Modifications and factory warranty

Anyone have any experience?

I am looking at very simple modifications including a trailer brake controller, remote start and trans cooler. I am thinking the trans cooler may be the only thing that could cause an issue.

 

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnuson–Moss_Warranty_Act

Basically, if what you installed can be proved to have caused the problem, you're on your own. Installing any particular part cannot cause a blanket warranty denial.

The nuanced part is dealing with the dealership for a warranty claim. If you have a shitty dealership, they'll look for any way to weasel out of claims. On the other hand, good dealerships won't bat an eye at your stroked out supercharged solid axle swapped swamp bogger.

 

https://www.4runners.com/threads/wa...pairs-recalls-updates-magnuson-moss-etc.8345/

 

Great information in here! This is well worth looking at. Also, I just realized that I was confused about the purpose of the Magnuson/Moss act. The explanation in this link clarified it for me.


My 2 cent: Don't install anything that you think will cause an issue. If you're concerned about it, don't do it.

For example; I made sure to get my needle bearing replaced before lifting. But, some folks have gotten dealerships to replace them on lifted vehicles. As @PVT Pablo mentioned, this will usually come down to the dealership, and the extent of modifications.


That said, plenty of people have installed trailer brake controllers, transmission coolers, and remote starters without issues. Just research the products you're going to use, and don't buy anything cheap. I believe there are threads here regarding all of those types of products.

 

It really is pretty straight forward and the dealership will weasel out of things if they think there is a larger percentage chance it will be denied by Toyota. Its their time not getting reimbursed by putting labor into an issue unless they charge you a diagnostic fee.

 

Thanks, everyone! I am fairly familiar with these issues but wanted to see if anyone else had negative experience.

And I am researching a lot, it’s half the fun in any hobby!

 

FYI, the act can be pretty worthless unless you’re ready to drop some $$$ to defend your claim. Dealerships have lawyers on payroll so it doesn’t cost them anything extra. Something to keep in mind.