5 Things That Will Void Your Car’s Warranty

It’s important to make sure you take care of your vehicle and protect the warranty that’s part of your vehicle.

When you buy a car, part of the cost is built into the warranty that covers the vehicle in case something breaks down. Unfortunately, too often warranties can be voided because of things that we might not think about. Here are five ways you can void your coverage and have to pay for all repairs.

1. Misuse of the Vehicle

Just because you can go on trails doesn’t mean you should. Even though you bought a sports car, racing it at the track might void the warranty. Any type of overloading of misuse of the vehicle could void the entire coverage when you drive it hard. You need to make sure you have protection for driving on trails or tracks if you intend to do so.

2. Environmental Damage

One reason why you need to have insurance and a warranty has to do with damage that could happen during a fire, flood, or earthquake. The warranty of your vehicle covers items that are faulty, not items that are damaged because of an environmental issue. The automaker will not honor your warranty if your car has been damaged during one of these events, but your insurance should.

3. Altered Odometer

If the odometer in your car has been disconnected, tampered with, or replaced, the exact mileage might not be easily determined. This could cause the manufacturer to deny any coverage claim you might have regarding your vehicle. It’s never a good idea to do anything to this part of your vehicle unless it’s absolutely necessary to replace it. The odometer is one of the most important parts of your car and your protected coverage.

4. Neglect

You must keep your vehicle properly maintained to ensure your warranty stays active. If you haven’t taken your vehicle in for service at the prescribed mileage intervals, you will likely lose all of your warranty coverage. This is one of the most common ways that your warranty will be voided by the automaker. Work with the dealer you bought the vehicle from and set up a service schedule that will keep your warranty active.

5. Aftermarket Parts and Modifications

Not all added parts and modifications will void your warranty, but some will. You need to check with your dealer before making any changes to your vehicle during the covered warranty period. If you want to add power or lift your vehicle up higher, you’ll likely want to wait until after the warranty period has run its course. Some aftermarket items can be added and covered, but you’ll have to find out from your dealer.

Protect your car’s warranty by taking care of your vehicle the right way. The cost of the coverage is part of the price you pay when you buy your new vehicle, keep it intact for as long as you can. You can make changes or drive hard once the protected period is over.