Owning a car in the UK often comes with the peace of mind that a manufacturer’s warranty provides, covering repairs or replacements for specific parts over a set period. However, there are some common pitfalls that can lead to your car warranty being invalidated, leaving you to foot the bill. Let’s look at the key things that can void your warranty and how to avoid them.

Skipping Regular Maintenance

Your car’s warranty will likely require that you stick to a specific maintenance schedule. This includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, brake checks, and other routine services. If you miss or delay any of these services, particularly at critical intervals, your warranty could be in jeopardy. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure you use a certified mechanic or an authorised dealer for these services. Using non-approved garages could invalidate your warranty, as manufacturers often insist on using authorised service centres to ensure parts and services meet their standards.

Tip: Keep a record of all service history and receipts to prove that your car has been maintained correctly.

Using Non-Approved Parts

Installing non-manufacturer-approved parts or modifications can cause your warranty to become void. If you replace parts with aftermarket alternatives or make performance modifications to your vehicle (such as tuning or adding a turbocharger), this can alter the vehicle’s original condition. The manufacturer may argue that such changes impact the car’s performance or reliability, leading to refusal to honour the warranty.

Tip: Stick to original manufacturer parts for repairs and modifications to avoid complications with your warranty.

Exceeding the Mileage Limit

Most warranties come with a mileage cap. Whether it’s a 3-year/60,000-mile warranty or another arrangement, exceeding the mileage limit will automatically end your warranty coverage. Manufacturers set these limits based on the average lifespan of parts under normal usage, and going beyond them typically voids any repair or replacement claims.

Tip: Keep an eye on your mileage, especially as you near the end of your warranty period, to ensure you don’t accidentally exceed the limit.

Neglecting Accident or Body Repairs

If your car is involved in an accident, using an unauthorised repair centre or not reporting it to your insurance company can invalidate the warranty. Accident damage that affects the engine, transmission, or electronics often requires specialised repair techniques, and failing to meet manufacturer guidelines for these repairs could lead to your warranty being voided.

Tip: After an accident, always inform your insurance provider and use an approved repair centre.

Ignoring Warning Lights or Malfunctions

Continuing to drive your car despite warning lights on the dashboard, such as the check engine light, could invalidate your warranty. Ignoring these alerts may lead to more significant problems and suggests negligence in vehicle care, which can result in warranty claims being refused.

Tip: Address any warning lights or strange sounds immediately by taking your car to an authorised dealer or mechanic.

Tampering with the Odometer

Tampering with the odometer to reduce the displayed mileage is not only illegal but will also void your car’s warranty. Any signs of odometer tampering will result in immediate cancellation of your warranty, and you could face legal consequences.

Tip: Never alter the odometer reading and avoid purchasing cars with suspect mileage, as this can void your warranty from the start.

Improper Use of the Vehicle

Using your car in a way it wasn’t designed for, such as racing or off-road driving (unless it’s an off-road vehicle), can void the warranty. These activities put undue stress on the engine, suspension, and other systems, leading to premature wear and damage not covered under the warranty.

Tip: Stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines for vehicle usage to ensure your warranty remains intact.

A car warranty can save you a lot of money on repairs, but it’s important to understand the terms and conditions. Regular maintenance, using authorised service centres like C&G Autos, and sticking to the manufacturer’s specifications are all key to keeping your warranty valid. Avoid the common mistakes mentioned above, and you’ll ensure your warranty remains a valuable safety net for the duration of its term.

By staying informed and careful, you can avoid costly mistakes and get the most out of your warranty protection. 🚗🔧