Is the Car Battery Covered Under Warranty?
2 Answers
Car battery warranty coverage: Similar to tires, batteries are categorized as wear-and-tear components. The warranty period for wear-and-tear parts differs from the standard vehicle warranty. Taking the battery as an example, its warranty typically lasts one year. If the battery develops issues within this period, owners can visit the dealership for a free replacement. The warranty period starts from the vehicle purchase date, with standard coverage being three years or 60,000 kilometers. However, it's important to note that not all issues occurring within this timeframe are covered. The 3-year/60,000km warranty primarily applies to the engine, transmission, and chassis, excluding damage caused by human factors. Among premium brands, some explicitly state in their service manuals that batteries are eligible for free replacement within the first year. For failures occurring between 12-24 months, owners bear 25% of the cost. Certain brands offer free battery replacement within two years or 100,000 kilometers, while replacements between 2-4 years (under 100,000km) require 50% cost sharing.
When I bought my new car last year, I specifically checked the battery warranty. New car manufacturers usually cover the battery, but often with a limited period of 12 to 24 months. Some brands like Toyota or luxury models may extend it to around three years. During this period, if the battery fails due to factory issues, you can directly contact the dealer for a free replacement. However, batteries are consumables and can easily fail due to improper charging or temperature changes, so proper maintenance is crucial. I remember the manual details the specifics, so it's best to clarify this when purchasing the car rather than figuring it out after a problem arises. During regular maintenance, you can ask the technician to test the voltage and lifespan to prevent mid-journey failures that could affect driving.
