Extended warranty question?

[pyro4ik]

I did some searching and didnt see what I was looking for. Just wondering if I switch from stock 18x8.5 all around to 20x10 all around and have mechanical issues, would the warranty company (Route 66) give me sh!t and not pay the claim b/c my wheel/tire setup is heavier than stock? Also, same for getting new mufflers or deleting them......

This being my first BMW I can imagine someone saying that its a highly tuned machine and that "I upset its delecate balance" or something......

Thanks in advance!

[edogg]

When I asked my warranty company (United Car Care) about upgrades and repairs (I specifically asked about adding an aux input to the stereo), they basically said that as long as they're factory OEM quality and done by an ASE certified shop or dealership, then things should be covered.

You'd be safest if you used BMW OEM wheels/tires and exhaust.

Wait for your warranty to expire before going crazy with mods. Unless you want to risk things not being covered.

[Joshdub]

Stock size is 20x10.5 for the rear on iS models. I think they'll also need to prove that the mod caused the damage. You'll be fine

[Joshdub]

Originally Posted by trader4

ration, 20]Stock size is 20x10.5 for the rear on iS models. I think they'll also need to prove that the mod caused the damage. You'll be fineQUOTE]

Why would they need to prove anything? If the warranty contract has
some exclusions for modifications and even if it doesn't, the warranty
company can just deny the claim and not pay it, without proving
anything. They have the money and if they won't give it to you,
your recourse would be whatever the contract says, eg arbitration
or you'd have to sue them to try to collect if you think they've acted unfairly.
Whether they would do that, IDK, but it would depend
it would depend on the warranty company and the warranty.

You probably aren't familiar with the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which may or may not apply to these extended warranties.

[Joshdub]

Originally Posted by trader4

I guess you aren't either, since you say you don't know if it applies.
But apparently it does., but it really doesn't change the initial
problem. First, what's most important is what the warranty contract
says. If there is something in there about modifications, the
warranty company believes it applies, then warranty company can
deny the claim and they don't have to "prove" anything at that
point. It's only if you challenge them, take it to arbitration, court, etc.
There, all the facts, issues would be heard and each side would have
to prove their case.

This is the way it works with most of these things where you're
not the one holding the money, etc. It's like saying
a landlord has to prove damages to keep your money. In fact,
what amounts to damages, the facts, etc can be disputed, the
landlord has money and can keep it. If you disagree, then it's
up to you to take them to court, etc. You may or may not win,
but it's what you have to go through.

This thing I'd say depends on what the warranty contract says
with regards to "modifications" and how the company interprets it.
I guess he already has the contract. If he didn't, he could try to
negotiate that an addendum be added that says those wheels
are OK. Even now he could send them an email asking
the question and see what they say. If they say it's OK, he has
the email. But he might just get no answer or they might just
refer him back to the contract, etc.

I don't know if it applies because there is a distinction between a service contract and a written warranty. Most of the documentation I can find is about the initial written warranty from the manufacturer, not about extended service contracts (most aftermarket warranties). It's something for the OP to look into.

Don't let this turn into your normal trader4 shit show. You don't know either, and yes litigation is always an option.

[bcredliner]

Check your warranty. Not all warranties are created equal even from the same company. If it is not clear what you want to do is OK then the only sure way to know if the warranty provider will OK or reject repairs that can be associated with your changes is to contact the warranty provider and ask. I suspect you will be unable to a clear cut documented answer but the only input that is pertinent is that of your warranty provider.

[edogg]

A simple way to find out for sure is to call the warranty company and ask how they handle wheel and exhaust mods. And carefully read the warranty agreement and think about how a lawyer would interpret it.

[Badasblkbmwx5]

Last yr I was inquiring on xoutpost any feedback regarding a service contract. My 2011 X5 CPO was ending. I was told by a person on this forum, it was a waste of money and the cost of the warranty wouldn't equal to repairs in a 4 yr period. Boy am I glad I DID NOT listen to his opinion. The first 12 months from 7/16 to 7/17 was wonderful, not one issue. 8/17 all hell broke loose. Power steering pump, front right axle, oil pan gasket. $2800 all covered. In the shop again now, sway bar end links, upper strut mounts L/R and front struts need replacing, all covered under warranty.
Interstate Assure Guard Ultimate Plan
0 deductible. Paid $2900 for 48 month/48k miles of coverage. My INDY read the coverage and said it was awesome! The Ultimate Plan coverage is bumper to bumper and everything, including wear items like shocks and struts. Only exclusion part it doesn't cover is headlights. Well worth every penny. Bought it from Miami Firefighters Credit Union (member only).

[bcredliner]

Thanks for follow up, good decision. A great example of how it is still necessary to make an informed decision after sorting through forum input, your own research and personal considerations.