Do Warranties Cover Batteries? Everything You Need to Know

Get set to experience peace of mind with battery cover. The big question is - is a battery covered under my Bumper-to-Bumper warranty? And what happens when the manufacturer’s warranty expires? Will my extended warranty cover my battery? Or is the vehicle service contract only for major repairs? We unpack some of these commonly-asked questions here.

Is My Battery Included in a Car Warranty? Find Out:

Are car batteries covered under a new car warranty? Most warranties cover your new car’s battery. But there are certain terms and conditions that could prove a little complicated.

Even if you have a car warranty, there might be some exclusions! Read the fine print. This helps determine coverage and exclusions. 

If you have an extended warranty, your plan might not cover daily wear and tear. Wear and tear items usually include tires, batteries, and brake pads.It also includes wiper blades. Your warranty excludes maintenance, except as a special added benefit.

Manufacturers will only replace batteries under warranty if a factory defect caused the problem. Manufacturers do not consider general wear and tear, misuse, or aging for replacements.

Some Points to Consider:

• Your vehicle’s Bumper-to-Bumper warranty will cover the starter battery. 
• Drivers of EVs (Electric Vehicles), or hybrid models usually have separate battery coverage. This is for the traction battery.

Find Out What’s Covered Before Putting in a Warranty Claim

Manufacturers sometimes reject warranty claims for specific parts and services. Before you file a claim, determine what is and isn’t covered. Your Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty will probably not cover these:

• General wear and tear components. Some examples include brakes, brake pads and tires.
• Vehicle routine maintenance is not covered. This usually includes tire rotation and oil change. This is unless you get certain benefits from your vehicle cover.
• Your manufacturer’s guarantee won’t cover any cosmetic issues. These are scratches on carbon fiber finishes, dashboard trim, or issues about leather upholstery.
• Doors and other painted parts are not covered. But some warranties offer anti-corrosion benefits.
• Your warranty agreement will spell out any other parts or services not covered.

How to Get Battery Coverage with 4 Different Warranties 

Let's unpack 4 different ways you can cover your battery. Find out everything about battery cover before digging deep into your pocket.

1. The best part about buying a new car is the Bumper-to-Bumper warranty. This comprehensive coverage pays for the replacement of a starter battery. A Bumper-to-Bumper plan usually lasts for 3 to 6 years. Or when you reach the mileage cap.
2. Vehicle Service Contracts don’t cover batteries. But some extended car warranty plans offer battery cover. These either come at an extra cost. Or are included in some programs. Find the one you like best.
3. The Powertrain warranty on internal combustion vehicles rarely covers batteries. Electric vehicles and hybrid models have special coverage plans. These plans usually cover traction batteries and drive units. Special warranties normally continue after the Bumper-to-Bumper warranty expires.
4. Replacing an old battery with a new battery that dies early might still carry a guarantee. Some batteries have a 3-year warranty. Optima batteries are a good example. 

Do Extended Warranties Cover Batteries? Here are Some Examples:

It’s time to find out - does my extended warranty cover the battery, or not? Which one is the best one for my needs?

Some vehicle service contract companies offer cover for batteries, yet some do not.

• Endurance offers vehicle owners the Plus Coverage battery warranty plan.
• American Dream Auto Protect - the Platinum plan 
• Olive does not offer cover for batteries.
• Toco Warranty does not cover batteries.
• Omega Auto Care does not offer any plans for battery replacement.
• Concord Auto Protect plans cover motorists’ batteries with their Powertrain and Premium options. 

What Will it Cost Me To Fix My Battery?

There is no one price for batteries. But starter batteries could set you back anything from $350 to $400. Battery prices depend on the brand and type of car you have. Some mechanics might not charge for installation. Others could charge for this service. It depends on the individual and the shop.

Hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles could set you back more than ordinary cars. Replacing an EV is a costly exercise.

The three most expensive car repairs are hybrid battery replacements, transmission replacements and cylinder head replacements, according to RepairPal data.

How Long Does a Battery Warranty Last? What Influences Longevity?

Various factors will influence the longevity of a battery warranty. Some factors are the type and where you bought the battery. Climate could also impact longevity of a battery.

Optima batteries offer consumers a three-year guarantee provided batteries are used under normal conditions. Vehicles for commercial purposes experiencing extreme wear and tear only get a one-year coverage option.

DieHard batteries offer a wide range of plans and programs for its products. Gold plans offer three-year plans, and their Silver plans two years. Their red year plans get a one-year warranty. Prices and plans range.

Certain manufacturers replace some batteries for free. Battery replacements are often pro rated. Prorated batteries require car owners to pay a nominal amount based on the price and age of the battery.

In Conclusion

Find out what your specific vehicle cover for your battery is. Most manufacturers offer different warranty terms and conditions. Before making a financial decision, either big or small, you need to read the fine print.

Look for good replacement deals once your factory warranty has expired. Batteries play an integral role in keeping your car in good working condition. Ensure you have the right cover for this vital component. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer to find out more.