Does installing a hitch void the warranty on a Subaru?
The short answer is no, installing a hitch on a Subaru vehicle does not automatically void the manufacturer's warranty. However, there are some important caveats and considerations to keep in mind when adding a hitch to a Subaru.
Understanding Subaru's Warranty Policy
Subaru's warranty covers a wide range of components and systems in their vehicles, including the powertrain, body, and various other parts. The warranty period typically lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first, for the basic coverage, and up to 5 years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain.
Subaru's warranty policy states that the warranty will not be voided as long as any modifications or additions, such as a hitch installation, are performed properly and do not cause any damage to the vehicle. This means that if the hitch is installed correctly by a qualified professional, and it does not interfere with or damage any of the vehicle's systems, the warranty will remain intact.
Potential Warranty Concerns
However, there are a few potential issues that could arise with installing a hitch on a Subaru that could potentially void the warranty:
- Improper Installation: If the hitch is not installed correctly, it could cause damage to the vehicle's frame, suspension, or other components, which could then be excluded from the warranty coverage.
- Overloading the Vehicle: Subaru has specific weight limits and towing capacities for each model, and exceeding these limits could lead to warranty issues if the vehicle is damaged as a result.
- Modifications to the Vehicle: While a hitch installation itself may not void the warranty, any other modifications or alterations to the vehicle that are not approved by Subaru could potentially lead to warranty exclusions.
To ensure that the warranty remains intact, it's important to have the hitch installed by a qualified professional, follow Subaru's recommended weight and towing guidelines, and avoid making any other unauthorized modifications to the vehicle.
Conclusion
In summary, installing a hitch on a Subaru vehicle does not automatically void the manufacturer's warranty, as long as the hitch is installed properly and does not cause any damage to the vehicle. However, it's crucial to follow Subaru's guidelines and recommendations to ensure that the warranty remains valid and that the vehicle is not compromised in any way.
