Hey I'm interested in modifying my '05 TL but I was wondering what effect it would have on my powertrain warranty. Soon I just want to start with the basics (exhaust, intake, headers). But in the not to distance future I'm looking to do a supercharger. Could anyone tell me what would void my warranty and if getting it factory installed would change anything?

 

1. the headers a permanent part of the block, so not an option

2. you will be all good unless they can prove that one of your mods caused a problem

3. i dont think the "factory installed" is an option for a non-factory made part.

4. welcome and let the modding begin

 

you can do whatever you want to the car, just if something breaks, the dealer has to prove that it caused it. For example, you have an air intake on and then a few days later the power seats don't work. Did the CAI cause the seat to break, I doubt it

 

Not that I'm doubting the last two posters, but have you found any specific language in the warranty agreement that substantiates that?

Seems like you're in for quite an argument without it.

 

I'm telling you guys if something breaks the dealer doesn't HAVE to prove anything. Even if it is as silly as CAI to a power seat! They will flat faced deny you if they want and they don't like your mods. No matter what the Magnusson-Moss says, they will get their way if they want, they do it all the time. If you complain to the BBB (if you take it that far, they start a war with you that they want to win.) they will easily be able to win an argument with an arbitrator because they will have more credibility knowing more about the car than you.

So when you go for warranty service it's all luck. In my experience the MAJORITY of dealers DO NOT like mods. Dealers have seen my modded car drive in and get automatically suspiscious. They tell me that if they find something on my car that is out of warranty they will still charge labor for inspection.

If your car is modded to the extreme or you know a fault is linked to your mod then just accept that it is a risk you took doing the mod in the first place and face the consequences. Some are cool with moderate mods and will honor your warranty. Shops that are a bit slow with business will do this. If they do it you are lucky. Other shops are crazy strict and won't want to touch your car unless they make you pay. Sometimes they have to answer to corporate if they do too much warranty work on your car. If they find your car has mods the dealer can get in big trouble.

If a dealer hassles you, don't waste your time and argue. Don't give him business and just go to another dealer.