You’ve spent money on an extended warranty and the worst thing you could do is void it. Many people believe that you must take your car to the dealer for service and repair; otherwise, you’ll void the warranty. This simply isn’t true. You do need to comply with the conditions of the warranty to keep in effect, but you have work performed by an independent auto shop such as Willoughby Hills Auto Repair.
Things That Void Extended Warranties
We recommend that you read your extended warranty from start to finish to ensure you have a full understanding of its terms and conditions. It’s also important to read the fine print. If you have any questions about the warranty and its coverage, call the issuer for clarification, especially regarding the things that might void the extended warranty. Generally, the issuer could void your warranty if you
- Off-road
- Race
- Drive recklessly
- Abuse your automobile
- Overload it beyond its weight capacity
- Don’t follow the maintenance schedule
- Use the wrong filters, fluids, or other parts
- Modify the automobile
Disasters, such as fire, floods, or weather damage are also generally not covered by a vehicle’s extended warranty. This would be more likely covered by your automobile insurance policy, but you should check that, too. If you have minimal coverage, chances are disasters are not covered unless you pay for an additional rider to the policy. Call your automobile insurance company for clarification.
Vehicle Maintenance
One sure-fire way to void your automobile’s extended warranty is to ignore factory-scheduled maintenance. The warranty will only cover automobile repairs if the vehicle was cared for in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, including, as discussed above, using the right parts. This is where things get confusing for consumers. Many believe the dealer is the only way to ensure this.
You do not have to have the factory-scheduled services required by your extended warranty done at the dealer’s service department. You can save money and have them done in a certified auto shop. The caveat is simple: You must ensure the shop performs all necessary work and documents it. In other words, save your estimates and final receipts to prove you’ve had all maintenance work done.
Willoughby Hills Auto Repair is factory-scheduled maintenance experts and we comply with extended warranties. Call us to schedule your preventative maintenance and save money. Our ASE, NAPA, and AAA-certified auto service shop is located on Chardon Road in Willoughby Hills, OH.