Can we now install mSATA SSDs in our US X230s without voiding the warranty?

Question

So it had been discussed before on this forum that installing a mSATA device on an X230 was a warranty voiding action (the part was listed as CSU instead of FSU).  And we in the USA had no option to have one installed at all.
Now on Lenovo's site when I try to configure an x230 it says that you can order a mSATA compatible one under the different screen options.
I ordered a week or so ago, but does this mean we can now install them without voiding warrnaties?
Anyone from Lenovo have an opinion on this?
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Answer 1

Tout1108G wrote:
Hey there Coronadoisdead,
I would advise against installing the mSATA at this moment, as it may void your warranty. I assume you will be wanting to install this via the mini PCI-e slot available in the X230. In this installation a Field Service Only part would have to be removed to do the installation according to the hardware maintence manual page 70 (page 76 when navigating adobe reader). The palm rest, keyboard and battery pack will need to be removed, and the palm rest is the field service only part.
Now, there may be other options that we can look at to ensure you don't void your warranty. If you will, please private message me your serial number for your machine (if you have received it), so that I can take a look at your specific warranty information and see all what it covers. I'll be back in touch as soon as possible after your private message.
Thank You,
George
I respectfully disagree. Removing an FRU will not "void" the warranty unless the manufacturer (in thise Lenovo and not an independent (non-Lenovo owned but authorized)) determines that the modification (in this case removing the palmrest) caused or significantly contributed to whatever failure occurred.
In addition, since the mSATA is available in the rest of the world without any other modifications by Lenovo, Lenovo cannot legally claim that the mere presence of a mSATA is sufficient grounds to deny warranty service.
That said, this is the law and in practice it may be different. A Lenovo repair shop may incorrectly refuse warranty service (or even incorrectly use the term "voiding the warranty") and the customer may be left to resolve this issue in small claims court where they would prevail (but is it worth the hassle?)
As I've always said, be prepared to pay for any damage that your mods may cause and be prepared to educate people on the differences between "voiding the warranty" and refusing warranty service on a specific failure.