One’s vehicle is a huge investment, whether it’s the initial purchase or the upkeep. When we decide to purchase a new car, we most likely have told ourselves to take extra care of our vehicle by keeping up on the maintenance. Most drivers know that preventative maintenance is essential on today’s vehicles, especially the new ones. After buying a vehicle, many dealers will imply or tell you directly that you must bring your new vehicle to the dealer for maintenance, or your factory warranty will be void. Of course, no one wants to lose their warranty, so they are somewhat forced to go to a dealer to have the scheduled maintenance performed. Most drivers are not aware that you have the option to have their vehicle’s maintenance performed at any location you choose.
In 1975 the U.S. Congress passes the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a federal law that governs consumer product warranties and is still in effect today. The new vehicle warranty was designed to protect both the manufacturer and consumer and warrants certain parts of the vehicle for a specific time period for a specific number of miles. IT also limits the manufacturers’’ liability beyond those points.
So what does this mean for us drivers?
As mentioned before, many car owners fear that they will void their warranty if the vehicle is not serviced at the dealer. But according to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, you can have your vehicle serviced by any qualified and legitimate shop or service center of your choice still maintenance your warranty. Your vehicles’ manufacturer cannot require you to return to your auto dealer for vehicle maintenance. You have the right to support independent retail stores and shops for vehicle parts and service.
Drivers should also know that you can use any name brand, quality parts to service the vehicle as the manufacturer or dealer cannot require any specific brand or product unless the manufacturer proves the item free of charge under the terms of the warranty.
So what does a consumer have to protect their new vehicle’s warranty? All one must do to keep the warranty in force is to have the car serviced at the intervals specified in your owner’s manual or warranty booklet. You may choose to have these scheduled services done at any shop you choose. But be sure that you keep careful records and receipts of all maintenance, especially during the warranty period. Some shops keep customer’s vehicles’ maintenance and repair records in databases, so if the need ever to file w warranty claim arises, you will have proof that you have done all maintenance following the manufacturer’s recommendations and requirements. Also, be sure to choose a quality facility where the technicians are trained in the latest maintenance and repair technology.
In summary, the next time your new vehicle is due for maintenance, remember your rights and know that there are many choices out there for your automotive repair needs. Make the right choice – Flagstaff, AZ‘s Heath’s Auto Service. Contact us for an appointment today!
