Regardless of the type of auto warranty you have it covers various components or systems in your car, and if they are ever damaged or they malfunction they are replaced without any out of pocket money from you. They cover such things as malfunctioning seat belts or sensors in the tires acting faulty. 

Keep in mind that they do not cover routine maintenance services such as replacement of tires, oil changes or rotating the tires. If you review your car warranty and it says “bumper to bumper” that means your car’s basic components are covered, such as your AC, the electronic system in your car, or the sensors.

This type does not cover the replacement of brakes or tires, or things that just wear out over time or with hard use. 

Dealers who say they are offering a “powertrain” coverage mean they are offering a warranty only on the transmission and engine components. This is most often the only type of warranty offered if you purchase a used car and may be referred to as a used car warranty. So, if your AC goes out that expense is yours. 

If you are only offered the “powertrain” coverage then you may wish to purchase additional coverage. This is often referred to as an extended warranty. With most extended warranties you may have to meet a basic deductible before the warranty will cover the cost of repairs. 

An extended vehicle warranty still does not cover the replacement of parts that wear out over time, such as wiper blades or other routine maintenance tasks. Make sure you read the fine print when you ask for a car warranty quote to make sure your warranty remains in full effect even if you do not have your car serviced regularly. 

Often vehicle warranties have this clause in effect and if you do not take your car in for scheduled maintenance on a regular basis, it voids the warranty. Once this happens you have to pay to have it reinstated.