What is a powertrain warranty and what does it cover?
Just like its name implies, a powertrain warranty applies to components that give your vehicle power – namely, the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. When any of these systems fail, you could be in for some seriously expensive auto repairs.
With a powertrain warranty, however, many of the more expensive components are covered. Things like internal engine and transmission parts, wheel bearings, transfer case, and more. Warranties vary, however, so be sure to read the fine print to find out what’s NOT included.
Is a powertrain warranty necessary?
Only you can answer this question, but there are several things to consider before you do. For example, how long do you plan to keep your vehicle? If you like to trade in and buy new every couple of years, a powertrain warranty may not be worth the money.
On the other hand, if you’re one of those ‘drive it till it drops’ people, a warranty like this that covers some major repairs can offer you significant peace of mind.
You’ll also want to do some research and find out how reliable your vehicle’s make and model is. The better the track record, the less you may need to worry about expensive repairs and a warranty to cover them.
Common auto repair costs without a warranty
Not everyone chooses to buy a powertrain warranty, and that’s okay. Before you make your own decision, however, it’s good to understand how much big repairs could cost if they’re required and not covered by a warranty. While costs vary between auto repair shops and regions, here’s a quick list to give you a good idea:
- Replacing a timing chain: $1,200 – $1,800
- Water pump replacement: $300 – $600
- A new Engine Control Module (ECM): $900 – $1,000
- Automatic transmission: $3,000 – $5,000 (Ouch!)
If these auto repair costs scare you, a powertrain warranty could decrease the worry. But, if you have a hefty amount set aside in your budget for auto repairs, you may not need the warranty to cover costs after all. In addition, some shops (including ours) offer auto repair financing options for fixes that are too big for your budget to handle.
Other vehicle warranty options
A powertrain warranty isn’t your only option if you’re looking for extended coverage. You could also consider a bumper-to-bumper warranty, drivetrain warranty, or corrosion protection. There are plenty of choices, but be sure to do your homework and see what’s covered and/or excluded before you purchase one.
When it comes to peace of mind, we take it one step further at Good Works Auto Repair. We also provide an industry-leading 5 years/60,000-mile warranty for the work we perform on your vehicle. It’s just one way we go the extra mile and stand behind our work.
For high-quality, professional repairs provided at a fair price, simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online today! We’ll do what it takes to keep you rolling safely.
