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The cost of the manufacturer's warranty is included in the purchase price. The manufacturer promises to stand by its product and asserts that the manner in which the car was made and the materials used to make it are free from defects. A typical manufacturer's warranty lasts 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The manufacturer's warranty is a guarantee that the manufacturer will make any necessary repairs due to defective materials used or improper manufacturing, at no charge to the owner.
Some points to remember regarding a basic, or bumper-to-bumper, warranty:
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It covers anyone who owns the vehicle during the warranty period, not just the original purchaser. Most manufacturers have eliminated any transfer fees for reassigning the warranty to a new owner when the vehicle is sold. Check to determine if all warranties are transferable before purchasing the vehicle.
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All services that are included should be free of charge, including removing and reinstalling any system warranted. In other words, parts and labor are free.
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If after a reasonable number of attempts, the dealer is unable to repair the vehicle or part, you should be compensated with your choice of either a full replacement vehicle or a full refund.
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Other than having the required maintenance done at the specified times, you are not required to perform any duty as a precondition for receiving warranty service beyond notifying the dealer that service is necessary.
The following are often excluded from the warranty:
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Normal wear and tear. For example, items like windshield wipers, filters, fuses, light bulbs, and brake pads are usually not covered.
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Normal maintenance costs are not covered and damage resulting from improper maintenance can void the warranty altogether. The cost for tune-ups, oil changes and other regular maintenance is your responsibility.
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Damage that results from "Acts of God."
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Problems resulting from improper use or negligence of the vehicle. For example, not using the correct fuel or oil.
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Structural changes made to the body of the vehicle.
To keep your
warranty in effect, you must
operate and maintain your car
according to the instructions in
your owner's manual. Keep a
record of all maintenance
performed on your vehicle.
A limited warranty
excludes one or more of the
benefits found in most basic
warranties. Instead of covering
the entire vehicle, it may only
cover specific systems, or you
may have to pay a deductible
toward repairs. Refer to the
Buyer's Guide sticker on the
vehicle to determine if the
vehicle is being sold "As is,"
with no warranty, with a full
warranty, or with a limited
warranty.
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