When you purchase a new vehicle, it comes with a warranty from the manufacturer essentially stating that they have faith in the quality of their product. This assurance is important because it is legally binding and ensures that the consumer isn’t responsible for any defects or mechanical failures that are outside of their control.
When you purchase a new vehicle and it exhibits signs of being defective, the warranty is an important piece of documentation for proving that your vehicle is eligible for relief under Texas Lemon Law. However, there is more than one type of warranty, so it’s important to determine the scope of your coverage. If your new vehicle is spending extended periods of time in the repair shop, it’s important that you maintain records of all repair invoices, understand the specifics of your warranty, and contact a Texas Lemon Law attorney to see if you qualify for relief under the Texas Lemon Law Statute.
Limited Warranties
All warranties for new vehicles must be designated as “limited” or “full” according to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which was passed in 1975 to help clarify the scope of written warranties provided to consumers by automobile manufacturers. Most warranties are limited, meaning that certain aspects of the vehicle could be uninsured; but don’t worry, this isn’t a trick. Limited warranties capably protect consumers from defective vehicles and are completely legal. However, as a consumer, you should be diligent about what a limited warranty entails for your vehicle.
Bumper to Bumper
The bumper-to-bumper limited warranty is the most common type of warranty offered by manufacturers and typically lasts for at least three years or 36,000 miles. Generally, this warranty takes effect on the date the consumer purchases the vehicle and protects the consumer from major defects that would limit a driver’s ability to safely operate the vehicle. This warranty does not cover parts such as brake pads, tires, and wiper blades from wear and tear damage. Additionally, damage resulting from a car crash, theft, vandalism, general abuse, or vehicle customizations are not covered by bumper-to-bumper warranties.
Powertrain
The powertrain limited warranty is different from the bumper-to-bumper warranty because it only covers parts of a vehicle’s propulsion system. In other words, it covers parts like the engine and transmission. Since the powertrain is typically a vehicle’s largest and most expensive component, this warranty lasts longer than the aforementioned bumper-to-bumper warranty; however, every powertrain warranty is different. Some powertrain warranties last five years or 60,000 miles and other last ten years or 100,000 miles.
If you suspect that your new vehicle is defective under warranty and have had it repaired multiple times at the dealership, save your repair invoices and consult a Texas Lemon Law lawyer to see if you qualify for relief under Texas Lemon Law.
Is your new vehicle spending more and more time in the repair shop? If you would like to speak with a Texas Lemon Law attorney, please submit our free case evaluation form today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.