What is covered by a Car Manufacturer Warranty
By FergusHere at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, every one of our vehicles comes with the standard manufacturer's warranty, so you can drive away knowing there are no surprise costs if something goes wrong.
But what exactly is the manufacturer's warranty, what is included and excluded and who do you need to contact if something goes wrong? To help answer these questions and more, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has put together a handy guide about new car warranties.
What is a car warranty?
Hastings Direct states: "A car warranty — or mechanical breakdown insurance — covers you for the costs of parts and labour to fix certain mechanical or electrical faults with your car for an agreed period. The parts covered vary with each warranty, so reading the small print is really important."
The basics of a car warranty tend to be the same, but the manufacturer will also add finer details, such as how long the policy will last and whether there are any mileage limits.
“Typically, a new car warranty will provide cover for any faults within the first 60,000 miles or three years of ownership.”
On average, a UK driver will travel around 8,000 miles per year, therefore, it is usually the age of the car which will determine how long the warranty lasts and when it expires. You can also usually transfer your warranty, meaning vehicles with longer warranties of five or seven years are still covered even if you sell the car.
What is typically covered under the manufacturer's warranty?
Engine
Almost all engine issues are covered, such as leaking engine coolant, overheating, stalling, smoking, or trouble turning over.
Electrics
Electrical systems are covered, so you should be able to claim if you encounter an issue, such as a dying battery, loose wires, or a malfunctioning alternator belt.
Gearbox
Signs of slow responses, whining sounds, leaking fluids or grinding and shaking movements are usually signs of gearbox failure, which is typically covered under warranty.
Steering
Issues leading to steering failure caused by the steering rack or tie rods are usually covered. Excessive steering wheel vibration when you accelerate or turn a corner is often a sign of failure.
Transmission system
Water intrusion or damage to the transmission parts can eventually cause your vehicle to stop working, which is usually covered as part of the standard manufacturer's warranty.
Fuel and ignition systems
Ignition relay shorts, burns outs, or failure are covered, as are faults with the vehicle's fuelling system.
Cooling system
Failures with the cooling system, which cause coolant loss and the vehicle to overheat, are covered under warranty.
Suspension
The fluid held in your shock absorbers can sometimes seep out, and this will eventually cause suspension failure. The warranty will cover any damage in relation to this.
Non-frictional clutch
Commonly, the clutch of a car will wear before the vehicle, therefore, the clutch is usually covered under warranty.
Brake system parts
Your car's braking system is arguably the most critical safety element in your vehicle. Signs of soft pedal, irregular noises, or the brake warning light should be dealt with quickly, and such problems are usually eligible for repair under warranty.
What is not covered under under the manufacturer's warranty?
Batteries
The vehicle's battery has a limited lifespan, so if your battery needs replacing due to wear and tear, a warranty rarely covers it.
Bulbs
Bulbs aren't covered under warranty, so you must ensure the lights on your vehicle are working at all times to stay safe and legal on the road.
Wheels
Wheel faults typically occur due to increased tyre wear, instability of the car (due to incorrect wheel alignment), or reduced performance, so they are not covered under the standard warranty.
Tyres
Puncture, puncture repairs, damage to the tyre side wall and replacement tyres are not included.
Wear and tear
Damage to brake discs, brake pads, clutch, and catalytic converter due to wear and tear are generally not included.
Cosmetic repairs
Cosmetic repairs, such as damage to bodywork, paintwork, glass and headlights, or damage or corrosion caused by the environment, chemical treatments or aftermarket products, lubricants and fluids are not covered.
Accidental damage
Accidental damage and vandalism to parts that require repairs or replacements, such as audio equipment and satellite navigation systems, wiper blades and tyres, are also excluded.
Third-party repairs or equipment
Equipment or accessories not built or supplied by the vehicle manufacturer, or an affiliated company, will not be covered under warranty.
Other things to check for include:
- Upgrading - when a part is replaced under warranty, some contracts state that you may be liable to contribute towards parts and labour if the new part is better than the old one.
- Oil leaks - be sure to check that you are covered for damage caused by an oil leak from a part that fails and may affect other parts.
- Consequential loss - some policies do not cover damage to a part covered by the warranty if the failure of a non-insured part causes the damage.
Do all cars come with a manufacturer's warranty?
All new car lease deals supplied by Nationwide Vehicle Contracts are brand new and are covered by the standard manufacturer's warranty. However, if you need to make a claim, you'll have to go through one of the brand's dealers.
Most manufacturer warranties last between three to seven years, depending on the manufacturer and cover most faults, excluding wear and tear of parts such as brake pads and tyres.
How long is the manufacturer’s warranty on a new lease vehicle?
Most vehicle manufacturers offer a three-year warranty period from the first point of registration or to a specific mileage point, whichever comes first. Other manufacturers offer an extended warranty of between five (Hyundai and Toyota) to seven years (Kia).
Once this warranty expires, you may choose to extend your existing warranty or purchase a different warranty policy to protect you from a breakdown of mechanical parts.
Which cars come with a five-year warranty?
Hyundai and Genesis offer five-year warranties in the UK.
Hyundai's five-year warranty is fully transferable and offers an unlimited mileage warranty on all new Hyundai vehicles sold by the authorised Hyundai network.
Genesis' five-year warranty is for a maximum of 60,000 miles and covers radio and sound systems, paint repair, battery checks and repair, and vehicle adjustments for limited mileage.
Which cars come with a seven-year warranty?
Kia and MG are the only two manufacturers offering seven-year warranties in the UK.
Kia's seven-year warranty is split in two, with most parts being covered for unlimited mileage for up to three years and 100,000 miles between four and seven years.
MG's seven-year warranty has a limited mileage of 80,000 miles. However, it is transferable between owners, and the warranty covers all wear and tear items except tyres for the first 12 months, paintwork for three years, and the battery for the full seven years.
Please visit Kia and MG's websites for full information on what is included and excluded in the warranty.
“The manufacturer's standard warranty will cover most drivers on a lease contract. However, it is important to read the warranty terms carefully, as many wear-and-tear parts are not usually covered.”
When does the manufacturer warranty period start?
The manufacturer's warranty period starts from the first date of vehicle registration. This is the date your vehicle is first registered with the DVLA and may not be your vehicle's delivery date.
You can find your vehicle's registration date by checking the DVLA website.
What are my responsibilities as the driver?
When you lease a vehicle with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, you agree to run and maintain the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. This includes servicing the vehicle in line with the recommended service schedule.
Your warranty may be invalid if you:
- Miss any scheduled services
- Use an 'unauthorised' garage for any repairs
- Make modifications to the car that may invalidate the warranty
- Make a claim arising from neglect of the vehicle
- Use unapproved fuel, lubricants or parts which result in the vehicle having to be repaired
How do I claim on my car warranty?
Search for the manufacturer below to find the length of the manufacturer's warranty and the contact number you need to call in case of a claim.
Abarth Warranty Information
All new Abarth vehicles are covered under warranty for 36 months, starting when the car was first registered. This includes repairing or replacing defective parts, labour time, and the necessary consumables supply. To make a warranty claim, call Abarth on 00 800 222 784 00.
Alfa Romeo Warranty Information
Alfa Romeo provides a three-year or 50,000-mile limited factory warranty to new vehicle owners to protect against factory material or workmanship defects. To make a claim, contact Alfa Romeo on 0800 2532 0000.
Audi Warranty Information
Audi provides a standard three-year or 60,000-mile warranty to all new vehicles in the UK. It's also possible to upgrade to a four or five-year warranty, covering a range of mechanical and electrical components for an additional fee. To make a claim, call Audi on 0800 699 888.
BMW Warranty Information
Every new BMW carries a 36-month warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. This warranty commences on the original registration date of your vehicle. You can claim by calling BMW UK on 0800 3256 000.
Citroen Warranty Information
Every new Citroen car comes with a three-year, 60,000 mile (whichever comes first), fully transferable warranty. During this period, Citroën will repair or replace, free of charge, any faulty parts covered by the warranty. To make a claim, call Citroen on 0800 285 1707.
Cupra Warranty Information
From 3 April 2024, all new CUPRA cars are covered by five-year/90,000 mile warranty. It comprises of a two-year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage, plus a further three years up to a maximum of 90,000 miles (whichever comes first). You can claim by contacting CUPRA on 0800 049 7106.
Dacia Warranty Information
All new Dacia cars receive a three-year / 60,000-mile warranty package. During this period, you know that any issues will be handled in the Dacia network at no charge. You can find out more by calling Dacia on 0800 74 08 32.
DS Warranty Information
Every DS model comes with a three-year / 60,000-mile warranty. This means DS will repair or replace faulty parts completely free of charge within the first three years of your car's life. To make a warranty claim, call DS Automobiles on 0800 294 0355.
Fiat Warranty Information
All new Fiat cars come with three years warranty starting from the date of vehicle registration. Fiat Warranty includes a comprehensive service with the repair or replacement of the defective part, labour time and the supply of the necessary consumables. Fiat will also protect the vehicle from manufacturing defects that concern the paint. You can find out more by calling Fiat on 00 800 342 800 00.
Ford Warranty Information
Ford's factory warranty covers every new Ford car for three years or 60,000 miles. This warranty covers any part of the vehicle that requires repair or replacement due to a manufacturing defect. The part will be repaired or replaced free of charge by any Ford Authorised Dealer. To make a claim, call Ford UK on 020 3564 4444.
Genesis Warranty Information
Every new Genesis comes with a five-year/60,000-mile warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile engine warranty. All servicing and warranty work must be booked directly through Genesis as Genesis Technical Centres, and Field Engineers are responsible for service, maintenance and repair for any new or existing Genesis customers. You can claim by calling Genesis on 0330 818 0492.
Honda Warranty Information
All new Honda vehicles are covered by Honda's 'No Nonsense' Warranty for three years or 60,000 miles from the start date on your Warranty Certificate. This warranty covers all the essential components of your car against defects from materials and workmanship free of charge, subject to the terms and conditions that you'll find in your Service Book. You can call Honda on 0345 200 8000.
Hyundai Warranty Information
Hyundai offers five years, fully transferable, unlimited mileage warranty for all new Hyundai vehicles sold by the authorised Hyundai network. The warranty also includes Hyundai Roadside Assistance Programme. You can contact them on 0800 981 981 if you need to make a claim.
Jaguar Warranty Information
Every new Jaguar comes with a three-year manufacturer's warranty. Should any part of the vehicle require repair or replacement due to a manufacturing defect, the part will be repaired or replaced completely free of charge by any Jaguar Authorised Repairer. You can claim by calling Jaguar on 0330 100 0471.
Jeep Warranty Information
With a Jeep warranty, your vehicle is covered for three years from the date of first registration. This comprehensive service includes the repair or replacement of the defective part, labour time and the supply of the necessary consumables. Jeep will also protect your car from manufacturing defects that concern the paint. You can claim by calling Jeep on 00800 0 426 5337.
Kia Warranty Information
Every Kia model is covered with a seven-year or 100,000-mile manufacturer's car warranty. An authorised Kia dealer will make any repairs, using new or remanufactured parts, to put right any problem covered by this limited warranty free of charge. Kia is the only European manufacturer to offer a seven-year warranty across the range. You can contact them on 0333 202 2990.
Land Rover Warranty Information
All new Land Rover cars come complete with the reassurance of unlimited mileage, three-year manufacturer's warranty, providing free repairs and roadside assistance. If you need to claim repairs under the terms of the Manufacturer's Warranty, just visit your Land Rover Approved Service Centre or call the Administrator's claims department on 0370 5000 500.
Lexus Warranty Information
Lexus' warranty is a standard three-year or 60,000 miles warranty covering mechanical faults. They also offer a five-year warranty for both hybrid components and hybrid batteries. To make a claim, contact Lexus on 0345 040 0451.
Maserati Warranty Information
Maserati offers a new vehicle warranty of 36 months from the date of first registration. Maserati genuine spare parts are supplied and fitted by an Authorized Maserati Dealer, and customers can extend their warranty at an additional cost if required. To make a claim, call Maserati on 00 800 62737284.
Mazda Warranty Information
Mazda's new vehicle warranty lasts three years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. You can submit a claim during the warranty period to have manufacturing and material faults corrected. You can find out more by calling Mazda on 03457 484 848.
Mercedes-Benz Warranty Information
All new Mercedes-Benz cars are covered by a comprehensive three-year, unlimited mileage warranty (terms and conditions apply), so if you encounter any problems during this period caused by a manufacturing fault, we'll sort it out free of charge. Every Plug-In Hybrid or Battery Electric Mercedes-Benz car also comes with a high voltage battery certificate, which covers any technical malfunction with the battery arising from an inherent manufacturing fault. You can contact them on 0370 242 6200.
MG Warranty Information
MG offers a seven-year warranty on all new vehicles with unlimited mileage for the first 12 months and 80,000 miles between 13 months and 84 months, whichever comes sooner. MG guarantees repair replacement or adjustment, free of charge, by an Authorised Repairer, of any part that fails during the warranty period due to a manufacturing or material defect. You can claim by calling MG on 020 3917 5821.
Mini Warranty Information
MINI offers an excellent warranty on all new MINIs and Genuine MINI Parts. All new vehicles come with a three-year warranty. This includes MINI Emergency Service to cover unforeseen events. You can contact MINI on 0800 0836 464.
Nissan Warranty Information
All brand-new Nissan passenger cars come with Nissan's standard warranty, which provides cover for the first three years or 60,000 miles. In the event of mechanical or electrical failure, an authorised Nissan dealer will repair or replace, free of charge, those parts which are covered by the Nissan warranty. You can contact Nissan on 0330 123 1231 in case of a claim.
Peugeot Warranty Information
Every new Peugeot comes with a three-year / 60,000 miles fully transferable warranty for continued peace of mind. Peugeot will guarantee to repair or replace, free of charge, any faulty parts covered by the warranty. You can contact Peugeot on 0800 042 2422 or enter your location to find your nearest Peugeot retailer, who will be able to assist in the event of a warranty claim.
Polestar Warranty Information
Polestar offers a four-year / 50,000-mile vehicle warranty on all new Polestar vehicles. Polestar's warranty covers repairs to or replace faulty components, paintwork and rust caused by manufacturing defects. You can contact them on 0800 051 7863 if you need to make a claim.
Porsche Warranty Information
Every new Porsche comes with a three-year Porsche New Car Guarantee. The Porsche New Car Guarantee is valid worldwide and provides unlimited mileage coverage against all manufacturing defects. You can claim by calling Porsche on 03457 911 911.
Renault Warranty Information
All new ICE and Hybrid Renault cars registered from 1st January 2023 are covered by Renault's base vehicle warranty, unlimited for first 24 months, then limited to a total of 60,000 miles or three years, whichever comes first. To make a claim, call Renault on 0344 335 0000.
Seat Warranty Information
All new SEAT vehicles come with a warranty period of up to three years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. The warranty is automatically transferred to any new owner, subject to the same terms and conditions. You can contact SEAT on 08085 222 222 in case of a claim.
Skoda Warranty Information
All new Skoda vehicles come with a three-year warranty period for unlimited mileage in the first two years and up to 60,000 miles in the third year. Skoda also offers a 12-year body protection warranty on all new Skodas. To make a warranty claim, call Skoda on 03330 037 504.
Smart Warranty Information
In the unlikely event your Smart car develops a fault, all new generation Smarts are covered by a 36-month warranty without a mileage limit. The warranty protects against failures in the vehicle caused by any manufacturing defects that may have occurred when the vehicle was built. To make a claim, call Smart on 0345 641 9757.
Subaru Warranty Information
All Subaru vehicles are covered by a three-year, 60,000-mile (whichever is sooner) manufacturer's warranty. This includes a 12-Year Anti-Corrosion Warranty for the bodywork, a three-year warranty for the paintwork and a comprehensive three-year Recovery and Assistance Programme, valid in the UK and Europe. To make a claim, contact Subaru on 0800 777 127.
Suzuki Warranty Information
Every new Suzuki comes with a warranty that covers three years or 60,000 miles (whichever comes first). You also receive a 12-year anti-perforation warranty, as standard. To make a claim, call Suzuki on 08085 011959.
Tesla Warranty Information
All Tesla models are covered by a new vehicle limited warranty for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The battery and drive unit in your vehicle are also covered for eight years (of 150,000 miles) for Model S and Model X, eight years (of 100,000 miles) for Model 3 Standard or Standard Range Plus and eight years (of 120,000 miles) for the Model 3 Long Range or Performance. You can contact Tesla on 0162 845 0660 in case of a claim.
Toyota Warranty Information
Toyota provides a three-year warranty as standard across the range from the vehicle's registration date, which can be extended with regular servicing at a Toyota dealer. This warranty covers any mechanical fault caused by a manufacturing defect. You can claim by calling Toyota on 0800 246 824.
Vauxhall Warranty Information
Vauxhall's new vehicle warranty ensures your peace of mind against material or manufacturing defects for three years (unlimited mileage for the first 12 months and subject to a total mileage limit of 60,000 miles from first registration). It guarantees to repair or replace parts and substitute parts for your new vehicle at no charge by a Vauxhall trained technician. You can call Vauxhall on 0800 55 33 88 to make a claim.
Volkswagen Warranty Information
Volkswagen's manufacturer warranty covers new vehicles for three years, with unlimited mileage in the first two years and 60,000 miles (whichever is soonest) in the third year. It covers all problems with the vehicle, including minor corrosion due to a manufacturing defect. To find out more, call Volkswagen on 0800 279 7508 to make a claim.
Volvo Warranty Information
Volvo offers a three-year / 60,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first. Any component failure attributable to faulty materials or workmanship during manufacture will be rectified free of charge by an authorised Volvo retailer. You can call on Volvo on 0800 777116 to make a claim.
Can I buy a warranty for my lease car once the manufacturer's standard warranty has expired?
If you are worried about potential mechanical issues once the standard manufacturer's standard warranty on your lease car has expired, you may want to consider purchasing an extended warranty.
There are three main types of extended car warranty:
- A manufacturer's extended warranty - this is offered by the vehicle manufacturer and can be purchased when the car is new or before the car's original warranty expires.
- A used car warranty - this is typically supplied with a used car sold by a car supermarket or franchised car dealership.
- An aftermarket warranty purchased from an independent provider - this is usually purchased by an insurance broker or online via a comparison site.
The cost of an extended car warranty depends on various factors, including the vehicle make/model, value, age, mileage and the level of cover.
NB: Nationwide Vehicle Contracts does not offer an extended car warranty, so if you are interested in this product, you will need to source this from another provider.
Is an extended car warranty worth purchasing if I'm leasing?
This all depends on your circumstances, needs and the term of your lease agreement. All new lease vehicles come with the standard manufacturer's warranty, which covers the cost of parts and labour for most mechanical or electrical faults (exclusions apply).
However, if you plan to keep your lease vehicle for longer than the standard manufacturer's warranty (e.g. typically, for three years or more), then an extended car warranty may offer you peace of mind regarding unexpected costs.
It is worth noting that extended car warranties can be costly and don't cover every type of repair, so it's always worth weighing up the pros and cons before deciding to purchase.
Should I get an extended warranty on my new lease car?
There are many pros and cons to purchasing an extended warranty for your new lease car.
Advantages of extending the warranty on your lease car:
Save on costly repairs
In the event of a mechanical or electrical breakdown, you could save money on expensive repairs: While the reliability of cars has improved over time, they can still be very expensive to maintain.
More time
An extended car warranty can remove the pressure to replace your vehicle before you are ready, covering you for expensive repairs as the vehicle ages.
Customise to your needs
Most car warranty providers allow you to customise the warranty plan to suit your needs. For example, you can purchase an extended warranty for features used a lot or save money by choosing not to cover features you rarely use.
Disadvantages of extending the warranty on your lease car:
Long term expense
An extended warranty may not always be worth it financially and can sometimes cost you more money in the long run.
Exclusions apply
Extended warranties don't cover everything. Reputable providers will provide a transparent list of exclusions on their plans. Read the list carefully before purchasing an extended warranty plan to ensure it covers your needs.
Less flexibility
If you have purchased an extended warranty, you may feel pressured to stick with your current vehicle, therefore missing out on new car lease deals.
Are extended car warranties worth the cost?
If you are thinking of purchasing an extended car warranty, you may be tempted to go with the cheapest option, but this will limit your coverage. It's important to look for a warranty that offers adequate coverage at a reasonable cost.
Want to know more about the standard manufacturer's warranty for your new lease vehicle?
Still have a question about the standard manufacturer's warranty for your new lease car? Call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts on 0345 811 9595 (option 4) to speak to one of our Customer Services representatives, or head over to our Motoring Guides hub to read more about the inclusions and exclusions of your new lease deal.
Guide Information
