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Are There Any Eligibility Requirements for Extended Car Warranty?

2 August 2024

Written by Simon England

|  3 Minutes

Extended car warranties provide peace of mind by covering the cost of certain repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty cover has expired. In order to obtain an extended car warranty policy, there is certain criteria you must meet and elements you must adhere to throughout your policy to keep it valid. Before you apply for an extended car warranty policy, you should check with your warranty provider to ensure you meet the requirements.

In this guide, we will explore the eligibility requirements for an extended car warranty, and what could void your policy. We will also discuss whether you need a new car to be eligible for extended car warranty, as well as the transfer options, and how our coverage options at ALA could help you.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for an Extended Car Warranty?

There are various eligibility requirements you must aim to meet before getting an extended car warranty policy. These include:

Age and Mileage of the Vehicle

One of the primary factors determining eligibility for an extended car warranty is the age and mileage of the vehicle. At ALA, we offer three coverage options: silver, gold and platinum. Our silver policies have an age and mileage limits of 16 years and 150,000 respectively, whereas our gold policies can accommodate vehicles at 12 years old with 100,000 miles on the clock, and our platinum policies are perfect for cars no older than eight years old with 80,000 miles on the clock.

Vehicle Condition

To qualify for an extended car warranty, your vehicle must be in good working condition at the time of purchase. This means there should be no pre-existing issues that could lead to claims shortly after the vehicle warranty takes effect.

Service History

A well-documented service history can significantly impact your eligibility for an extended car warranty. Regular maintenance and timely repairs as per the manufacturer’s recommendations demonstrate that the vehicle has been well cared for. We require the vehicle’s most recent service to be up to date with the manufacturer’s guidelines and schedule.

Modifications

Vehicles with significant aftermarket modifications may face restrictions or be ineligible for an extended warranty. Modifications that enhance performance, alter the vehicle’s structure, or change the engine’s specifications can complicate warranty coverage.

Usage

How you use your vehicle also influences your eligibility. Extended warranties typically cover personal use vehicles. If your car is used for commercial purposes, such as ride-sharing or delivery services, different terms and conditions may apply, you may not be eligible for specific warranty types.

Want to see how much you could be paying for an extended warranty policy? You can start building your quote here.

A couple driving in a car

What Will Void an Extended Car Warranty?

Lack of Maintenance

Neglecting regular maintenance is one of the most common reasons an extended car warranty may be voided. Skipping oil changes, ignoring minor repairs, or failing to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule can lead to denial of claims. ALA stresses the importance of adhering to the recommended service intervals to keep your warranty valid.

Unauthorised Repairs

Repairs and maintenance must be performed by authorised service centres or professionals. Using unqualified mechanics or doing DIY repairs can void your warranty.

Misuse or Abuse of the Vehicle

Using your vehicle in ways not intended by the manufacturer, such as racing or off-roading (unless specifically covered), can void your extended warranty.

Pre-Existing Conditions

An extended warranty is designed to cover future issues, not pre-existing conditions. Any problem that existed before purchasing the warranty is generally not covered. Be honest about your vehicle’s condition when applying for a warranty to avoid complications.

You can find out more about what could void your extended car warranty in our policy documents here.

Do You Need a New Car to be Eligible for an Extended Car Warranty?

You do not need a new car to be eligible for an extended car warranty. Many used cars qualify for extended warranties, provided they meet the age, mileage, and condition requirements outlined earlier. In fact, purchasing an extended warranty for a used car can be a wise investment, offering protection against unexpected repairs as the vehicle ages.

Most new cars have a manufacturer warranty in place so an extended warranty may not be the best option. Consider whether your vehicle has a manufacturer warranty in place before buying an extended warranty.

What are the Warranty Transfer Options for Extended Car Warranty Eligibility?

One of the benefits of an extended car warranty is its transferability. If you sell your vehicle, the remaining warranty can often be transferred to the new owner. This adds value to your car and can make it more attractive to potential buyers. ALA makes the transfer process straightforward, requiring only minimal paperwork and a nominal transfer fee.

To transfer an extended warranty, the vehicle must be in good condition, and the service history should be up to date. The new owner will need to continue adhering to the warranty’s terms and conditions, including regular maintenance and using authorised repair centres. You can find out more about transferring your warranty in our previous guide here.

dashboard view of car driving on an open road

Extended Car Warranty Policies from ALA

At ALA, our eligibility requirements for our extended warranty policies are clearly stated on our coverage options page, ensuring you are provided with full clarity before you purchase your policy. Our extended car warranty policies are competitively priced, with various benefits to ensure you won’t suffer from expensive repair and labour costs.

To find out more, or to enquire further about an extended car warranty policy, you can visit us on our website here.

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