Warranty is a contract that exists between the factory/manufacturer and the owner of the vehicle, over a period measured in time and/or distance. For purposes of convenience, this contract is facilitated by an importer/distributor or a dealer. The contract outlines pre-conditions of compliance by vehicle owners’ so that contention related to the validity of the contract is minimized.
What is the importance of a warranty contract ?
The manufacturer agrees to replace any defective part or system of parts that may cause a vehicle to function outside of what is normal; note that the manufacturer determines what the normal functionality is. The replacement of defective part(s) is facilitated by a designated workshop (usually the dealer), at no cost to the owner of the vehicle. As such, it is advisable that all vehicle owners adhere to the conditions outlined in every warranty contract issued by vehicle manufacturers. This will ensure that vehicle owners do not incur repair costs that are related to failed parts made by the vehicle’s manufacturer. In this way, vehicle owners can enjoy their vehicles without worry about costs related to pattern failures, within their warranty contract period.
What happens if a warrant contract is breached?
The vehicle manufacturer empowers distributors/dealers to enforce the tenets outlined in each warranty contract issued with a new vehicle. Consistent with this enforcement empowerment, warranty administrators are empowered to void warranty contracts in the event of breach of contract on the part of the vehicle owner.
What is in it for me?
- Basic service as per pre-established service intervals.
- Use of genuine spare parts within warranty period.
- Use of manufacturer approved fluids & lubricants during warranty periods.
- Servicing of vehicle at manufacturer approved workshop (dealer).
- Maintenance & availability of certified service records.
Some manufacturers may also include in their warranty contracts, special service requirements, which may reference body corrosion/rusting for example. Manufacturers may specify that warranty provision will not be honored if failures result from environmental conditions not within the control of said manufacturers; examples include accidents, abuse (racing, modifications) or elements of extreme weather.
Additionally, it is important for vehicle owners to take time to read their vehicle manuals, as these may make reference to some specifics of the warranty contract for the vehicle. For example, some manufacturers offer a limited warranty, which would only include power-train, drive-train & suspension coverage for the duration of the contract; while other manufacturers may offer bumper to bumper coverage. Further, manufacturers list materials that are categorized as expendables, and as such, as not covered by warranty contracts. These will include tires, filters, fluids, brakes, spark/glow plugs, bulbs, and clutches, to name a few.
Author
Albert Duncan
