FYI -
Are
Auto Manufacturers required under
US Federal Law to provide
parts ... for 10 years
"US Federal Law"
1) Warranties
Consumer products are not required to have warranties, but if one is given, it must comply with the
Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act
The act says that warranties must be
"conspicuously designated" as either a Full Warranty or as a Limited Warranty. I believe the terms of the act mostly apply to full waranties. I note that makers tend to advertise "powertrain warranties" etc rather than "full warranties". (
example)
See
FTC advice for more on "Full" vs "Limited" warranties and other aspects of the act. A powertrain warranty can be either full or limited (as defined in the act).
"Parts"
A consequence is that vehicle manufacturers must be able to provide parts during the term of a warranty (if any) made at the time of sale. They need not make or stock these parts themselves.
Vehicle makers could choose not to do so, but then they would be required to provide a replacement vehicle or a full refund of the vehicle cost. In practice it is usually more cost effective for makers to procure replacement parts to effect a warranty repair.
A further consequence is therefore that replacement parts are also available to people who do not have a warranty claim.
"10 years"
It is unusual for
auto warranty periods to exceed 5 years. Most are shorter. credit: Oddthinking in comment below
"Manufacturer"
The act does not mandate that manufacturers provide warranties, dealers/retailers could provide warranties, the terms of the act would then apply to those dealers/retailers not to the manufacturers.
"Auto"
The act applies to all consumer products, not just to automotive vehicles.
2) EPA
The EPA provide information on
Federally required emission control warranties which says that
Manufacturers have been required by federal law to provide emission control coverage for vehicles since 1972.
But this just means that manufactureres must pay for repairs
- if the emissions control system fails to meet performance requirements within two years of sale.
- if a defect or design flaw in the emissions control system is found within eight years of sale.
The EPA list the parts covered but do
not say that replacement parts must be manufactured, provided or sold by the auto manufacturer, only that the manufacturer must pay for any necessary repair.
Conclusion
The claim is false (or at least misleading) in almost all respects. However, as is often the case, it springs from a kernel of truth. Albeit a truth which is altogether rather more mundane and unremarkable in character.
