In the automotive industry, an aftermarket part is a car part that is made by a third party as opposed to the vehicle’s manufacturer.
Many people choose to repair their vehicles with aftermarket parts since they are cheaper and more widely available than Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts.
It’s also common to use aftermarket car parts to make cosmetic changes, such as adding a spoiler or installing sport seats.
But, can using these parts affect the terms of your vehicle’s warranty? It depends.
For this reason, it’s important to understand how the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act applies to aftermarket parts and modifications.
What is the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a federal law that was passed in 1975. At the time, it was common for manufacturers to use deceptive warranty terms in order to make more money from unsuspecting consumers.
This law was passed to protect consumers from these unfair warranty practices. It applies to all consumer products that come with warranties, including cars.
How Does the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act Apply to Cars With Aftermarket Parts?
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act prohibits car manufacturers from automatically voiding the warranty on your vehicle simply because you used aftermarket parts.
For example, a manufacturer cannot cancel your warranty solely because you did not choose OEM parts when replacing your vehicle’s air filters.
The manufacturer can void your warranty if the aftermarket part damages another part of your car. For example, if your car’s air conditioning system was damaged as a result of the aftermarket air filters, the manufacturer can deny warranty coverage.
The same rule applies to aftermarket modifications. For instance, installing aftermarket tires, wheels, and rims could damage the parts underneath your car.
If this happens, the manufacturer could deny your warranty claim since the damage occurred as a result of an aftermarket modification.
How Does the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act Apply to Routine Maintenance of New and Used Cars?
It’s important to note that this law covers more than the use of aftermarket parts; it applies to routine maintenance, too.
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act prohibits your manufacturer from voiding your warranty simply because a third party performed an oil change or another type of routine maintenance on your vehicle.
How Can You Protect Your Rights Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires car manufacturers to comply with the terms of the car’s warranty until it has expired.
You have the right to take legal action if your car’s manufacturer violates this law, so it’s important to understand how these violations typically occur.
The manufacturer denies your warranty claim due to the use of aftermarket parts
Your car’s manufacturer cannot void your warranty or deny your claim solely because you used aftermarket parts. Doing this is a violation of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
If it happens to you, it’s important to seek legal representation so you can protect your rights under this law.
The manufacturer takes too long to make the repairs
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act if often called the federal lemon law because it requires manufacturers to repair parts that are covered by the warranty in a timely manner.
Failing to make these repairs within a reasonable amount of time is a violation of this law.
It’s best to talk to an attorney to determine if your rights under this law have been violated. An attorney can help you take legal action to protect your rights and enforce the terms of your warranty.
Questions About Aftermarket Parts Covered By the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
The dedicated team of attorneys at Robison Lemon Law Group is here to answer your questions regarding the statute of limitations on the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and how this law applies to aftermarket automotive parts.
To schedule a free consultation, contact us today via email or call us at 844-291-4377.
