Will AMSOIL void your warranty? The Magnuson-Moss Act

One of the most common concerns I hear from potential AMSOIL customers is: "Will using synthetic oil or extending my drain intervals void my vehicle's warranty?"

As both a former Ford automotive engineer with 27+ years of experience and the highest-ranking AMSOIL Dealer in the nation, I can confidently tell you: Your warranty will remain fully intact when using AMSOIL synthetic lubricants.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act Protects Your Choices

Back in 1975, Congress enacted the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act to regulate written consumer product warranties and protect consumers from deceptive warranty practices. This important legislation is still in effect today and protects your right to choose aftermarket products without voiding your warranty.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), charged with enforcing this law, established clear rules that prevent manufacturers from requiring you to use their brand of products to maintain warranty coverage.

What the Law Says

The key provision in the Magnuson-Moss Act states:

No warrantor of a consumer product may condition his written or implied warranty of such product on the consumer's using, in connection with such product, any article or service (other than article or service provided without charge under the terms of the warranty) which is identified by brand, trade, or corporate name.

In plain English: It is illegal for a manufacturer to void your warranty simply because you used a different brand of oil or extended your drain interval.

What Vehicle Manufacturers Actually Require

Vehicle manufacturers specify lubricants according to:

1. Viscosity grade (like 5W-30 or 0W-20)
2. Service classifications (like API SP or ILSAC GF-6)

Any oil meeting these specifications—whether conventional or synthetic—can be used without affecting your warranty coverage. AMSOIL motor oils are formulated to meet or exceed all required specifications for modern vehicles.

Extending Oil Drain Intervals Is Not a Warranty Issue

The practice of extending oil drain intervals also does not automatically void warranties. For a manufacturer to deny a warranty claim, they must prove that the lubricant directly caused the failure. If an oil didn't cause the problem, the warranty cannot be voided, regardless of:

• What brand of oil you used
• How long the oil was in use

AMSOIL's Extra Layer of Protection

For added peace of mind, AMSOIL offers its own Limited Warranty that covers the cost of repair or replacement of a proven mechanically sound engine damaged as a result of using AMSOIL synthetic motor oil.

In my decades of experience as an AMSOIL Dealer, I've never seen this warranty needed. The quality of AMSOIL products speaks for itself—I've used them in everything from my Ford Broncos and F-Series Super Duty diesel pickups to my dirt bikes, snowmobiles, and farm equipment with outstanding results.

What To Do If Someone Claims Your Warranty Will Be Voided

If a dealership, service center, or anyone else tells you that using AMSOIL products will void your warranty:

1. Stand your ground and politely reference the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
2. Contact me directly for assistance
3. If needed, AMSOIL's Technical Services Department can provide documentation explaining the legal facts
4. The FTC accepts consumer complaints about warranty issues at ftc.gov/complaint

Tips for Protecting Your Warranty Rights

1. Keep detailed service records: Maintain receipts and records of all oil changes and maintenance services.
2. Understand your warranty terms: Read what is and isn't covered before problems arise.
3. Service promptly: Have issues examined before warranty periods expire.
4. Don't be intimidated: The law is on your side when choosing quality aftermarket products.

My Personal Experience

During my career as an Engineer with Ford Motor Company engineering and testing cars, trucks, and performance vehicles, I carefully evaluated numerous lubricants. I've personally used AMSOIL in my own vehicles for decades, including complete teardowns and inspections of engines after years of use.

The results? Exceptional protection and performance that often exceeds OEM specifications. I've never experienced a warranty issue related to using AMSOIL products, and neither have my thousands of customers over the years. Learn more about the benefits of AMSOIL and why it's worth the investment.

Need More Information?

I'm here to help answer any questions you might have about AMSOIL products, warranties, or vehicle maintenance. With my background in automotive engineering and extensive experience with lubricants, I can provide expert guidance tailored to your specific vehicles and needs. You can learn more about my background or browse our complete selection of AMSOIL products.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. For specific legal questions about your warranty, consult with a qualified attorney.