Originally published in The 380 News…

by Marta and Frank Dudowicz

Do I have to go to the auto dealership for my maintenance / oil changes if my vehicle is under warranty ?

So let’s be clear – Federal Law – under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (1975) Title 15, Chapter 50, Section 2301-3312, US Federal Code, — a vehicle manufacturer or its authorized dealerships may not make a vehicle warranty conditional upon the use of its service (alone), or the use of any brand of product, unless that manufacturer provides the product or service free of charge or that the Federal Trade Commission has specifically stated and published that the vehicle manufacturer’s product or service is the only product or service available to comply to satisfy relief of warranty claims.

– though, I might add, it is not all dealerships or their service departments that do this. In more cases it is the auto manufacturers themselves that tend to mislead consumers in thinking that buyers must bring their vehicles into their dealerships for repair and normal maintenance to protect the vehicle’s warranty. – Yes, that would be The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act enacted by Congress in 1975. The Act encompasses and governs warranties on all consumer products and has been particularly abused in the automotive or car dealership industry. – Sure. This is one of the most prevalent misconceptions that people assume or have been told is true. In fact it is not true and is protected by federal law.– This question and many like it have been a growing concern with a number of inquiries we have received over the years. Can you enlighten us on this issue?

Further, Federal law prohibits new car manufacturers or dealers from even “implying” that you must use certain parts, oil or filters or you need to bring your vehicle to them in order to protect your vehicle’s warranty.

What you may see in your vehicle owner’s manual and under the hood is the wording “we recommend” — a vehicle manufactures’ brand. While this is their recommendation it is not a specific requirement. So be cautious not to be misled in thinking that you must use their products.

The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM’s) can require that parts and fluids meet their performance specifications, but they cannot void any warranties just because you used some other brand or service. Most, if not all, aftermarket parts and fluids do meet OEM specifications for the specific application they are assigned for; otherwise they would not be purchased and used in today’s market place by the vast majority of parts and service stores. And yes, all of the fluids and parts we use in our shops meet OEM specifications.

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Marta and Frank Dudowicz are the local owners and operators of four Kwik Kar Lube and Auto Service Centers in the area (three on Rt.380). They have 10 years experience in running their businesses. Frank prior to opening his business was a senior executive with Pennzoil/Quaker State (Motor Oil). www.kwikkardenton.com E-mail your questions to md@kwikkardenton.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

– OK then, until next time – it’s a date –! – Good point! I can’t say anymore – until next time… –This is in essence about consumer rights. In this case, the right to know that you have options that are in your favor. You have the right to decide who can provide the best service on a price value basis for your vehicle and not be told that you “have to use our dealership service” at their price. So to answer today’s question with an honest answer – NO! NO! NO!