How to Compare Car Warranties for 2007 Models

Buying a used car, especially one that still has an active warranty, is usually recommended to avoid high new car depreciation. Every auto manufacturer's warranty is different. While some have the same terms, they may have provisions that don't extend past the original owner or other restrictions.

Instructions

1. Determine the in-service date for each vehicle you are comparing. The factory warranty on a vehicle starts the day it was originally sold. The date the vehicle was sold could determine if the vehicle still has factory warranty. Many 2007 models were sold prior to the start of 2007 and many were sold later during the year. In-service dates can be found by ordering a vehicle history report or by contact the dealership service department.

2. Review the original bumper-to-bumper warranty for each model. This information can be found at auto manufacturer's websites or at consumer resource websites, such as Edmunds.com. A local dealer can also tell you the original warranty term. The most common term for bumper-to-bumper warranties are three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Some models have longer bumper-to-bumper warranties.

3. Review the powertrain warranty for each vehicle. Many cars have powertrain warranties of five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Some models have powertrain warranties that extend to 100,000 miles. Find out if the powertrain warranty is transferable past the original owner; many powertrain warranties only apply to the consumer that first purchased the vehicle.

4. Check vehicle history reports. Most manufacturer's warranties are void if the vehicle has been in a major accident or suffered flood or water damage. Ensure the vehicle's warranty will be honored.

5. Look for any additional perks that some models offer with their warranty. Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and service loaner programs are offered by several auto manufacturers.

Tips & Warnings

• To help disregard potential problem vehicles, call the brand dealer and ask for a warranty report history. If the car has had re-occurring problems with warranty claims, this report will tell you.

• Vehicles that are salvaged or reconstructed by any means are usually not covered by any portion of manufacturer's warranty.