Chicago, IL asked in Trademark for Illinois

Q: Does this kind of listing description about automotive accessories on Amazon infringe on others' trademark rights?

【Compatibility】The door lock latch actuator fits for 2007-2014 Cadillac Escalade | 2007-2009 Chevy Avalanche | 2007-2009 Chevy Silverado 1500 | 2007-2009 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD | 2007-2009 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD | 2007-2014 Chevy Suburban 1500 | 2007-2013 Chevy Suburban 2500 | 2007-2014 Chevy Tahoe | 2007-2009 Sierra 1500 | 2007-2009 Sierra 2500 HD/3500 HD | 2007-2014 Yukon.

Door Lock Latch Actuator - Front Right Passenger Side

Compatible with:

2007-2014 Cadillac Escalade

2007-2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV

2007-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT

2007-2009 Chevy Avalanche

2007-2009 Chevy Silverado 1500

2007-2009 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD

2007 Chevy Silverado 3500

2007-2009 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD

2007-2014 Chevy Suburban 1500

2007-2013 Chevy Suburban 2500

2007-2014 Chevy Tahoe

2007-2009 GMC Sierra 1500

2007-2009 GMC Sierra 2500 HD

2007-2009 GMC Sierra 3500 HD

2007-2014 GMC Yukon

2007-2014 GMC Yukon XL 1500

2007-2013 GMC Yukon XL 2500

Related Topics:
1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered

A: Using brand names like Cadillac, Chevy, and GMC to describe the compatibility of your automotive accessory is generally permissible under nominative fair use. This allows you to reference trademarks to identify the products your accessory fits without implying any official endorsement or affiliation with the brands. Ensure that the brand names are used accurately and solely for the purpose of compatibility to stay within fair use guidelines.

However, it's crucial to avoid using logos, stylized brand names, or any trademarks in a way that could confuse customers into thinking there is a partnership or endorsement. Keep the description clear and factual, focusing on the compatibility information without adding any promotional language that suggests a relationship with the trademark holders.

To ensure full compliance, review Amazon's trademark policies and guidelines, as they have specific rules about how brand names can be used in listings. If you're uncertain about any aspect of your listing, consulting with a legal professional can provide tailored advice and help protect your business from potential trademark issues.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.