Will a Factory Car Dealership Ever Install Aftermarket Parts?

There is a huge misconception that has many car owners believing that the installation of aftermarket car parts is only something that is done by independent repair shops and not dealerships. Contrary to popular belief there are some dealerships that will install aftermarket parts in new and older car models. The decision to place aftermarket parts into the vehicle will depend upon your independent situation as it pertains to the warranty on your car.

The Magnuson Moss Warranty Act

This act was set into place back in 1975 as a method for preventing auto manufacturers to deny warranty on an entire vehicle because the car owner or repairman has installed aftermarket products on the car. The only way that a warranty can be null and void is if the manufacturers can prove without a doubt that the car’s current condition is a direct result of a previously installed aftermarket part. The act also makes it illegal for manufacturers of cars to require car owners to take their car to a dealership or install name brand parts only.

What This Means

This act means that as the owner of the car you have the right to request that dealerships install aftermarket parts on the vehicle. You are not tied into a particular dealership, nor are you tied into a specific brand or auto part for your car. If you believe that choosing another part is to your best interests your dealer technician should not dispute it.

The Loop Hole

What you need to understand about installing aftermarket parts is that they can come with risks. As the law states above IF the dealership is able to prove without a doubt that your previously installed aftermarket auto parts were the cause of car failure in the near future, you will not be covered under any warranties you might have. With that being said if you’re going to use aftermarket parts you need to make sure that they are of high quality, that they are made specifically for your vehicle, and that they will be properly installed by a qualified technician.

Instances Where Requesting Aftermarket is Not Good

There are some instances in which you should steer clear of aftermarket installations. These instances might include: if the aftermarket part is not of good quality, if the technician is not trained on how to install that particular part, or if you have plenty of time left on your car’s warranty.

Before making the final decision on aftermarket auto parts it is best to talk with your manufacturer about the car’s warranty to ensure that you understand fully what potential consequences could be. If you find that there are no real consequences to be had or you feel confident in the recommendation provided by the technician than there is essentially nothing wrong with having aftermarket auto parts installed on your car. For the best suggestions on which brand choices you might consider consulting with other customers to find out what they liked best.