When you buy a new vehicle, the warranty is an important part of the purchase. The value of the warranty is a major part of the total value of the vehicle itself. When you buy new, a warranty is included in the price. Make sure you understand what the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty entails before you sign. All new cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty today. Usually, that coverage lasts three years from the day you buy. Some cover for just one year, some for much longer. Many warranties actually cover a car to a specified point, such as for five years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.

If you buy extended or extra warranties or service contracts, these will cost you more, whether for new or used vehicles. If you’re considering one, ask the dealer exactly what the warranty will cover if you need work done on your car. In addition, ask whether something is 100% covered or if some of the costs will fall to you. For example, if the warranty specifies the engine is covered, make sure you know just what it covers. Many of these warranties won’t cover things such as spark plugs or hoses, for example. In some cases, dealers even “split hairs,” in that if a part covered by the warranty is damaged by a part that is not covered, the dealer will no longer cover the supposedly warrantied part. So, for example, if a broken hose ruins the engine, then the engine itself is also not covered. In addition, a basic warranty will cover parts of the vehicle, but not such things as wear and tear related items, such as engine belts and wiper blades. You are responsible for these yourself and again, if they cause damage to a part that would normally be under warranty, then you also become responsible for the repair of the “under warranty” part.

Check with the manufacturer

Even though most vehicle warranties are standard, you should visit a manufacturer web site to tell you just what your vehicle warranty covers. You are also required to do certain things to keep the warranty valid. So for example, you probably can’t use a non-authorized mechanic to work on your car, or install or work on something yourself. If the part or work itself is not acceptable, the warranty may be voided and may become useless to you.

Got a manual? Read it

Read the owner’s manual that came with your car and find out what if any fees come with the warranty. Some of those “warranty” guarantees may actually have a deductible, just as your insurance coverage does. There may also be limitations, cancellation fees, and the like.

In addition, many warranties now come with “extras” such as free roadside assistance, help if you lock yourself out of your car, et cetera. In addition, your car’s tires will have a warranty by their own manufacturer, as will your battery. In addition, the emissions equipment should be covered for five years or 50,000 miles; this is a federal mandate.

If you’re buying a used vehicle, some of the original new-car warranty may still be valid. If the vehicle has not reached the mileage or time limit, you’re usually covered by whatever is left of the warranty. However, you shouldn’t assume and should always a check with the manufacturer.

Some used cars, especially those that are certified preowned, may also come with warranties specific to this type of vehicle. You should check them over thoroughly, as these are not standard and vary by dealership, area or state. Some places also offer prepaid maintenance or repair plans.