Do I Have To Repair My Collision Damage At Dealership In Order Not To Void Warranty

Maintenance Jan half dozen, 2022

What Voids Your Car Warranty? Here'south What You Need to Know

car warranties

When information technology comes to your vehicle, the terminal thing you want to do is void your warranty. Your automobile warranty is a promise from the manufacturer that, for a set flow of fourth dimension, they will fix any defects or malfunctions and pay for covered repairs or part replacements.

Many vehicle owners believe that all repairs, maintenance, and parts must go through the dealership for the vehicle to stay nether warranty. But that simply isn't truthful. If you're unsure what voids a warranty on a motorcar, keep reading to discover if your car is still under warranty.

Practise I have to e'er take my car to the dealership to stay nether warranty?

Tin a manufacturer deny warranty coverage if you take the vehicle to a non-dealer store for maintenance and repairs? No! If you go somewhere other than the dealer, information technology volition not void your warranty.

Because of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975, it is illegal for vehicle manufacturers or dealers to void a warranty or deny a warranty claim because of work performed by a non-dealer. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the manufacturer or dealer tin can merely require vehicle owners to utilise a specific repair facility if the repair services are provided free of charge nether the warranty.

So vehicle owners in the United States have several options to stay on top of routine maintenance and repairs. They can use the dealership, visit an automotive maintenance provider (similar Virginia Tire & Auto) or practise it themselves.

An important note: if your vehicle is damaged as a result of a repair or service done by yous or your mechanic, the manufacturer/dealer has the right to deny the warranty claim. They must, however, be able to prove that the third-political party work—non a vehicle defect—caused the damage to the vehicle. Even if this happens, information technology does non void the entire warranty for the remainder of your car.

Read: The Car Maintenance Checklist Every Commuter Needs

Will using aftermarket parts void my warranty?

Another misconception is that y'all have to use manufacturer-approved parts to go along your vehicle under warranty. This is also untrue.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act also protects the vehicle possessor if an aftermarket or recycled part was used on the vehicle. And so, manufacturers cannot force consumers to apply brand name parts unless the part is provided for gratis under the warranty.

Manufacturers can deny warranty coverage if an aftermarket part or modification caused damage to the vehicle. But they must exist able to show that the aftermarket part caused the damage.

What can void a car warranty?

Taking your car somewhere other than the dealership or using aftermarket parts won't void the manufacturer's warranty, just there are some activities that can void your warranty, including:

Off-Route Driving
Racing or Reckless Driving
Overloading
Natural Disasters (flooding, burn down, earthquake, etc.)
Poor Machine Maintenance
Using Improper Fluids
Some Aftermarket Parts or Modifications (come across above)

How to Maximize Your Vehicle's Warranty

Read the Warranty:A basic vehicle warranty, often called a "bumper to bumper" warranty, typically offers coverage for 3 years/36,000 miles (whichever comes offset). A powertrain warranty, which covers defects in the engine, transmission, and other powertrain parts, normally lasts longer—around half-dozen years or seventy,000 miles. Some manufacturers also offering warranties for emissions and corrosion. Make certain you lot read the fine print so you know exactly what'due south covered and what'south not.
Service the Automobile at Regular Intervals: Automobile manufacturers can void your warranty if you lot fail to follow the factory guidelines and perform routine maintenance. This includes oil changes, fluid flushes and other services. To be on the safe side, read your owner's manual and follow the suggested maintenance schedule. And when the warranty catamenia is about to elapse, be certain to have the vehicle checked out for whatever covered bug.
Go along Service Records and Receipts: No matter who does the service, keep track of all repairs; you'll need the information if you need to use the warranty. Information technology can as well increase the vehicle'southward resale value.
Questions about Warranty Claim: Contact a dealer supervisor, the manufacturer or another dealer if y'all call back your warranty claim is being addressed unfairly. If need be, file a complaint with the country Attorney General, local Better Business Bureau or the FTC.

Read: How to Choose a Trustworthy Auto Repair Shop

Demand Repairs or Replacements?

Don't assume yous must use your vehicle'due south manufacturer for repairs and maintenance. Bring your vehicle into Virginia Tire & Auto for all your car repair and maintenance needs. Our talented technicians volition get you back on the road safely. Schedule an appointment at whatsoever of our locations today!