Exhaust Mod Warranty Void

[335 S]

Sorry, search feature could not find a post on this. If I install the Remus mufflers, do I void the warranty for the engine or entire drivetrain? Is there a clear stand on this, or will I be placed on the short bus?

[ihyln]

There isn't a clear cut answer on this, unfortunately. I plan on replacing my exhaust but I do worry about voiding the warranty. Hopefully someone with some experience can chime in.

[sfbimmer13]

AFAIK installing a system/muffler like the Remus, Eisenmann etc. doesn't void the warranty - my BMW dealer even installs after market exhausts. It is not like messing with your DME or anything of that sort

[Patricius]

I've heard that, if anything, it voids the warranty on the OEM part you have removed. I would imagine that if you pay for the labor at a BMW dealer they would look the other way.

[lucid]

They would have to prove that the aftermarket part caused damage to another system of the car. In other words, they can't void your suspension warranty, but could they go overboard and void your engine warranty? Highly unlikely.

[sfbimmer13]

the exhaust from Eisenmann, Remus, AC Schnitzer, etc. come with a so-called ABE (Allgemeine Betriebserlaubnis - meaning General Usage Permission) in Germany - that is an official document that allows their use in everyday traffic. In Germany installing any parts that have such a document doesn't void the warranty. So if that is any indication, wouldn't it be reasonable to assume that BMWNA would follow the same rules?

[Patricius]

Originally Posted by lucid

They would have to prove that the aftermarket part caused damage to another system of the car. In other words, they can't void your suspension warranty, but could they go overboard and void your engine warranty? Highly unlikely.

There's precedent set in the Moss-Magnuson act. However, a dealer can refuse to service your car yet not "void" the warranty. On the other hand, if they do void your warranty, it would be your burden to bring the dealership to court and prove that the modification did not cause the malfunction vs. them having to prove that it did. That is unfortunately the way it works.

Originally Posted by sfbimmer13

So if that is any indication, wouldn't it be reasonable to assume that BMWNA would follow the same rules?

The German's have the Autobahn where there are certain areas without any speed limits. Wouldn't you think the US and State Dept. of Transportation follow the same rules?

[sfbimmer13]

Originally Posted by Patricius

The German's have the Autobahn where there are certain areas without any speed limits. Wouldn't you think the US and State Dept. of Transportation follow the same rules?

I wish

[V8 M3]

I asked a service tech. at Crevier BMW if I would void the warranty on my 2008 M3 if I changed the exhaust, and I was told that the warranty would NOT be void is the exhaust was a bolt on after market application from the CAT back. Also the new exhaust would NOT tap into any of the factory wiring harness (don't know exactly what that part means, but though I would post that part was well).
I would check with your local BMW service department to verify.
Probably wouldn't hurt to let the dealer install the exhaust as well.
Hope this helps.

[335 S]

Thanks all for your responses. I also checked with Remus who said the warranty is not voided. It makes sense, but when faced with an engine failure, some might think reduced back pressure would be an easy blame.

[ihyln]

Are you getting the Sport or Race?

I'll be getting the Race system in a few weeks and review it for you guys.

[335 S]

Sport. Slightly better sound than stock, but infinitely better look. The tips and the separate chambers are a no brainer.

[ihyln]

I spoke to my dealer he said that cat back systems do not void your warranty in any way.

[GregW / Oregon]

Originally Posted by 335 S

Sorry, search feature could not find a post on this. If I install the Remus mufflers, do I void the warranty for the engine or entire drivetrain? Is there a clear stand on this, or will I be placed on the short bus?

VERY long stretch to have any drivetrain claim denied based on muffler replacement only. If you do headers or full system, that gets more gray.

[1ne]

Can someone please explain to me what does it mean by "cat back systems"?

I am going to see my service tech tomorrow. Thank you.

[GregW / Oregon]

Originally Posted by 1ne

Can someone please explain to me what does it mean by "cat back systems"?

I am going to see my service tech tomorrow. Thank you.

Sure. Basically, "cat back" means only the rear muffler (and perhaps rear tailpipe sections) are replaced--those pieces after the second catalytic convertors. The function of these pieces, while they may have a small effect on backpressure, is really to control the sound eminating from the car. It cannot be construed, except by those with wild imaginations, as a "performance modification".

[1ne]

Thank you!