Do body lifts void the warranty?

Not automatically. A body lift does not automatically void the entire manufacturer's warranty, but coverage can be affected for issues caused by the lift or its installation. This article explains how warranties typically treat body lifts, what protections you have, and how to navigate claims.

Legal framework: What the law says

Key definitions: What counts as a body lift

A body lift refers to aftermarket kits that raise the vehicle’s body height and often alter suspension geometry. Variants range from simple spacer lifts to more complex coil-spring or air-spring modifications. For warranty purposes, the critical question is whether the modification caused or contributed to a failure.

These are the core principles that shape how warranties handle body lifts in practice.

• Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, manufacturers cannot automatically void an entire warranty simply because aftermarket parts were installed. They must show that the aftermarket part caused the problem before denying coverage for a component.


• Warranties may still deny or limit coverage for issues that arise specifically from the lift or its installation, such as suspension, steering, or drivetrain problems linked to the modification, if there is a causal connection.


• Coverage for parts and systems not affected by the lift generally remains intact; owners can pursue claims for unrelated failures under the existing warranty.


• To bolster protection, use an installer and kit that are compatible with the vehicle and, if possible, manufacturer-approved or OEM-sourced lift kits. Documentation helps when disputes arise.


• Some vehicle manufacturers publish modification guidelines and may have stronger provisions for modified vehicles; the details vary by brand and model. In all cases, consult the warranty terms and the dealer for clarification. State-level protections or lemon-law provisions may offer additional remedies in certain situations.

In practice, this means a lift does not automatically erase your coverage, but the specifics depend on the cause-and-effect between the modification and any reported issue and on the terms of your warranty.

Practical steps to protect warranty rights

Planning and documentation

Owners who plan to install a body lift or who are dealing with a warranty claim related to a lift should follow these steps to preserve protection and minimize disputes.

1. Review your warranty documents and note sections that discuss modifications, aftermarket parts, and installation standards.


2. Choose a kit and installer that are compatible with your vehicle and preferably recommended by the manufacturer or by the kit’s supplier; save all receipts, part numbers, and installation records.


3. Keep maintenance logs showing that the vehicle was serviced according to recommended intervals, especially after installation.


4. If a warranty issue arises, request a written explanation from the dealer detailing why the claim was denied and how the lift is related to the problem; ask for contact information for the manufacturer if needed.


5. If you disagree with a denial, you can contact the manufacturer directly, file a claim under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (where applicable), or seek legal advice or state consumer protection resources to evaluate options.

Tip: Before making a modification, verify the lifting kit’s impact on any existing extended warranty or certified pre-owned protection, and discuss with the dealer whether it will affect coverage. Documentation and proactive communication are your best defenses against ambiguous denials.

Summary

Body lifts are not automatic warranty killers. The law protects against blanket voiding of warranties due to aftermarket parts, but claims tied to the lift or its installation can be denied if the modification caused the problem. By choosing approved parts, keeping thorough records, and communicating with your dealer, you can preserve as much warranty coverage as possible while enjoying the benefits of a lifted ride.

Do body kits affect warranty?

No, installing a body kit doesn't automatically void your warranty, thanks to the 1975 Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act. However, a manufacturer can deny a warranty claim if they can prove the aftermarket body kit directly caused the failure. The risk increases with improper installation, significant modifications like drilling into panels, or if the body kit is performance-related. 
How to avoid warranty issues

• Check with your dealer: Before installing a body kit, it's a good practice to contact the dealer to understand potential issues with your specific vehicle and the kit you plan to use. 
• Ensure professional installation: Have the body kit installed by a professional to prevent issues from improper fitment, which can sometimes void a warranty. 
• Focus on quality parts: Using high-quality parts and ensuring they are installed correctly is crucial. Poor-quality parts may fail and cause other components to break, leading to a denied claim. 
• Understand the Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act: This act protects consumers by preventing manufacturers from automatically voiding a warranty for using aftermarket parts. The manufacturer must prove the aftermarket part caused the specific problem. 
• Document everything: Keep records of all parts purchased, the installation process, and any maintenance performed. This documentation can be crucial if you need to file a warranty claim. 
• Avoid major structural changes: Avoid modifications like drilling large holes in major body panels, as these can cause significant damage and are more likely to lead to warranty denial. 

Will a body lift void the warranty?

While most warranty plans won't cover extreme car modifications, minor lift kits may be covered, so it pays to do your research. As with most brands, a lift of around two inches won't necessarily void your warranty. We recommend talking with the technicians about manufacturer-approved lift kits to explore your options.

Do you have to tell insurance about a lift kit?

Some insurance companies will view modifications like lift kits as added risks, which could increase your premium. Others might require you to notify them of the modification to ensure your coverage remains valid.

What modifications will void the warranty?

Mods that significantly alter the engine, powertrain, or electronic systems, such as ECU tuning, upgraded turbos, and some intakes/downpipes, are most likely to void your warranty. Less severe mods, like cosmetic changes, generally have less impact, but modifications that interfere with the electrical system (like aftermarket stereos) or are installed incorrectly can void related components' warranties or even the entire warranty if a dealer claims the modification caused the issue.
 
This video explains which car modifications can potentially void your warranty: 1mRacerXYouTube · Mar 17, 2021
Mods that are more likely to void a warranty 

• ECU tuning/chip tuning: Changes to the engine control unit (ECU) can void the powertrain warranty if the dealer finds a flash or tune, especially if it's not easily reversible. 
• Engine modifications: Upgrades like larger turbos, downpipes, and certain intake systems can void the warranty for engine and transmission issues. 
• Suspension modifications: Lowering your vehicle or installing coilovers can void the warranty for suspension-related problems. 
• Electrical modifications: Aftermarket alarms, stereos, and remote starters that tap into the factory wiring harness can void warranties, particularly for the battery. 
• Aftermarket lighting: Issues with corrosion or water penetration from improper installation of aftermarket lights can void related warranties. 

You can watch this video to learn about 5 car modifications that are less likely to void your warranty: 59sSparkedEdYouTube · Mar 12, 2023
Mods with potential for a voided warranty

• Tires and wheels: While some simple cosmetic mods are fine, certain aftermarket wheels and tires (especially if too large) can void warranties for issues they may cause. 
• Catback exhausts: While a catback exhaust is unlikely to void a warranty on other parts, it can void the warranty on the exhaust system itself. 

How to mitigate risks

• Restore to stock: Before taking your vehicle in for warranty work, return it to factory settings if possible. This is especially important for electrical and engine components. 
• Know the law: Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer must prove that a modification caused the failure to void a warranty. However, some dealerships may try to deny a claim, so it's best to be prepared. 
• Keep records: Keep all receipts and records of your mods, and make sure to get a professional installation if possible.
• Communicate with your dealer: Before you buy any parts, talk to your dealer and ask them directly what they consider acceptable. Some modifications may be fine, but others could cause issues.