4 Car Factory Warranty Specifications Every Car Needs

All new cars come with a car factory warranty; however, some warranties on new cars are better than others. Therefore, here is a list of specifications that should be considered the minimum warranty requirements on a new car:

Number 1 – Duration of Warranty

New car initial warranties vary in the duration and length for which they are offered. Although these warranties vary, many new cars come with a factory warranty that lasts 3 years or the first 36,000 miles—whichever comes first. This is the generally accepted standard in the automobile industry, and you should never purchase a vehicle that has a warranty duration that is less than 3 years or 36,000 miles. There are manufacturers that do offer longer warranties; for example, Hyundai, Kia and Mitsubishi offer 5 year or 60,000 mile warranties on their new cars.

The initial warranty period, or basic warranty period, is the length of the manufacturer’s warranty only, and not a warranty period that is offered as an extension to the original warranty. This warranty period is commonly referred to as the period for which “bumper to bumper” coverage is offered. This initial warranty period usually covers repair and costs for all parts of the car. The only exceptions might be specialty accessories that were added or items damaged due to neglect or misuse.

Number 2 – Powertrain Coverage

Most new cars with a powertrain warranty that equals or exceeds the initial car warranty. A powertrain warranty generally covers the engine, transmission and drive axles of the car. Some companies provide powertrain warranties that extend to 10 years or 100,000 miles. The minimum for this type of warranty should be 3 years or 36,000 miles.

Also, make sure that the powertrain warranty actually covers the cost of repair or replacement of faulty powertrain parts; some powertrain warranties only cover the disassembly and inspection of of faulty powertrain components. Also, definitions on what constitutes the powertrain vary by manufacturer; therefore, be sure to check the fine print on the warranty contract to make sure what is actually covered.

Number 3 – Roadside Assistance Coverage

These days, most new car manufacturers offer roadside assistance as part of their initial warranty coverage. This type of coverage varies widely from manufacturer to manufacturer; however, many manufacturers are making the coverage available for as long as the initial warranty is applicable. Therefore, you should only consider new cars with roadside assistance coverage that is offered for at least 3 years or 36,000 miles, as this is the minimum duration initial car warranty to be considered.

Number 4 - Corrosion Warranty

Almost all new cars come with corrosion protection and resistance as part of their new car warranty packages. Many manufacturers warrant their vehicles against corrosion for periods that far exceed the initial or powertrain warranties. In fact, many manufacturers are now offering unlimited duration period corrosion warranties, while others offer corrosion coverage up to 100,000 miles. Under no circumstances should you purchase a vehicle that has corrosion warranty protection for less than 50,000 miles. Corrosion damage can be particularly difficult to repair, and is usually very expensive.