|
|
New Car Warranties
 When you purchase a new car it will come with a comprehensive warranty. However, the terms, conditions and limitations of these warranties can vary considerably between the different manufacturers. Some offer just one year's full warranty, others three years. Most impose mileage limits. Some three-year warranties sold with new cars comprise one year manufacturer's warranty (as supplied with all new European cars) plus two additional years supplied by the dealer. The terms and conditions may be different for each.
A new car warranty should protect against the cost of most mechanical breakdown and component failure. Most manufacturers typically offer additional cover for paintwork (often up to five years) and corrosion (usually up to 10 years).
To ensure your warranty remains valid, you must ensure that you have your car serviced at the recommended intervals and this is recorded in the car’s service book. Under European law, your car need not be serviced at a main dealer to meet the conditions of the manufacturer's warranty, but dealer supplied warranties may have limitations. Check whether you are tied to one main dealer or group, or one of a list of recommended dealers. Keep all receipts, records and ensure that your service book is stamped to show that the car has had its recommended service intervals.
Be aware that the fitting of non-standard items and any modifications to your car can invalidate your warranty. Certain types of usage may invalidate your warranty as well, such as track days, amateur motor sport, mini-cabbing and driving tuition. Finally, always read the small print.
|
|
