Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act Explained
Scenario: You just purchased a brand new vehicle from a dealership that came with an extensive warranty on all parts and mechanics. You love your vehicle, but want to add some style and snap. You find the perfect growling exhaust system that revs your name when you start the engine. You call us, schedule your appointment, and we order the part.
Later that evening, you are bragging to Cousin Eddie about this system. Eddie, who is a novice in the after marketing customizing spectrum, but seems to know everything about vehicle warranties, advises you not install that exhaust because your warranty will be as good as kindling for a fire.
You believe Eddie, your are devastated and call us to cancel that appointment. Huge bummer, right?
WRONG!!
According to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, when accessorizing your vehicle with aftermarket parts, your warranty cannot be automatically denied or voided. In order for the warranty to be voided, the dealership must prove that the installed part caused the mechanical failure and then can deny the warranty claim.
In addition to the act, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) represents aftermarket wholesalers, retailers, distributors and manufacturers by supporting legislation that prevents dealerships from denying warranty coverage.
Passed by Congress in 1975, The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is intended to protect consumers from deceptive warranty practices. The purpose of the Act is to make warranties on consumer products more readily understood and enforceable and to provide the Federal Trade Commission with means to better protect consumers.
Although Cousin Eddie knows a lot, he doesn’t know all the details in your dealerships warranty. ProTrucks and Cars only sells the best and provides the best service, we know our products and we know the language of warranties. You are protected and you are safe to come to us. Call us and we will be happy to consult with you on your warranty and protections.
RESOURCES:
MLMLaw.com, Reese, Poyfair, Richards PLLC
Cornell University Law School, Legal Information Institute