When you buy a brand new car, it also comes with a car warranty. This is known as a factory warranty or manufacturer warranty, which is given by the vehicle manufacturer to the car buyers. It’s an agreement between the manufacturer and the buyer that any repairs within a certain timeframe will be covered by the car’s manufacturer — which is specific for car parts defects or manufacturing errors.
We all know that major car repairs are expensive, such as repairing car engines, driveshafts or transmissions, air condition systems, steering, and other systems. Fortunately, manufacturers and other accredited third-party companies offer car warranties that help car owners from costly repairs.
Types of Car Warranties
There are different types of car warranties that you can get from your car’s manufacturer or any accredited third-party companies.
- Adjustment Warranties
The adjustment warranty is a vehicle contract provided by the dealer and covers car factors like squeaks, rattles, re-alignments, leaks, and any other adjustments that car owners encounter during the first few weeks of ownership.
Usually, the adjustment warranty has a time limit of 90 days to fix any defects in your car. However, keep in mind that it’s an exclusive warranty and only your dealer can provide the service. If your home is too far from your car dealer, it’s highly recommended to conduct a test drive to assess any defects in your car.
- Manufacturer’s Warranties
Unlike the adjustment warranty, the manufacturer’s warranty or factory warranty has a longer time frame — the average coverage is around 5 years/ 60,000 miles
- Bumper to Bumper Warranty
This type of car warranty is one of the most comprehensive coverages in the market. It covers all parts and systems of a car. However, it excludes items like tires, brake pads, and wiper blades.
- Powertrain/Drivetrain Warranty
One of the most expensive car repairs is the car engine. Therefore, many manufacturers offer the powertrain warranty which basically covers the main components of a vehicle like an engine and transmissions.
- Corrosion/Rust Warranty
This car warranty typically covers any repairs from corrosion damages.
Here is the list of car repairs that may be included in most car warranties:
- Air conditioning and heating
- Electrical components: like power windows, door locks, sunroof, and many more.
- Safety components
- High tech systems: cameras, GPS, center console, and many more.
- Powertrain repairs like engine, transmissions, axles, driveshafts, seals, gasket, and many more.
How are claims handled?
When a mechanical problem or breakdown occurs, the first thing to do is to take your car to a certified repair facility. However, if you can’t operate your car anymore, you can call roadside assistance — thankfully, most car warranties include roadside assistance. It’s also recommended to read your policy as some car warranties won’t let you choose your preferred repair center which limits your options.
Driving a car that is equipped with a warranty will surely lessen the stress of paying expensive car repairs. Getting yourself the cover and protection of one is not only easy but also saves you time and money in the long run. So before getting that new car, be sure to check out your options in its warranty first, to give your car the best coverage throughout its years of use.