Understanding Your Vehicle's Factory Warranty

Hi this is Jerry Reynolds and in Houston there is only one Chevy dealer that I trust, Classic Chevy Houston. Now here’s straight talk and honest answers about everything automotive. It’s important that you understand what exactly manufacturer’s warranties are and what they are not. It’s equally important to know what circumstances can void the warranty between you and the company that built your car. The manufacturer’s warranties are the promises of your vehicle’s manufacturer to repair your vehicle for a specified period of time and/or mileage. Furthermore, all factory-installed parts are covered against defects and workmanship. Each of your new-car warranties will be explained to you during your time of purchase, as well as, bundled with your owner’s manual for future reference. You can also check the Owners Section of your manufacturer’s website if you have misplaced any documents. The most common new-car warranties are your Basic Warranty, Powertrain Warranty, Emissions Warranties, and Corrosion Warranty. These warranties can be your best ally when having to deal with untimely repairs. As long as you’ve maintained the vehicle properly, serviced it at regular intervals, and are still within the warranty period, any dealer should be more than welcome to make the repairs covered be your warranties. Dealers are paid well to perform warranty work because the manufacturer of your vehicle is the party that is responsible for paying for your repairs, not the dealership. They’re pleased to have your business and will take all necessary steps in assuring they satisfy you and the entity paying the bill. Although keep in mind your warranty can be denied. It’s up to you to read through your warranties and find what is not covered. Environmental damage, an altered odometer, maintenance neglect, and in some cases, certain aftermarket repairs or modifications, can all lead to warranty denial. For instance, damage caused to a covered part by a non-covered part is not covered. Warranties only cover parts that fail and not damage caused to them by non-covered parts. However, the Mangnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 does state that a dealer must prove that aftermarket equipment caused the need for repairs before it can deny warranty coverage. Today’s cars aren’t perfect. Complex electrical systems and faulty parts are just things that happen and your manufacturer knows it. That’s why they offer warranties. Follow your regular maintenances and honor your end of the contract and the repairs will come at no cost to you. I’m Jerry Reynolds the Car Pro. When you are ready for one of the greatest car buying experiences you have ever had, connect directly to the only guys I trust in the Chevy business in Houston, Don Kerstetter and Mark Kolon at Classic Chevy Houston.