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Do I Have to Use the Manufacturer’s Oil?
January 10, 2023
Written By Adam Buckallew
Have you ever had a mechanic or salesperson tell you that the warranty on your equipment or vehicle would be voided if you didn’t use their company’s brand of lubricants? This sales tactic is not only false but also prohibited by law.
The Magnusson Moss Warranty Act, passed by Congress in 1975, prevents manufacturers from using disclaimers on warranties unfairly or misleadingly. Specifically, the law prohibits original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) from conditioning consumer warranties on the use of original equipment parts or services. OEMs cannot require customers to purchase their branded products to maintain warranty coverage unless it is provided free of charge.
As long as the lubricant you want to use meets the minimum specifications set by the manufacturer, an OEM cannot deny your warranty claim. In other words, you are free to use your brand of choice. This is true for all lubricants ranging from engine oil and hydraulic fluid to grease. Many aftermarket lubricant brands, such as MFA Oil’s Work Horse® and Excede®, are designed with the latest technologies and advanced additives to deliver superior results that meet or exceed warranty requirements.
While you are not required to buy an OEM’s brand of lubricants, you do still need to continue to follow the routine maintenance schedule provided in your manual. All services should be completed promptly and documented. Save your receipts and ensure they are clearly dated and provide an accurate listing of the services performed.
MFA Oil proudly stands behind the quality of its lubricant products and offers a limited warranty program to give you peace of mind. Our highly trained laboratory staff is available to analyze your oil samples to help you minimize costly downtime and repairs. We also have the resources and contacts to help you navigate the complexity of warranty claims. If you have questions about product suitability to maintain your OEM warranty, call (800) MFA-LUBE or email [email protected].