pps-DUEditor 
We’re sure you know that new cars are sold with manufacturer warranties. But, what about used cars? Is there any chance that any repairs that you may need can be covered by a warranty? We’re here to tell you the five most important things to check about used car warranties.
1. Check the ‘Buyers Guide’
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) required used car dealers to provide information about any used car warranty in the Buyers Guide. This Guide is usually placed on the car’s window. Check it to see if the car you’re interested in comes with a warranty. If yes, then the Buyers Guide will also let you know what percentage of the repair cost will be borne by the dealer as part of the warranty.
Remember, the Buyers Guide overrules what the sales contract says about the car. So if a warranty is mentioned in the Guide, you can take advantage of it. Unless you buy the vehicle from a private party. Then they’re not required to post a Buyers Guide or provide a warranty.
2. Check the manufacturer’s warranty
Even if you’re buying a used car, the manufacturer’s warranty could still apply. Check under the “systems covered/duration” section of the Buyers Guide to know. Once you know what’s covered in the warranty, you need to confirm that it’s transferable by checking the vehicle’s warranty documents.
Then check other details like expiration date/mileage and verify it with the manufacturer. Usually, the manufacturer’s warranty is valid for three years from the original sale date or 36,000 miles. Certain parts, like the powertrain, may individually have longer warranties.
3. Check coverage limits
Not all warranties provide the same coverage. The warranty with the used car you’re checking will have specifics that cover the service contract. It will also let you know about who is legally responsible for repair services. Check all the fine print carefully before completing the purchase.
In case the warranty is being provided by a third-party company, then you should check the details very carefully. An important point is ensuring that the company has customer-friendly auto warranty policies. Also necessary is reviewing the company’s BBB rating from the Better Business Bureau.
4. Check if you need an extended warranty
While buying a used car, you may get the option to purchase an extended warranty. This contract will have the dealer perform or pay for some repairs or services for an extra cost. Here’s how you check whether you should buy it or not.
- First, check if any original warranties are valid and transferable and how much time or how many miles are left on those warranties
- Check if the service contract specifies whether the dealer will perform repairs and maintenance or not because the contract needs to meet your needs
- See how much the warranty costs in relation to the repairs or parts the car commonly needs and compare those costs
- Check the car’s dependability rating and choose the warranty accordingly
5. Check your options
Put money aside for repairs to cover anything that requires fixing in the future. That way, it’s not a financial shock. And if the car doesn’t need repairs, you’ve got money saved.
Go for a leased car that may come with its own warranty. This way, you need to worry about repairs.
