You invest a lot of money when you buy an automobile, and having a good warranty in effect protects you from the cost of repairing defects. Intense competition in the automotive industry has caused manufacturers to improve and extend new-car warranties in an effort to win and keep customers. Used-car and extended warranty products give auto owners the choices they need to have peace of mind. With a warranty in place, you can sleep soundly knowing that you have protection against the cost of major repairs related to a defective car. Check out these tips from 3Birds Template.
Understanding Your Coverage
Auto shoppers often buy cars based on available warranties because they want to avoid major repair bills that come right after making a down payment. You should always review the warranty that comes with a vehicle before completing a purchase. Pay attention to the type of covered repairs and the terms of coverage; you cannot assume that the manufacturer will pay to repair every problem that affects your car. Car warranties usually expire after a certain amount of time passes or after your car travels a certain number of miles, so you should promptly ask for repairs when you notice something wrong with your car.
Many used cars come with dealer-backed or third-party used-car warranties. Although these warranties do not last as long as new-car warranties, they help auto shoppers buy with confidence. Before closing a sale, you should review warranty details to avoid misunderstandings after the sale. You need to know which parts and systems are covered. Optional extended warranties give car buyers a chance to extend the length and scope of new- or used-car coverage. Third parties usually back extended warranties, so you should always consider the ones your dealer offers to make sure you get a dependable product.
Voiding Your Warranty
Problems caused by poor maintenance, neglect, or owner modifications usually do not qualify for warranty service. For example, engines that have not received documented periodic service such as oil changes might not qualify for warranty repairs. When you have your dealer service your car, you can have confidence knowing that your dealer keeps records of all service and repairs that can qualify your car for warranty coverage. If you service your own car, make sure you document all maintenance and repairs so you can furnish it in support of warranty claims. Custom modifications and third-party upgrades might completely or partially void car warranties, so you should always review warranty documents before making any changes to your car.
Asking for Warranty Service
If your car breaks down or does not perform according to published specifications, you can request warranty service and repairs. Dealers usually perform warranty service in support of new-car warranties, so you usually do not have to make any up-front payments to get the service you need. Some extended or used-car warranties might require third-party authorization prior to service to qualify. Depending on the warranty, you may need to pay for repairs up front and then submit paid invoices to the warranty providers for reimbursement.
Car warranties offer important peace of mind and financial security for auto owners. Knowing what to expect from the warranties that apply to your car will help you comply with warranty terms and know how to proceed when you must make a claim.
