What You Need to Know About Car Warranty Information

What You Need to Know About Car Warranty Information

If you’re planning to purchase a new car, one factor you should consider is the warranty that comes with it. A car warranty is a contract between the manufacturer and the owner, which promises to repair or replace specific components of the car if they become damaged or faulty within a particular timeframe.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what you need to know about car warranty information so you can make an informed decision when purchasing a new car.

Types of Car Warranties

There are several types of car warranties, including bumper-to-bumper, powertrain, corrosion, emissions, and roadside assistance. Here’s what you need to know about each one:

– Bumper-to-bumper warranty: This type of warranty covers all components of the car for a specific amount of time, usually around three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, it doesn’t cover wear and tear items like tires and brake pads.
– Powertrain warranty: This type of warranty covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components of the car for a specific amount of time, usually around five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
– Corrosion warranty: This warranty covers rust perforation to the body of the car for a specific amount of time, usually around five years.
– Emissions warranty: This warranty covers emissions-related components of the car for a specific amount of time, usually around eight years or 80,000 miles.
– Roadside assistance: This type of warranty covers emergency services like towing, lockout service, and battery jump-starts for a specific amount of time, usually around three years or 36,000 miles.

It’s essential to know which type of warranty comes with the car you’re considering, as it can affect your decision to purchase the car and can also impact the car’s resale value.

What’s Covered and Not Covered by a Car Warranty?

Car warranties cover specific components of the car, but it’s essential to know what’s covered and not covered before you make a purchase. Here’s a breakdown of what’s generally covered by most car warranties:

– Engine components like the cylinder block, cylinder head, and the oil pump
– Transmission components like the torque converter, gears, and transmission case
– Drivetrain components like the driveshaft and differential
– Electrical systems like the alternator and starter motor
– Climate control systems like the air conditioning compressor and heater core
– Safety systems like the airbags and electronic stability control

Warranties don’t cover everything, though. Here are some items typically not covered by warranties:

– Wear and tear items like brake pads and tires
– Damage caused by accidents or misuse
– Regular maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations
– Modifications or alterations to the car

Make sure to read the warranty contract carefully to understand what’s covered and not covered by the warranty.

Should You Consider an Extended Warranty?

Extended warranties are supplementary coverage that you can purchase to extend the terms of your car warranty beyond the manufacturer’s coverage. It’s essential to consider whether you need an extended warranty before making a purchase.

Extended warranties come with advantages and disadvantages. Here are some factors to consider before purchasing one:

Advantages:
– Extended warranties can provide peace of mind, knowing that your car is covered for a more extended period.
– They can help you avoid unexpected repair costs that can occur after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired.
– Some extended warranties offer additional perks, like roadside assistance or rental car reimbursement.

Disadvantages:
– Extended warranties can be expensive, adding thousands of dollars to the cost of the car.
– Some extended warranties have strict limitations and exclusions, making it challenging to use if something goes wrong.
– You may end up not using the extended warranty, making it a wasteful expense.

It’s essential to do your research and thoroughly consider the options before purchasing an extended warranty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, car warranties are an essential consideration when purchasing a new car. Understanding the types of warranties, what’s covered and not covered, and the option of extended warranties can help you make an informed decision. Be sure to read the warranty contract carefully before signing and understand the limitations and exclusions to ensure you’re getting the coverage you need. By doing so, you can have peace of mind knowing that your car is protected in case anything goes wrong.