When researching factory warranties and extended auto warranties, powertrain warranty is a term that comes up often. But, what exactly is a powertrain warranty and what does it cover? These are common questions that are asked by many consumers. This article will delve into exactly what a powertrain warranty is and what is generally covered.
A powertrain warranty is part of a factory warranty or extended service contract (commonly referred to as an extended auto warranty) that covers exactly what it states, the powertrain. But what is the powertrain? The powertrain essentially consists of the parts of the vehicle that provide it’s power and make it move. This includes the engine, transmission/transaxle, and drivetrain.
As stated earlier, there are generally three parts to a powertrain warranty: engine warranty, transmission warranty, and drivetrain warranty. The engine warranty usually covers internal components of the engine, transmission/transaxle, and drivetrain. The components covered under the engine warranty portion of the powertrain engine generally include the cylinder heads, block and all internal parts, rocker covers and oil pan, valve train and front cover, timing chain and tensioner, oil pump, water pump and fuel pump, fuel injectors, intake and exhaust manifolds and supercharger, flywheel, seals, and gaskets. The transmission warranty encompasses components such as the transmission case and all internal parts, torque converter and converter housing, automatic transmission control module, transfer case and all internal parts, seals and gaskets, clutch cover and housing, and electronic transmission controls. For those components in the drivetrain, typical warranty coverage is extended to the drive shafts, final drive housing and all internal parts, propeller shafts, universal joints, bearings, seals and gaskets.
Now, this is just a sample of some general components that are covered under a powertrain warranty. More components may be covered depending upon the manufacturer of your vehicle. Also, some extended service contracts will provide additional coverage to other stated components within the powertrain, however most are limited to the sealed components within the operating system. For a complete list of what is and is not covered refer to your owner's manual or your extended service contract.
Most powertrain warranties will cover the cost of parts and labor if a repair is needed due a manufacturer defect or workmanship. If a mechanical breakdown occurs because of abuse to the vehicle or lack of maintenance, the validity of the factory warranty, or extended auto warranty, if applicable, will be affected.
Hopefully, you have a clearer understanding of what a powertrain warranty is and what it covers. Now not only can you understand your factory warranty a little better, you can also make a smarter extended auto warranty purchase.