Why aren certain Garmin Avionics products available without installation?
As a dealer for an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), it is required to commit to a dealership agreement. Garmin’s dealer agreement states that certain TSO’d products must be installed by the dealer for the factory warranty to be valid. There are generally 2 reasons for this policy. First, the OEM wants to minimize their liability risk by assuring their equipment is installed by factory trained and knowledgeable technicians. Second, Garmin wishes to maintain their products integrity by making sure the product is installed and operating properly so the customer is satisfied with the performance. Avionics installations and interfacing can sometimes be very complex. It is very important that pilots, aircraft owners and operators ensure installations are performed by skilled, experienced technical personnel to provide the safest flying environment and experience.
