Car Warranties: Everything You Need to Know

Buying a car, whether new or used, is a big moment. You’ve weighed up the options, found one you love, and now you want peace of mind that you’re covered if anything goes wrong. That’s where car warranties come in. If you're scratching your head wondering what a warranty is, how it works, or whether you really need one, you’re in the right place.

We’ve broken down everything you need to know about car warranties to help you make sense of it all.

What Is a Car Warranty?

A car warranty is a type of insurance policy that covers the cost of repairing your vehicle if it develops a fault. It’s basically your safety net for when unexpected issues crop up, think mechanical glitches, electrical failures or even flaky paintwork.

If your car’s air conditioning gives up or the brakes suddenly stop cooperating, for example, a warranty might cover all or part of the repair costs. But as comforting as this sounds, it’s important to remember that not every issue is included (more on that later).

Do All Cars Come with a Warranty?

Yes, most cars do—but the type of warranty and how long it lasts depends on the vehicle.

New Cars

New cars come with a manufacturer warranty, typically valid for 3+ years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Some manufacturers go the extra mile, Kia offers a generous 7-year/100,000-mile warranty, while Hyundai backs their cars with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty.

These warranties are included in the price of the car and give you confidence that any major defects will be sorted without an additional hit to your wallet.

Used Cars

When it comes to used cars, things get a little trickier. Most used cars that are only a few years old may still fall under their original manufacturer warranty. Once that runs out, you’ll need to decide whether to extend it or take out a new policy.

If you’re buying from a dealership, some may throw in a used car warranty as part of the deal. These tend to last between 3-12 months. If you’re buying privately, you’ll likely need a private warranty to ensure any repairs get covered.

What Does a Car Warranty Cover?

A standard car warranty will usually cover a variety of mechanical and electrical faults, including repairs to:

• Engines
• Transmissions and gearboxes
• Fuel systems
• Suspension
• Air conditioning
• Electrical systems, including sensors and controls

Some policies also cover breakdown recovery and provide a courtesy car while yours is being fixed. However, warranties vary widely, so it’s important to read your policy carefully to understand what’s covered and what isn’t.

What’s Not Covered by a Car Warranty?

Sadly, car warranties aren’t a magic fix-all. Here are some of the most common exclusions you might come across:

• Everyday wear and tear: Think brake pads, tyres, and windscreen wipers.
• Damage caused by misuse: For example, driving recklessly or failing to maintain your car properly.
• Pre-existing issues: If your car has an unresolved fault at the time you take out the warranty, it likely won’t be covered.
• Cosmetic damage: Scratches, dents, and general wear to upholstery won’t be included.

To avoid surprises, also make sure you stick to regular servicing and MOT checks. Skipping these routine essentials can void your warranty altogether.

Types of Car Warranties

Confused by all the different warranty options? Here’s a quick run-through of the most common ones and what they mean for you.

Manufacturer Warranty

This is the free warranty that comes with a new car straight from the factory. It usually offers the most comprehensive cover, lasting between 3 and 7 years depending on the manufacturer.

Extended Warranty

If your manufacturer warranty is about to expire, you can pay to extend the coverage. These policies are great if you want to avoid unexpected repair bills later down the line—but check what’s included, as extended warranties can sometimes be less comprehensive than the original.

Approved Used Car Warranty

Buying an approved used car from a dealership often comes with a warranty that’s similar to a manufacturer warranty. This gives you reassurance that the car has been inspected and meets the dealer’s standards.

Private or Aftermarket Warranty

Buying privately? You can purchase a standalone warranty tailored to your car’s age, mileage, and condition. These policies tend to offer flexible cover and can be bought at any time, even years after purchasing the car.

Do You Need a Car Warranty?

Unlike car insurance, you’re not legally required to have a warranty. However, warranties can be a life-saver, especially if your car suffers a major fault—and repair costs can quickly add up.

If you’re driving a newer car that’s had a flawless history of reliability, you might feel comfortable without an extended warranty. But for older, high-mileage models, that extra peace of mind could be well worth it.

Pros and Cons of Car Warranties

Pros

• Covers costly repairs for peace of mind.
• Can include extras like roadside recovery or a courtesy car.
• Protects your car's value by ensuring necessary repairs are completed.

Cons

• Can be expensive, especially for older cars.
• Not every issue is covered, and exclusions apply.
• You may not use it at all if the car doesn’t develop faults.

FAQs About Car Warranties

Q. Do dealerships have to provide a warranty?

No, dealerships aren’t legally obliged to offer warranties with used cars, although many do as part of their service.

Q. Can I buy a warranty after I’ve bought the car?

Yes! Private warranties are flexible and can be purchased at any time, even for older vehicles.

Q. Are warranties worth it?

That depends on your car and driving habits. Warranties can save you the hassle (and a hefty bill) if something major goes wrong, but they are an extra cost.

Q. Do car warranties cover everything?

No, everyday wear and tear and damage caused by misuse are typically excluded, so it’s crucial to read the policy carefully.