Installing a catch can on your vehicle typically does not void your warranty—at least not automatically. However, if the catch can causes damage to your engine or is proven to be the reason for a failure, the manufacturer could deny warranty coverage for those specific repairs.
Understanding how a catch can works, how it’s viewed by manufacturers, and what your rights are under the law can help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Catch Can?
A catch can, or oil catch can, is an aftermarket device installed in the vehicle’s Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system. It catches excess oil vapors and contaminants from the crankcase before they can be routed back into the intake manifold.
This prevents:
- Carbon buildup on intake valves (especially in direct injection engines)
- Contaminants from re-entering the combustion chamber
- Reduced engine performance over time
Catch cans are popular among enthusiasts because they help keep engines cleaner and more efficient.
Does Installing a Catch Can Automatically Void Your Warranty?
No, It Doesn’t Automatically Void the Warranty
Simply installing a catch can does not void your entire vehicle warranty. Under federal law, specifically the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, manufacturers can’t void your warranty just because you installed an aftermarket part.
The warranty can only be denied if:
- The catch can causes a problem.
- It contributes to the failure of a warrantied part.
For example, if you install a catch can and your radio stops working, your warranty will still cover the radio because the catch can is unrelated. But if the dealer can prove that the catch can caused an engine issue, they may deny coverage for engine-related repairs.
How Can a Catch Can Affect Your Warranty?
1. Improper Installation
If the catch can is installed incorrectly, it could disrupt the PCV system, create vacuum leaks, or lead to improper engine ventilation. This could result in performance problems or engine damage, and the manufacturer could deny warranty claims for those issues.
2. Low-Quality Components
A poorly made or low-quality catch can may not function properly. If it restricts airflow or allows contaminants back into the engine, it could cause damage. If damage occurs, and it’s traced back to the catch can, warranty coverage may be denied for those repairs.
3. Modifications to the Engine
Some dealerships take a strict stance on modifications. While a catch can is relatively minor compared to turbo upgrades or tunes, some dealers may flag any modifications and be more critical when diagnosing warranty claims.
How to Protect Your Warranty When Using a Catch Can
1. Use a Reputable Brand
Choose a well-known, quality catch can from a reputable manufacturer. These products are designed to work with your vehicle’s systems without causing problems.
2. Professional Installation
If you’re not confident installing it yourself, have a professional do it. A correct installation ensures your catch can doesn’t interfere with the PCV system.
3. Keep the Original Parts
If you need warranty service, you can reinstall the factory PCV system to avoid questions about the catch can.
4. Know Your Rights
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires the manufacturer to prove that your modification caused the problem before denying coverage. They can’t void the warranty just because you added a catch can.
Do Dealerships Care About a Catch Can?
Some dealerships don’t mind a catch can, especially if they know it helps reduce carbon buildup. Others may be stricter about any non-factory modifications. It often depends on the dealership’s policies, the service manager’s opinion, and your relationship with them.
It’s a good idea to:
- Ask your dealership about their stance on catch cans.
- Find a mod-friendly dealership if possible, especially if you plan on doing other upgrades.
Conclusion
A catch can does not automatically void your warranty. However, improper installation or poor-quality components could cause engine issues that might lead a manufacturer or dealership to deny a specific repair claim. Following proper installation procedures, using quality parts, and understanding your rights can help you enjoy the benefits of a catch can without risking your warranty.
FAQs
Can I Remove a Catch Can Before Going to the Dealership?
Yes, many people reinstall the stock PCV system before a warranty visit to avoid questions.
Do Catch Cans Actually Help?
Yes, they reduce oil vapors entering the intake, helping prevent carbon buildup in direct injection engines.
Will a Catch Can Improve Performance?
Not directly, but by reducing carbon buildup, it can help maintain engine efficiency over time.
Are Catch Cans Legal?
In most places, yes. However, you should make sure your catch can doesn’t vent to the atmosphere (open system), as that could violate emissions laws.
What Happens If the Dealer Denies My Warranty?
If you believe the denial is unfair, you can escalate the issue with the manufacturer or seek legal advice under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
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