Vehicle Warranty FAQs

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What is a vehicle warranty?

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A vehicle warranty provides protection against having to pay for parts and labor following the mechanical or electrical failure of components such as an engine, fuel pump, or radiator.

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Which parts are generally not covered by a vehicle warranty?

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Warranty policies tend not to include consumable or 'wear and tear' items such as tires, batteries, windscreen wipers, brakes, and clutches.

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How long does a vehicle manufacturer’s warranty policy last for?

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Most brand new cars come with a three-year warranty, but some manufacturers offer up to five or seven years. Warranties may also have a mileage limit, such as 60,000 miles.

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Is a vehicle manufacturer's warranty still valid if the car is sold before the end of the term?

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Yes, if the car is under the mileage or time limit specified by the manufacturer, the warranty will still apply when you buy it.

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What is an extended vehicle warranty?

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An extended vehicle warranty is a new policy purchased after the manufacturer's warranty expires, either from the vehicle manufacturer or a third party.

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How much does an extended warranty policy cost?

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The cost of extended warranties varies by provider, so it is worth shopping around to meet your requirements and budget.

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What is The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code for Vehicle Warranty Products?

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Introduced in 2009, it aims to drive up standards across automotive warranties by committing businesses to higher standards than those required by law.

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What does the Code of Practice cover?

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It covers advertising, point-of-sale obligations, clarity of information, handling of claims, service contracts, insured products, and complaints handling.

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How can a vehicle warranty policy be invalidated?

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A claim can be invalidated by not following the servicing schedule, using non-approved parts, ignoring warning lights, modifying the vehicle, using incorrect fluids, or not following the claim procedure.

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What should you check when buying an extended warranty?

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Check which components are covered, if you need to contribute to repairs, if wear and tear is covered, if there's a waiting period, and if the warranty is transferable.