While I don't know exactly how it works with JVC, there are plenty of companies out there that acknowledge the warranty no matter who is in current possession of the item. The only time this wouldn't work is if the unit was registered to a specific person. I don't know if JVC has such a database. If not, all you would need is the receipt/proof of sale with a date from an authorized dealer. I don't see why they wouldn't honor the warranty. If the unit was going to break I don't think it matters much who is in possession of the unit.