The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA) is a federal law that protects consumers' rights when it comes to warranties on consumer products. The law was enacted in 1975 to help consumers understand their rights and to prevent manufacturers from using unfair or misleading warranty practices.
The MMWA applies to all written warranties on consumer products that cost more than $10. A written warranty is any warranty that is set forth in writing or in electronic form and that forms part of the basis of the bargain between the seller and the buyer.
The MMWA requires that all written warranties be designated as either "full" or "limited." A full warranty must meet certain minimum standards, such as providing for free repair or replacement of defective products. A limited warranty may provide less coverage than a full warranty, but it must still meet certain minimum standards.
The MMWA also prohibits manufacturers from disclaiming or limiting implied warranties, such as the implied warranty of merchantability. An implied warranty is a warranty that is not explicitly stated in the contract, but that is implied by law. The implied warranty of merchantability, for example, guarantees that a product will be fit for its ordinary purpose.
If you have a problem with a product that is covered by a warranty, you should contact the manufacturer or retailer. You may also be able to file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Here are some of the key provisions of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act:
Requires that all written warranties on consumer products that cost more than $10 be designated as either "full" or "limited."
Requires that full warranties meet certain minimum standards, such as providing for free repair or replacement of defective products.
Prohibits manufacturers from disclaiming or limiting implied warranties, such as the implied warranty of merchantability.
Gives consumers the right to sue for breach of warranty in federal court.
Here are some of the benefits of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act:
Gives consumers more information about warranties, so they can make informed decisions about whether to purchase a product.
Protects consumers from unfair or misleading warranty practices.
Provides consumers with more effective remedies for breach of warranty.
Helps to reduce consumer fraud and deception.
If you have a problem with a product that is covered by a warranty, you should contact the manufacturer or retailer. You may also be able to file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is an important law that protects consumers' rights when it comes to warranties. If you have a problem with a product that is covered by a warranty, you should know your rights and be sure to contact the manufacturer or retailer. You may also be able to file a complaint with the FTC.