When you buy a vehicle, whether it is new or used, it is vital to consider a vehicle warranty. There are different car warranties with varying coverage terms, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding something that fits your vehicle and your budget. However, no matter the warranty you buy, some simple mistakes could void your protection. To avoid this, start by learning about what voids a car warranty.
What Can Void a Car Warranty?
A car warranty is a contract between a vehicle owner and the manufacturer, guaranteeing that the manufacturer will cover the cost of certain repairs, provided the owner adheres to the terms outlined in the warranty. Typically, these agreements are designed to give you peace of mind, knowing that your car will be repaired without significant out-of-pocket expenses in case of defects or certain breakdowns. However, it’s crucial to understand that warranties come with specific requirements, and any failure to meet these obligations can result in your warranty being voided.
What Voids a Car Warranty Claim?
Sometimes the manufacturer will deny a claim for a repair filed through your warranty for actions that could have lead to the damage. Some examples of claim denials include the following:
- The damage stemmed from a modification made to the vehicle or the use of aftermarket parts.
- The owner failed to perform routine maintenance, neglecting their duties according to the warranty terms.
- The owner used dirty fluids or the wrong fluids during maintenance, causing damage.
While these violations might not necessarily void the entire warranty, they could result in the rejection of specific claims. In some cases, the warranty might be entirely voided if certain severe conditions are met. However, some dealerships may tell you otherwise to entice you to come to them for all maintenance and repairs.
What Voids the Whole Contract?
The factors that could void your warranty entirely are often more extreme than those that void a claim. For example, if you have a car accident resulting in severe damage, you may receive a salvage title. That would immediately void your warranty.
The warranty holder may deny your coverage if you use the vehicle for illegal or reckless activities, such as street racing or off-roading. Additionally, these contracts are not heavily regulated, leaving the vehicle owner at the mercy of the administrator’s discretion.
You may also lose warranty coverage if your vehicle sustained damage from an environmental element, such as fire, hail, or flood. You can find these exceptions in the warranty’s language.
Warranty Exclusions and Limitations
Most importantly, it’s essential to be aware that what voids a warranty on a car varies in terms of what is covered in the contract and the actions that can void them. Some warranties have clauses that allow the manufacturer to refuse coverage if the vehicle is used for commercial purposes or if it sustains damage under specific conditions, such as flooding or severe off-roading. Always check the warranty document for clear guidelines about exclusions and limitations to avoid costly mistakes.
What Does a Car Warranty Cover?
Now that you know what can void a car warranty, consider what it covers. If you keep up with maintenance requirements laid out in the terms of your contract, your warranty will likely cover repairs to the following systems:
- Transmission
- Engine
- Braking and steering systems
- Heating and cooling system
- Fuel and electrical system
Again, to know exactly what your warranty covers, check the specific language of your contract. If you bought the used car and are still under the manufacturer’s warranty, contact the original dealer or the automaker to get a copy of the policy in case the seller did not provide one.
Different Types of Coverage Plans
Coverage can come from different sources. Examples include:
- Manufacturer’s warranty: comes with the purchase of a new vehicle and typically has a lifespan of around four years or until you reach a certain mileage. Some last longer, which is often a feature used to promote the car.
- Extended car warranty: covers your vehicle after the manufacturer’s warranty expires and is available by purchase. However, pay close attention to the terms because what voids a car warranty is typically more extensive in this case.
- Vehicle protection plan: can also provide extra coverage after a manufacturer’s warranty expires. However, these are not the same as extended warranties. Autopom! provides vehicle protection plans which may include Vehicle Service Contracts or Mechanical Breakdown insurance depending on your state of residence.
If you buy your car used, it could still be under the manufacturer’s warranty, and you would be able to use it if necessary. If you decide to continue coverage with an extended warranty or vehicle protection plan, you can typically purchase either through the dealership or a third-party independent provider.
How Does a Vehicle Protection Plan Differ from an Extended Warranty?
The primary differences between a vehicle protection plan and an extended warranty from the manufacturer are in the terms. Your vehicle protection plan can mimic the manufacturer’s warranty or offer coverage your warranty does not such as roadside assistance.
You can purchase a vehicle protection plan while your warranty is still active, which is a good idea if you want additional coverage. Learn more about vehicle protection plans and check out the coverage available through autopom!.
Save thousands on auto repairs with autopom! Get a FREE quote!
What Can You Do to Avoid Voiding Your Warranty?
Once you know what voids a car warranty, you can avoid those actions. Consider these four precautions that could ultimately save you a significant amount of money.
1. Have Your Car Serviced Regularly
One way to keep your warranty active is to uphold your end of the agreement. Ensure you take the vehicle in for all regular maintenance. You can make your next appointment after each one and receive reminders so you never miss any. Your vehicle manual will have a suggested schedule.
2. Read the Warranty Carefully
Read the warranty cover to cover so you know all the requirements for keeping it active. You may find that certain repairs do not fall under warranty and decide to purchase a vehicle protection plan to supplement.
3. Ask Questions
Reach out to the dealer, manufacturer, or warranty administrator if you have questions about the policy language. Additionally, do not be afraid to address any claim denials you believe are unfair.
4. Document Everything
Keep written documentation of all repairs and upkeep. This can include appointment confirmations and receipts for the completed work. If you need to file a claim under your warranty, you will need that information. Additionally, if you decide to sell, that information could increase the vehicle’s value.
Where Can You Learn More About What Voids a Car Warranty?
Understanding what voids a warranty is essential to maintaining your vehicle’s protection. By following the guidelines set out in your warranty agreement and staying on top of maintenance requirements, you can ensure that your car remains covered when you need it most.
All warranties are unique in some way, so reading the fine print is the best way to ensure you have all the information you need to protect yourself from what voids a car warranty. For more information regarding car warranty alternatives and to better protect yourself when unplanned repair bills arrive, contact autopom! today for a fast quote and coverage that gives you peace of mind.
Commonly Asked Questions
A: A car warranty claim can be denied if the damage is caused by modifications or the use of aftermarket parts, failure to perform routine maintenance as outlined in the warranty terms, or using dirty or incorrect fluids during maintenance.
A: An entire car warranty can be voided in extreme cases, such as when the vehicle receives a salvage title after a severe accident, is used for illegal or reckless activities like street racing or off-roading, or sustains damage from environmental factors such as fire, hail, or flooding.
A: A car warranty usually covers repairs to major systems, including the transmission, engine, braking and steering systems, heating and cooling systems, and fuel and electrical systems.
A: To avoid voiding your warranty, you should regularly service your car as per the warranty terms, read the warranty document thoroughly to understand its requirements, ask questions to clarify any unclear terms or claim denials, and keep detailed documentation of all repairs and maintenance.
A: A vehicle protection plan can mimic a manufacturer’s warranty or offer additional coverage, such as roadside assistance. It is often purchased while the original warranty is still active and provides flexibility in terms of coverage options, making it a valuable addition for those seeking extra peace of mind.
