Uneducated ford man
11-04-2007, 09:26 AM
#11
08 February TOTM
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Dumfries, VA Member: #77
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If you need some info regarding this manufacturer warranty issue, please take a look at this link.
http://popular.thewavemedia.com/warranty.html
http://popular.thewavemedia.com/warranty.html
The Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act refers to replacement parts That the dealer can not void your warranty for not using the dealers OEM parts, otherwise like that states, they would have to furnish you those parts under warranty. The act has nothing to do with parts you chose to add to improve performance or drive-ability of your vehicle. If you chose to add such stuff it can void your warranty at the Dealers discretion. My dealer is pretty good, they know I use a tuner in my truck and I haven't had any warranty issues with them about it, but, not all Dealers are the same. Most likely it won't be an issue but it's best to confirm first.
Last edited by whitecrystal1; 11-04-2007 at 11:27 AM.
11-04-2007, 06:30 PM
#12
MuthaTruckin' Monster
I Beg To Differ...
Sorry, I know I'm new here and don't mean to step on any toes, but I did do quite a bit of research on this before I started installing my afermarket stuff on my vehicle. Here is a passage from the web page, http://nycperformancetuning.com/magnusson.html
"The Law:
Federal law sets forth requirements for warranties and contains a number of provisions to prevent vehicle manufacturers, dealers and others from unjustly denying warranty coverage. With regard to aftermarket parts, the spirit of the law is that warranty coverage cannot be denied simply because such parts are present on the vehicle, or have been used (see Attachment A).The warranty coverage can be denied only if the aftermarket part caused the malfunction or damage for which warranty coverage is sought. Disputes in this area usually boil down to arguments over facts and technical opinions, rather than arguments over interpretations of the law."
Crystal, b/c according to your thought, if a vehicle that originally did not have, let's say powerless locks (something obviously relatively tame) and went and had them installed via aftermarket, that they wouldn't have a leg to stand on by the law if some type of problem occurred in the future. That sounds kinda crazy to me! (no, i'm not calling you crazy
) But if these aftermarket power locks did not directly cause some sort of damage issue, then even though they were aftermarket, this person's claim can not be denied. So, I believe, this then also crosses over to whether you're talking about power locks, AIC, or exhaust system. It does not matter whether it is a "replacement part" or some sort of aftermarket add-on, if the product in question did not in some way directly contribute to the vehicle's malfunction, then it can not be held responsible in denying a vehicle warrantly claim.
Now these are just my beliefs from what I have read and studied and if others have different information please let me know b/c I don't want to be incorrectly thinking one thing when it is not correct, but from what I have seen so far Crystal The Mag-Moss Act does indeed cover these things as well. Love ya All!!!
"The Law:
Federal law sets forth requirements for warranties and contains a number of provisions to prevent vehicle manufacturers, dealers and others from unjustly denying warranty coverage. With regard to aftermarket parts, the spirit of the law is that warranty coverage cannot be denied simply because such parts are present on the vehicle, or have been used (see Attachment A).The warranty coverage can be denied only if the aftermarket part caused the malfunction or damage for which warranty coverage is sought. Disputes in this area usually boil down to arguments over facts and technical opinions, rather than arguments over interpretations of the law."
Crystal, b/c according to your thought, if a vehicle that originally did not have, let's say powerless locks (something obviously relatively tame) and went and had them installed via aftermarket, that they wouldn't have a leg to stand on by the law if some type of problem occurred in the future. That sounds kinda crazy to me! (no, i'm not calling you crazy
) But if these aftermarket power locks did not directly cause some sort of damage issue, then even though they were aftermarket, this person's claim can not be denied. So, I believe, this then also crosses over to whether you're talking about power locks, AIC, or exhaust system. It does not matter whether it is a "replacement part" or some sort of aftermarket add-on, if the product in question did not in some way directly contribute to the vehicle's malfunction, then it can not be held responsible in denying a vehicle warrantly claim. Now these are just my beliefs from what I have read and studied and if others have different information please let me know b/c I don't want to be incorrectly thinking one thing when it is not correct, but from what I have seen so far Crystal The Mag-Moss Act does indeed cover these things as well. Love ya All!!!
11-04-2007, 06:43 PM
#13
MuthaTruckin' Monster
The Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act refers to replacement parts That the dealer can not void your warranty for not using the dealers OEM parts, otherwise like that states, they would have to furnish you those parts under warranty. The act has nothing to do with parts you chose to add to improve performance or drive-ability of your vehicle. If you chose to add such stuff it can void your warranty at the Dealers discretion. My dealer is pretty good, they know I use a tuner in my truck and I haven't had any warranty issues with them about it, but, not all Dealers are the same. Most likely it won't be an issue but it's best to confirm first.
11-04-2007, 06:51 PM
#14
MuthaTruckin' Monster
My Rant Continues...
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Protecting tweakers, tuners, and other users of aftermarket equipment.
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 some one at a dealership say that installing aftermarket equipment automatically voids the warranty? This common misconception has been repeated often enough to be widely believed –though it is completely false.
Fact: Dealers don’t like warranty work, because it pays less than normal repair work. By promoting the myth that aftermarket equipment automatically voids warranties, some dealers avoid such low-paying work. Instead, they attempt to charge customers the prime service rate for work which is rightfully done under warranty.
Most vehicle owners are not aware they are protected by federal law: the Magnuson-Moss Warranty – Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act of 1975. Under the MMW Act, aftermarket equipment which improves performance does not void a vehicle manufacturer’s original warranty, unless the warranty clearly and conspicuously states that aftermarket equipment voids the warranty (ours does not). Most states have warranty statutes, as well. Which provide further protections for vehicle owners.
In other words, that means a dealer can’t wiggle out of his 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 will be under the sections titled "What is not covered". Your vehicle manufacturer is simply saying he does not cover the aftermarket products themselves. He is not saying that the products would void the vehicle warranty.
Suppose your modified vehicle needs repairs while still under warranty. Without analyzing the true cause of the problem, the dealer attempts to deny warranty coverage. He made his decision simply based on the fact that you’ve installed aftermarket equipment – a convenient way to dodge low-paying warranty work.
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.
Point out to the dealer the provision of the MMW Act. Require that he explain to you how the aftermarket equipment caused the problem. If he can’t – or his explanation sounds questionable – it is your legal right to demand he comply with the warranty.
If you are being unfairly denied warranty coverage, there is recourse. The Federal Trade Commission, which administers the MMWAct, monitors compliance with warranty issues. Direct complaints to the FCT at (202) 326-3128.
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 some one at a dealership say that installing aftermarket equipment automatically voids the warranty? This common misconception has been repeated often enough to be widely believed –though it is completely false.
Fact: Dealers don’t like warranty work, because it pays less than normal repair work. By promoting the myth that aftermarket equipment automatically voids warranties, some dealers avoid such low-paying work. Instead, they attempt to charge customers the prime service rate for work which is rightfully done under warranty.
Most vehicle owners are not aware they are protected by federal law: the Magnuson-Moss Warranty – Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act of 1975. Under the MMW Act, aftermarket equipment which improves performance does not void a vehicle manufacturer’s original warranty, unless the warranty clearly and conspicuously states that aftermarket equipment voids the warranty (ours does not). Most states have warranty statutes, as well. Which provide further protections for vehicle owners.
In other words, that means a dealer can’t wiggle out of his 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 will be under the sections titled "What is not covered". Your vehicle manufacturer is simply saying he does not cover the aftermarket products themselves. He is not saying that the products would void the vehicle warranty.
Suppose your modified vehicle needs repairs while still under warranty. Without analyzing the true cause of the problem, the dealer attempts to deny warranty coverage. He made his decision simply based on the fact that you’ve installed aftermarket equipment – a convenient way to dodge low-paying warranty work.
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.
Point out to the dealer the provision of the MMW Act. Require that he explain to you how the aftermarket equipment caused the problem. If he can’t – or his explanation sounds questionable – it is your legal right to demand he comply with the warranty.
If you are being unfairly denied warranty coverage, there is recourse. The Federal Trade Commission, which administers the MMWAct, monitors compliance with warranty issues. Direct complaints to the FCT at (202) 326-3128.
11-04-2007, 06:53 PM
#15
MuthaTruckin' Monster
Almost everyone has heard that the mere installation and/or use of aftermarket parts will void a vehicle manufacturer's warranty. That claim appears to know no limitations and is heralded from coast to coast with no lack of certainty. In spite of having unbridled support, however, one basic problem remains: It's not true!
SEMA’s AFTERMARKET Bill of Rights
* You have the RIGHT to buy high-quality, reliable aftermarket accessory, performance and replacement parts – an affordable and convenient alternative to vehicle maker’s parts.
* You have the RIGHT to use high-quality aftermarket parts and know that your new car warranty claims will be honored. In fact, your dealer may not reject warranty claims simply because an aftermarket part is present. A warranty denial in such circumstances may be proper only if an aftermarket part caused the failure being claimed.
* You have the RIGHT to patronize independent retail stores for vehicle parts and installation. The U.S. aftermarket offers the world’s finest selection of performance and replacement parts, accessories and styling options. These aftermarket products satisfy the most discriminating customers seeking personalized vehicles for today’s lifestyle.
The foregoing message brought to you by SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association. If you would like further information on what to do or who to call if your new car warranty is denied, call the Federal Trade Commission at 202/236-3128. To receive expanded information on warranty denial, contact SEMA online at www.sema.org, or call 909/396-0289. Your rights are protected through the Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act, 15 USC, 2302, and the Clean Air Act, 42 USC, 7541.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which states, in part, in Title 15, United States Code, Section 2302, subdivision (c) that a manufacturer, who issues a warranty on your motor vehicle, is prohibited from requiring you to use a particular brand of product, unless such item is provided, free of charge, under your warranty or unless the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) waives this prohibition against the manufacturer.
When a vehicle is purchased new and the owner is protected against the faults that may occur by an expressed warranty - an offer by the manufacturer to assume the responsibility for problems with predetermined parts during a stated period of time. Beyond the expressed warranty, the vehicle manufacturer is often held responsible for further implied warranties. These state that a manufactured product should meet certain standards. However, in both cases, the mere presence of aftermarket parts doesn't void the warranty.
In cases where such a failed aftermarket part is responsible for a warranty claim, the vehicle manufacturer must arrange a settlement with the part manufacturer, but by law the new vehicle warranty is not voided. Overall, the laws governing warranties are very clear. The only time a new vehicle warranty can be voided is if an aftermarket part has been installed and it can be proven that it is responsible for an emission warranty claim.
If you are being unfairly denied warranty coverage, there is recourse. The Federal Trade Commission, which administers the MMWAct, monitors compliance with warranty issues. Direct complaints to the FCT at (202) 326-3128.
SEMA’s AFTERMARKET Bill of Rights
* You have the RIGHT to buy high-quality, reliable aftermarket accessory, performance and replacement parts – an affordable and convenient alternative to vehicle maker’s parts.
* You have the RIGHT to use high-quality aftermarket parts and know that your new car warranty claims will be honored. In fact, your dealer may not reject warranty claims simply because an aftermarket part is present. A warranty denial in such circumstances may be proper only if an aftermarket part caused the failure being claimed.
* You have the RIGHT to patronize independent retail stores for vehicle parts and installation. The U.S. aftermarket offers the world’s finest selection of performance and replacement parts, accessories and styling options. These aftermarket products satisfy the most discriminating customers seeking personalized vehicles for today’s lifestyle.
The foregoing message brought to you by SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association. If you would like further information on what to do or who to call if your new car warranty is denied, call the Federal Trade Commission at 202/236-3128. To receive expanded information on warranty denial, contact SEMA online at www.sema.org, or call 909/396-0289. Your rights are protected through the Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act, 15 USC, 2302, and the Clean Air Act, 42 USC, 7541.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which states, in part, in Title 15, United States Code, Section 2302, subdivision (c) that a manufacturer, who issues a warranty on your motor vehicle, is prohibited from requiring you to use a particular brand of product, unless such item is provided, free of charge, under your warranty or unless the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) waives this prohibition against the manufacturer.
When a vehicle is purchased new and the owner is protected against the faults that may occur by an expressed warranty - an offer by the manufacturer to assume the responsibility for problems with predetermined parts during a stated period of time. Beyond the expressed warranty, the vehicle manufacturer is often held responsible for further implied warranties. These state that a manufactured product should meet certain standards. However, in both cases, the mere presence of aftermarket parts doesn't void the warranty.
In cases where such a failed aftermarket part is responsible for a warranty claim, the vehicle manufacturer must arrange a settlement with the part manufacturer, but by law the new vehicle warranty is not voided. Overall, the laws governing warranties are very clear. The only time a new vehicle warranty can be voided is if an aftermarket part has been installed and it can be proven that it is responsible for an emission warranty claim.
If you are being unfairly denied warranty coverage, there is recourse. The Federal Trade Commission, which administers the MMWAct, monitors compliance with warranty issues. Direct complaints to the FCT at (202) 326-3128.
11-04-2007, 06:58 PM
#16
MuthaTruckin' Monster
If you chose to add such stuff it can void your warranty at the Dealers discretion. My dealer is pretty good, they know I use a tuner in my truck and I haven't had any warranty issues with them about it, but, not all Dealers are the same. Most likely it won't be an issue but it's best to confirm first.
11-04-2007, 07:09 PM
#17
08 February TOTM
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Dumfries, VA Member: #77
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Sorry, I know I'm new here and don't mean to step on any toes, but I did do quite a bit of research on this before I started installing my afermarket stuff on my vehicle. Here is a passage from the web page, http://nycperformancetuning.com/magnusson.html
Under this federal statute, a manufacturer who issues a warranty on your motor vehicle is prohibited from requiring you to use a service or maintenance item, unless such item is provided, free of charge, under your warranty or unless the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) waives this prohibition against the manufacturer.
Further, under the act, aftermarket equipment that improves performance does not automatically void a vehicle manufacturer's original warranty, unless the warranty clearly states the addition of aftermarket equipment automatically voids your vehicle's warranty, or if it can be proven that the aftermarket device is the direct cause of the failure.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Act, a dealer must prove, not just vocalize, that aftermarket equipment caused the need for repairs before it can deny warranty coverage. If the dealer cannot prove such a claim — or it proffers a questionable explanation — it is your legal right to demand compliance with the warranty. The Federal Trade Commission administers the Magnuson-Moss Act and monitors compliance with warranty law.
That being said, if you choose to modify your car, and suddenly the fancy new electronic control boxes that you added to your car make it run rough, not start when cold, or buck like a bronco, the dealer can and will charge a diagnostic fee to find out what is wrong with your car. If it turns out that your modifications are the cause of the problem, the dealer has every right not only to charge you for the diagnosis and repair, but to also void the portion of the warranty that has been compromised by the use of those aftermarket parts. Likewise, a dealer may refuse to service your car if it is adorned with aftermarket parts to the extent that its technicians cannot reasonably be expected to diagnose what is wrong with your car. As an example, all cars manufactured after 1994 are equipped with OBDII (On Board Diagnostics II) ports that dealers use to read engine diagnostic codes for everything from an engine vacuum leak to a malfunctioning emissions system. If your chosen modification has compromised the dealer service center's ability to scan for these codes (aftermarket ECUs generally do not support OBDII), then there is a strong probability that the dealer service center will
Your car's manufacturer notes are your car's "permanent record." Above all else, avoid compromising these notes. This is nearly always connected with your vehicles' VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and will
Further, under the act, aftermarket equipment that improves performance does not automatically void a vehicle manufacturer's original warranty, unless the warranty clearly states the addition of aftermarket equipment automatically voids your vehicle's warranty, or if it can be proven that the aftermarket device is the direct cause of the failure.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Act, a dealer must prove, not just vocalize, that aftermarket equipment caused the need for repairs before it can deny warranty coverage. If the dealer cannot prove such a claim — or it proffers a questionable explanation — it is your legal right to demand compliance with the warranty. The Federal Trade Commission administers the Magnuson-Moss Act and monitors compliance with warranty law.
That being said, if you choose to modify your car, and suddenly the fancy new electronic control boxes that you added to your car make it run rough, not start when cold, or buck like a bronco, the dealer can and will charge a diagnostic fee to find out what is wrong with your car. If it turns out that your modifications are the cause of the problem, the dealer has every right not only to charge you for the diagnosis and repair, but to also void the portion of the warranty that has been compromised by the use of those aftermarket parts. Likewise, a dealer may refuse to service your car if it is adorned with aftermarket parts to the extent that its technicians cannot reasonably be expected to diagnose what is wrong with your car. As an example, all cars manufactured after 1994 are equipped with OBDII (On Board Diagnostics II) ports that dealers use to read engine diagnostic codes for everything from an engine vacuum leak to a malfunctioning emissions system. If your chosen modification has compromised the dealer service center's ability to scan for these codes (aftermarket ECUs generally do not support OBDII), then there is a strong probability that the dealer service center will
- Deny warranty coverage
- Refuse to service the car
- Note with your factory field representative for your region/district that your car has been "modified"
Your car's manufacturer notes are your car's "permanent record." Above all else, avoid compromising these notes. This is nearly always connected with your vehicles' VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and will- Ensure that your car will not have its warranty honored at any dealer service center in your area.
- Dramatically reduce the resale and/or trade-in value of your car.
11-04-2007, 09:54 PM
#18
MuthaTruckin' Monster
Thanks for that info you provided Crystal and hopefully we were able to help the "undeducated ford man" with his question.
On a side note to chrystal, or anyone else who can assist, after having an AIC installed in ones vehicle, is it neccessary to have your vehicle tuned or are you just simply up and ready to hit the road. I mean, are any other further modifications neccessary after installation of the AIC for your vehicle to perform properly? Thanks!!
On a side note to chrystal, or anyone else who can assist, after having an AIC installed in ones vehicle, is it neccessary to have your vehicle tuned or are you just simply up and ready to hit the road. I mean, are any other further modifications neccessary after installation of the AIC for your vehicle to perform properly? Thanks!!
11-04-2007, 10:05 PM
#19
08 February TOTM
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Dumfries, VA Member: #77
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Thanks for that info you provided Crystal and hopefully we were able to help the "undeducated ford man" with his question.
On a side note to chrystal, or anyone else who can assist, after having an AIC installed in ones vehicle, is it neccessary to have your vehicle tuned or are you just simply up and ready to hit the road. I mean, are any other further modifications neccessary after installation of the AIC for your vehicle to perform properly? Thanks!!
On a side note to chrystal, or anyone else who can assist, after having an AIC installed in ones vehicle, is it neccessary to have your vehicle tuned or are you just simply up and ready to hit the road. I mean, are any other further modifications neccessary after installation of the AIC for your vehicle to perform properly? Thanks!!