Real-world examples of automotive product disclaimers that actually work

Real examples of automotive product disclaimers in today’s market

Lawyers love Latin. Customers don’t. The best examples of automotive product disclaimers translate legal risk into plain English. Let’s walk through real‑world patterns you’ll see across the industry and how they’re typically worded.

Below are narrative examples pulled from common industry practice, public lawsuits, and current trends around EVs, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and connected vehicles in 2024–2025.

Safety and driver‑assistance: examples of disclaimers that set limits

The highest‑stakes examples of automotive product disclaimers almost always involve safety and driver‑assistance features.

A typical ADAS disclaimer for lane‑keeping or adaptive cruise control might read something like:

“Driver Assistance Only. This system does not replace safe driving practices. The driver is responsible for maintaining attention, obeying traffic laws, and intervening at all times. System performance may be limited by weather, road conditions, visibility, and sensor obstruction.”

You’ll see variations of this language across major brands, especially after investigations and reports from agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These are strong examples of examples of automotive product disclaimers that:

• Clarify that the system is assistance, not automation.
• Put legal responsibility back on the human driver.
• Flag limitations (weather, road markings, sensor blockage, etc.).

Another safety‑focused example of an automotive product disclaimer for an aftermarket collision‑avoidance camera might say:

“Warning: This product is intended as a supplemental aid only. It does not guarantee collision avoidance. Always check mirrors and surroundings and do not rely solely on camera images when backing up or changing lanes.”

These examples include three key ideas: the product is supplemental, there is no guarantee, and the driver must still use ordinary care.

Warranty and “as‑is” language: examples include new, used, and aftermarket

Some of the clearest examples of automotive product disclaimers show up in warranty sections. New cars, used vehicles, and aftermarket parts all handle this differently.

For new vehicles, a typical warranty disclaimer might read:

“Except as expressly provided in this Limited Warranty, the vehicle and all parts are provided ‘as is’ without any additional express or implied warranties, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law.”

This kind of wording attempts to cut off implied warranties, subject to consumer protection laws. In the U.S., the Magnuson‑Moss Warranty Act and state law limit how far a company can go with this, which is why many automakers pair the disclaimer with a clear written warranty summary. The Federal Trade Commission has guidance on this at consumer.ftc.gov.

For used cars sold “as‑is,” an example of an automotive product disclaimer on a buyer’s guide or invoice might say:

“This vehicle is sold AS‑IS with no warranty. The dealer is not responsible for any repairs after sale. The buyer assumes all responsibility for future mechanical or cosmetic issues, including but not limited to engine, transmission, electrical, and safety systems.”

Aftermarket performance parts are another hot spot. A performance exhaust or tuner might carry a disclaimer like:

“For off‑road or track use only. Not legal for use on public roads in states that adopt California emissions standards. Installation may void portions of the original vehicle manufacturer’s warranty. Check all applicable laws before use.”

Those are some of the best examples of how companies try to manage risk around emissions, warranty coverage, and regulatory compliance.

EV batteries, charging, and range: 2024–2025 examples of updated disclaimers

EVs have forced lawyers to get more specific. Range, charging speed, and battery life all come with expectations that can trigger lawsuits if the marketing overpromises.

A modern EV range disclaimer might read:

“Estimated range based on manufacturer testing using standardized test cycles. Actual range varies with driving style, vehicle load, temperature, terrain, use of climate control, and battery age. Estimates are not a guarantee of real‑world range.”

As more data emerges about battery degradation, some automakers now add language like:

“Battery capacity and range will decrease over time and use. This is normal and expected. The High‑Voltage Battery Limited Warranty covers specific defects in materials or workmanship, not gradual capacity loss beyond normal wear.”

Home and public EV charger manufacturers also rely on automotive product disclaimers. A wallbox charger sold in 2025 might include:

“Installation must be performed by a licensed electrician in accordance with local codes. Improper installation may result in fire, electric shock, or property damage. The manufacturer is not responsible for damage resulting from non‑compliant installation or use of incompatible electrical systems.”

These are real examples of how companies try to allocate responsibility among the manufacturer, installer, and end user.

Software, apps, and over‑the‑air updates: examples of modern automotive disclaimers

Cars are now rolling software platforms. That means your legal team needs examples of automotive product disclaimers that look more like tech terms of service than old‑school owner’s manuals.

A connected‑car app that lets you remote‑start, lock, or locate your vehicle might include language like:

“Service availability and functionality may vary by region, network coverage, and vehicle equipment. Features may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time without notice. Do not use the app while driving. The app is provided ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ without any guarantee of uninterrupted or error‑free operation.”

For over‑the‑air (OTA) software updates that change performance or add features, you’ll often see a disclaimer along these lines:

“By installing this update, you acknowledge that certain vehicle features, settings, or performance characteristics may change. Some features may be added, modified, or removed. Continued use of the vehicle after installation constitutes acceptance of these changes.”

In 2024 and 2025, regulators are watching how clearly automakers explain automated features and data collection. Agencies like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Federal Trade Commission publish general privacy and cybersecurity guidance that many companies adapt when drafting data‑related automotive product disclaimers.

Data, privacy, and telematics: examples include GPS, cameras, and driver behavior

Modern vehicles collect a stunning amount of data: GPS, camera feeds, microphone input, driver behavior, and more. That’s where another set of examples of automotive product disclaimers comes in.

A telematics‑based insurance device or app might use language like:

“By activating this device, you consent to the collection, use, and sharing of driving data, including location, speed, acceleration, braking, and trip duration. Data may be used to calculate insurance premiums, detect unsafe driving patterns, and develop statistical models. See our Privacy Policy for details on data retention and sharing.”

Some OEMs now include interior camera disclaimers, especially when cameras monitor driver attention for ADAS features:

“This vehicle may be equipped with an interior camera used to monitor driver attentiveness and enhance safety features. Video or image data may be processed in real time and, in some cases, stored in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable law. Do not rely on monitoring systems to prevent unsafe driving.”

These are practical examples of examples of automotive product disclaimers that sit at the intersection of privacy law, consumer expectations, and safety.

Tires, brakes, and other safety‑critical parts: examples of warnings that matter

Safety‑critical components like tires, brakes, and airbags use some of the most direct language you’ll ever see. The legal risk is obvious: if a warning isn’t clear and someone is hurt, that disclaimer will be Exhibit A in court.

A tire manufacturer’s warning label might say:

“WARNING: Serious injury or death may result from tire failure due to underinflation, overloading, or improper use. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure and load limits. Do not mount on damaged or incompatible rims. Inspect tires regularly for cuts, bulges, or abnormal wear.”

A brake pad or rotor package might include:

“Professional installation recommended. Improper installation or use of worn or incompatible components can result in loss of braking ability, serious injury, or death. Follow all torque specifications and bedding‑in procedures supplied by the manufacturer.”

These real examples include clear, blunt warnings, specific misuse scenarios, and explicit references to serious injury or death. Courts and regulators often expect this level of clarity for high‑risk automotive products.

Marketing claims and performance: examples of disclaimers that rein in the hype

Marketing teams love big numbers: 0–60 times, towing capacity, horsepower, MPGe. Legal teams then add automotive product disclaimers to keep those numbers from turning into lawsuits.

A performance claim for a sports car might carry a disclaimer like:

“0–60 mph time based on manufacturer testing using a pre‑production vehicle under optimal conditions. Actual acceleration times may vary depending on vehicle configuration, road conditions, temperature, and driver behavior. Always obey traffic laws and do not attempt high‑speed maneuvers on public roads.”

For towing and payload, a pickup truck brochure might say:

“Maximum towing and payload ratings are for properly equipped vehicles and assume a driver and no additional cargo or passengers. Towing a trailer safely requires additional equipment and experience. Never exceed any vehicle weight ratings, including GVWR and GCWR, as listed on the certification label.”

These are textbook examples of examples of automotive product disclaimers that:

• Tie the claim to specific test conditions.
• Highlight that real‑world results will vary.
• Add a safety reminder to blunt any “drive it like the ad” behavior.

How to adapt these examples of automotive product disclaimers to your business

You can’t just copy‑paste a disclaimer from a major automaker and hope it sticks. But you can study these real examples and use them as a checklist.

When you’re drafting or reviewing your own language, ask:

• What could go wrong in real life? Safety, misuse, unrealistic expectations, data complaints?
• What does the customer probably assume? Your disclaimer should correct bad assumptions without hiding behind jargon.
• What does local law allow you to disclaim? Consumer protection law, lemon laws, and implied warranties vary by jurisdiction.

A practical example of tailoring: if you sell a smartphone‑based OBD‑II scanner, your disclaimer might combine themes from several examples above:

“This device and app provide diagnostic information and are not a substitute for professional vehicle inspection or repair. Data and codes are provided ‘as is’ and may be incomplete or inaccurate. Always confirm critical repair decisions with a qualified technician. Do not interact with the app while driving.”

Here, you’re addressing data reliability, safety, and the limits of DIY diagnosis in one short block of text.

For more background on consumer product warnings and liability, law‑school resources like Harvard Law School’s library and federal consumer resources at USA.gov provide helpful context on how courts evaluate warnings and disclaimers, even outside the automotive space.

FAQ: examples of common questions about automotive product disclaimers

Q1: Can you give an example of a simple automotive product disclaimer for a basic accessory?
A: For a non‑safety‑critical accessory like a phone mount, an example could be: “This product is intended for mounting mobile devices inside passenger vehicles. Do not place the mount where it obstructs airbags, gauges, or driver visibility. The manufacturer is not responsible for injuries or damage caused by improper placement or use while driving.” It’s short, specific, and focused on realistic risks.

Q2: Are online automotive product disclaimers enough, or do they need to be on packaging and in manuals too?
A: Courts often look at whether a warning was reasonably communicated. Posting disclaimers only on a website may not be enough if the product is sold in stores or through third parties. Strong examples of automotive product disclaimers appear in multiple places: packaging, user manuals, in‑app screens, and the seller’s website.

Q3: What are examples of disclaimers that help with false‑advertising claims?
A: Disclaimers that connect bold claims to specific conditions can help. For instance, pairing fuel‑economy or range claims with “based on standardized test cycles” and “actual results will vary” language. They don’t give a free pass for misleading ads, but they show you attempted to clarify the limits of the claim.

Q4: Do product disclaimers actually protect automotive companies in court?
A: They help, but they’re not magic. Courts look at whether the disclaimer was clear, conspicuous, and consistent with other statements. A strong example of a disclaimer can reduce liability or limit damages, but it won’t save a company that hides safety defects or blatantly misleads consumers.

Q5: Should small automotive businesses copy examples from big automakers?
A: Use them as inspiration, not as templates. Large OEMs operate under different regulations, have different risk profiles, and often sell in dozens of countries. Treat these examples of examples of automotive product disclaimers as a starting point, then work with qualified counsel to adapt them to your products, markets, and sales channels.

Legal reminder: The examples of automotive product disclaimers in this article are for general information and educational purposes only. They are not legal advice. Laws vary by country and state, and you should consult a licensed attorney familiar with automotive and consumer‑product law before relying on any specific wording.