How Many Years Is the General Warranty for Cars?
2 Answers
The warranty period for cars is three years or 60,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Relevant provisions of the Three Guarantees Law: All new cars sold on the market must provide a warranty period of no less than 3 years or 60,000 kilometers. Any quality issues that arise within the warranty period can be repaired free of charge, including parts and labor costs. Vehicle warranty coverage: Many manufacturers stipulate in the owner's manual that wear-and-tear parts and consumables are not covered under warranty unless they are quality-related issues. Generally, the warranty period for the engine and transmission is the same as the overall warranty period, while the warranty for consumable parts such as batteries, air filters, cabin air filters, and timing belts is much shorter. The Maintenance Manual usually explicitly states that wear-and-tear parts like wiper blades, brake pads, clutch plates, tires, headlights, and glass are not covered under warranty.
Having driven for over a decade, I've gained quite some experience with warranties. Generally, new cars come with a warranty covering the first three years or up to around 60,000 kilometers, which includes major components like the engine and transmission. However, there's significant variation between brands. For instance, Toyota typically offers three years or 100,000 kilometers, while Kia or Hyundai might extend it to five years or 100,000 kilometers. Luxury brands like Lexus are even more generous. Remember, during the warranty period, you must get your car serviced at authorized dealers and stick to the schedule for oil and filter changes; otherwise, your warranty could be voided if something goes wrong. Some minor items aren't covered, like brake pads or bulb wear, as these are considered normal wear and tear. My advice is to thoroughly read the manual when buying a car, don't skimp on maintenance—safety comes first—and address any issues promptly to prevent them from turning into major problems. In short, a warranty is your peace of mind on the road, so don't take it lightly.