FAQ About Questions to Ask When Buying a Car

A manufacturer's warranty is a guarantee provided by the vehicle manufacturer to cover certain repairs or replacements for a specific period or mileage limit. It aims to provide peace of mind to the buyer by protecting against defects in materials or workmanship that may arise during the specified warranty period. The specific terms and coverage of a manufacturer's warranty can vary among different automakers, but here are some common aspects:

• Basic or Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: This type of warranty typically covers most components of the vehicle for a specific period, usually three to five years or a certain mileage limit, such as 36,000 to 60,000 miles. It includes repairs or replacements of defects in materials or workmanship, excluding wear-and-tear items and certain components like tires, brake pads, and routine maintenance items.
• Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty covers major components of the powertrain system, such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. It usually has a longer duration than the basic warranty, often ranging from five to ten years or a higher mileage limit. This warranty protects against defects that may affect the performance or integrity of the powertrain.
• Rust or Corrosion Warranty: Some manufacturers provide a separate warranty that covers rust or corrosion perforation, protecting against rust-through of the vehicle's body panels. The duration and coverage of this warranty can vary.
• Emissions Warranty: This warranty is mandated by law and covers repairs or replacements related to the vehicle's emissions control system. It usually has a longer duration compared to other warranties, typically covering major emissions components for up to eight years or more.
• Specific Component Warranties: Certain vehicle components may have separate warranties with specific coverage terms. For example, hybrid or electric vehicle components, such as batteries and electric motors, may have their own warranties that extend beyond the basic warranty.