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A new car factory warranty usually lasts 3 years/36,000 miles and often includes bumper-to-bumper, powertrain, corrosion, and emissions warranties.
Crash Course:
- The average factory warranty includes at least 3 years and 36,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage.
- Genesis, Hyundai, Jaguar, Kia, and Mitsubishi offer the longest factory warranty coverage.
- You can purchase extended warranty coverage for about $100 per month.
- Contact your dealership to check if your car is still covered under its factory warranty.
While you can expect every new car to have routine maintenance costs, unexpected breakdowns can be frustrating. Luckily, every major car manufacturer in the U.S. backs its vehicles with a factory warranty – a promise to pay for the cost of repairs should a part malfunction in your first few years of ownership.
In order to get the most out of your manufacturer’s warranty, it pays to know what is covered and for how long. While covered parts and systems are similar across all manufacturers, the length of time you’re protected varies widely. This guide will review factory warranty coverage from major auto manufacturers and explain how to check if your car is still covered by its original warranty.
All factory warranties come to an end eventually, but you can stay protected long-term with an extended auto warranty from your manufacturer or an independent warranty provider. You can reach out for free quotes from several of the best extended car warranty companies using the buttons above.
What Is a Factory Warranty?
A factory warranty is a promise from the manufacturer to cover the cost of repairs due to a mechanical breakdown. If components fail because of improper installation, factory defects, or faulty workmanship, the manufacturer’s factory warranty will usually pay for repairs or replacement parts. This is likely to include any breakdown that isn’t the result of an accident, improper use, or lack of maintenance.
Every major auto brand sold in the U.S. backs its vehicles with a new vehicle limited warranty, which can last anywhere from three to 10 years, depending on the automaker. Most automakers include separate, longer coverage under a powertrain warranty, which includes components and systems like the engine, drivetrain, transmission, transfer case, and transaxle. All other vehicle parts are typically covered by a shorter bumper-to-bumper warranty.
What Does a Factory Warranty Cover?
A factory warranty is typically broken up into several individual warranties, though some manufacturers – most often luxury automakers – include all warranty coverage under a single umbrella.
Generally the manufacturer provides the following limited warranties:
- Powertrain warranty
- Bumper-to-bumper warranty
- Corrosion warranty
- Emissions warranty
Factory Powertrain Warranty
A powertrain warranty covers the components that make your car move. These include parts of the:
- Engine
- Drive axles
- Transmission
- Transfer case
Because these are the parts that are typically the most expensive to fix, many manufacturers cover the powertrain for an extended period. The average length of a powertrain factory warranty is five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Factory Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty
A bumper-to-bumper warranty is named as such because it covers almost all of the parts between a vehicle’s bumpers. This can include components and systems such as:
- Brakes
- Suspension
- Fuel system
- Air conditioning
- Steering system
It’s important to note that bumper-to-bumper warranties don’t protect the front and rear bumpers on your vehicle’s exterior – just most things in between. If your factory warranty includes additional perks like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, or towing, that coverage typically lasts only as long as the bumper-to-bumper warranty.
The average length of a bumper-to-bumper factory warranty is three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Corrosion Warranty
A corrosion warranty covers damages to the sheet metal parts on your car. It promises to replace parts that corrode or rust during the warranty period.
Emissions Warranty
This warranty pays to repair or replace emissions components if in case of a malfunction or if your car fails to meet state or federal emissions criteria. Examples of emissions parts are oxygen sensors, the power control module (PCM), the muffler, and exhaust pipes. Because of differing state emissions laws, most brands also include a separate California emission warranty that is a little longer than the standard emissions warranty.
Factory Warranty Exclusions
Not every part of your car is covered by a factory warranty. Vehicle warranties also don’t cover damages resulting from accidents, improper maintenance, racing, or improper use. Common factory warranty exclusions include:
- Bulbs and glass
- Upholstery and trim
- Maintenance services like oil changes
- Wear items like wiper blades
- Shock absorbers
- Brake pads and shoes
Parts that aren’t covered are generally non-mechanical (like upholstery) or wear-and-tear items that are expected to deteriorate with regular use (like brake pads, wiper blades, shock absorbers, bulbs, gaskets, and more).
Car Repairs Under Warranty
Typically, factory warranty coverage will only be accepted at an authorized brand dealership or service center. To have repairs paid for under a manufacturer’s warranty, you’ll need to drive it or tow it to a dealership.
A certified mechanic will diagnose the issue and repair your vehicle, and the manufacturer will pick up the tab.
How Long Is a Factory Warranty?
The length of a factory warranty depends on the manufacturer. Most popular vehicle manufacturers offer a three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as well as a five-year or 60,0000-mile powertrain warranty. However, luxury car brands are known for combining their powertrain and bumper-to-bumper warranties in coverage lasting four years or 50,000 miles.
Factory Warranty List
The table below outlines the warranty info for most major auto manufacturers in the U.S. The data includes manufacturer warranty terms for vehicle models 2021 or newer. Older vehicles may be covered under different terms.
| Warranty | Factory Powertrain Limited Warranty | Factory Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty |
| Acura Warranty | 6 years/70,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Audi Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| BMW Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Buick Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Cadillac Warranty | 6 years/70,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Chevy Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Chrysler Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Dodge Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Fiat Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Ford Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Genesis Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| GMC Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Honda Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Hyundai Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Jaguar Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Jeep Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Kia Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Lexus Warranty | 6 years/70,00 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Lincoln Warranty | 6 years/70,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Mazda Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Mercedes Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Mitsubishi Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Nissan Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Porsche Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Ram Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Subaru Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Tesla Warranty | 8 years/150,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Toyota Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Volkswagen Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Volvo Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
Can You Void Your Factory Warranty?
While every factory warranty is different, most have similar rules and guidelines. For example, you will be required to maintain your vehicle in accordance with the factory-recommended maintenance schedule in order to keep the warranty valid. A factory warranty does not pay for these regular maintenance items, which usually include inspections every 30,000 miles and regular oil changes and tire rotations.
If you wreck your car and end up with a salvage title, you’ll likely lose factory coverage. You face your warranty being voided also if you tamper with the vehicle’s odometer or use the car improperly – such as towing beyond weight limits.
Is My Car Still Under Warranty?
To check if your vehicle is still under factory warranty, consult the warranty booklet that was included with your car. Assuming you have kept up with your oil changes and other scheduled maintenance, your car should still be covered if within the time and mileage limits.
Check Factory Warranty by VIN
If you can’t find your warranty booklet, you can check your car’s warranty status by contacting a dealership and asking. Be sure to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. Most manufacturer warranty coverage is transferable to new owners, so even if you purchase a used car, it may be covered under the original factory warranty.
CPO Warranty
If you bought a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle, you may still have CPO warranty coverage. CPO warranties usually include any remaining factory bumper-to-bumper warranty along with a short period of extra coverage. For example, if you bought a certified pre-owned vehicle that is two years old and comes with a one year or 12,000 mile CPO warranty and the original factory warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles, you’ll have two years of manufacturer coverage left.
Many manufacturers sell extended CPO warranties that can extend your vehicle’s protection. Be sure to read your CPO warranty booklet thoroughly to fully understand coverage terms and conditions.
Extended Car Warranties
When your car’s factory warranty expires, it is possible to lengthen your vehicle protection with an extended warranty. Most manufacturers sell extended warranties that offer similar protection to the factory warranty. These are sold through dealerships and typically need to be purchased when you buy your vehicle or before your original manufacturer’s warranty expires. It’s important to note that these aren’t true warranties, but rather vehicle service contracts.
You can also get a vehicle service contract from an independent company. Third-party contracts offer similar coverage but typically at a lower cost and for longer terms. The average cost of an aftermarket extended warranty is around $100 per month, though prices vary depending on your vehicle make, model, age, and mileage.
Are Extended Car Warranties Worth It?
More often than not, the cost of an extended car warranty will be more than what it pays out for covered repairs. Because of this, it can be a better financial move to save for the cost of repairs yourself. However, many drivers still like to purchase an extended warranty because it provides the peace of mind that if an especially expensive breakdown occurs, the cost will be covered. Extended warranties also help you budget for repairs over time and, unlike a personal savings account for car repairs, you can’t touch the money if another bill comes up.
Factory Warranties: Conclusion
Generally, a factory warranty is a bundle of two warranties – a bumper-to-bumper warranty and a powertrain warranty. Many manufacturer’s also offer additional coverage under a corrosion warranty and an emissions warranty.
A factory warranty will not last forever. Once the factory warranty coverage expires, you are responsible for paying for mechanical breakdowns. Extended warranties are excellent for drivers who intend to keep their car past the factory warranty expiration date.
Top Recommendations for Extended Car Warranties
If you do choose to purchase an extended warranty, be sure to shop around to find the lowest rates and the best value. Use only reputable extended car warranty companies, such as Endurance and CARCHEX. In our industry-wide review, Endurance and CARCHEX emerged as top picks thanks to flexible coverage plans and affordable pricing.
Endurance: Best Overall
Endurance contracts can cover your vehicle for up to 200,000 miles or more. There are six levels of Endurance coverage, which range from basic powertrain protection to exclusionary bumper-to-bumper extended warranty coverage. EnduranceAdvantageTM plans even include prepaid maintenance coverage for oil changes, diagnostics, and brake pad replacements – items typically excluded from extended warranty coverage.
To give you an idea of Endurance warranty costs, we reached out to the company for a couple of sample quotes, shown in the table below. Note that warranty quotes are highly personalized, so your prices may vary.
| Vehicle | Vehicle Mileage | Endurance Warranty Plan | Term Length | Monthly Payment | Down Payment | Total Price* |
| 2021 Toyota Camry | 42,000 miles | Supreme (Comprehensive Coverage) | 2.5 years/ 40,000 miles | $87.81 per month for 30 months | $116.81 | $2,663.30 |
| 2015 Jeep Cherokee | 120,000 miles | Secure Plus (Powertrain Coverage) | 2.5 years/ 40,000 miles | $118.75 per month for 30 months | $147.75 | $3,591.50 |
To learn more, read our full Endurance warranty review.
CARCHEX: Best Reputation
CARCHEX contracts can be purchased to cover your vehicle up to 250,000 miles. CARCHEX offers five levels of coverage, including plans designed specifically for older vehicles. The provider has been endorsed by industry leaders like Kelley Blue Book, CARFAX, and Edmunds, which is a good sign of its reputation.
In our research, we found CARCHEX offered some of the lowest-priced extended warranty contracts. See the results of our secret shopper analysis below.
| Vehicle | Vehicle Mileage | CARCHEX Warranty Plan | Term Length | Monthly Payment | Down Payment | Price Per Year Of Coverage* |
| 2021 Nissan Altima | 42,000 miles | Titanium (Comprehensive Coverage) | Unlimited/month-to-month | $149.99 per month | N/A | $1,319.88 |
| 2015 Jeep Cherokee | 120,000 miles | Silver (Powertrain Plus Coverage) | Unlimited/month-to-month | $169.99 per month | N/A | $1,799.88 |
You can read our comprehensive CARCHEX review for more information.
Factory Warranty: FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about factory warranties:
What does a factory warranty cover?
A factory warranty typically includes a bumper-to-bumper warranty – which covers almost every component in your car – and a powertrain warranty, which covers the engine, transmission, drive axles, and transfer case. In many cases, factory coverage also includes corrosion and emissions warranties as well.
How long is a manufacturer’s warranty?
Most factory bumper-to-bumper warranties typically last three years or 36,000 miles. Factory powertrain warranties usually last five years or 60,000 miles. These warranty terms will vary by automaker, however.
What is the difference between a factory warranty and an extended warranty?
A factory warranty is included with the purchase of a new car. An extended warranty is a separate purchase and it lengthens the time your car is covered under warranty. Most manufacturers offer extended coverage that must be purchased before the factory warranty expires. Aftermarket extended warranties can be purchased anytime.
Our Methodology
Our expert review team takes satisfaction in providing accurate and unbiased information. We identified the following rating categories based on consumer survey data and conducted extensive research to formulate rankings of the best extended auto warranty providers.
- Industry Standing: Our team considers Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, availability, and years in business when giving this score.
- Coverage: Because each consumer has unique needs, it’s essential that a car warranty company offers an array of coverage options. We take into account the number of plans offered by each provider, term limits, exclusions, and additional benefits.
- Affordability: A variety of factors influence cost, so it can be difficult to compare quotes between providers. Our team performs ongoing secret shopper analyses for different vehicles, mileages, warranty plans, and locations to give this rating.
- Customer Service: Reputable extended car warranty companies operate with a certain degree of care for consumers. We take into account customer reviews, BBB complaints, and the responsiveness of the customer service team.
*Data accurate at time of publication.
