Car Warranties Explained: What Is Covered and What Is Not

A car warranty pays for repairs when a covered part fails because of a fault, not because of wear, damage or neglect. What is covered depends on the type of warranty and its terms, so the small print matters more than the headline.

What types of car warranty are there?

• Manufacturer's warranty: comes with a new car and usually lasts a set number of years or miles, whichever comes first. The length varies by brand. It normally transfers to the next owner if the car is sold within the period.

• Battery warranty: electric cars and hybrids usually have a separate, longer warranty on the high-voltage battery, often with a minimum capacity it must keep.

• Paint and corrosion warranty: many makers cover rust that comes through from the inside of a panel for a longer period than the main warranty.

• Used car or extended warranty: bought from a dealer or a specialist provider once the manufacturer's cover has ended, or for an older car. Cover ranges from major mechanical parts only to much wider plans.

What does a warranty usually cover?

Most plans cover mechanical and electrical parts that fail suddenly, such as the engine, gearbox, steering, cooling system and many electrical components. Wider plans include more parts. Check whether labour is included, whether there is a limit on each claim, and whether there is an excess to pay.

What is usually not covered?

• Wear and tear items: tyres, brake pads and discs, clutches, wiper blades and bulbs.

• Servicing: oil, filters and routine maintenance.

• Damage: accidents, misuse, flood damage or neglect.

• Cosmetic issues: scratches, stone chips and interior marks.

• Faults that were already there when the cover started, on many used car plans.

How do I keep my warranty valid?

Service the car on time, follow the maker's schedule and use parts and oil to the right specification. Keep every receipt and service record. You do not have to use a franchised dealer: our guide to whether an independent service affects your warranty explains the rules.

Is a used car warranty worth it?

It depends on the car and the plan. A warranty can soften the cost of a large repair on a complex or older car, but it is only as good as its terms. Before you buy one, ask:

1. Which parts are covered, and which are listed as exclusions?

2. Is there a limit per claim or in total?

3. Do I have to use a particular garage for repairs?

4. What servicing do I need to keep up?

Our guide to what a used car warranty usually covers goes into more detail.

Common questions

Is a warranty the same as my consumer rights?

No. When you buy from a dealer, the Consumer Rights Act gives you legal rights whether or not you have a warranty. A warranty sits on top of those rights. Our guide to used car consumer rights explains them.

Does a manufacturer's warranty pass to the next owner?

Usually yes, if it is still within its time and mileage limits. Check the terms for your make.

Can I claim for a fault caused by a worn part?

Normally not. Warranties cover sudden failures, not gradual wear.

Talk to us in Barnsley

If you have a question about a car you are thinking of buying, call our sales team on 01226 574410 or browse our cars in stock. For servicing that keeps your records up to date, contact our service centre on 01226 574321.

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Updated October 2026.