby. Everyone likes to make their automobile feel brand new, whether it is through tire height or tinted windows. Since they are an extension of our personalities, cars can be customized to stand out on their own. Despite how enjoyable it could be, you run the danger of voiding your warranty. To find out which modifications may nullify your warranty and which ones you can still make, you must speak with the company offering it. In the long run, this can save you a ton of time and money.
You may still be able to get an expensive extended warranty for your car, depending on the changes you choose. Due to the modifications, you could have to spend a little bit more, but this will be much more inexpensive than having to pay for expensive breakdowns.
Lemon Law Automobiles
A car is referred to be a lemon if it has numerous production flaws that significantly reduce its value and safety. For those searching for a cheap automobile, returning a lemon law car to the manufacturer is fairly popular, but there are drawbacks.
Getting an extended warranty for a vehicle that has been labeled a lemon will be rather difficult through a third-party. Your extended warranty will be void if your car is determined to be a lemon and you have purchased an extended warranty.
4. National Limitations
Checking the limitations on your factory or extended warranty will be essential for individuals who are moving abroad or who plan to travel. A warranty may not be valid for vehicles in another nation according to some manufacturers and third-party businesses. This will differ depending on whether you have an extended auto warranty or a manufacturer’s warranty, so you’ll need to check with your specific supplier.
There’s no need to worry if you’re looking for an extended warranty and finding it difficult to get serviced in the US. All levels of EnduranceAdvantage coverage are available for automobiles purchased on the Canadian Grey Market. If your manufacturer’s warranty does not transfer upon entry into the United States, we also take over coverage.
Misuse of a Vehicle #5
A company that offers extended warranties may decide to void your warranty if you misuse your car. Off-roading, racing, and other pursuits that go above and beyond regular driving are examples of this. These activities may subject your car to more wear and tear than what your warranty was designed to cover. If you believe you won’t be discovered, look through a few online automotive forums and look for instances where automakers and dealers keep an eye on how their customers utilize their vehicles. Your warranty can be void if they can demonstrate that it was utilized outside of its intended purpose.
Changed Odometer
It is nonetheless important to describe this approach even if it is typically used by people with extensive mechanical skills. Your warranty will be void if you have tampered with your odometer. Warranties are based on mileage or yearly increments. Your firm will just nullify the warranty because changing your mileage could influence how it is paid out.
Environment-Related Damage
Depending on the firm you choose, environmental damage may potentially void a factory or extended warranty. Flooding, earthquakes, tornadoes, and other natural calamities can all cause environmental damage. Almost every manufacturer and third-party extended warranty provider normally operates in this manner.
8. Using unclean or inappropriate fluids
If you or another person uses contaminated or inappropriate fluids on your car, you risk simply voiding the manufacturer’s and extended warranties. This spans from a stranger dumping sugar in your gas tank to using the wrong oil in your engine. If a repair is required as a result of the usage of these fluids, your warranty will probably not cover it and will be fully invalid.
Even if performing maintenance at home is less expensive, our experts suggest contacting your reliable technician to complete all necessary tasks. By doing this, you reduce the possibility that your warranty will be voided and that early damage will occur.
How To Avoid Warranty Issues
Knowing what you can do to stop it from happening is the best approach to keep your warranty from expiring. We have included three excellent tips to assist you better understand what can void your warranty.
- Consult your warranty. Spend some time reading your warranty in its entirety. Even while it may seem like a lot of labor now, you will eventually reap the benefits. Your warranty should clearly state what is covered as well as what may void it.
- Maintain your vehicle at regular intervals.
- Maintaining your car properly not only keeps it operating for longer periods of time, but also makes sure that your warranty is still valid. When you bring your car into the repair shop, the mechanic will be able to easily notice any long-term harm you’ve done by neglecting the maintenance schedule for your car. Keep in mind that obvious evidence of carelessness can quickly void a warranty, so stick to your maintenance program.
- Keep all invoices and receipts for services.
- Always save your receipts and any accompanying papers when you bring your car in for maintenance or repairs. This will enable you to keep track of any warranty, upkeep, or service work you perform on your car.
Introducing EnduranceAdvantageTM
The unpleasant truth is lost on most individuals once your factory warranty expires. After an auto manufacturer’s warranty expires, you are in charge of paying for any mechanical issues and related expenses. Drive with assurance knowing that you have the market’s most complete car protection package.
Up to $3,500 worth of maintenance is covered by EnduranceAdvantageTM, including wiper and brake pad replacements, oil and filter changes, and more. The program’s eligibility is unparalleled. EnduranceAdvantage does not contain the lengthy list of restrictions and disclaimers that most auto insurance policies include. There is something for everyone with the fully customisable plan, regardless of whether they have a high mileage vehicle or a car with cutting-edge technology. Request a free, no-obligation quotation right away to get started.
For more than 20 years, Alex has worked in the car repair sector. He worked as a Technician while earning a Master Technician designation after graduating from one of the finest technical colleges in the nation. Additionally, Alex has worked as a service manager and advisor at both new car dealerships and independent repair facilities. Alex is currently Endurance Dealer Services’ Director of Claims, responsible for managing the fulfillment of all contract benefits.