Will a Cat-Back exhaust void my warranty?
Exhaust system

Will a Cat-Back exhaust void my warranty?

Cat-back exhaust systems provide improved fuel efficiency by improving airflow from the engine. But before installing a new exhaust system, consider how modifying your car will affect your warranty. Some companies may refuse to pay for repairs to modified vehicles even if the vehicle has landed flat within the warranty period. 

Will a cat-back exhaust void your warranty? May be. Many factors determine whether companies will pay for the repair of modified vehicles. Keep reading to find out if Cat Back exhaust systems will void your warranty and how to prepare for dealing with companies that don't want to pay for costly repairs. 

Why does the company refuse to honor my warranty? 

Standard exhaust systems have proven their performance, reliability and versatility. However, not all stock exhaust systems meet the needs of car owners. For people living in urban areas, the built-in exhaust system may not be effective for short trips. Exhaust modifications allow car owners to customize their driving experience to suit their needs. 

The Cat-Back exhaust system consists of resonators, pipes and mufflers connected to the ends of the catalytic converters. Cat-back exhaust systems are indispensable for car owners looking to reduce engine noise, improve fuel efficiency, replace rusty exhaust systems, and provide extra airflow for a modified engine. Other benefits of Cat Back exhaust systems include: 

  • Improved Power
  • Improved stainless steel appearance 
  • Reduced vehicle weight 
  • Individual projects 

But does installing a closed-loop exhaust system void the car's warranty? The answer depends on the damage or repair needed for your vehicle. For example, car manufacturers must still honor warranties if you change your exhaust system but experience transmission problems. 

But, if your cat's rear exhaust system directly or indirectly causes damage to other parts of your vehicle, the car manufacturers may have the right to refuse a warranty. Always use professional mechanics to install Cat Back exhaust systems to ensure proper installation and avoid complications. Poorly installed Cat-Back exhaust systems result in poor fuel economy, slow acceleration, and exhaust manifold leaks. 

What you need to know when dealing with car dealers and manufacturers 

Navigating the warranty approval process and communicating with car dealers and manufacturers is proving to be difficult. If your car is in need of repair and you think a modified exhaust pipe could interfere with your contract, consider the following tips: 

Magnuson Moss Guarantee Act of 1975 

Congress passed the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act in 1975 to provide customers with detailed reports on the company's warranty policy. Congress intended to pass the Magnuson Moss Guarantee Act: 

  • Increase competition between companies offering guarantees
  • Provide customers with comprehensive information about warranty policies
  • Ensuring Federal Standards for High Quality Guarantees

Pursuant to the Magnuson Moss Warranty Law, customers are entitled to receive detailed warranty information and legal precedents for warranty conflicts. To ensure that companies honor their warranties, always keep detailed records of communication with car dealers and manufacturers. If it turns out that your exhaust system is unrelated to your vehicle's problems, detailed reports on your vehicle's situation remain vital. 

Professional Installation 

To ensure the performance, appearance and safety of your vehicle, always contact a professional Cat-Back exhaust system installer. When it comes time to buy out your car's warranty, poorly installed exhaust systems provide the car company with the perfect excuse to void your warranty. Reach out to local automotive experts for help to keep your vehicle running smoothly and receive the service offered by dealer warranties.

Professional exhaust system installation becomes even more important if your vehicle has received additional modifications such as superchargers or suspension upgrades. Dealers and manufacturers will attempt to cite "poorly installed modifications" and "consumer engine failures" as grounds for denial of warranty. Get the advantage by entrusting the installation of all vehicle modifications to trained professionals. 

What to do if the warranty is denied

If you are not receiving service under your dealership's warranty, gather your communication with the dealership and manufacturers and contact your area manager. Dealerships must exercise caution when accepting and denying warranties for modified vehicles. Area managers usually resolve warranty issues and fully understand the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act. 

Trust Performance Muffler for All Your Cat Back Exhaust Needs

Performance Muffler proudly serves the communities of Phoenix, , and Glendale, Arizona. Our team of professionals has been providing our loyal customers with high quality car demonstration services since 2007. We believe in affordable prices, friendly customer service and first class exhaust, catalytic converter and exhaust repair services. To learn more about our services, contact Performance Muffler at ( ) to schedule an appointment today! 

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