As a car owner, you must have participated in several discussions on car warranties. Did you ever debate with friends on whether car warranties are essential or just a waste of money? Have you been told that your car warranty covers all kinds of repairs on your car? Have you heard statements like warranties are just a waste of money or that a modification to your car can void your warranty? Well, these and many other ideas people have about car warranties are based on several myths aboutcar warrantiesthat have been circulating in automotive communities across the globe and have gained traction over time. We try to clear the air regarding the misconceptions surrounding car warranties in this blog to help you make an informed decision on whether you should invest in one for your car.
Which Car Warranty Myths Must be Debunked?
- Myth: Car Warranties Cover Everything
Have you ever had anyone tell you that a warranty will cover all repairs and maintenance costs on your car? Well, this is not true! Car warranties do not cover everything, especially not maintenance costs. The coverage provided by your warranty depends on the car warranty plan you have chosen. Car warranties have specific terms and conditions that outline what is covered and what is not. Typically, warranties cover mechanical and electrical defects and damage to your car. However, you cannot expect your car warranty to cover wear and tear, routine maintenance, or damage caused by accidents or misuse.
- Myth: Extended Car Warranties Are Not Worth the Investment
This is one myth you must have heard quite often. You must have had people dismiss the value of an extended warranty and tell you it’s not worth it. But this is again far from the truth. Extended car warranties are a valuable investment that protect your vehicle way beyond the expiry of your manufacturer’s warranty. Some people believe thatextended warrantiesare unnecessary and a waste of money. However, extended warranties are particularly beneficial for high-mileage drivers or those who plan to keep their car for an extended period. It’s important to carefully review the car warranty terms and compare different options to determine if an extended warranty plan is right for your car.
- Myth: All Car Warranties Are the Same
Did anyone ever tell you to choose any warranty for your car – they all are the same? This is, again, an irresponsible and untrue statement. All car warranties are not created equal, nor are warranty providers. There are different types of car warranties, including bumper-to-bumper warranties, powertrain warranties, and corrosion warranties, each covering different components of a vehicle. Additionally, the length of coverage and specific terms can vary between manufacturers and warranty providers. It’s essential to understand the details of the warranty you’re considering and compare them to other options available. Similarly, not all car warranty providers give you the same level of reliability and assurance when it comes to coverage. Determine whether a warranty provider is trustworthy before deciding to invest in their car warranty service.
- Myth: Warranties Only Apply to New Cars
If you are planning to invest in a used car, have you had people discourage you from such an investment by suggesting you will not receive warranty coverage for it? While new cars always come with a manufacturer’s warranty, you can also get warranty coverage for a used car. Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles typically come with a warranty that extends the original coverage or offers additional protection. Additionally, you can purchaseextended warrantiesfor used cars from third-party car warranty providers to cover potential repair and replacement costs.
- Myth: Warranties Are Void if You Modify Your Car
Many car enthusiasts find modifying and personalizing their cars fun and exciting, but have been dissuaded by the belief this would void the car warranty. If this is what’s preventing you from accessorizing your ride, think again! While certain modifications can void certain aspects of a car warranty, not all modifications can void the entire warranty. However, to be on the safe side, it is better to check with your warranty provider before making any modifications to your car and understand the potential impact these modifications are likely to have on your warranty coverage.
To impart greater clarity on the issue, we give you several circumstances in which your car warranty can be invalidated.
- Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Failing to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule can result in your car warranty being voided. This includes skipping oil changes, not replacing filters, or neglecting other routine maintenance tasks. Most warranty providers require that you follow a regular service and maintenance schedule for your car to keep the warranty on it active.
- Using Improper Fluids or Parts
Using non-approved fluids or parts for repairs and maintenance can void your warranty. Always use the recommended products and parts specified by the manufacturer. Such unapproved or low-quality fluids or replacement parts can damage the vehicle, which is why warranty providers invalidate the warranty on such vehicles.
- Damage from Accidents or Misuse
If your vehicle is damaged due to an accident, misuse, or improper driving habits, the warranty will not cover the repairs. This includes racing, off-roading in a vehicle not designed for it, or overloading the vehicle. Damage to a vehicle caused by an accident will be covered by the vehicle insurance.
- Unauthorized Repairs
Getting your vehicle repaired by unlicensed or unauthorized repair shops can void your warranty. Always ensure that repairs are done by trained mechanics or at service centers approved by your car warranty provider.
- Tampering with the Odometer
If your vehicle has an altered or tampered odometer, it will not display the actual mileage. Since your warranty coverage is also limited by your vehicle’s mileage, misrepresenting the mileage to your warranty provider will lead to the warranty being voided. Accurate mileage is important for the settlement of warranty claims.
- Neglecting Regular Maintenance
- Myth: Warranties Cover Everything for the Entire Term
Are you one of those car owners who believes your car warranty will cover every repair and replacement on your car? This is another common misconception among car owners that warranties provide comprehensive coverage for the entire term without any limitations. In reality, warranties often have mileage and time limits, and some components may have shorter coverage periods. Additionally, warranties may have exclusions and limitations, so it’s crucial to read the fine print and understand the scope of coverage.
Warranty exclusions can include the following:
- Wear and Tear Items
Most warranties do not cover parts and components that are subject to regular wear and tear, such as brake pads, tires, wiper blades, clutch components, etc.
- Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance services are typically excluded from warranty coverage. This includes oil changes, fluid refills, filter replacements, tire rotations, etc.
- Cosmetic Damage
Cosmetic issues that do not affect the car’s functionality are usually not covered and can include paint scratches, dents, rust or corrosion on non-structural parts, etc.
- Accidental Damage
Damage resulting from accidents or external factors is generally excluded, including collision damage, damage from environmental factors like floods, hail, fires, vandalism or theft-related damage, etc.
- Modifications and Aftermarket Parts
Unauthorized modifications and the use of aftermarket parts not approved by the manufacturer can void coverage for affected components. This includes performance enhancements, the use of non-Original Equipment Manufacturer parts, etc.
- Wear and Tear Items
Understanding the facts about a car warranty can give you a better understanding of what you stand to gain with acar warranty plan. This will enable you to make a more informed decision on warranty coverage for your car so that you get the most out of your vehicle’s coverage.
MP WARRANTIES: THE TRUSTED NAME FOR CAR WARRANTIES IN THE UAE
We are MP Warranties, an establishedcar warranty provider in the UAE. We understand the importance of peace of mind when it comes to your vehicle’s mechanical and electrical repairs and replacements. Don’t let common myths about car warranties discourage you from getting the protection your car deserves. Our comprehensive warranty plans cover a wide range of repairs and maintenance, ensuring you’re always ready for the road ahead.
Contact us today at +971 50160 4953 and explore our flexible warranty options.
