When you buy a new car, you expect that the car warranty will begin from the moment you take possession. After all, it's a brand-new vehicle and you are the first owner. However, this may not always be the case. Many car manufacturers use extended warranty coverage as a way to differentiate their vehicles from used cars and to demonstrate their commitment to quality.
In some cases, the warranty begins when the vehicle is declared sold, not when the customer receives delivery. It is essential to read the fine print on your warranty and sales contract to understand precisely what is covered. Generally, warranties cover repairs needed for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, warranties do not cover racing with the car on (or off) a track, off-road use, or other non-standard uses.
If you plan to use your car for any of these activities, it is best to look into an extended warranty. CARCHEX is one company that offers extended warranties with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. When looking for an extended warranty provider, it is important to make sure they are accredited and have a good reputation. It is also important to note that changing parts on your car may void at least part of your warranty. For conventional vehicle owners, it may make more financial sense to set aside an emergency repair fund rather than paying for an extended warranty. This way, you can be sure that you are covered in case of any unexpected repairs.
It is also possible that your dealer bought your car and parked it on their esplanade for some time before you arrived to pick it up. In this case, your warranty period would have already started before you paid for the car. When considering an extended warranty for your car, it is essential to understand precisely what is covered and what is not. Reading the small print on the warranty and sales contract can help ensure that you get the exact offer you were looking for when you set foot in the dealer.
