What Does a Car Warranty Cover? Coverage, Cost, and More

What is a Car Warranty?

A car warranty is a form of insurance that covers repairs or replacements to parts in a vehicle that are due to defects in design, materials, or workmanship. It is a contract between the car’s manufacturer and the vehicle’s owner that guarantees the integrity of the car’s components and the manufacturer’s responsibility to repair or replace any faulty parts. New cars usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty that lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Extended warranties can be purchased separately and typically have a deductible. Car warranties do not cover normal wear and tear or accidents.

What are the Different Types of Car Warranties?

1. Manufacturers Warranty

A manufacturers warranty is a written guarantee of the integrity of a product, and of the maker’s responsibility for the repair or replacement of defective parts. It is typically included in the price of the car and ends after a certain amount of time passes or when you reach a certain number of miles.

Factory warranties usually cover defects and manufacturing faults, and the length of the warranty is based on a certain number of years or miles, whichever limit comes first. They are usually transferable between owners if the coverage has not expired when the vehicle is sold.

Examples of new car factory warranties from the most popular automakers in the U.S. include: Toyota offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty; Honda offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty; Ford offers a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty; and Chevrolet offers a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2. Vehicle Warranty

A vehicle warranty is an agreement between a car manufacturer or a third party that covers the cost of parts and repairs for a set period or mileage. Generally, new vehicles are covered with a bumper-to-bumper warranty for several years after the purchase, with the option to extend coverage once the original period expires. This type of new vehicle warranty typically covers engine and transmission components, although other items like tires and brake pads remain the responsibility of the owner. Additionally, third-party warranties are available for purchase from different companies, providing coverage for older vehicles.

Broadly speaking, there are two main types of vehicle warranties: manufacturer warranties and extended warranties. Manufacturer warranties are provided by the car manufacturer and cover the vehicle for a specific period of time or mileage. They can include rust-through warranties, powertrain warranties, and emissions system warranties, and are typically free of charge when the repairs or replacements are made within the coverage period. Extended warranties, on the other hand, must be purchased and usually have a deductible. These provide protection for used cars, and are often more comprehensive than manufacturer warranties.

3. Powertrain Warranty

A powertrain warranty is a form of coverage that protects the most essential parts of a vehicle. These parts include the engine, transfer case, transmission, axles, driveshafts, seals and gaskets. It covers the parts and systems that power the car, such as the engine, transmission, driveshafts, transfer case, differentials, camshaft, and timing belts.

Powertrain warranties are typically offered for 5 years or 60,000 miles, although some manufacturers offer them for 10 years or 100,000 miles. Factory and extended warranties both offer powertrain coverage plans, and the parts and systems typically covered by a powertrain warranty include the engine, transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, axles, and differentials.

It is important to note that powertrain warranties do not cover everything under the hood, and certain components are excluded, such as the battery, clutch, and certain drive belts. It is essential to understand all of the exclusions of a powertrain warranty before buying.

4. Warranty Service

A warranty is a written guarantee of the integrity of a product and of the maker’s responsibility for the repair or replacement of defective parts. In the context of cars, a warranty is a vehicle service contract in which the provider agrees to fix any parts that are broken due to defects in the manufacturer’s design or installation, although it typically won’t cover accidents, normal wear and tear, routine maintenance services, exterior body damage, interior damage, damage caused by driver negligence, damage from an accident, damage from environmental factors, theft, or vandalism.

When purchasing a new car, the industry standard for comprehensive bumper-to-bumper coverage is for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. There are different types of warranties available when purchasing a car, including a manufacturer’s warranty, also known as a ‘factory warranty,’ as well as extended warranties that cover general wear and tear issues. The components that are covered by extended warranties, however, will ultimately depend on the protection plan and the provider.

5. Extended Warranty

An extended warranty is a service contract that extends the coverage period for repairs and replacements that you would otherwise be responsible for after the manufacturer’s warranty period has expired. It is designed to protect you from unexpected repair bills that might arise from normal wear and tear, components in the powertrain, corrosion, and other issues that are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. An extended warranty typically covers all major vehicle systems, including the engine, transmission, and other parts of the powertrain. It may also include coverage for normal wear and tear, roadside assistance, and corrosion protection. When shopping for an extended warranty, it is important to do your research to ensure that you are getting the best coverage and the most competitive rate. Additionally, be sure to read the fine print so that you know exactly what is covered and the cost of repairs without the warranty.

6. Existing Warranty

An existing warranty is a guarantee provided by the manufacturer or seller that a product is free from defects in material and workmanship. This type of warranty typically covers repairs or replacement of defective parts for a period of time or mileage, whichever comes first. The length of the warranty may vary depending on the automaker, but many offer a standard 3 year/36,000 mile warranty. Additionally, some manufacturers may offer implied warranties such as a warranty of merchantability or a warranty of fitness for a particular purpose. These warranties protect buyers by ensuring that the car is suitable for use and can be sold by the dealer. Finally, some automakers may include roadside assistance in their warranties.

7. Customized Warranty

A customized warranty is a type of extended car warranty that allows you to tailor coverage specific to your vehicle’s needs. The level of protection and coverage you get from a customized warranty can be much higher than that of a factory warranty and can help shield you from expensive repair bills. Customized warranties can provide coverage for components not usually covered by the factory warranty, like aftermarket parts, and you can also choose your own deductible amounts to fit your budget.

The biggest benefit of a customized warranty is its flexibility. You can choose the level of coverage that’s right for your needs and budget, and you also have more control over where you have repairs done. You can also opt for coverage for aftermarket parts, something you won’t get with a factory warranty. Another benefit is that most third-party providers offer more competitive prices than those you’d find with a factory warranty.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While customized warranties are often more comprehensive than factory warranties, they can still come with exclusions and stipulations. Additionally, some providers might not cover certain components or repairs and some repairs may still be considered too costly. And while you may have more flexibility in terms of where you can take your vehicle for repairs, you may not always be able to find a qualified mechanic that can work on the specific problem you have.

In the end, customized warranties can provide a great level of coverage at a competitive price point, but it’s important to do your research and make sure you understand the coverage and what is excluded.

8. Vehicle Protection Plan

A Vehicle Protection Plan (VPC) is a type of extended warranty that provides extra coverage and protection to your vehicle after your original warranty has expired. It typically covers major components such as the engine, transmission, water pump, alternator, starter, air conditioning, and windows. It can also include roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption benefits. VPCs are offered by both automaker dealers and third-party providers, and they generally offer flexible payment plans and money-back guarantees.

The characteristics of a VPC vary depending on the plan, but they generally provide greater protection than standard warranties. They often include coverage for parts that are excluded from regular warranties, such as electrical components and GPS systems. They also often offer coverage for high-mileage vehicles, which may not be covered by standard warranties. Additionally, they may include free oil changes and tire rotations, as well as the exclusive PMC Rewards Plan, which provides daily deals, giveaways, coupons, and thousands of ways to save money every day.

9. Electric System Warranty

An Electric System Warranty is a type of extended warranty that covers nearly every part of a car when it is delivered from the factory. This type of warranty, often referred to as a “bumper-to-bumper” warranty, typically covers all major systems, electrical components, heating and air conditioning, safety features, steering, and high tech systems. This type of coverage is particularly important for hybrid vehicles, which come with a separate set of warranty conditions, as the electrical components of the vehicle are expensive to repair or replace.

The coverage of an electric system warranty usually lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first, though some manufacturers offer longer coverage periods. For example, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis and Mitsubishi offer a five-year/60,000-mile warranty. This warranty can also cover additional vehicle systems and cabin components, such as airbags, seat belt restraints, exterior contact sensors, sound and video equipment, cabin fabrics, and interior paneling.

10. Tire Warranty

Tire warranties are a type of warranty that covers the replacement or repair of tires. These warranties are usually provided by the tire manufacturer, and they typically last for four to six years or a certain number of miles. Tire warranties cover the cost of repairs and replacements, but they typically do not cover routine maintenance services, wear-and-tear items, exterior or interior damage, damage from an accident, environmental factors, or theft and vandalism.

When you purchase a new car, you are usually provided with a few different warranties backed by the automaker. The first of these warranties is the bumper-to-bumper warranty, which usually covers almost every component of the vehicle for a set amount of time or miles (three years or 36,000 miles, in most cases). This warranty does not typically cover wear-and-tear items such as tires, brake pads, and windshield wipers. The manufacturer also won’t cover any body damage that occurs after the sale, although factory paint defects can be remedied under the bumper-to-bumper warranty.

The second type of warranty provided with a new car is the powertrain warranty. This type of warranty covers the engine, transmission, and other parts of the vehicle’s powertrain. This warranty typically lasts longer than the bumper-to-bumper warranty, often up to five years or 60,000 miles.

In addition to these warranties, there are also extended warranties that you can purchase to cover your vehicle for an extended period of time. These extended warranties may cover more components than the manufacturer’s warranty, but they can also come with exclusions such as routine maintenance and wear-and-tear items. It is important to read the fine print of any extended warranty to understand what is covered and what is excluded.

What are the Coverage and Cost of a Car Warranty?

1. Warranty Coverage

When it comes to car warranties, there are two main types of coverage plans you can get from third-party providers: bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties. Bumper-to-bumper coverage generally covers parts and labor for all systems. Powertrain coverage, on the other hand, only covers the car’s engine, transmission, and drive axle. The cost of a car warranty will depend on the type of coverage plan you get and the provider you choose. For example, Endurance offers a range of fully flexible coverage options with plans starting as low as $99/month. Most new vehicles come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which covers the vehicle for three years or around 30,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Manufacturer’s warranties typically do not have deductibles. Car warranties taken out after the manufacturer’s warranty expires are called extended warranties and must be purchased independently and typically have a deductible. It’s important to read the fine print of your contract to fully understand the details and coverage limits of your warranty.

2. Car Warranty Cost

When looking into how much a car warranty costs, it is important to consider the various factors that can affect the total cost. These include the make and model of the car, the age and mileage of the car, the current condition of the car, the coverage plan chosen, and the deductible amount. Luxury cars and expensive models will naturally drive up the cost of the warranty due to the higher cost of replacement parts. An older car may also require a pricier warranty than a newer car, as it may need more repairs. The higher the mileage of the car, the more expensive the warranty may be. Any damage or unreliability of the car can also factor into a higher cost. Finally, the chosen coverage plan and deductible amount also play a role in the final cost of a car warranty.

When shopping for a car warranty, it is important to do your research and compare the coverage and prices offered by different providers. Most new vehicles come with manufacturer warranties, but the coverage and terms of these warranties will vary. Once the term of a manufacturer’s warranty expires, drivers have the option of purchasing an extended warranty from their automaker dealer or a third-party source. Costs for an extended warranty can range from $1,000 to $4,000 or more depending on the type of warranty and the car being covered.

When it comes to finding the best deal on a car warranty, make sure you get free quotes from a few of the top-rated providers. At Motor1.com, we are dedicated to providing car owners with the best-researched and fact-checked information to make sound decisions about auto warranties. Our team has analyzed 3,850 reviews and surveyed 2,000 customers to give you the peace of mind that you are making the right decision.

3. What Does a Car Warranty Cover?

A car warranty covers critical powertrain components such as your engine, transmission, driveshaft, air conditioning, infotainment and GPS systems, electrical parts, and other systems such as the car’s backup camera, steering, etc. The length and coverage of the warranty varies depending on the car model and manufacturer. Generally, a car warranty will last either until three years after purchase or until a certain number of miles, whichever comes first. It is important to keep the copy of the warranty contract and read the fine print, so that you are familiar with which parts your car warranty does cover.

4. Manufacturer Warranty

A factory or manufacturer’s warranty is a type of coverage offered for new or certified pre-owned vehicles when purchased from a dealership. The length of coverage usually is based on a certain number of years or miles, whichever limit comes first, and can be transferred between owners if the warranty has not expired. Coverage and cost of a manufacturer’s warranty may vary depending on the make and model of the car. Generally speaking, bumper-to-bumper coverage may last up to 4 years/50,000 miles and powertrain coverage may last up to 6 years/70,000 miles. Corrosion and roadside assistance coverage may also be included. The cost of a manufacturer warranty is usually included in the purchase of the car, so there are no additional costs to the customer.

5. Powertrain Warranty

A powertrain warranty is a type of coverage that covers the parts and systems that power your car, such as the engine, transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, axles and differentials. It is usually the most basic form of coverage, whether from an automaker or a third-party car warranty company. The standard length of a powertrain warranty is five years or 60,000 miles, although some may last as long as 10 years or 100,000 miles. The cost of a powertrain warranty will depend on the amount of coverage, the length of the warranty and the provider. Some manufacturers may offer extensions for the powertrain warranty for a fee, but make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered before making a purchase.

6. Optional Car Warranties

If you’re considering purchasing an optional car warranty for your vehicle, it’s important to understand the coverage and cost. Different types of warranties have different levels of coverage and the cost will vary depending on the type of warranty and the provider.

The most common type of warranty is the bumper-to-bumper warranty, which covers the vehicle’s major systems such as the engine, transmission, and electrical components. This type of warranty typically covers repairs and replacements for up to three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.

A powertrain warranty covers the engine, transmission, and other parts related to the powertrain, and is typically offered for up to five years or 40,000 miles.

In addition to bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties, car manufacturers often include several smaller coverages such as federal emissions warranties, corrosion protection, hybrid vehicle warranties, safety restraint systems, and battery warranties.

The cost of an optional car warranty will depend on the type of warranty and the provider. Many manufacturers offer factory extended warranties, which provide additional coverage after the original warranty expires. Prices for these warranties vary depending on the length of the warranty and the level of coverage. Third-party extended warranty providers also offer warranties that range in cost from $99 to several hundred dollars, depending on the coverage.

It’s important to do your research and shop around to find the best deal for your needs. By comparing auto warranty coverage and prices, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and ensure that your car is protected.

7. Car Warranty Best Coverage

When it comes to car warranties, it is important to understand which components are covered and to compare the different coverage options available. In order to get the best coverage and cost for your car warranty, it is recommended to compare the different warranty providers and their offerings.

Whichever provider you choose, it is important to read over the terms and conditions of the warranty so you know exactly what is covered.

8. Car Warranty Plan

When it comes to car warranties, the coverage and cost of your plan will depend on the type of warranty you have and the provider you choose. Most new vehicles come with a basic auto warranty from the manufacturer which provides coverage for defects or malfunctions caused by manufacturing errors. These plans typically have a set term and may not cover all repairs or replacements. If you need additional coverage after your warranty expires, there are many options available from automaker dealers or third-party sources.

In conclusion, the coverage and cost of a car warranty will depend on the type of plan you choose and the provider. Shopping around and comparing your options is the best way to ensure you get the coverage you need at a price that fits your budget.

9. What Is Covered in a Car Warranty?

What is covered in a car warranty?

A car warranty typically covers repairs or replacements of faulty components and workmanship defects for a specified period of time. It can also cover issues with the engine, transmission or drive shafts, as well as problems with the car’s air conditioner, backup camera, steering, and other systems. A car warranty may also cover some routine maintenance, such as oil changes or brake pad replacements. It is important to note that a car warranty does not cover any damage resulting from collisions, extreme weather, or other outside forces.

10. Car Maintenance and Repairs

When thinking of purchasing a car, it’s important to consider the cost of maintenance and repairs. An extended warranty can be a great way to protect yourself against unexpected repair costs, but there are some items that aren’t typically covered.

Most basic warranties exclude routine maintenance services like oil changes and tire rotations, as well as wear-and-tear items like tires, brakes, brake pads, and sparkplugs. Damage from an accident, environmental factors, and theft or vandalism are also not included. Additionally, many warranties require that you follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule in order to receive coverage.

Some luxury car manufacturers, such as BMW and Mercedes, include scheduled maintenance packages as part of their warranties. This includes oil and fluid checks and changes, plus a checklist to make sure your car is running smoothly. Basic warranties, however, typically don’t cover these services.

In summary, a car warranty provides insurance against unexpected car repairs and replacement parts, but there are certain components that may be the driver’s responsibility. Routine maintenance and wear-and-tear items, as well as damage from an accident, environmental factors, and theft or vandalism are not usually included in a basic warranty. Luxury car manufacturers may offer a maintenance package as part of the warranty, but it’s important to read the fine print of your contract to understand the coverage limits.

How to Maximize Your Warranty Benefits?

Step 1: Research coverage options

When it comes to purchasing a car warranty, there are a few different options available. The first and most common type of car warranty is a manufacturer warranty, which covers common repairs and maintenance for the duration of the warranty period, usually three years or 36,000 miles. This type of warranty usually covers the repair or replacement of parts that fail due to a manufacturing defect.

Another option is an extended warranty, which extends the manufacturer’s coverage for a longer period of time than the original warranty. Typically, extended warranties offer more comprehensive coverage, providing for repairs and maintenance of any parts that experience failure due to wear and tear.

A third option is a service contract, which is similar to an extended warranty but may offer even more comprehensive coverage depending on the provider. Service contracts typically provide coverage for the entire life of the car, and may include extras like roadside assistance and towing.

When it comes to warranties, understanding the coverage options available to you is key. Knowing what type of coverage each option offers can help you to find the right warranty for your needs.

Step 2: Choose the right coverage type

When shopping for a car warranty, you’ll want to consider both the new car warranty and an extended warranty. Both options provide coverage, but the length of protection can vary. A new car warranty typically covers factory defects, while an extended warranty covers general wear and tear issues. When choosing a coverage plan from a third-party provider, you have two main options: bumper-to-bumper coverage and powertrain coverage. Bumper-to-bumper coverage provides protection for almost all components on the car, while powertrain coverage is more limited, covering major components like the engine, transmission, and drive axle. When selecting a warranty plan, you’ll want to consider the age and value of your car, the components you want covered, and the cost of the coverage. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision that best meets your needs.

Step 3: Get the most out of your coverage

How can you get the most out of your warranty coverage? [Step-by-step instructions]:

1. Understand the terms and coverage of the existing warranty on your vehicle. Make sure you know what is and isn’t covered.
2. Shop around and compare your options to find the best deal for your needs. Get free quotes from several top-rated providers.
3. Speak with a vehicle protection plan specialist and get $300 off any new policy instantly.
4. If the term of your warranty runs out, consider purchasing additional protection from automaker dealers or third-party sources.
5. Make sure to read the terms and conditions of any new policy before making a purchase.
6. Consider your budget and the level of protection you need when choosing a warranty.
7. Ask for help if you need it. Many car dealerships have experts that can help you choose the best warranty for your needs.

Step 4: Know your rights and responsibilities

Step 1: Understand what is covered in your warranty. When you receive the documentation accompanying your warranty, read through it carefully and understand all the terms and conditions. Pay special attention to parts, time periods, mileage, and other terms that apply to the coverage in your warranty.

Step 2: Know what types of warranties are available for your car. Generally, you are responsible for routine maintenance and scheduled service appointments. However, some car warranties may include a few years of scheduled maintenance.

Step 3: Research car warranty providers. Compare the different options available to ensure you get the best coverage at the most affordable price.

Step 4: Ask questions. Before you purchase a car, make sure you understand the car warranty coverage you may already have and what additional protection you can get.

Step 5: Take action. When you need maintenance or repairs, make sure to refer to your car warranty documentation or any manufacturer recalls that may cover the issue.

Step 5: Keep records of maintenance and claims activities

Keeping records of maintenance and claims activities can help maximize your warranty benefits by allowing you to track when and what repairs have been made, as well as any faults or problems with the car. This is especially important if you are claiming for repairs that may be covered by the warranty. By keeping a record of all maintenance activities and any claims you have made, you can ensure that your car is eligible for any potential coverage of repairs or replacements. Additionally, keeping a record of any scheduled maintenance or repair appointments will also help you keep track of when they need to be performed, allowing you to keep your car in optimum condition and potentially reduce the need for repairs that are not covered by your warranty.

Step 6: Get assistance with claims resolutions

Claims resolutions can be a difficult process, but there are steps you can take to ensure you receive the help you need.

Step 1: Stop driving your car if you notice a warning light on the dashboard or experience any other problems. Driving your car when it’s in this condition could make the problem worse and could invalidate your claim.

Step 2: Contact your warranty provider to explain the issue and to get assistance.

Step 3: The provider should authorize repairs and instruct you to take your car to an approved garage. If the garage is approved by the warranty provider or is run by the manufacturer or dealer, the costs should be automatically covered, minus any excess fees.

Step 4: In some cases, you may need to pay the garage for the repairs upfront and then claim them back from the warranty provider.

Step 5: Make sure you check your policy to understand the claims process and ensure you have all the information you need to make a successful claim.

Step 6: If you do not have a car warranty, you may be eligible for a full or partial refund or repairs under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, depending on when the fault was found.