Use this warranty claims guide to build a clear demand letter for San Antonio.
Warranty Claims Rights in San Antonio: A Complete Guide
San Antonio, the seventh-largest city in the United States and a major hub of South Texas commerce, represents a thriving consumer marketplace where warranty-protected products are essential for daily life. From automobiles navigating the city's sprawling road network to air conditioning systems critical for surviving intense Texas summers, from electronics purchased at The Shops at La Cantera to appliances bought in neighborhoods from Alamo Heights to the South Side, San Antonians regularly purchase products backed by manufacturer warranties. When these products fail to perform as promised, understanding your warranty rights under federal law and Texas's powerful consumer protection statutes becomes essential for protecting your investment.
Texas provides some of the strongest consumer protections in the nation through a combination of federal warranty law and state statutes specifically designed to address warranty issues and deceptive practices. The federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act establishes baseline protections, while the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act offers some of the most powerful consumer remedies available anywhere. The Uniform Commercial Code as adopted by Texas creates implied warranties in most consumer sales, and the Texas Lemon Law specifically protects vehicle purchasers. This comprehensive legal framework gives San Antonio consumers multiple avenues for pursuing warranty claims with substantial remedies.
The climate challenges of San Antonio make warranty issues particularly significant for local residents. Summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit place extreme stress on vehicles, HVAC systems, and outdoor equipment. Products must perform reliably despite intense heat and occasional severe weather events. Whether you are dealing with an air conditioning unit that fails during a July heat wave, a vehicle with chronic problems on Interstate 410, or construction materials that did not perform as warranted, understanding your warranty rights empowers you to seek appropriate remedies under Texas law.
Many San Antonio consumers feel intimidated by warranty disputes with large manufacturers, assuming the process is too complex or that corporations will refuse to honor their obligations. However, Texas law is notably consumer-friendly, particularly through the Deceptive Trade Practices Act, which provides for recovery of actual damages, treble damages in cases of knowing or intentional violations, and attorney's fees for prevailing consumers. These powerful provisions create meaningful incentives for manufacturers to resolve legitimate warranty claims and give consumers significant leverage.
This comprehensive guide will explain the legal framework governing warranties in Texas, provide detailed step-by-step instructions for pursuing warranty claims, describe the evidence needed to support your case, identify critical deadlines, highlight common mistakes to avoid, and list resources available to San Antonio residents. With this knowledge, you will be well-prepared to advocate effectively for your warranty rights under Texas law.
Texas and Federal Warranty Laws
The legal foundation for warranty claims in San Antonio rests on a powerful combination of federal and Texas state laws that create comprehensive consumer protection. At the federal level, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, codified at 15 U.S.C. Sections 2301-2312, establishes fundamental warranty requirements for all consumer products sold in the United States. This Act requires warranties to be written clearly, distinguishes between full warranties and limited warranties, prohibits manufacturers from disclaiming implied warranties when they provide any written warranty, and creates federal remedies for warranty breaches. For San Antonio consumers, the Magnuson-Moss Act provides baseline protection that works with Texas's even stronger state provisions.
The Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act (DTPA), codified in Texas Business and Commerce Code Chapter 17, provides some of the strongest consumer protections in the nation. The DTPA makes it unlawful to engage in false, misleading, or deceptive acts or practices in trade or commerce, specifically including breach of express or implied warranties. What makes the DTPA particularly powerful is its remedy structure: consumers can recover actual damages for any violation, and if the conduct was committed knowingly, treble damages (three times actual damages) may be awarded. Prevailing consumers are also entitled to reasonable attorney's fees.
Texas has adopted the Uniform Commercial Code, found in Texas Business and Commerce Code Title 1, which creates implied warranties that exist automatically in most consumer sales. The implied warranty of merchantability under Section 2.314 guarantees that goods are fit for the ordinary purposes for which they are used. An air conditioner must cool, a vehicle must provide reliable transportation, and appliances must perform their basic functions. The implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose under Section 2.315 applies when the seller knows the buyer's specific needs and the buyer relies on the seller's expertise. These warranties exist even without any written warranty.
For vehicle purchases, Texas has enacted the Texas Lemon Law, found in Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2301, Subchapter M. This law applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in Texas that develop defects substantially impairing use and market value within the earlier of 24 months or 24,000 miles. If a manufacturer cannot repair a defect after a reasonable number of attempts, the consumer may be entitled to replacement or refund. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles administers a complaint process and conducts hearings for Lemon Law disputes, providing an administrative alternative to court litigation.
The DTPA specifically incorporates warranty law by making it a deceptive practice to breach an express or implied warranty or to fail to disclose information about goods known at the time of transaction if such failure was intended to induce the consumer into the transaction. This means warranty breaches can give rise to DTPA claims with enhanced remedy provisions. A San Antonio consumer with a valid warranty claim may recover not just product cost but potentially treble damages and attorney's fees if manufacturer conduct was knowing or intentional.
Texas law recognizes express warranties created by any affirmation of fact or promise made by the seller, any description of the goods, or any sample or model that becomes part of the basis of the bargain. Under Section 2.313 of the Business and Commerce Code, a seller need not use words like warranty or guarantee for an express warranty to arise. Marketing materials, advertisements, product descriptions, and salesperson statements can all create enforceable warranty obligations. San Antonio consumers should preserve all such materials as evidence of express warranties.
The combination of these legal frameworks gives San Antonio consumers powerful tools for warranty enforcement. A consumer with a defective product can potentially pursue claims under the Magnuson-Moss Act for breach of written warranty, under the Texas UCC for breach of implied warranties, and under the DTPA for deceptive trade practices. This multi-theory approach maximizes leverage in negotiations and provides alternative paths to recovery. Texas courts consistently interpret these consumer protection laws broadly in favor of consumers.
While sellers may disclaim implied warranties under certain circumstances, such disclaimers must be conspicuous and use specific language. Under the Magnuson-Moss Act, if a seller provides any written warranty, it cannot disclaim implied warranties entirely, though it may limit their duration. Texas law further restricts warranty disclaimers in consumer transactions, and courts carefully scrutinize any attempts to limit consumer rights.
Step-by-Step Guide to Warranty Claims Demand Letters in San Antonio
Begin by gathering every document related to your purchase and warranty coverage. Collect original sales receipts or invoices, credit card or bank statements, warranty certificates or registration cards, product manuals containing warranty terms, and any extended warranty contracts. For San Antonio residents, store documents in climate-controlled conditions given the region's heat. Create digital backups stored in cloud storage. Complete documentation forms the foundation of any successful warranty claim.
Create comprehensive documentation of the product failure or defect. Take clear photographs and videos showing the problem from multiple angles in good lighting. Note the exact date you first noticed the issue and describe precisely how the product is failing. In San Antonio's climate, document conditions when failures occur for HVAC or vehicle problems. Maintain a detailed log if problems are intermittent, recording date, time, temperature, and specific symptoms for each occurrence.
Study all warranty documentation to understand exactly what is covered, what is excluded, and what procedures must be followed. Note whether the warranty is designated as full or limited under federal law. Pay attention to requirements for authorized service providers, notice procedures, and geographic limitations. Some warranties may have exclusions related to extreme heat, relevant in San Antonio. Understanding warranty terms allows effective claim framing.
Initiate your claim through the manufacturer's designated customer service process. Call customer support, submit claims through online portals, or visit authorized service centers. Document every contact: record date, time, representative's name, reference numbers, and conversation substance. Request written confirmation of all verbal communications. This creates a record demonstrating good faith efforts to resolve through normal warranty procedures.
Under Texas law and the Magnuson-Moss Act, manufacturers generally have the right to attempt repair before providing replacement or refund. Cooperate with authorized repair attempts while keeping detailed records. For each repair, document the date, problem reported, work performed, parts replaced, and whether the repair resolved the issue. For vehicles under the Texas Lemon Law, track repair attempts carefully as four attempts for the same problem or 30 days out of service triggers replacement or refund rights.
Determine the full extent of your losses before drafting your demand letter. Include original purchase price, Texas sales tax, delivery and installation charges, costs of repairs paid out of pocket, rental or substitute costs, towing or transportation expenses, lost wages for time missed from work, and consequential damages. In San Antonio's climate, consequential damages might include hotel costs if failed AC made your home uninhabitable, increased utility bills from inefficient equipment, or spoiled food from refrigerator failure.
Prepare a formal demand letter presenting your case comprehensively. Include complete contact information, product identification (manufacturer, model, serial number), date and place of purchase, detailed description of the defect and its impact, chronology of repair attempts and communications, citations to the Texas DTPA, UCC, Magnuson-Moss Act, and Texas Lemon Law if applicable. Clearly state your demand (replacement, refund, or specific repairs), set a response deadline (typically 30 days), and note DTPA provides for treble damages.
Include copies of all relevant documents with your demand letter. This includes purchase receipts, warranty certificates, repair orders and invoices, photographs of defects, correspondence with manufacturer and dealers, and any expert evaluations. Never send original documents. Organize attachments logically and reference them specifically in your letter. Thorough documentation demonstrates claim seriousness and provides evidence supporting your assertions.
Your demand letter should reference specific Texas legal provisions. Cite Texas Business and Commerce Code Section 17.46 for deceptive trade practices, Sections 2.314 and 2.315 for implied warranties, and Occupations Code Chapter 2301 Subchapter M for vehicle Lemon Law claims. Note that the DTPA provides actual damages, treble damages for knowing violations, and attorney's fees. This demonstrates understanding of Texas law and serious consequences of non-compliance.
Mail your demand letter via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested to create proof of delivery. Address it to the manufacturer's legal department, consumer relations department, or registered agent in Texas. The Texas Secretary of State maintains records of registered agents. Keep the green return receipt card as evidence. Consider also sending copies via email to document delivery through multiple channels.
Specify a reasonable deadline for response, typically 30 days from receipt. Under the Texas DTPA, consumers must give written notice and 60 days' opportunity to inspect before filing suit, so your demand letter can serve this notice function. Make clear that failure to respond satisfactorily will result in formal legal action seeking DTPA remedies including potential treble damages and attorney's fees.
After sending your demand letter, prepare for possible escalation. Research attorneys specializing in consumer protection and DTPA claims in San Antonio, as many offer free consultations and contingency representation. Familiarize yourself with filing procedures for Bexar County Justice Courts (small claims up to $20,000) and District Courts. For vehicle issues, learn about the Texas DMV Lemon Law complaint process. File complaints with the Texas Attorney General Consumer Protection Division and Better Business Bureau.
Essential Evidence for San Antonio Warranty Claims
Purchase Documentation and Transaction Records: The foundation of every warranty claim is proof of purchase establishing when you bought the product and from whom. Essential documents include original sales receipts or invoices, credit card or bank statements, financing agreements, and delivery confirmations. For vehicles, retain the bill of sale, title documents, and financing paperwork. San Antonio consumers should protect paper documents from heat damage. Maintain digital backups in cloud storage. These documents establish standing and warranty period start dates.
Warranty Certificates and Coverage Documents: Gather all materials establishing warranty terms. This includes manufacturer warranty booklets, warranty registration cards or confirmations, extended warranty contracts, and any warranty amendments or bulletins. The Magnuson-Moss Act requires warranty terms to be available before purchase, so check manufacturer websites for official documentation. For HVAC systems critical in San Antonio's climate, review any environmental limitations in warranty terms.
Photographic and Video Evidence: Visual documentation provides compelling evidence of product failures. Take high-quality photographs showing defects from multiple angles with good lighting. Video recordings are valuable for documenting operational problems such as unusual sounds, malfunctions, or failure to perform. Given San Antonio's temperatures, include ambient conditions when documenting climate-related failures. Store copies in multiple locations including cloud storage.
Repair History and Service Documentation: Maintain complete records of every repair attempt. This includes work orders documenting problems reported and work performed, receipts for parts and labor, diagnostic reports, and communications from service departments. For Texas Lemon Law claims, tracking repair attempts and cumulative days out of service is critical. Verify that repair orders accurately reflect your reported symptoms and obtain copies of all service documentation.
Communication Records: Document every interaction with manufacturers, dealers, and service providers. Save all emails and online chat transcripts. For phone calls, immediately write detailed notes recording date, time, duration, representative name, and conversation content. If calls are recorded, note this and request copies if needed. Obtain written confirmation of any commitments. This documentation proves proper notice and can establish manufacturer non-responsiveness.
Expert Reports and Independent Evaluations: For significant claims or disputed defects, independent expert opinions strengthen your case. In San Antonio, this might include inspections by certified auto mechanics, evaluations by licensed HVAC technicians, or assessments by qualified engineers. Experts familiar with how products perform in South Texas conditions can address manufacturer claims that failures resulted from environmental factors. Independent findings carry significant weight.
Consequential Damages Documentation: If the defective product caused additional losses, document these thoroughly. In San Antonio, this commonly includes hotel costs if failed AC made your home uninhabitable during summer, spoiled food from refrigerator failures, increased utility bills, rental car costs, lost wages, and property damage. Keep all receipts as consequential damages may be recoverable under Texas law.
Critical Deadlines for Warranty Claims in Texas
Express Warranty Duration Periods: Express warranties have specific duration periods defined by manufacturers. Common periods include one year for consumer electronics, five to ten years for major HVAC components critical for San Antonio summers, and three years or 36,000 miles for new vehicle bumper-to-bumper coverage. These periods typically begin from purchase date. Review warranty documents carefully and initiate claims before warranty expires.
Texas Lemon Law Timeframe: The Texas Lemon Law applies during the earlier of 24 months from original delivery or 24,000 miles. Within this period, defects that substantially impair use and market value must be reported and repair attempts documented. A reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed when four attempts have been made for the same substantial defect, or the vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more days. Consumers must file complaints with the Texas DMV within six months after warranty period ends.
Implied Warranty Duration and Limitations: Under Texas UCC Section 2.725, the statute of limitations for warranty claims is four years from when the cause of action accrues. The cause of action typically accrues at tender of delivery. However, if a warranty explicitly extends to future performance, the limitation may run from discovery. Sellers may limit implied warranty duration if the limitation is conspicuous and reasonable.
DTPA Notice Requirements: Before filing suit under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, consumers must give the defendant written notice including specific facts, damages sought, and attorney's fees incurred. The defendant has 60 days to make a settlement offer. If no acceptable offer is made, consumers may proceed to litigation. Your demand letter can satisfy this notice requirement if it contains required elements.
Statute of Limitations for DTPA Claims: Actions under the Texas DTPA must be commenced within two years from when the deceptive act occurred or was discovered. This is shorter than the four-year UCC period, so consumers should be aware of both deadlines. The discovery rule can extend the deadline in cases where deception was not reasonably discoverable.
Texas Lemon Law Filing Deadline: Complaints to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles under the Lemon Law must be filed within six months after express warranty expiration. Meeting this deadline is essential for administrative remedies. Court actions have the four-year UCC limitations period.
Document Retention Period: Retain all warranty-related documentation for at least six years from purchase, exceeding the four-year UCC limitations period with buffer time. In San Antonio's climate, store documents in climate-controlled conditions. Maintain digital backups. This ensures evidence availability throughout any potential claims period.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in San Antonio Warranty Claims
Assuming Heat-Related Failures Are Automatically Excluded: Many San Antonio consumers assume product failures related to heat are automatically excluded from warranty coverage. While some warranties contain environmental exclusions, manufacturers cannot exclude coverage for products that should function in their intended market. AC units sold in South Texas should work in South Texas heat. Do not accept environmental exclusion claims without carefully reviewing actual warranty language.
Failing to Document Climate-Related Defects: When product failures may relate to heat, documenting conditions at the time of failure is crucial. Note temperatures and other conditions. This documentation can support claims that products failed under normal San Antonio conditions or refute manufacturer arguments about abnormal use. Without this documentation, manufacturers may shift blame inappropriately.
Not Keeping Complete Repair Records: Many consumers fail to retain repair order copies or verify that records accurately reflect reported problems. Under the Texas Lemon Law, repair attempt counts directly affect rights. Always obtain copies of all service documentation, verify accuracy, and note discrepancies between what you reported and what was recorded.
Using Unauthorized Service Providers: Taking products to independent repair shops not authorized by manufacturers can void warranty coverage. San Antonio has numerous independent mechanics and repair services, but always verify manufacturer authorization before allowing work on warranted products. Unauthorized service gives manufacturers grounds to deny coverage.
Missing the DTPA Notice Requirement: The Texas DTPA requires specific written notice before filing suit. Consumers who file without proper notice may face procedural problems. Ensure your demand letter satisfies DTPA notice requirements by including all required elements and providing 60 days for response.
Accepting Verbal Promises Without Documentation: Customer service representatives frequently promise refunds or replacements that are never documented. Always request written confirmation including reference numbers. Document any refusal to provide written confirmation. Verbal promises without documentation are difficult to enforce.
Not Understanding Texas-Specific Protections: Many consumers rely on general warranty knowledge without understanding Texas-specific protections, particularly the DTPA's treble damages and attorney's fee provisions. Texas is one of the most consumer-friendly states. Demand letters that cite DTPA provisions convey full legal exposure.
Waiting Too Long to Escalate: Some consumers continue pursuing ineffective repairs without escalating, eventually finding warranty periods expired. Recognize when repeated failures indicate the product cannot be fixed. Texas Lemon Law specifies four repair attempts or 30 days out of service as thresholds.
Failing to File DMV Complaints for Lemon Law Claims: For vehicle warranty issues, the Texas DMV Lemon Law complaint process provides an administrative alternative to litigation. Consumers who pursue only manufacturer negotiations may miss this remedy. Complaints must be filed within six months after warranty expiration.
Underestimating Texas Justice Courts: Texas Justice Courts handle claims up to $20,000 with accessible procedures. Many consumers assume warranty disputes require expensive litigation. Justice Court provides an efficient resolution forum for many warranty disputes in San Antonio.
Frequently Asked Questions About Warranty Claims in San Antonio
The Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act (DTPA), found in Texas Business and Commerce Code Chapter 17, is one of the strongest consumer protection laws in the country. It makes breach of warranty a deceptive trade practice, meaning warranty violations can give rise to DTPA claims. Consumers can recover actual damages, treble damages (three times actual damages) if the violation was knowing or intentional, and reasonable attorney's fees. These provisions create strong incentives for manufacturers to resolve legitimate warranty claims.
The Texas Lemon Law (Occupations Code Chapter 2301, Subchapter M) protects purchasers of new vehicles with substantial defects that cannot be repaired. It applies during the earlier of 24 months from delivery or 24,000 miles. If a manufacturer cannot repair a defect after a reasonable number of attempts, the consumer may be entitled to replacement or refund. A reasonable number is presumed after four repairs for the same problem or 30 cumulative days out of service. Consumers file complaints with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles within six months after warranty expiration.
Texas has multiple limitations periods. For breach of warranty under the UCC, the statute of limitations is four years from tender of delivery. For DTPA claims, the period is two years from when the deceptive act occurred or was discovered. For Lemon Law claims through the DMV, complaints must be filed within six months after warranty expiration. Understanding all applicable deadlines is important for preserving claims.
Yes, Texas law provides for attorney's fee recovery in successful warranty cases. Under the DTPA, consumers who prevail are entitled to reasonable attorney's fees. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act also allows recovery. These fee-shifting provisions make it economically feasible to pursue warranty claims and incentivize attorneys to take consumer cases. When negotiating settlements, ensure attorney's fees are addressed separately from damages.
Yes, the DTPA requires written notice at least 60 days before filing suit, specifying the complaint, economic damages, mental anguish damages, and attorney's fees incurred. The defendant then has 60 days to make a settlement offer. If no acceptable offer is made, consumers may proceed to litigation. A properly crafted demand letter can satisfy this notice requirement.
Treble damages means three times actual damages. Under the Texas DTPA, if a jury finds conduct was committed knowingly, the court may award up to three times economic damages. For intentional conduct, treble damages are mandatory. To establish knowing conduct, consumers must show the defendant was aware its conduct was deceptive. Evidence such as prior complaints or patterns of similar conduct supports treble damages findings.
Contact the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Enforcement Division. Complaints can be filed online through the TxDMV website or by mail. Include vehicle purchase documentation, warranty information, repair history, and defect description. The DMV reviews complaints and may schedule a hearing before an administrative law judge. The process is less formal than court litigation. File within six months after warranty expiration.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, manufacturers generally cannot require use of only branded parts or authorized service as a warranty condition unless provided free or with FTC waiver. However, if non-OEM parts actually caused the current problem, manufacturers may deny coverage for that specific issue. The burden is on manufacturers to prove causation. Many warranty denials based on non-OEM parts do not hold up under scrutiny.
Texas's primary Lemon Law applies to new vehicles. However, used car buyers are protected by implied warranties under the UCC (unless properly disclaimed), the DTPA if dealers engaged in deceptive practices, express warranties provided by dealers, and remaining manufacturer warranties that transfer with vehicles. While protections are not as comprehensive, meaningful remedies exist for used car purchases.
Texas Justice Courts have jurisdiction over civil cases up to $20,000, higher than small claims limits in many states. This makes Justice Court accessible for many warranty disputes. Procedures are simplified for self-represented parties and filing fees are modest. For claims exceeding $20,000, County Court at Law or District Court is appropriate. Bexar County has multiple Justice Courts serving different precincts throughout San Antonio.
What to Expect When Settling Warranty Claims in San Antonio
Settlement outcomes for warranty claims in San Antonio are significantly influenced by Texas's strong consumer protection laws, particularly the DTPA's treble damages and attorney's fee provisions. In straightforward cases with clear defects and solid documentation, many claims resolve favorably through demand letters. Manufacturers understand that Texas juries have been sympathetic to consumer claims and that potential exposure is substantial. A well-documented claim citing DTPA remedies signals that the consumer understands their legal leverage.
The initial response typically starts conservatively. Manufacturers commonly deny claims initially, offer only repairs when replacement is warranted, propose pro-rated refunds, or suggest store credit. These are negotiating positions rather than final offers. San Antonio consumers should reject inadequate offers, provide additional documentation, and communicate willingness to pursue DTPA remedies including treble damages. Texas consumer protection law provides significant leverage.
For vehicle claims under the Texas Lemon Law, settlements often involve specific statutory remedies. Manufacturers may offer replacement vehicles, sometimes with upgrades or extended warranties, or full refunds including purchase price, taxes, and certain incidental costs. The DMV administrative process provides structured dispute resolution. Having documented the required repair attempts or days out of service strengthens negotiating position.
Timelines vary based on claim complexity and manufacturer responsiveness. Simple claims may resolve within weeks following effective demand letters. Complex disputes may take months. If DMV process or litigation becomes necessary, timelines extend, though filing often accelerates settlement discussions. San Antonio courts have substantial caseloads, giving parties incentive to settle.
Settlement agreements typically require releases and may include additional terms. Review any release carefully to understand what rights you are surrendering. For significant claims, have an attorney review terms. Under Texas law, attorney's fees may be recoverable if you prevail in litigation, which should factor into evaluating settlement offers.
San Antonio Warranty Claims Resources and Contacts
The AG's office handles consumer complaints, investigates deceptive practices, and enforces the DTPA statewide.
Website: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection
Consumer Protection Hotline: (800) 621-0508
San Antonio Regional Office: 115 East Travis Street, Suite 925, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 225-4191
The TxDMV administers the Texas Lemon Law complaint process for vehicle warranty disputes.
Website: https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/consumer-protection/lemon-law
Phone: (888) 368-4689
The BBB provides complaint resolution services and mediation for consumer disputes.
Website: https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/san-antonio
Phone: (210) 828-9441
Address: 4535 Walzem Road, San Antonio, TX 78218
Justice Courts handle civil cases up to $20,000, including warranty disputes. Multiple precincts serve San Antonio.
Website: https://www.bexar.org/2252/Justice-of-the-Peace
Locations: Multiple throughout Bexar County
For warranty claims exceeding $20,000, District Courts provide the appropriate forum.
Website: https://www.bexar.org/2243/Civil-District-Courts
Address: Paul Elizondo Tower, 101 West Nueva Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents.
Website: https://www.salsa-tx.org/
Phone: (210) 227-0111
Provides free legal services to qualifying low-income residents.
Website: https://www.trla.org/
Phone: (888) 988-9996
Can connect consumers with attorneys handling consumer protection matters.
Website: https://www.sanantoniobar.org/
Phone: (210) 227-8822
The FTC enforces the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and accepts consumer complaints.
Website: https://www.ftc.gov/
Complaint Submission: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
Find registered agents for companies doing business in Texas.
Website: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml
The Warranty Claim Playbook
Proof of Purchase
Receipt, order confirmation, registration. Know your purchase date and warranty period.
Document the Defect
Photos, videos, repair attempts. Show exactly what's wrong and when it started.
Review Warranty Terms
Read the actual warranty. Know what's covered, for how long, and what remedies they promise.
Federal Warranty Laws Protect You
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires manufacturers to honor written warranties. Many states have additional lemon laws for vehicles and appliances.
Texas Warranty Claims Laws
Applicable Laws
- Texas Lemon Law (Tex. Occ. Code § 2301)
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
- UCC Article 2
Small Claims Limit
$20,000
Consumer Protection Agency
Texas DMV Lemon Law Section
Warranty Claim FAQ
What if my warranty just expired?
Some defects trigger implied warranty of merchantability claims even after the written warranty expires. Manufacturing defects that appear early may still be covered.
Can they void my warranty for third-party repairs?
Generally no. The Magnuson-Moss Act prohibits tie-in sales provisions. They can't require you to use only their parts or service.
What's an implied warranty?
Even without a written warranty, products come with an implied promise that they'll work as expected for a reasonable time.
What about extended warranties?
Extended warranties are service contracts with their own terms. Read carefully - they often have exclusions and may require specific procedures.
How many repair attempts before I can demand replacement?
Lemon laws vary by state. Typically 3-4 repair attempts for the same issue, or 30+ days out of service, triggers replacement or refund rights.
Can I sue for a warranty dispute?
Yes. The Magnuson-Moss Act allows you to recover legal fees if you win, making small warranty claims more viable.
What if they claim I caused the damage?
They must prove user abuse or unauthorized modifications. Normal use that reveals a defect is their problem, not yours.
About FreeDemandLetter
FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
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