Does lifting a truck void the Ford warranty?
The short answer is that lifting a truck may void the Ford warranty, depending on the specific modifications made and the terms of the warranty. The Ford warranty covers the vehicle against defects in materials and workmanship, but it does not cover damage or issues caused by unauthorized modifications.
Understanding the Ford Warranty
Ford's new vehicle limited warranty covers the vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers the repair or replacement of any parts that are defective in material or workmanship. However, the warranty does not cover damage or issues caused by modifications, alterations, or the use of non-Ford parts or accessories.
How Lifting a Truck Can Affect the Warranty
Lifting a truck, also known as a "lift kit" or "suspension lift," involves modifying the vehicle's suspension system to increase the ground clearance. This type of modification can potentially void the Ford warranty in the following ways:
- Suspension components: The lift kit may require replacing or modifying the vehicle's suspension components, such as the shocks, springs, and control arms. These modified parts are not covered by the Ford warranty.
- Alignment and handling: Lifting a truck can affect the vehicle's alignment and handling, which may lead to premature wear or damage to other components, such as the tires, steering system, and brakes. These issues would not be covered by the warranty.
- Electrical and computer systems: Some lift kits may require modifications to the vehicle's electrical or computer systems, which could interfere with the proper functioning of the vehicle's electronics and potentially void the warranty.
It's important to note that the extent to which the warranty is affected can vary depending on the specific lift kit used, the quality of the installation, and the terms of the Ford warranty.
Maintaining the Warranty
To maintain the Ford warranty while lifting a truck, it's recommended to follow these steps:
- Use a Ford-approved lift kit: Ford offers its own line of lift kits that are designed to be compatible with the vehicle and maintain the warranty coverage.
- Have the lift kit installed by an authorized Ford dealer or certified installer: This ensures that the installation is done correctly and in accordance with Ford's specifications.
- Keep all documentation: Retain the receipts, invoices, and any other documentation related to the lift kit installation, as this can help demonstrate that the modifications were done properly and in compliance with the warranty terms.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Ford warranty remains intact even after lifting your truck.
Will lifting my truck void my warranty?
Putting a lift on your truck doesn't void warranty automatically. Only if something breaks and the cause of the break is determined to be because of the lift. Then it's voided.
Do you have to tell insurance if you lift your truck?
If you do not inform your insurance company of modifications, including lift kits, you risk not having adequate coverage. There is also a chance that damage done to parts of the vehicle could be blamed on modifications if the insurance company is unaware of the modifications in advance of the claim.
Do body lifts void the warranty?
Most warranties mention lift kits in their disclaimers. However, some dealerships stipulate that installing lift kits will void their warranties because they increase the likelihood of accidents on the road as the car becomes harder to handle and cause other vehicle issues.
What invalidates a Ford warranty?
Failure to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals can result in a voided warranty, as the warranty is designed to assist with repairs resulting from normal wear and tear, not neglect. If you service your vehicle at a dealership, they will typically have records of your maintenance on file.
What modifications do not void warranty?
What are some modifications that don't void a car warranty? Wheels, tires, shocks, cat-back exhausts, lighting, exterior styling upgrades, and manufacturer-approved parts/tunes allow added performance or customization without warranty conflicts.
Will a 6 inch lift void my warranty Ford?
Will aftermarket lift kits or bigger tires void my factory warranty? Absolutely not.
Does changing my own oil void warranty Ford?
While there is a list of actions that void your Ford Warranty, such as the use of additives not approved by Ford or environmental damage, things such as keeping up on your regularly scheduled maintenance do not void your warranty.
Can I remove my lift kit and go back to stock?
If the aftermarket lift kit installed on your vehicle and does not use new cross-members then converting back to stock is as simple as removing the lift components and reinstalling the stock components.
What voids a powertrain warranty?
Misuse of the vehicle. Damage from a fire, flood, or another environmental disaster. Altered odometer. Neglect.
What voids a Ford factory warranty?
Failure to perform scheduled maintenance as specified in the Owner's Manual will invalidate warranty coverage on parts affected by the lack of maintenance. Make sure that receipts for completed maintenance work are retained with the vehicle and confirmation of maintenance work is always entered in your Owner's Manual.
