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.
Can I add a hitch to my Subaru?
This complete trailer hitch kit from Subaru allows you to add a trailer hitch to your vehicle if it did not come equipped with one. The kit comes with everything you need to install the trailer hitch, and includes all genuine OEM Subaru parts.
Does adding a hitch void a Subaru warranty?
In summary adding a trailer hitch does not automatically void your warranty. The manufacturer must prove that the hitch caused any damage proper installation and adherence to guidelines are. Key.
Do lift kits void the warranty on a Subaru?
Lifting a Subaru does not automatically void the entire warranty, but it can lead to the denial of a specific repair if the modification is deemed to have caused the failure. Subaru can deny coverage for parts directly impacted by the lift, such as suspension components, CV joints, and wheel bearings, because they may believe the modification put added stress on them. However, unrelated parts like the radio or window motor should remain covered, provided the dealership cannot prove the lift caused the issue.
How it works
- Manufacturer's burden of proof: Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, the manufacturer must prove that the modification caused the specific failure to deny a warranty claim.
- Denial for direct impact: If a part fails and the dealer believes the lift kit is the cause, they can deny the warranty claim for that specific part. This is most likely to happen with suspension parts.
- Warranty remains for unrelated issues: Your warranty will likely still cover other parts of the car that are not directly affected by the lift. For example, if your infotainment system or engine fails for an unrelated reason, it should still be covered.
- Dealership discretion: What happens can also depend on the dealership. Some dealerships may have different interpretations of the rules or may be more lenient, especially if they installed the lift themselves.
What to do
- Talk to your dealer: Before you install a lift kit, ask your local Subaru dealership about their policy on lift kits and if they have any specific recommendations or approved kits.
- Document everything: Keep all receipts for the lift kit and professional installation. Make sure to also document all routine maintenance, like oil changes, to show you have followed the manufacturer's recommended service schedule.
What voids a Subaru factory warranty?
Subaru warranties can be voided by improper maintenance, using non-genuine parts, and modifications that cause damage or alter the engine's performance, such as engine tuning or suspension modifications. Other reasons include environmental damage, abuse, or using the vehicle for purposes other than its design.
Modifications and alterations
- Engine tuning: Using aftermarket tuning devices (like a Cobb Accessport or JB4) can be detected and will likely void the warranty for related engine components.
- Aftermarket parts: Installing non-genuine parts that interfere with original components or cause damage can void the warranty. This includes many aftermarket air intakes, exhausts, and intercoolers, especially if they require a tune.
- Suspension modifications: Changes to the suspension system, including coilovers, can void the warranty for related parts, like wheel bearings.
Maintenance and service
- Improper maintenance: Failing to follow the recommended service intervals or using incorrect fluids (like oil or coolant) can lead to warranty denial.
- Lack of records: Not keeping proper service records or receipts can be problematic if a warranty claim is denied due to alleged improper maintenance.
Other causes
- Abuse or misuse: Using the vehicle in a way it wasn't designed for, such as racing, or general abuse and negligence, will void the warranty.
- Environmental damage: A total loss declaration due to environmental factors like flooding or an earthquake will void the warranty.
- Non-genuine parts: The warranty does not cover parts or accessories that are not genuine Subaru, unless specified by the warranty agreement.
- Total loss vehicles: Any vehicle that is declared a total loss by an insurance company and then rebuilt will have its warranty voided.
