Engine Warranties

What is an Engine Warranty?

Like most warranties, an engine warranty is a guarantee given to the purchaser by a company stating that the rebuilt - remanufactured engine is reliable and free from known defects and that the seller and/or manufacturer will repair or replace defective engine parts within a given time limit and under certain conditions.

It's important that you understand the term and extent of your engine warranty coverage. A typical engine warranty covers the rebuilt - remanufactured engine only, not related automotive parts, for a limited time and/or mileage.

Some engine warranties extend labor coverage which would typically reimburse a professional installer a specific dollar amount for fixing or replacing a warranted car engine. A few warranties may even cover towing charges and might provide you a rental car during a warranted engine repair.  BUT, you'll have to keep a lookout for pitfalls such as warranties that have a deductible or don't go into effect for 90-days or don't pay mechanic labor charges.

The big question is... What is covered and for how long?

How to Shop for a Warranty?

1. ASK the engine rebuilder - remanufacturer or engine vendor or installer for a copy of their warranty
2. READ the fine print
3. LOOK for these key components:
• Term - length of coverage, usually a combination of months and/or miles
• Coverage
• What automotive parts are covered?
• How much labor will be reimbursed?
• Towing
• Rental car
• Fluids
• Your responsibilities - What are your maintenance requirements, what records must be maintained?
• Limit of Liability - Is there a maximum amount that the warranty will cover?  Does the limit reset itself in case there is a second claim?
• Deductible - Is there a prepayment that you are required to make in the event of a claim?
• Transferable - Is the warranty transferable if you sell the vehicle?  If yes, is there a charge associated with the transfer?
• In the event of a breakdown what is the claims process?


4. ASK the engine vendor or engine installer to explain the warranty process.  Asking specific questions will lead to a general concept of what each warranty would cover.

Q: A professional mechanic installed a rebuilt - remanufactured engine in my vehicle and after 100 days of operation there is excessive oil leaking. What should happen next?

(One Possible) A: You should deliver the vehicle back to your engine installer where they will analyze the problem and verify the source of the leakage. If the leak originates from the car engine and is considered excessive, and it's within the warranty period, the necessary engine repair will be made. The vehicle owner will not have to pay for replaced automotive parts or labor. However, you will be responsible for delivering the vehicle and for any fluids that will be lost during the automotive repair. The warranty does not cover transportation.

Note: Some warranties may cover 100% of the automotive repair and even offer a rental car while your car engine is repaired. Other warranties may have a deductible or a maximum labor cap.

Get a copy of the warranty documents; read and compare them carefully.