Understanding Electric Car Warranties: What's Covered And What's Not

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Electric vehicles (EVs) are covered by warranties that protect buyers if a component needs to be replaced. The most crucial component of an EV is its battery, which is also the most expensive. Therefore, the biggest thing to look for in an EV warranty is battery coverage. Federal regulations mandate that an EV's battery pack be covered for at least eight years or 100,000 miles, with some states offering longer minimum warranties. In addition to battery warranties, EVs also have bumper-to-bumper coverage, powertrain coverage, corrosion coverage, and roadside assistance. Extended warranties are also available for purchase, which can provide additional peace of mind, but they may also be confusing and expensive.

Characteristics Values
EV battery warranty start date The date and mileage when the vehicle is first sold
EV warranty coverage Mileage and time limits
Federal regulations Battery pack covered for at least eight years or 100,000 miles
Bumper-to-bumper coverage Four years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain coverage Eight years or 100,000 miles
Corrosion coverage Specific coverage against corrosion
Roadside assistance Towing to the nearest station free of charge
Platinum coverage Covered repairs for the electric drive mode, electric power inverter, battery management system, battery thermal system, electrically driven accessories
Total Loss Protection Plan Help bridge the gap between the insurance company settlement and the balance of a loan or lease after a total loss
EV+ ProtectTM Covers the vehicle, battery and battery systems
EV+ ProtectTM coverage One-year/12,000-mile limited warranty protection for used EVs, roadside assistance, alternate transportation and lodging

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Electric vehicle warranties cover the battery and battery systems

Electric vehicle (EV) batteries are essential for storing the power that enables you to drive from one place to another. Given their importance, it is reassuring to know that they typically come with long-lasting warranties.

Federal regulations in the United States mandate that EV batteries be covered for a minimum of eight years or 100,000 miles. This is because EV batteries are costly to replace, with prices reaching up to $20,000. However, it is important to note that the terms of EV battery warranties can vary. Some automakers only cover complete battery failure, while others, such as BMW, Chevrolet, Nissan, Tesla, and Volkswagen, will replace the battery if it reaches a specified reduced capacity percentage, usually around 60-70%, during the warranty period.

The warranties offered by different companies vary. For example, the Lucid Air offers bumper-to-bumper coverage for four years or 50,000 miles, separate from its electric car battery warranty, which lasts eight years or 100,000 miles. Similarly, Hyundai offers a lifetime warranty for its Kona Electric model. In contrast, the Rivian R1T electric truck and R1S electric SUV offer the best EV warranty, covering all components inside the high-voltage battery and 70% or more of the battery capacity for eight years or 175,000 miles.

It is worth noting that EV battery warranties may have specific requirements to maintain coverage. For example, keeping your EV's battery up to date with the latest system updates may be necessary to satisfy the terms of your warranty. Additionally, using Level 3 charging, also known as DC fast charging, may void your warranty as it can cause the battery to overheat and lose capacity over time.

When considering an EV battery warranty, it is essential to review the fine print and understand the specific terms, conditions, and exclusions outlined by the manufacturer.

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The average powertrain warranty is 5 years or 60,000 miles

The powertrain warranty is a crucial aspect of vehicle ownership, offering peace of mind and protection against unforeseen repairs. On average, a powertrain warranty will cover your vehicle for around five years or 60,000 miles, whichever milestone comes first. This type of warranty is separate from the bumper-to-bumper warranty, which typically has a shorter coverage period.

Powertrain warranties are offered by various car manufacturers and cover different components of your vehicle. These warranties are designed to protect you in case of unexpected repairs or defects in materials and workmanship. They are especially valuable for electric vehicles (EVs), which have unique components like electric motors and battery systems.

While the average powertrain warranty provides coverage for five years or 60,000 miles, it's important to note that different automakers have their own specific warranty offers. For instance, mainstream brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and Honda usually provide a powertrain warranty of five years or 60,000 miles. Toyota offers slightly more coverage, extending its powertrain warranty beyond five years.

On the other hand, luxury brands tend to have varying coverage lengths. Mercedes-Benz and BMW, for example, offer a four-year or 50,000-mile powertrain warranty as part of their factory bumper-to-bumper warranty. In contrast, some other luxury brands, such as Acura, Cadillac, and Lincoln, provide a more comprehensive powertrain warranty of six years or 70,000 miles.

It's worth noting that electric vehicles have their own set of considerations when it comes to warranties. EV batteries are a significant component, and federal regulations mandate that these batteries be covered for a minimum of eight years or 100,000 miles. This is because EV batteries are crucial and costly, and their performance directly impacts the vehicle's functionality. Some automakers, like Hyundai, even offer lifetime coverage for EV batteries.

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Warranties also include roadside assistance, alternate transportation and lodging

Electric vehicles (EVs) are innovative and expensive, so it is important to protect your investment with warranties. EV warranties cover the vehicle, battery, and battery systems. For instance, the EV+ Protect™ limited warranty covers these three aspects. It also includes roadside assistance, alternate transportation, and lodging.

Roadside assistance is a common feature of EV warranties. For example, Audi offers 24-hour roadside assistance for electric vehicles, which includes towing to the nearest Audi dealer or authorized service facility, and roadside service. Audi's roadside assistance also includes reimbursement for lodging, meals, and alternate transportation. Similarly, Hyundai and Kia offer 10-year roadside assistance warranties for the original owner of the vehicle. Automakers' warranties also include specific coverage against corrosion, although this only applies to body panels that have been completely "rusted through".

Alternate transportation and lodging are often included in EV warranties. For example, Audi offers reimbursement for alternate transportation of up to $200 per day. Additionally, some warranties, such as the EV+ Protect™ limited warranty, include reimbursement for meals and lodging.

Warranties for EVs also provide coverage for other issues. For example, the EV+ Protect™ limited warranty provides coverage for the removal of dents or dings up to the size of a credit card. It also includes optional coverage for repairing damage to the interior cabin, such as rips, tears, and burns, as well as minor windshield damage repair and vehicle headlight brightening maintenance. Furthermore, warranties for EVs often include coverage for electric drive mode, the electric power inverter, the battery management system, and electrically driven accessories.

In summary, warranties for electric vehicles typically include roadside assistance, alternate transportation, and lodging. These warranties aim to provide peace of mind and protect your investment in cutting-edge technology. By offering coverage for a range of issues, from roadside emergencies to lodging and transportation, EV warranties enhance the ownership experience and provide valuable support to drivers.

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Platinum coverage includes repairs for electric drive mode, electric power inverter and battery management system

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, and as such, it is important to understand the warranties that cover them. Federal regulations mandate that an EV's battery pack, arguably the most costly component, be covered for at least eight years or 100,000 miles. This is because EV batteries don't last forever, and they are crucial to the functioning of the vehicle. They store the power needed to get the vehicle from one place to another.

Platinum coverage is an extensive vehicle service agreement that covers almost every mechanical and electrical component of an EV. This includes the electric drive mode, electric power inverter, and battery management system. The electric drive mode is a crucial part of the vehicle's functionality, as it is the mode in which the vehicle is powered by electricity alone, without the use of an internal combustion engine.

The electric power inverter is also an important component, as it converts the DC power from the battery to AC power, which can then be used to run the electric motor. A faulty inverter can cause the vehicle to have reduced power or even stall, so having it covered under warranty is essential.

The battery management system (BMS) is another key component of an EV. It is dedicated to the oversight of the battery pack, ensuring that it operates within safe limits and does not suffer permanent damage. The BMS monitors the individual cells or groups of cells within the battery pack, and makes decisions based on their proximity to certain thresholds. For example, when approaching a high-voltage limit, the BMS may request a gradual reduction of the charging current or even terminate the charging process altogether.

Platinum coverage provides peace of mind for leased vehicles or short-term ownership, as it includes coverage for these essential EV components. It is important to note that certain restrictions, limitations, or exclusions may apply, and it is always advisable to carefully review the terms and conditions of any warranty plan before purchasing it.

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Extended warranties are available for used cars

Electric vehicles (EVs) are innovative and expensive, and it is no surprise that most major repairs happen after the original factory warranty has expired. EV batteries are crucial and costly, and federal regulations mandate that an EV's battery pack be covered for at least eight years or 100,000 miles. Automakers provide different types of warranties to protect car buyers if a component needs to be replaced, and an electric car battery warranty is just one of these coverages. For example, new EVs come with bumper-to-bumper coverage that covers almost all aspects of a vehicle. EVs also have powertrain coverage, corrosion coverage, and roadside assistance.

When considering an extended warranty for a used car, it is essential to weigh the benefits against potential pitfalls and research the reliability and reputation of the warranty provider. Extended car warranty scams are prevalent, so it is crucial to recognize the common tactics used by fraudsters, such as robocalls, unsolicited mail, and high-pressure sales tactics. Legitimate companies allow time for consideration and do not require full payment before coverage begins. It is also important to understand the small print, as there are often many restrictions with extended warranties, including what is covered and where the vehicle can be serviced.

Some reputable extended warranty providers include Honda Care, GM Protection Plan, Fidelity Platinum, and American Dream Auto Protect. American Dream Auto Protect offers three levels of extended warranty plans that include 24/7 roadside assistance and customer service, and you can transfer most plans if you sell your car.

Frequently asked questions

Electric vehicle (EV) warranties cover the vehicle, battery and battery systems. The battery is the most expensive part of an electric vehicle, so it is important to have a warranty that covers it. Federal regulations mandate that an EV's battery pack be covered for at least eight years or 100,000 miles. Some companies, like Hyundai, offer lifetime coverage.

The biggest difference between the two is the high-voltage battery coverage. Nearly everything else parallels traditional vehicle warranties.

You can purchase extended warranties that provide additional peace of mind. For example, Platinum coverage includes repairs for the electric drive mode, electric power inverter, battery management system, battery thermal system, and electrically driven accessories. You can also get coverage for lost, stolen, or destroyed vehicle keys and key fobs.

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