What Is a GM Certified Warranty?

The GM certified warranty consists of a 12/12 warranty, which covers a vehicle for 12 months or 12,000 miles. Buyers can also add a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty for additional security. The vehicles, which can only be purchased from one of the about 3,500 GM Certified Dealers, must be 2004 or later and have less than 75,000 miles on the odometer. The warranty applies to passenger cars, light duty trucks and vans.

12/12 Warranty

The 12-month/12,000-mile GM certified warranty provides "bumper to bumper" coverage on any vehicle. It provides coverage for deficiencies associated with materials and work quality for either 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This plan is considered among the best vehicle warranties in the industry. Vehicles are also protected against rust-through corrosion over a six-year period or 100,000 miles. The warranty covers the body and sheetmetal parts on the vehicle.

Powertrain Warranty

The 100,000-mile or 5-year powertrain limited warranty does not require the payment of a deductible and comes with roadside assistance. It also includes a courtesy car for the buyer when the vehicle is in for repairs. The powertrain warranty can be transferred to a new owner if the vehicle is sold. The warranty is based on the in-service date of the vehicle and may be subjected to other limitations. The powertrain systems that are covered include the engine, transmission and drive system.

117-Point Inspection

The GM certified warranty is based on a comprehensive inspection of 117 items performed by GM-trained technicians. The process follows a protocol that is based on the manufacturer's vehicle standards. Every aspect of the car, truck or van--including the body, chassis and engine--is checked and must be in excellent shape. Every inspection point is not relevant to every vehicle. However, most inspections include brakes, indicator lights, horn, steering and the audio system. Vehicles may also undergo a check for the electrical, fuel and heating and cooling systems.

History Report

The vehicle history report is offered by Carfax. The document contains important details about the background of the vehicle, which gives the buyer an additional layer of information to use in making their buying decision. Carfax has a national database that contains data on numerous items. They look for things like floods, accidents, ownership history, odometer discrepancies and service records.

Exceptions

The GM certified warranty does not cover damage that may occur due to abuse, accidents, alteration, inadequate or improper maintenance, or bad fuel. Certain medium-duty trucks are not eligible for the powertrain warranty. Have your vehicle serviced at the recommended intervals and keep detailed records on your vehicle servicing to avoid having problems with your warranty.

References

• GM Certified Warranty