What Is a Car Warranty?

October 14, 2021

A person is holding a paper car in their hands. | Lex Brodies

An auto warranty is an important factor to consider when it comes to purchasing a car. It is a contract that compensates for the cost of repairing or replacing parts of your vehicle for some time. However, not all car warranties are created equally, which is why you must read over the fine print before making your purchase.

Factory Warranty

If you bought your vehicle from a dealership, you probably have a factory or manufacturer’s warranty. This type of warranty is possible for new, used, and certified pre-owned cars to cover any defective parts caused by any assembly errors. It is also only valid up to a certain number of miles or years. Some manufacturers are more forgiving than others, so that the numbers can vary. Another feature of the factory warranty is that it is movable from one owner to another as long as it hasn’t expired or been terminated.

Unfortunately, they can void the contract if you fail to follow factory guidelines, such as keeping up with regular maintenance services like oil changes, fluid flushes, and more. 

Does Service at Places Other Than the Dealership Void a Factory Warranty?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has stated that it is illegal for any dealer to refuse your warranty coverage if you choose to get your routine maintenance or repairs done somewhere else. Most of the time, independent technicians or even your knowledge and skills can do the job just as good of a job, if not better. 

 

To get a bang for your buck out of your factory warranty, please go over your warranty before making any decisions concerning your car. For all your automotive needs, please give Lexbrodies a call or visit today!

7 Ways To Make A Long Drive Easier On Your Back | LexBrodies
August 28, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii shares seven ways to make long drives easier on your back and more comfortable.
Why Ocean Air Can Age Your Car Faster Than Mileage Alone | LexBrodies
July 31, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains how ocean air can wear down vehicles faster than mileage alone.
New Car Battery Or Bad Alternator? How To Tell What Your Car's Issue Is | LexBrodies
June 26, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains how to tell whether your car needs a new battery or alternator repair.
Brake Repair or Brake Service: How to Know What Your Car Needs | LexBrodies
May 29, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains how to tell whether your car needs brake service or a real brake repair.
Why Are My ABS and Traction Control Lights On at the Same Time? | LexBrodies
April 30, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains why ABS and traction control lights can come on at the same time.
Is Rust On The Brake Rotors Dangerous? | LexBrodies
March 27, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains whether rusty brake rotors are dangerous, what’s normal, and when rust signals a real brake issue.
What Causes A New Tire To Lose Air Slowly? | LexBrodies
February 27, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii helps you find why a new tire is losing air slowly, from bead leaks to valve stems and tiny punctures.
5 Signs Your Tires Aren’t Safe for Wet Roads | LexBrodies
January 30, 2026
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains five signs that your tires are not safe for wet roads and why early replacement matters for traction.
What to Do When Your Steering Wheel Vibrates at Highway Speed | LexBrodies
December 19, 2025
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains what to do when your steering wheel vibrates at highway speeds and how to pinpoint the cause.
How a Dirty Cabin Air Filter Affects The A/C And Air Quality Inside Your Car | LexBrodies
November 28, 2025
LexBrodies in Hawaii explains how a dirty cabin air filter can reduce A/C performance and compromise the air you breathe inside your vehicle.