New Car Warranties

Perhaps one of the best parts of buying or leasing a new vehicle, other than that new car smell, is the warranty coverage you'll receive. Warranties vary by manufacturer, but generally you will get a basic warranty (same thing as bumper to bumper), and a drivetrain (powertrain) warranty. Many vehicle manufacturers also offer complimentary towing and roadside assistance.

Basic Warranty Coverage

Your basic warranty is typically the most comprehensive warranty a new vehicle will come with. It will usually cover the majority of mechanical and electrical components, incase of malfunction or defect. Your radio, power windows, air conditioning unit, heater core, and things of that nature should be covered along with the vehicle's engine (and other parts that make the car go). If your radio or A/C stops working while the vehicle is under basic warranty, it will likely be covered, unless you damaged the component yourself. Sometimes even wearable items like tires, brakes, and wipers are covered as well (depending on manufacturer).

Because the basic warranty is the most comprehensive coverage on your vehicle, the duration of coverage will typically be less than that of the drivetrain warranty. 3 years/36,000 miles is pretty much the standard in the auto industry when it comes to a basic warranty, but it varies by manufacturer and sometimes even vehicle model. The basic warranty starts on your vehicle's "in-service date," which is usually the date of sale or the date you actually take delivery of the car. Most of the time the warranty goes with the vehicle, and therefore is transferrable to subsequent owners. The next owner will likely enjoy the remaining coverage on the vehicle (if any).

Drivetrain Warranty Coverage

When your basic warranty runs out, chances are your drivetrain (powertrain) will still be covered. The drivetrain warranty generally covers components that are vital in making your vehicle move. Your power windows or cruise control won't be covered by the drivetrain warranty, but most engine and transmission issues will. 5 years or 60,000 miles is the most common duration of drivetrain coverage among manufacturers, but just like the basic warranty, duration can vary. It is important to note that just about every car dealer offers extended warranty plans. Depending on the factory coverage and how long you plan on keeping your vehicle, an extended warranty could be a good idea or a total waste of money.

Towing and Roadside Assistance

Most new vehicles come with some sort of complimentary towing and roadside assistance. The duration usually lasts as long as the basic warranty, or sometimes the drivetrain warranty. The terms and restrictions of coverage vary by manufacturer. If your car breaks down, the manufacturer will likely cover the cost of towing it for a certain number of miles. If you run out of gas or lock your keys in your car, roadside assistance can help with that. If you're looking at a vehicle, check with the dealer or look on the manufacturer's website to find out if they offer free towing/roadside assistance and what the terms are.

All attempts to keep this information up to date have been made, but please verify it with your local dealer before buying.