The Federal Trade Commission released a statement today reminding several major companies in the US that it is illegal to stipulate warranty coverage being dependent on using specific or “authorized” parts and service providers for repairs.
Under the 1975 Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, companies can’t put repair restrictions on their products unless they provide the parts or services for free or receive a waiver from the FTC.
“Provisions that tie warranty coverage to the use of particular products or services harm both consumers who pay more for them as well as the small businesses who offer competing products and services” said, Acting Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, Thomas B. Pahl.
In addition to cellphone manufacturers, warnings were also sent to companies that sell cars and video game hardware.
The FTC has requested the companies to review their warranty publications and warned that failure to update their warranty information within 30 days could result in legal action.
You know those stickers on electronics that say you’ll void your warranty if they are removed? You won’t being seeing those anymore.
