stage 1 vs warranty

[Moto man]

Local dealer says Stage 1 voids the extended warranty. Also need to know if it is smog leagal for California. Any thoughts?

[MichaelDay]

Not sure about the wording on an extended warranty but Stage 1, or any other add on, does not "void" the regular warranty. That said, if they can show that Stage 1 caused the damage, they could deny that specific claim.

Stage 1 is NOT certified to be smog legal in California or any other state. However, it appears that it will typically pass smog tests.

[Moto man]

Thanks Michael. Looks like I've got to read that Magnusson/ Moss act thing I've been hearing about. Stage 1 seems like a no brainer if it doesn't kill warranty. As for smog certs... might chance it, or disconnect and reset as necessary at test time.

[matt87951]

quote:Originally posted by Moto man

Local dealer says Stage 1 voids the extended warranty. Also need to know if it is smog leagal for California. Any thoughts?

I was told by some Neon guys that you could buy a Stage 2/3 Neon right from the dealer, with factory warrenty? Do they not know what they are talking about? I wouldnt think a factory installed/dealer installed upgrade would have ANY bearing on the warrenty. Maybe it has to do with the kit being installed before the car is sold? I am not sure, but I know someone with around a 300hp Neon with factory warrenty, and nothing added except the mopar stage ?? kit installed.

Just my couple cents, not sure if its worth that or not!

Matt

[Moto man]

Two different dealership techs said the Stage 1 kit was designed for "spirited driving". As such, it released the manufacturer from liability for repairs, because the vehicle was going to be used for something other than its original intent. I didn't see if there were any waivers or anything to be signed. I've got to get a definitive answer because I would really like to have it.

[Cal Cruzer]

You will have to look to the law, not a servioce writer, for the diffinitive answer. The Magnuson Moss Warranty Act does not allow them to void the warranty in total. Unfortunately the dealsership monkeys usually have no idea what they are jabbering about. Granatelli Motorsports has a good reference page here http://www.granatellimotorsports.com/magnusonmoss.htm .

[Gary04GT]

The bottom-line here is your DEALERSHIP. [|)] If you are not talking to the Service Manager or higher (GSM), then IMHO, you could be "barking up the wrong tree". If your dealership is not sure, refuses to give you a definitive answer, or you just don't have a good feeling about the situation, then go elsewhere to have "speed-shop work" and/or other performance modifications done. Good luck. [8]