ENA Motors - Understanding Warranty and Maintenance Plans When Buying Cars in America

If you already have a car that you've driven for several years, you surely understand the importance of car warranty and maintenance. But do you really understand the differences and connections between manufacturer warranties, free maintenance, extended warranty plans, and prepaid maintenance plans? Let's clarify these for you.

The manufacturer warranty for new cars, known as Manufacturer's Warranty, is often mistakenly thought to be provided by dealers, but it's actually a free manufacturer warranty provided by the manufacturer. Most economy car brands (such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan) offer two types of manufacturer warranties: one is 3 years/36,000 miles, and the other is 5 years/60,000 miles. Under the first type of warranty, all car components are covered during this period, such as power windows, CD players, air conditioning, sun visors, etc.; while the second type of warranty only covers major components like transmissions and engines. Unlike economy brands, most luxury car brands (such as Mercedes, BMW, Lexus) have manufacturer warranty periods of 4 years/50,000 miles and 6 years/70,000 miles, with the same distinction as economy brands. It's important to note that for both economy and luxury cars, consumable items are not covered under free repairs. For example, normal wear of tires and brake pads, and normal wear and aging of wiper blades. During the manufacturer warranty period, cars can receive free repairs at any dealership of that brand nationwide.

Due to cost issues, most brands no longer provide free maintenance plans, with some exceptions: BMW - 4 years/50,000 miles, Toyota - 2 years/25,000 miles, Volkswagen - 2 years/24,000 miles. Additionally, some brands provide customers with one or two free maintenance services per year, such as Audi and Lexus. These free maintenance services are also provided by the manufacturer and can be performed at any dealership under that brand nationwide. Furthermore, some brands also provide customers with 2-4 years of free towing services.

In addition to these free warranty and maintenance services, you can also purchase extended warranty plans or prepaid maintenance plans according to your personal needs. Extended warranty plans work similarly to insurance - you pay upfront for potential future repair costs. Prepaid maintenance plans involve paying maintenance costs in advance. If you always take your car to the dealership for maintenance, this prepaid method will be more cost-effective than paying separately each time.

Overall, free manufacturer warranties and maintenance plans are provided by manufacturers. Whether you buy a car from a dealership or through a broker, you can enjoy these benefits. Regular maintenance and timely repairs of your beloved car are important factors in ensuring your safe travels.

Cars have value, integrity is priceless, ENA Motors, the trusted choice for car buyers in Los Angeles!