Understanding Car Warranties: What’s Covered and What’s Not

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Written By Jasmine Young

Jasmine Young is a passionate writer and researcher specializing in battery technology, with a keen interest in its applications across various industries and its role in shaping a sustainable energy future.

Car warranties are a valuable asset for every car owner. Knowing the ins and outs of your car warranty can save you a lot of money, especially when it comes to repairs and maintenance. Purchasing a car is a considerable investment, and a warranty can provide peace of mind that your vehicle will be taken care of in case of any mechanical and electrical failures.

In this article, we will provide everything you need to know about car warranties, including what is covered, what is not, and how to maximize your warranty benefits. We will also provide some tips for high-voltage battery maintenance that can help extend the lifespan of your battery, and some information on extended warranties.

What is Covered by a Car Warranty?

Car warranties are policies that cover mechanical or electrical failures of components such as the engine, transmission, or drivetrain. On the other hand, warranties usually do not cover wear and tear items such as batteries or tires. The components covered may vary depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle, so it’s crucial to check your specific warranty policy or speak to an authorized repairer.

Exclusions to the warranty can include damage due to negligence, misuse, or abuse, damage due to an accident, or modifications to the vehicle. The warranty coverage can also depend on the type of vehicle. For instance, electric vehicle batteries are usually covered for a specified number of years and miles, with specific protections in place to limit damage and abuse.

Maintenance policies for other components such as brakes, air conditioning, clutch, and suspension are also covered by the warranty and can vary by manufacturer. If you violate the warranty or neglect to abide by the terms and conditions set forth in your vehicle’s warranty, you’ll end up invalidating it. Because driving conditions and usage can vary from driver to driver, it is essential to pay close attention to the fine print in your car warranty to avoid being caught off-guard.

Here are some details on what a car warranty may cover:

  • Manufacturing defects for original equipment components
  • Battery lifespan and energy content degradation
  • Protection against overcharging and total discharge
  • High-voltage battery and charge management
  • Diagnostics and repair or replacement of defective materials and workmanship
  • Cupra original parts and accessories
  • Emergency reserves and towing
  • Cupra UK Warranty for new BEV vehicles, which includes two years of manufacturer’s warranty and eight years of manufacturer’s control on high-voltage battery and total capacity in a warranty.

It is worth noting that not all warranties are created equal. While some manufacturers offer extended warranties that can be purchased after the manufacturer warranty expires, the cost will vary.

What is Not Covered by a Car Warranty?

It’s essential to understand what is not covered by your car warranty to avoid any surprises. While most car warranties provide great benefits, they have several limitations. Certain components may or may not be covered under warranties such as battery warranty, but there are typically specific circumstances that void the warranty, such as misuse, improper installation, or physical damage.

Other components that are oftentimes excluded from a car warranty include general wear and tear, improper charging, and voltage less than 10.5V. It’s also worth noting that warranties may exclude components that are fitted as original equipment or used on specific applications.

Some warranty exclusions include:

  • Wear and tear items such as brakes, tires, and bodywork which are sometimes covered for the first six months of ownership
  • Damage resulting from misuse or abuse, such as racing or improper towing
  • Damage caused by modifications not approved by the manufacturer or authorized agent
  • Paint damage caused by environmental factors
  • Damage caused by using the vehicle for a specific purpose not meant for this car
  • Damage due to accidents

Maximizing Your Warranty

To maximize your warranty benefits, it’s essential to fulfill the requirements of the policy and read the terms and conditions carefully. Maintaining your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommended servicing schedule or using authorized repairers is a vital aspect of keeping your warranty active. Following any guidelines regarding battery maintenance on your vehicle’s manual can also contribute to extending your battery’s life.

Maintenance tips for high-voltage batteries include the following:

  • Charging the vehicle between 30-80% if the vehicle is not moved for over 12 hours
  • Avoiding exceeding 80% charge during daily short-trip usage
  • Charge management system can be used to manage the high-voltage battery

In addition, some manufacturers offer extended warranties that can be purchased after the manufacturer warranty expires, but the cost will vary. Purchasing an extended warranty can act as a safety net if an unexpected repair is needed. However, it is important to note that an extended warranty offers protection against the same things as a vehicle warranty. Suppose the vehicle warranty covers a specific fault, then the extended warranty will cover the same.

To avoid invalidating your warranty policy, make sure to comply with the policy requirements and avoid damage caused by misuse or wear and tear. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your manufacturer or repair shop if you have any questions or concerns.

Conclusion

Car warranties are valuable policies that can save you time and money on repairs and maintenance. It’s essential to understand what is covered and what is not and to maximize your warranty benefits by following the maintenance tips and complying with the policy requirements. By doing this, you’ll avoid invalidating your warranty policy, and your vehicle will remain protected for the duration of the warranty’s coverage.

Moreover, remember that warranties can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Always read and review each specific warranty policy’s terms and conditions for knowing the full scope of protection. If you are ever unsure about the warranty, contact the manufacturer or authorized dealer and get clarification before agreeing to purchase the vehicle. By following these steps, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions about your car warranty and be confident in your car’s protection.