Things That Can Void Your European Car Warranty
Owning a European car is about investing in an engineering masterpiece. It’s an investment that will provide you with motoring enjoyment for years. This is where the importance of a warranty comes in, as it provides you with ongoing insurance and protection. Your automotive warranty protects your investment and helps you to avoid unnecessary expenses. Void your warranty and you could be in for hefty car repair and maintenance bills.
In this article, we identify some key warranty breakers, and how to keep your European car repair warranty intact.
1) Neglecting Scheduled Maintenance
Whether you drive a BMW, Audi, or a Ferrari, your European automotive beauty requires ongoing scheduled maintenance. Skipping a service interval is a sure way to void your warranty. Preventative maintenance plans take care of all your car’s essential systems, including:
- Oil changes
- Brakes and suspension checks
- Fluid inspections
- Filter replacements
- Safety checks
By neglecting a service, a worn or damaged component could compromise the overall functioning of your car. Prioritizing your scheduled maintenance will keep your car in great condition and protect your warranty. Be sure to entrust your scheduled maintenance to an experienced performance facility in South Florida.
2) Unwarranted Modifications
Performance enhancements open up a world of exciting possibilities. When considering performance upgrades, you should always clear these with your mechanic. A reputable European performance facility will advise you on which upgrades are authorized, and which could void your warranty. Turbochargers and ECU remapping should always be approached responsibly, as the extra power might not fall within your car’s tolerance range.
Certain cosmetic changes can also void your warranty. Custom body kits or paint kits can compromise the quality of your body works, when not performed by a certified facility. It’s best to check every modification with your trusted mechanic.
3) Using Inexperienced Technicians
Experience is everything when it comes to working on European cars. Using a European auto repair specialist will ensure that your car receives the attention to detail it needs. It’s advisable to use a facility that hires ASE-certified technicians. This professional certification group holds mechanics to a high level in vehicle care and service. Insist on ASE-Certification to get professional European car repair every time.
4) Misusing Your Vehicle
Investing in a European sports car comes with the thrill of high-performance handling. But there’s a difference between professional performance driving and reckless driving. Observing responsible vehicle practices goes a long way to keeping your car in good condition and protecting that warranty. Keep the following activities in mind.
Overloading Your Vehicle
Overloading your car can place unnecessary pressure on your chassis, suspension, and wheels. Adhering to the passenger and weight limit will ensure that your vehicle never bears more weight than it’s been designed for.
Off-Road Driving
Driving off the beaten track can be an exhilarating experience. But doing so in a car not designed for off-road driving could damage your undercarriage and your suspension system. Remember that most sports cars have a lower ground clearance and rely on flat surfaces. Chassis are also built more rigidly to increase handling, and bumpy terrain could compromise your car’s integrity and warranty.
Reckless Driving
You should be able to enjoy your car’s performance when driving. However, disregarding your car’s limits can negatively affect your engine and components. For instance, red-lining your engine repeatedly can cause permanent damage. Donut driving and consistent aggressive braking will also wear out your wheels and brake system prematurely. Experienced mechanics and assessors can see if a car has been driven recklessly, so it’s best to drive wisely.
5) Using Aftermarket Parts
Your car’s components are designed to operate within specific parameters that provide optimal performance. These parts are referred to as original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. OEM parts are produced within the requirements and specifications that the manufacturer sets out. Although designed to perform similarly, aftermarket parts don’t have the same level of quality and specification. Making use of aftermarket parts will almost certainly void your warranty. It’s always good to know the warranties associated with your parts, and select performance part manufacturers offer unique performance part warranties. Trust your performance facility to advise you on the right parts and associated warranties for your car.
6) Compromising With Non-Certified Fluids
As with OEM parts, your car is designed to operate with specified lubricants and fluids. Most European performance cars use specialized brands of synthetic oil. Brake fluids and coolants should also be chosen carefully. Leading South Florida repair facilities will know the exact fluid requirements for your vehicle.
7) Ignoring Software Updates & Recalls
From time to time, manufacturers will issue a recall for your model. Recalls can relate to any part of your car and ensure it remains safe and perfectly operational. Ignoring a recall will place your warranty at risk, as failing to correct the malfunctioning component could cause secondary issues. Software updates are also important to keep your ECU and other electrical systems functioning well.
European Car Repair In Pompano Beach
At Foreign Affairs Motorwerks, we take every measure to uphold your European car warranty. From ASE-certified technicians to only the best quality OEM parts, we don’t take any shortcuts on your car.
With a track record of over 40 years, and over 125 years of combined experience, you won’t find a better place to entrust your vehicle. A visit to our world-class performance facility in Pompano Beach will give you peace of mind for all your car repairs and upgrades.
Call us today at 954-746-0488 to ensure your car’s warranty starts intact for its full term.