How Do I Keep My Warranty Valid?

Ellie Dyer-Brown, 2 months ago

5 min read

  • Car ownership
Signing car contract.

There are a number of steps you can take to make sure your warranty stays valid.

Keeping your warranty valid could save you a significant amount of money on repairs should something go wrong with your car. There could be a maximum mileage outlined in the conditions or a servicing schedule you must follow - either way, it pays to do your research.

This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping your warranty valid.

Contents What is a manufacturer’s warranty?

What is the block exemption regulation?

Are car warranties worth it?

How do I keep my warranty valid?

How do I know when a service is required?

Do I have to use a main dealer?

The benefits of using independent garage


What is a manufacturer warranty?

New car warranties usually cover faults that develop in the first 60,000 miles or three years of ownership. Some manufacturers offer an extended warranty period; KIA has the longest, seven years. It’s also possible to increase the warranty period in most cases, but the terms and conditions will likely change.

Selling a car with documents.

The specifics of manufacturer warranties vary. However, the consensus is that problems caused by wear and tear or an individual's driving style (such as bulbs and brakes) are not included.

The warranty should cover faults with the:

It often won't cover batteries, bulbs, wear and tear, tyres, wheels, accidental damage, cosmetic repairs, and third-party repairs or equipment.


What is the Block Exemption Regulation?

The Block Exemption Regulation was introduced to create competition within various industries. The regulation prohibits organisations from certain activities to create a fairer system for all parties involved.

How does this relate to the automotive industry?

The Block Exemption means drivers have more choice about what garage they use when honouring the manufacturer's warranty - you don't have to use a main dealer.


Are car warranties worth it?

There is no clear-cut answer to this question; it entirely depends on your situation. If you're worried that you won't be able to afford car repairs, it's something to consider. But there are a range of pros and cons.

ProsCons
Tailored coverHigh monthly cost
Breakdown recovery includedMany exclusions
Discounts on servicing and MOTsConditions of cover
Peace of mindClaim limits

Warranties often come with a wide array of conditions to limit the amount of money the warranty company has to pay, so you should read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up.


How do I keep my manufacturer warranty valid?

For your new vehicle manufacturer warranty to be valid, you must adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines, such as the servicing schedule and using the correct parts and fluid. 

There may be other stipulations; reading the terms and conditions is essential to ensure you fully understand what’s required.

Your warranty may not be valid if you:

  • Fail to follow the servicing schedule outlined in the agreement.

  • Modify the car.

  • Make a claim about an issue arising from neglect of the vehicle.

  • Use unapproved, parts, fluids or fuel.


 How do I know when a service is required?

When purchasing a new car, you should check what type of servicing schedule it has. There are two main types: fixed-schedule servicing and variable servicing. The manufacturer may stipulate which kind of servicing is required or allow you to choose.

Car service

Variable servicing depends on sensors fitted around the car and its onboard computer, triggering a light on the dashboard when a service is due. The service light must be reset after completion—this type of servicing suits higher-mileage drivers.

Fixed servicing occurs when a certain amount of mileage has been reached or within a specific timeframe and suits drivers with lower mileage.

This guide explains how often you should get your car serviced.


Does my vehicle need to be serviced by the main dealer?

In short, the answer is no. Due to the Block Exemption Regulation, any capable mechanic can do the work. The terms and conditions of what needs to take place within the service will be stipulated by the main dealer, and as long as this is adhered to, it doesn't matter where the work is completed as long as the correct Original Equipment (OE) parts and fluids are used.


The benefits of using an independent garage

Using an independent garage can be a wise decision; it gives you more control over how far you travel and how much you pay. It's often much cheaper than going to a dealership, and plenty of independent garages specialise in a particular make or model, so the quality of the service is just as good.


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