Ask an expert

Hi Jack,

Can you tell us more about the mechanical warranties that car dealers are offering? Do you advise that we get one when buying a second car (japanese import) from them? What is the coverage of such warranty?

Thanks.
Sunday

There are various different types of mechanical warranty policies so you need to ask some specific questions such as;

The cost of the policy?
What is the excess on each claim?
What is the maximum amount per claim?
Does it cover road service?
Does it cover a rental car or accommodation if you happened to break down out of your home town?
What components are covered (some policies only cover engine/transmission/drive line)?
How is the claim handled (does the policy holder pay and then seek reimbursement or is prior approval only required before repairs are started)?

Remember you are covered under the Consumer Guarantees Act when buying from a Registered Motor Vehicle Trader for an indefinite time.

These policies do provide very good peace of mind however for many especially so with European cars.

Also remember, wear and tear items such as general servicing, brake pads, tyres etc are not covered under any mechanical warranty policy.

Thank you so much for your reply. Cheers.