USA warranty card issued last month (7/2008). Warranty is valid for original owner only and a receipt or invoice is required (at least by G&L). If you bought it new from a dealer and they have a record of the sale, you're probably good to go.
1. G&L is usually pretty good about this, but (for example) if you swap out preamps, toss the original one, then decide you want the original back, you're on your own. Different pickups? Handle it yourself. Basically, all the major components must be unmodified. If a non-authorized tech or dealer mucked around in the control cavity an thoroughly hosed the bass, you get to cover the cost of repair.
2. Self explanatory.
3. Strings & battery are obvious; cases less so. If your 7 year old case that has been through 3 world tours and been in the hands of countless roadies breaks a hinge, you're on your own. Hey - cases are easy to get.
It is expected that you'll change strings. A sticker might void a warranty on the finish only.
Warranty work must be done, or at least looked at, by an authorized dealer - preferably the selling dealer. They get to decide how to proceed. If they give you an answer that doesn't seem right, you can, of course, escalate to G&L or take it to another dealer.
If you have a problem with an instrument under warranty, take it to a dealer for a quick inspection. If a dealer is close by, it won't cost you anything but time. You'll find out if your problem is warrantable, and you can go from there.
Good luck!
Ken...
