There are several factors to consider when you are looking to buy a car. One is whether or not the car has a warranty. And while all vehicles have warranties, not all offer the same benefits. Some of the standard warranties you can expect from your dealership include a bumper-to-bumper warranty, corrosion warranty, emissions warranty, and powertrain warranty.
Before buying a car, it’s crucial to know what to expect regarding warranties. In the sections below, we have discussed all you need to know about powertrain warranties, from what it covers benefits of extended warranties to the various powertrain options available.
What Is the Powertrain?
A vehicle’s powertrain comprises the engine, transmission, and drive shaft. This part of the car is responsible for moving the vehicle forward. It converts energy from the gasoline stored in the fuel tank into kinetic energy to produce torque. The torque turns the crankshaft and causes it to rotate at an appropriate speed, turning each wheel and propelling the vehicle forward.
What Does a Powertrain Warranty Cover?
As the name suggests, a powertrain warranty covers your vehicle’s powertrain. It’s also called a drivetrain warranty or a transmission warranty. The main components that the powertrain warranty covers include:
- The engine.
- The car’s transmission, from the torque converter and hydraulic system to the valve body, clutches, and bands.
- The driveshaft.
- Axles and drive box.
- Differentials.
- Drive box
A typical powertrain warranty lasts between three to ten years and covers from 50,000 to around 120,000 miles, but it can be extended even further. That’s a long-time to use your car without worrying about costly repairs.
Some powertrain warranties are transferable if you sell your car or trade it in before the coverage expires. Others may be transferable only if you purchase an extended warranty for a fee. Most dealerships also offer a discount on an extended warranty if you purchase the vehicle with one already included in the price.
The cost of this additional coverage depends on many factors. For example, how much time has elapsed since your purchase date? Or how many miles you’ve driven since then. And while it may seem like something you’d want to avoid, it’s something you should actually consider. That is because it gives you peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong with any part of your car’s powertrain, the coverage provider will cover it, provided the warranty is still active.
Powertrain Warranty Options
Automakers, car dealerships, and third party warranty providers often offer powertrain warranties. There are two main types of powertrain warranties: factory warranty and extended warranty. Factory warranties are limited but can be extended with an extended service contract or purchase of an extended warranty from a third party.
Some dealerships, however, further classify their powertrain warranties into three distinct categories. These include:
- Powertrain Limited Warranty. The coverage is limited to a maximum of 5 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first) for most cars. This warranty is mostly forwarded from the automaker and covers the most critical parts of your car’s powertrain.
- Powertrain Plus Limited Warranty. Unlike the limited powertrain warranty, this option covers additional components such as the electrical system, Ac/Heating components, Hybrid components, and even seal and gaskets.
- Extended Powertrain Warranty. Unlike the powertrain limited and the plus options, an extended warranty removes the year and mileage limit. And while this comes with more convenience and peace of mind, it is worth checking the terms and what’s included in the plan to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Regardless of the warranty you choose, the compensation or coverage you get will depend on the cost of replacing the faulty part. This further depends on where you live and which dealership you use. And if you currently have a limited powertrain warranty, you can buy an extended warranty at any time, as long the vehicle is still under its factory warranty.
Why Go For Extended Car Warranties?
There are many reasons most car buyers and owners opt for extended car warranties. First, you’ll get more protection against breakdowns and repairs and have peace of mind that your car will last as long as possible. You’ll also save money on repairs the manufacturer’s warranty may not cover. It’s worth noting that extended car warranties offered by third-party providers often have better terms than those offered by manufacturers. Here are some perks you’ll enjoy with an extended car warranty:
- Vehicle towing services.
- 24/7 roadside assistance.
- Rental car benefits.
- Trip interruption assistance.
Other warranty providers also allow car owners to choose their ideal repair shops and offer a wide range of coverage plans. This ensures that you choose the best plan for your unique needs.
Make the Right Choice Today
Whether you want to save money on repairs or want to be sure your car is covered in case of an accident, a powertrain warranty is a smart investment. Before taking a pick, you should know that there are different types of powertrain warranties, and they don’t all cover the same things. Be sure to seek guidance from a trustworthy car warranty provider and compare options keenly to find the best fit for your needs.
