Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act – Federal Law

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act allows you to use any lubricant, including non-OEM brands, for your vehicle as long as it meets the manufacturer’s specifications, such as viscosity and service classification. Manufacturers cannot legally void your warranty for using a third-party lubricant unless they prove it was the cause of the failure. However, you are still responsible for adhering to the recommended routine maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.

Key Takeaways

  • You don’t have to use the manufacturer’s brand: The Act prohibits manufacturers from conditioning a warranty on the use of their branded parts or services. This means you can use an aftermarket oil as long as it meets the required specifications.
  • Meet the specifications: Always check your owner’s manual to ensure the lubricant you choose meets the manufacturer’s requirements for viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) and service classification (e.g., API SP). Many independent brands now offer products specifically designed to meet these OEM specifications.
  • Maintenance is still required: You must still follow the routine maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual, such as oil changes at the specified intervals.
  • Manufacturer must prove the lubricant was the cause: If a manufacturer denies a warranty claim, they must be able to prove that the aftermarket lubricant was the direct cause of the failure.

What to do if Your Warranty is Denied

  1. Check the specifications: Make sure the lubricant you used meets all of the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.
  2. Contact the manufacturer: Inform the manufacturer that the use of a non-OEM lubricant does not automatically void the warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, as explained in this MFA Oil article.
  3. Escalate if necessary: If the issue is not resolved, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). 

Read more of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act