Do You Get a Car Warranty When You Buy a Used Car?

One of the most common questions people have when shopping for a used car near Tyler, TX is about warranty options. While new cars have warranties provided by the manufacturer, the warranty options for a used vehicle can be a bit more complicated. Let’s take a closer look at car warranty options for used vehicles.

Do You Get a Car Warranty When You Buy a Used Car in Tyler, TX?

Used cars, unlike new cars, do not come with a warranty provided by the manufacturer. However, that does not mean that every used car purchase will not include a warranty. For starters, manufacturer warranties that come with new cars are transferable as long as the coverage period has not expired. However, this will usually only be the case with a car that has relatively low mileage.

The Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty

If your used car is still within the manufacturer warranty period, the bumper-to-bumper warranty may still be valid. Most bumper-to-bumper warranties are valid for 3 years or 36,000 miles, however, some manufacturers may offer longer terms. This warranty covers all costs of repairing or replacing all components that have malfunctioned due to defective parts or faulty workmanship. This warranty offers the most comprehensive coverage and therefore has a relatively short coverage period.

The bumper-to-bumper warranty does not cover parts that wear out and need to be replaced. This includes parts like tires, spark plugs, oil filters, windshield wiper blades, light bulbs, and other components that typically need to be replaced. Issues caused by improper maintenance or damage will typically be excluded from coverage.

The Powertrain Warranty

The second basic warranty that comes with most new cars is the powertrain warranty. This warranty usually has a longer coverage term than the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Most manufacturers offer a 5-year 60,000-mile coverage term for this warranty, but some manufacturers may offer longer terms.

The powertrain warranty covers the specific components of the car that deliver power to the wheels. This includes the engine, transmission, driveshaft or drive belt, transaxle, differential, and other components that make the car move. The powertrain warranty also does not cover parts that wear out as the result of normal use. The powertrain warranty has a longer term typically because it covers the most expensive components of the vehicle.

Third-Party Warranties

Another option for warranty coverage for a used vehicle purchase is through third-party warranty companies. These plans are sold by warranty companies and are not affiliated with the manufacturer. The two main types of third-party warranties are mechanical breakdown insurance and an extended warranty. Functionally these plans are very similar but will vary in specific coverage and price.

Mechanical breakdown insurance plans are typically sold as add-ons by car insurance companies. These plans are usually inexpensive but have greater coverage limitations and carrier higher deductibles than extended warranties. The extended warranty functions much like a manufacturer warranty and is usually paid for upfront. However, these plans will typically have coverage limitations and may also require deductible payments.

For many people that are in the market for a used vehicle, a warranty can be a great incentive. To learn more about warranty options on used vehicles or to find that perfect car, come see us at Fairway Auto Center.

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