What Actions Can Void a Car Warranty?
It is now standard that all new cars come with a manufacturer's warranty, which covers certain parts and problems a car may develop during the length of the warranty. Consumers can void their warranties, however, which would leave them liable for some or even all problems that the car develops.
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Skipping Routine Maintenance
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Many manufacturers now require all new cars to follow a routine maintenance schedule for the warranty to remain active. This includes basic car maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotation, which the dealership typically performs. Missing a scheduled maintenance appointment can void your car's warranty.
Major Accidents
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Most minor-to-moderate vehicular accidents do not violate manufacturers' warranties. A major accident that totals your car and/or declares your car salvaged, however, usually violates your car warranty.
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Acts of God
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"Acts of God" encompass any act of nature not caused by a person. Floods, fires and earthquakes are three major examples. Car warranties rarely cover Acts of God, and if the damage is significant, it can void your warranty entirely.
Illegal Tampering
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Any illegal alterations that you make to your car--like rolling back the odometer, for example--will completely void your warranty. Cosmetic changes made to the car that renders it illegal for street use, however, does not typically void a car warranty.
Misuse and Abuse
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Car owners who misuse or abuse their cars, for example, by racing, overloading or taking them off-road, will also completely violate the warranty.
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