Buying a vehicle is a major investment, and your factory warranty can provide valuable peace of mind while your vehicle is covered. But what happens when that warranty expires?
Once your factory warranty runs out, you are generally responsible for the cost of repairs that are no longer covered. That does not necessarily mean you should worry, but it is a good time to understand your options and think ahead.
What Does It Mean When Your Warranty Expires?
Your vehicle's factory warranty provides coverage for certain repairs and components for a specific period of time or number of kilometers. Once you reach the end of that coverage, eligible repairs are no longer paid for by the manufacturer under the original warranty.
For example, if your factory warranty has expired and a major covered component needs to be repaired, you may be responsible for the full repair bill.
This is where unexpected expenses can become a concern.
Repairs Can Become More Expensive as Your Vehicle Ages
As your vehicle gets older and accumulates more kilometers, wear and tear can naturally increase. Some repairs are relatively minor, while others can cost thousands of dollars.
Major vehicle components can be expensive to repair or replace, including things such as:
- Transmissions
- Engine components
- Turbochargers
- Electrical components
- Air conditioning systems
- Infotainment and technology components
- Certain four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive components
You cannot always predict when a major repair will happen. That uncertainty is one of the biggest reasons some vehicle owners consider additional warranty coverage.
What If Your Factory Warranty Has Already Expired?
An expired factory warranty does not necessarily mean you have no options.
Depending on your vehicle and its eligibility, you may still be able to purchase additional warranty coverage. Coverage availability can vary based on the vehicle's age, kilometers and other eligibility requirements.
If your factory warranty has already expired, it is worth asking about your options rather than assuming it is too late.
Why Consider Warranty Coverage Before You Need It?
One of the biggest advantages of additional warranty coverage is having protection in place before an unexpected repair occurs.
Think of it this way: you generally cannot wait until something breaks and then purchase coverage for that specific problem. Having coverage in place ahead of time can help protect you from eligible unexpected repair expenses.
Instead of wondering how you will handle a potentially large repair bill, additional coverage can give you greater confidence in your vehicle's future.
You Don't Have to Buy Your Vehicle From Us
Did you purchase your vehicle somewhere other than Petrie Ford?
That does not necessarily mean you cannot come to us to ask about warranty options.
At Petrie Ford, we can help you explore available warranty coverage even if you did not originally purchase your vehicle from our dealership. Whether you are driving a Ford or another eligible vehicle, our team can help you understand what options may be available.
Don't Wait Until Something Goes Wrong
The best time to learn about your warranty options is before you need them.
If your factory warranty is approaching its expiration date, or if it has already expired, now may be a good time to find out what coverage options are available for your vehicle.
A little planning today could help you avoid an unexpected financial headache down the road.
Have Questions About Your Warranty?
If you are unsure whether your vehicle is still covered or want to know whether additional warranty coverage is available, contact Petrie Ford.
Our team can help you understand your options and find coverage that fits your vehicle and your needs.
Don't wait for a repair bill to find out what your warranty covers. Explore your options today.