A car dealer cannot automatically void a vehicle warranty check out Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

A car dealer cannot automatically void a vehicle warranty just because you've modified your car. However, under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, if a dealer believes a modification caused the damage, they must prove it before denying warranty coverage.

How It Works:
• Your Rights: The entire warranty isn’t voided because of a modification (like installing aftermarket parts or vertical doors).
• Their Burden of Proof: The dealer must demonstrate that the modification directly caused the issue you’re claiming under warranty.
• Partial Denial: If your mod only affects one system (e.g., suspension), warranty on unrelated systems (e.g., engine) must still be honored.

Example:
If you install a vertical door kit and later have a transmission issue, the dealer must prove the door kit caused the transmission failure to deny coverage.
Always document your mods and use professional installers. If you face unfair denials, you can file complaints with the FTC, state attorney general, or seek legal counsel.

• Here are authoritative sources you can reference regarding warranty and car modifications:

FTC – Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act Overview
https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/businesspersons-guide-federal-warranty-law

U.S. Code Title 15, Chapter 50 – Consumer Product Warranties
https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title15-chapter50&edition=prelim

SEMA Action Network – Protecting Aftermarket Modifications
https://www.semasan.com/page.asp?content=aa_legal_warranty&g=semaga

Consumer Reports – Car Modifications and Warranty Coverage
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2013/03/can-aftermarket-parts-void-your-car-s-warranty/index.htm

These links provide legal context and practical guidance for both businesses and consumers regarding how modifications affect warranties.