Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

In one sentence

Federal law requiring clear warranty disclosures and limiting warranty disclaimers for consumer products.

Plain English

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a federal law that protects consumers by requiring companies to clearly explain what their product warranties cover. It prevents sellers from hiding behind confusing warranty language or unfairly disclaiming warranties on consumer goods. If a seller offers a written warranty, they must disclose its terms in plain language before you buy. The law also gives you the right to sue if a warranty is breached.

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Example

A refrigerator manufacturer includes a five-year warranty on the compressor. Under Magnuson-Moss, the company must clearly state in writing what the warranty covers, what it excludes, and how to make a claim—and cannot later claim the warranty never existed because of fine print.

Used in a sentence

“The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires appliance makers to disclose warranty terms clearly and prevents them from disclaiming warranties unfairly.”

Related terms

Written Requirement

A legal rule that certain contracts must be in writing to be enforceable.

Disclaimer

A legal refusal by a beneficiary to accept an inheritance or gift.

Unconscionability

A contract term so unfair and one-sided that a court will refuse to enforce it.

Breach of Warranty

Failing to fulfill a promise or guarantee made about a product or service.

UCC (Uniform Commercial Code)

A standardized set of rules governing commercial transactions adopted by most U.S. states.

Fraud

Intentional deception or misrepresentation made to trick someone into entering a contract or deal.

Offer

A proposal to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms.

Acceptance

Agreeing to the exact terms of an offer, creating a binding contract.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.