What is not covered by a car warranty?
When buying a new car, warranty is an important aspect that many consumers look out for. A warranty offers peace of mind by promising that certain problems and repairs will be covered for a certain period of time or mileage. However, not everything is covered by a car’s warranty. It is essential to know what is and is not covered to avoid unexpected costs. In this blog, we explain what is usually not covered under a car’s warranty.
1. Wear parts
Wear parts are components that are subject to wear and tear over time and use and need regular replacement. These parts are usually not covered by the standard warranty. Examples include:
- Brake pads and discs
- Tyres
- Windshield wipers
- Clutch
2. Maintenance and service
Regular maintenance and service charges are also usually not covered by the warranty. These include the following items:
- Oil change
- Replacing filters (oil, air, cabin filters)
- Top up fluids (coolant, brake fluid)
- General inspections and adjustments
3. Damage due to Improper Use
Damage caused by improper or negligent use of the car is usually not covered by the warranty. This could include:
- Damage caused by traffic accidents
- Damage caused by off-road use when the car is not intended for this purpose
- Overload damage
4. External Influences
Damage caused by external factors such as weather conditions or natural disasters is usually excluded from the warranty. This includes:
- Hail damage
- Water damage
- Damage caused by storms or earthquakes
5. Modifications and Non-Original Parts
Modifications to the car or the use of non-original parts may also result in the warranty being voided. Examples include:
- Installation of non-factory accessories
- Chiptuning or other engine modifications
- Non-original spare parts
6. Normal Wear and Discolouration
Normal wear and tear on the interior and exterior of the car, such as minor scratches, discolouration of the paintwork or wear and tear on the upholstery, is usually not covered by the warranty.
How do you insure against these costs?
While many things are not covered by warranty, there are ways to protect yourself from unexpected costs:
- Extended Warranty: Consider an extended warranty that covers additional components and situations.
- Maintenance contracts: Take out a maintenance contract with the dealer to spread periodic maintenance costs.
- Car insurance: Get a good car insurance policy that covers damage caused by accidents or natural disasters.
