When purchasing a new vehicle, understanding what is covered under the dealership warranty is crucial. One common question car buyers have is whether tire coverage is included. Knowing the answer can save you money and headaches down the road.
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Does Dealership Warranty Cover Tires?
The answer to this question isn’t always straightforward. While some dealerships may offer tire coverage as part of their warranty packages, it’s not a universal guarantee. The specific terms and conditions of your warranty will determine whether or not your tires are covered.
Factors Affecting Tire Coverage
Several factors influence whether your dealership warranty covers tires:
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- Dealership-Specific Warranty:
- Type of Tire:
- Wear and Tear:
- Damage Type:
It’s essential to carefully review your warranty documentation to understand the specifics regarding tire coverage.
## Does Dealership Warranty Cover Tires?
Buying a new car is a significant investment, and understanding the warranty coverage is crucial to protecting that investment. One common question car owners have is whether their dealership warranty covers tires. The answer, unfortunately, isn’t always a simple yes or no.
Tire coverage varies greatly depending on the manufacturer, the specific vehicle, and the terms outlined in your warranty agreement. While some manufacturers may offer limited tire warranties, others may not cover tires at all.
Understanding Manufacturer Warranties
Most new cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specific period, typically 3 years or 36,000 miles. However, this warranty often excludes tires.
Manufacturers may offer separate tire warranties, but these typically have shorter coverage periods and mileage limits compared to the main vehicle warranty. (See Also: Are Tires Part Of State Inspection)
Dealership Extended Warranties
Dealerships often offer extended warranties that provide additional coverage beyond the manufacturer’s warranty. These extended warranties can sometimes include tire coverage, but it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions to understand what is and isn’t covered.
Some extended warranties may cover tire damage caused by road hazards, while others may only cover defects in materials or workmanship.
Factors Affecting Tire Coverage
Several factors can influence whether your dealership warranty covers tires:
* **Manufacturer:** Some manufacturers, like Michelin, offer comprehensive tire warranties that extend beyond the vehicle’s warranty. Other manufacturers may have limited or no tire coverage.
* **Vehicle Type:** Certain vehicles, such as luxury or high-performance models, may have more comprehensive tire coverage than standard vehicles.
* **Tire Brand and Model:** The specific brand and model of tires installed on your vehicle can affect coverage. Some warranties may only cover tires that are original equipment or those purchased from the dealership.
* **Wear and Tear:** Most warranties will not cover tire wear and tear due to normal use.
* **Driving Habits:** Aggressive driving, overloading the vehicle, or driving on rough terrain can void tire coverage under some warranties. (See Also: Are Low Profile Tires Good In Snow)
What to Do If You Need Tire Repair or Replacement
If you experience a tire issue, it’s important to:
1. **Review your warranty documents:** Carefully examine your manufacturer’s warranty and any extended warranties you purchased to determine if tire coverage is included.
2. **Contact your dealership:** Reach out to your dealership’s service department to discuss your tire issue and inquire about warranty coverage.
3. **Provide documentation:** Be prepared to provide proof of purchase, maintenance records, and any other relevant documentation to support your claim.
4. **Understand your options:** If your warranty covers the tire issue, the dealership will likely repair or replace the tire at no cost to you. If your warranty doesn’t cover the issue, you will be responsible for the cost of repair or replacement.
Key Takeaways
* Dealership warranties may or may not cover tires.
* Manufacturer warranties often exclude tire coverage, while extended warranties may offer some tire protection.
* Tire coverage varies depending on the manufacturer, vehicle type, tire brand, and driving habits.
* Always review your warranty documents carefully and contact your dealership to discuss any tire issues.
Understanding your dealership warranty and tire coverage is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth ownership experience. (See Also: Does Walmart Charge To Put Tires On)
Frequently Asked Questions: Dealership Warranty and Tires
Does a dealership warranty cover tires?
It depends on the specific terms of your warranty and the type of tire. Some manufacturer warranties may include limited coverage for tires, such as a prorated replacement for defects within a certain timeframe. However, most warranties do not cover normal wear and tear on tires, which is considered a consumable item.
How long does tire coverage typically last under a dealership warranty?
Tire coverage under a manufacturer warranty can vary, but it’s often for a period of 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Some warranties may offer extended coverage, but this is less common.
What types of tire issues are typically covered by a dealership warranty?
Dealership warranties usually cover manufacturing defects in the tire, such as tread separation, punctures due to faulty construction, or sidewall bulges. They generally do not cover damage caused by road hazards, improper inflation, or normal wear and tear.
What should I do if I think my tires are defective?
If you notice any issues with your tires, such as unusual wear patterns, bulges, or punctures, contact your dealership immediately. They will inspect the tires and determine if the issue is covered under warranty. It’s important to keep your warranty information and service records readily available.
Can I buy an extended warranty for my tires?
Some dealerships offer extended tire warranties that provide coverage beyond the manufacturer’s standard warranty. These warranties typically come at an additional cost and may have specific terms and conditions. It’s best to discuss your options with your dealership to see if an extended warranty is right for you.
