Update: New Jersey Warranty Disclosure Bills Pass Committee; Move to Assembly Floor

You may use the following points in your message:
 

• The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act regulates warranties for the protection of consumers and provides that vehicle manufacturers may not deny warranty coverage based on the use of an aftermarket part alone. 
   
• In 2010, the Federal Trade Commission sent an alert with the interpretation of Magnuson-Moss that the manufacturer or dealer must demonstrate aftermarket equipment caused the need for repairs before denying warranty coverage.
   
• Consumers are generally unaware of the rights afforded them under the law and many are forced to absorb the costs for repairs that were properly covered under the warranty. A.B. 5225/S.B. 1712 would require that dealers inform consumers in writing of these basic rights.
   

Overview: Legislation (A.B. 5225) has been introduced that would require new car dealers to provide purchasers written notice that it is illegal for manufacturers or dealers to void a warranty or deny coverage because aftermarket or recycled parts were installed, or because someone other than the dealer performed service.  The companion bill (S.B. 1712) passed the New Jersey Senate this September. Both bills passed through the Assembly Consumer Affairs and Appropriations Committees and await consideration by the full Assembly.