Many new or used vehicles are bought with a vehicle warranty, which is a guarantee that the seller or manufacturer will repair or replace the vehicle within a specified period of time. In fact, New Jersey’s new and used car Lemon Law protections provide that certain covered repairs must be made at no cost to the consumer, provided that the car has not been driven more than a specified number of miles and a particular period of time has not passed since the sale. Importantly, manufacturers and sellers are able to (and often do) provide buyers with warranties that go above and beyond the requirements of the law. Consumers should be aware, however, that there are certain events that may occur or actions that they can take that may void a warranty. Some of the more common of these are detailed below. For specific advice regarding your situation, call a New Jersey Lemon Law attorney today.

Improper use

In many cases, driving a vehicle outside of “normal” conditions may void a warranty. Examples of the kinds of driving that may void a warranty include off-roading, towing items heavier than the manufacturer’s specifications, or racing

Poor maintenance

Motor vehicles like cars, trucks, and motorcycles all require regular maintenance, such as changing the oil or flushing the transmission. Consumers who fail to perform the scheduled maintenance recommended by the manufacturer run the risk of voiding their warranty.

Vehicle modifications

Many enthusiasts like to customize their vehicles by making aftermarket modifications, and many manufacturers may attempt to avoid honoring a warranty if modifications have been made. Fortunately for consumers, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 prohibits manufacturers from not honoring a warranty, unless they can show that the modification created the need for the repair.

Natural disasters

If your car was damaged in an event such as a flood, earthquake, fire, hurricane, or another environmental disaster, the manufacturer will not honor your warranty.

What consumers can do

Fortunately, there are steps that consumers can take to reduce their risk of voiding their warranty. These include the following:

• Thoroughly read your warranty
• Service your car regularly
• Keep all service records
• Talk to an attorney

Call today for a free consultation

Individuals who believe that they may have a Lemon Law claim or that a vehicle seller or manufacturer is wrongfully denying coverage under a warranty should talk to an attorney as soon as possible.  In New Jersey, Legal Fees are shifted, so if we accept your case you will never pay any legal fees (even if you lose), and the legal fees awarded will never reduce your settlement. This is one of the few times in your life when an attorney will be 100% free. To schedule a free consultation with attorney David W. Polsky, call our office today at (973) 686-9787.