AutoNation’s 90-Day Warranty offers a layer of confidence when buying a pre-owned vehicle. This guide will dive deep into what AutoNation 90-day warranty covers, including its coverage, perks, limitations, and why it could be the protection your vehicle needs.
Overview of AutoNation’s 90-Day Warranty
The AutoNation 90-Day Warranty is designed to offer peace of mind for those purchasing pre-owned vehicles. It’s like having a safety net for unexpected repairs, giving you extra security for the first three months of ownership or up to 4,000 miles. So, what does AutoNation 90-day warranty cover, and how can it benefit you?
- Coverage Duration: 90 days or 4,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Vehicle Types: Typically applicable to Certified Pre-Owned vehicles.
The warranty’s scope ensures that you can hit the road with the knowledge that a wide range of mechanical breakdowns are covered. But what exactly does this include?
Coverage Levels
The AutoNation 90-Day Warranty features specific levels of protection that can vary based on the type of vehicle you purchase and its condition. While the coverage isn’t as comprehensive as a bumper-to-bumper warranty, it still offers substantial support for vital components:
- Powertrain Coverage: The warranty covers essential powertrain components such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. This protection can save you a lot on repairs that could be extremely costly.
- Mechanical Components: Coverage extends to important mechanical parts, offering protection from major repair expenses in the early stages of ownership.
For an added layer of comfort, the AutoNation warranty includes emergency roadside assistance. If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, help is just a call away.
Vehicle Protection Plan
The AutoNation Vehicle Protection Plan goes beyond the standard warranty to offer more comprehensive coverage:
- Extended Warranty Options: You can opt for extended warranties that last beyond the initial 90 days, which may cover additional repairs and services.
- Mechanical Breakdown Service Contract: This service contract can be an extension of the standard warranty, covering parts that fail due to mechanical breakdowns.
These protection plans are especially useful if you intend to keep your vehicle for the long term.
What Does AutoNation 90 Day Warranty Cover
Vehicle Care Protection
Vehicle Care Protection is part of the warranty’s perks. This protection is focused on routine maintenance that ensures the longevity of your vehicle:
- Tire Rotations: Regular tire rotations help maintain balanced tire wear and improve handling. The AutoNation warranty includes this as part of the coverage.
- Routine Lubrications: Keeping all the joints and moving parts well-lubricated prevents wear and tear.
Vehicle care is crucial to prolonging the life of your car and keeping it in good condition.
Appearance Protection
While mechanical and maintenance protections are key, AutoNation also offers Appearance Protection:
- Body Panels and Paint Protection: Protection against dings, dents, and scratches. Keeping your car looking new not only gives it a visual boost but also helps in maintaining its trade-in value.
- Interior Protection: Coverage that protects the vehicle’s interior, from seat materials to dashboard elements, against stains or other cosmetic damages.
Appearance matters when it comes to maintaining a vehicle’s value, and this protection is helpful for keeping your car looking great.
GAP Protection
Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) is an essential aspect of many warranties, especially when financing a vehicle.
- Loan Payoff: If your car is totaled in an accident, GAP Protection covers the difference between the remaining loan balance and the amount covered by insurance.
- Trade-In Value: Helps protect your investment by ensuring you aren’t stuck paying for a vehicle you can no longer drive.
GAP Protection is particularly valuable for anyone who finances their vehicle with a significant loan balance.
Tire & Wheel Protection
AutoNation also includes Tire & Wheel Protection as part of its warranty plan.
- Road Hazards Coverage: Coverage against damage caused by road debris, potholes, and other hazards.
- Replacement Tires and Tire Repair: If you end up with a flat tire, the warranty ensures that tire repair or replacement is covered, helping you get back on the road without the extra expense.
Tire & Wheel Protection is a major perk, especially for those who encounter various road conditions in daily driving.
Key Features and Benefits
Perks of the Warranty
The AutoNation 90-Day Warranty offers several features that make it stand out compared to other warranty providers:
- Emergency Roadside Assistance: Included as a standard benefit for the duration of the 90-day period.
- Towing Service: In case of a breakdown, AutoNation provides towing services to the nearest licensed repair facility.
- Flat-Tire Service: If you end up with a flat tire, you can rely on roadside assistance to help.
- Lockout Service: If you accidentally lock your keys inside your car, a locksmith service is available.
- Battery Jump-Start Assistance: Offers jump-start services if your battery dies.
Customer Service Ratings
Customer service plays a vital role in any warranty program. Based on customer reviews, AutoNation tends to rate highly across key rating categories:
- Response Time: Many customers praise the warranty’s fast response times for roadside assistance and repairs.
- Claim Process: The claim filing process is reported to be seamless, which adds to the convenience of AutoNation’s service.
- Customer Experience: Feedback generally highlights the knowledgeable customer service team and quick assistance in resolving issues.
Obtaining Warranty Assistance
Contacting the Warranty Administrator
If you need help, contacting the warranty administrator is straightforward:
- Toll-Free Number: Assistance is just a phone call away with a toll-free number provided during the time of purchase.
- Online Portal: AutoNation also has an online portal for managing warranty-related issues.
Process for Filing a Claim
The process for filing a claim with AutoNation’s 90-Day Warranty is simple and efficient:
- Step 1: Contact AutoNation’s service department or call the toll-free number.
- Step 2: A service advisor will help diagnose the vehicle issue.
- Step 3: Take your car to a repair facility. Repairs must be done at a licensed repair facility to be covered.
Managing Your Warranty
It’s important to know how to manage your warranty to make the most of its benefits.
Canceling the Warranty
If you decide that the warranty isn’t for you, canceling it involves contacting AutoNation:
- Cancellation Fee: There might be a cancellation fee, depending on the time of cancellation and other factors.
- Refund Policy: Pro-rated refunds may be available, depending on the remaining coverage duration.
Transferring the Warranty
If you sell your vehicle, the warranty can typically be transferred to the new owner:
- Transfer Process: You’ll need to complete paperwork and potentially pay a transfer fee.
- Importance of Loan Payoff Proof: Having proof of loan payoff is critical for completing the transfer.
Pricing Strategies
Cost of the Warranty Plans
The cost of AutoNation’s 90-Day Warranty can vary based on the vehicle’s type and model:
- Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: These vehicles often include the 90-day warranty as part of the purchase.
- Additional Factory Warranties: You can add extended warranties to increase coverage for your vehicle.
Comparison with Competitors
AutoNation’s warranty plans often compete favorably with other extended car warranty companies:
- Competitive Pricing: The cost of AutoNation’s warranty is often competitive compared to third-party companies.
- Wide Array of Coverage Options: The range of warranties offered provides buyers with a choice depending on their needs.
Certified Pre-Owned vs. As-Is Sales
Differences in Coverage
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles come with more extensive coverage than as-is vehicles:
- Multi-Point Inspection: CPO vehicles undergo a multi-point inspection to ensure quality.
- Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage: CPO warranties may offer more comprehensive coverage compared to the AutoNation 90-Day Warranty.
Advantages of Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles
- Extended Warranty Provider: CPO vehicles often come with an extended warranty plan.
- Peace of Mind: The extensive analysis and inspection process adds peace of mind when buying a used vehicle.
Maintenance Recommendations
General Maintenance Tips
Staying on top of maintenance is crucial for your vehicle’s performance:
- Routine Maintenance: Keep up with the vehicle maintenance schedule provided by AutoNation to avoid voiding your warranty.
- Brake Pads and Tire Rotations: Regular maintenance of these components will ensure smooth driving and avoid mechanical breakdowns.
Associated Diagnostic Fees
AutoNation’s warranty may not cover diagnostic fees in some cases:
- Levels of Diagnoses: The levels of diagnoses performed on your car might incur costs.
- Diagnostic Device Usage: Extensive analysis using diagnostic devices may have fees that aren’t always covered by the warranty.
Handling Open Recalls
Process for Addressing Recalls
If your vehicle has an open recall, it’s important to address it promptly:
- Contact AutoNation: Use the warranty contact to get information on how to address any open recalls.
- Manufacturer Recall Coverage: Typically, recall repairs are covered by the vehicle manufacturer, not the warranty.
Conclusion
The AutoNation 90-Day Warranty is a valuable protection plan for anyone purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. With coverage that spans key components like the powertrain, emergency roadside assistance, and more, it’s a reliable choice that gives you peace of mind as you drive away in your new (to you) car. Now you know exactly what does AutoNation 90-day warranty cover and why it’s worth considering for your vehicle.
ALSO READ: What Are the Benefits of Being a Mechanic
FAQs
The coverage limit is either 90 days or 4,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Yes, emergency roadside assistance is included for the duration of the warranty.
Yes, AutoNation offers extended warranty plans that you can purchase.
Yes, the warranty can be transferred to the subsequent vehicle owners with appropriate paperwork.