How warranties usually treat modifications
Warranties generally cover defects in manufacture, not the consequences of modification. Where a manufacturer believes a modification contributed to a failure, cover for that failure may be refused.
Terms vary between manufacturers, extended-warranty providers and used-car schemes, which is why the answer is always vehicle and policy specific.
Questions worth asking first
Before booking anything, ask your dealer or warranty provider:
- Does engine management software modification affect my cover?
- Would cover be affected for all components or only related ones?
- Does returning the vehicle to original software restore cover?
- Is the position recorded anywhere in writing?
Our position
We would rather you make an informed decision than an enthusiastic one. If your vehicle is nearly new and under full manufacturer warranty, it is entirely reasonable to wait.