When it comes to car repairs, one of the most common questions people ask is whether or not their alternator is covered under warranty. An alternator is an essential component of your car's electrical system, responsible for charging the battery and powering the vehicle's electrical systems. Without a working alternator, your car won't be able to start, and you'll be stuck on the side of the road. In this article, we'll explore whether or not an alternator is covered under warranty, what factors affect warranty coverage, and what you can do if your alternator fails.
What is a Warranty?
Before we dive into the specifics of alternator warranties, let's first define what a warranty is. A warranty is a guarantee from the manufacturer that the product you're buying will meet certain standards and perform as advertised. The length and coverage of a warranty can vary greatly depending on the product and the manufacturer. In the case of a car, the manufacturer's warranty covers the cost of repairs or replacements for certain parts and systems for a specific period of time or mileage, whichever comes first.
Is an Alternator Covered Under Warranty?
Whether or not your alternator is covered under warranty depends on several factors, including the type of warranty you have and the age and mileage of your vehicle. Most new cars come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers the cost of repairs or replacements for certain parts and systems for a specific period of time or mileage. However, alternators are often considered wear-and-tear items and may not be covered under the manufacturer's warranty once your car reaches a certain age or mileage.
Manufacturer's Warranty
If your car is still covered under the manufacturer's warranty, your alternator may be covered as well. However, you'll need to check the specific terms of your warranty to be sure. Most manufacturer's warranties cover alternator replacement for a certain period of time or mileage, typically around 3-5 years or 36,000-60,000 miles.
Extended Warranty
If your car is no longer covered under the manufacturer's warranty, you may still be able to get coverage through an extended warranty. An extended warranty is a type of insurance policy that covers the cost of repairs or replacements for certain parts and systems beyond the manufacturer's warranty period. However, not all extended warranties cover alternator replacement, so you'll need to check the specific terms of your policy.
What Can You Do if Your Alternator Fails?
If your alternator fails and it's not covered under warranty, you'll need to pay for the cost of repairs or replacement out of pocket. The cost of a new alternator can vary depending on the make and model of your car, but it typically ranges from $300 to $800. However, you may be able to save money by purchasing a refurbished or remanufactured alternator instead of a brand new one.
Refurbished Alternator
A refurbished alternator is a used alternator that has been reconditioned to meet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards. Refurbished alternators are typically less expensive than brand new ones and can be a good option if you're looking to save money. However, it's important to buy from a reputable seller and make sure the alternator comes with a warranty.
Remanufactured Alternator
A remanufactured alternator is a used alternator that has been completely disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt with new or reconditioned components. Remanufactured alternators are typically more expensive than refurbished ones but are often more reliable and come with a longer warranty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not your alternator is covered under warranty depends on several factors, including the type of warranty you have and the age and mileage of your vehicle. If your alternator fails and it's not covered under warranty, you'll need to pay for the cost of repairs or replacement out of pocket. However, you may be able to save money by purchasing a refurbished or remanufactured alternator instead of a brand new one.
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