August 11, 2009
How to Cut Costs on Auto Repair
Save money on auto repairs by not paying for things that are considered covered repairs. This may sound easy, but the warranty supplied by car makers has evolved through the years. It is wise for the owner to find out about the warranty and exactly what is covered.
It is also the drivers responsibility to keep up on vehicle maintenance So that this car warranty can be enforced. As an example if the owner does not stick to the maintenance schedule some repairs may not be covered. If the engine has an internal failure the car owner may be asked to supply proof that the maintenance schedule was followed.
Just to let you know most dealership service departments will not ask for proof unless they see lack of maintenance. If the engines major internal failure is due to lack of lubrication and the oil pan is filled with sludge. This would be a sign of poor maintenace. When this happens the dealers repair center will notify the manufacturer. The negotiation for the repair costs will begin from this point.
Save money on car repairs
This is particularly important when buying a new car that will now have the 10 year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. Since the possibility for covered repairs exists for such a long period of time. Being pro active with maintenance is more inportant. If you perform Diy car repairs make sure you save your auto parts reciepts just in case.
Also the manufacture warranty will not cover accident damage, flood damage, misuse, modifications or problems associated with bad gas. If your electronic fuel injector rusts from water in the fuel then this might not be a covered repair.
Many times I see people making performance modifications to their vehicles without some forward thinking. Example if you remove the factory air cleaner assembly and replace it with a high performance, cold air intake like a K&N unit, you must save the vehicle’s original parts for possible warranty service.
With car loans lasting for seven years and warranty coverage for 10 years and one hundred thousand miles people are keeping their cars longer. Learning the details about your warranty and not paying for things that are covered have the opportunity to save a lot of money during the vehicles 10 to 15 year life span.
Your automobile owner manuals will provide the warranty information. When ever you have a question about what the warranty covers. Carefully read this section in your owner’s manual. Also make sure you use the one 800-number in your owner’s guide if you have any questions.
The customer care line operating expenses are included in the price of your vehicle. Use what you paid for and drill the help line for information about your car. And what auto repairs may be covered.
Filed under BMW Cars by on Aug 11th, 2009. 1 Comment.