How to Get a Warranty Honored

Almost everything you buy now has a warranty, and you should always accept warranties offered by car dealerships. You may never have to use your warranty, but if you do, you must know exactly how to get it honored.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Automobile warranty
• Receipts
• Other warranties

1. Date the top of your warranty with the last date to be honored or circle the date that is already there. Make sure you attach the original receipt and note the procedure for honoring your warranty. Attach anything you do to the purchased vehicle, such as scheduled oil changes.
2. Keep a file folder and add to it every time you repair or maintain anything that keeps your warranty intact. File other warranties with your main auto warranty for things such as batteries or tires.
3. Pull out your warranty and find the contact information listed. You may just need to take the purchase receipt to the warranty department, but check to see if there are any additional procedures.
4. Explain the problem and ask what their procedure is for warranty work on your automobile purchase.
5. Remind the service department of any verbal promises made at the time of purchase. If the first person you speak to does not give you satisfaction, go above their head in an effort to get the warranty honored. Continue this until you reach the top of the chain of command.
6. Visit the corporate website if you still do not have satisfaction. Get a listing of their key employees if you need to go over the service department's head. You can often find this information on their website.
7. Contact a consumer watchdog agency if the company insists on not honoring the warranty. An automobile purchase is too expensive not have your warranty honored.

Tips & Warnings

• You must show you did your part. You cannot get a warranty to cover a new engine in an automobile if you do not perform regular oil changes.