Can you repair things elsewhere and then get the extended warranty out?

[GetTheDub]

I can get the extended warranty but the motor needs a few things sorted. Water pump/cambelt etc.

My question is, can I get those things replaced anywhere I want or does VW have to do the fix and do the parts have to be VW own?

I can't see anything in the documents that says you can't have a different make of water pump/cambelt. But it did make me think if that would fall under the modifications list as it might not be the EXACT same replacement?

On a separate note, do the size of wheels void warranty? Like 20 inch wheels for example. Would they try to wriggle out of any potential claim if I had those on?

Cheers

 

[roadtripper]

Generally under any warranty you'll only be covered if you use parts of an equivalent specification and in accordance with the manufacturers procedures.

Remember a warranty is really just an insurance product, and like all insurance it only makes money if it doesn't pay out so during any claim there will be scrutiny.

So for easier claims stick to original parts and approved garages with access to the VW service directions and records. Using equivalent/identical parts from the same manufacturer as the OE part that will also help any argument during a claim if you don't want to use original parts.

With modifications a claim might not be valid if it could reasonably have cause the issue, but elsewhere it should not. So putting aftermarket wheels on may cause you more agro in claim for suspension but shouldn't have any impact on a claim for a head unit failure.

It's also worth remembering that warranty claims are generally going to be through a van centre. If you have all your work done elsewhere but only go to them for warranty claims there is far less motivation for them to fight for your corner should you need that.