Will a performance programmer such as a Superchip or any other "chip" void a vehicle's warranty?

Question

I'm planning on installing a performance programmer made by SuperChips on my 2005 Chevy Silverado that's still under warranty. Will it void my warranty by doing so?

Answer 1

Certainly. GM can't be certain that all of the controls based on their development and integration efforts were implemented properly in the aftermarket chip.

Some things are done to the calibration to meet emissions or fuel economy targets. If you mess with these, you might have a little better performance and a little less fuel economy. The lifespan of your catalytic converter may be shortened.

The thing to worry about is if there was torque management in the factory chip that isn't in the aftermarket chip -- sometimes this is done to protect other components.

My recommendation is that you do not install any one 'trick' component without making the entire drivetrain robust.
I know of a guy who put 600 HP in a Lincoln LSC and wound up breaking the car -- I mean, cracked the engine compartment off of the passenger compartment.

Souping up the engine without working on the transmission, differential and perhaps even suspension will just move a failure mode around the car.

Answer 2

Q: Will installing aftermarket parts void my warranty?

A: In most cases, "NO". The only way a dealer can void the warranty is if they can undeniably prove that the part(s) you installed caused the problem you brought in to be fixed. And even if they deny warranty work, the warranty itself CANNOT be voided. That is, if you installed new heads or a cam, engine warranty claims could be denied, but suspension, brakes, and other claims must be honored by the dealership. When it comes to basic intake and exhaust parts, most of that aftermarket equipment is EPA and SEMA approved. That means the car should not fail any emissions testing, and warrant work cannot be denied as such. So denials of this nature should be reported to the EPA at 202-233-9040 or 202-233-9100. For all other denials of implied or expressed warranties, you might want to get the help of the Federal Trade Commission at 202-326-3128.

Answer 3

yes it will if they find out. most of those programmers are two way operation. meaning when you plug it in to put in the new program it also removes and stores the old program. if you ever need any ecm related work under warranty just reprogram it again which will remove the performance and reinstall the original program , once its fixed do it again.

Answer 4

Yes.

Any unauthorized modifictions will void out you warranty.

Answer 5

YES

Answer 6

it depends...