A basic car warranty, often called a "bumper-to-bumper" warranty, is the factory coverage that protects you from the cost of repairing defects in materials or workmanship for a set period or mileage. It’s included in the price of a new car and typically lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers thousands of parts, from infotainment screens to power window motors, but it explicitly excludes items that wear out through normal use, like tires, brakes, and wiper blades. It's separate from the longer powertrain warranty, which covers the engine and transmission.
The key is understanding what’s not covered. Routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations), damage from accidents, misuse, or improper modifications are always excluded. If you modify your car's engine computer, for example, any resulting damage to the engine likely won't be covered.
To keep your warranty valid, you must follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and use approved parts or fluids if specified. You also have the right to have maintenance and repairs done at any qualified auto shop without voiding the warranty, thanks to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
Here’s a comparison of basic warranty terms from major automakers, showing how coverage can vary significantly:
| Manufacturer | Basic Warranty Term | Powertrain Warranty Term | Transferable to Second Owner? |
|---|
| Hyundai / Kia | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 10 years / 100,000 miles | Yes, with fee |
| Toyota / Honda | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles | Yes, no fee |
| Ford / GM | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles | Yes, no fee |
| Genesis | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 10 years / 100,000 miles | Full transfer |
| Mitsubishi | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 10 years / 100,000 miles | Yes, no fee |
| BMW / Mercedes | 4 years / 50,000 miles | 4 years / 50,000 miles | Yes, no fee |
| Subaru | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles | Yes, no fee |
Always read your warranty booklet thoroughly. Knowing the exact terms helps you avoid surprise bills and understand your rights during the initial ownership period.
