A Comprehensive Guide to Car Tires and Their Warranties

When it comes to car maintenance, understanding your warranties is crucial. One often overlooked aspect is the coverage of tires. This guide will explore whether car warranties cover tires and the complexities involved in tire warranties provided by tire manufacturers.

Do Car Warranties Cover Tires?

The answer to this question can be a bit convoluted due to the different sources of warranties. Typically, car manufacturers do not cover tires under their warranties. Their primary focus is on the vehicle itself and major components that fall under 'factory' or 'new-car' warranties. According to Autotrader, engine, transmission, and structural components are generally covered, whereas tires are not, as they are considered a standard wear and tear item.

Tire Warranties Explained

Tires are Covered by the Tire Manufacturer’s Warranty:

Tires, on the other hand, have their own separate warranty provided by the tire manufacturer. This is clearly outlined in a booklet included in your new car’s glove box. This warranty covers issues such as premature tire wear and manufacturing defects. For example, according to a goodyear's product page, they provide warranties that cover defects in materials or workmanship.

When you purchase tires aftermarket, you can often get a warranty from the retailer or the manufacturer, which can be as long as 5 years or more depending on the brand. Additionally, some retailers offer extra coverage such as road hazard warranties, which can protect your tires from damage caused by objects in the road or hitting a curb.

What Does a Tire Warranty Typically Cover?

A tire manufacturer’s warranty will typically cover defects in materials and workmanship. However, damages from road hazards are usually excluded. For instance, frequent rotation and proper maintenance can help ensure the warranty coverage, but mechanical damage from driving over obstacles or hitting curbs would be excluded under most tire warranties. The warranty terms are specific and can vary by manufacturer and tire model.

If a portion of the tire needs to be replaced, some manufacturers may deduct the wear and tear from the original warranty value and charge a small amount for the replacement. Be aware that some tire manufacturers have clauses that allow them to refuse warranty coverage under certain circumstances, such as not following recommended maintenance practices.

It is advisable to get the tire package with the warranty, as this is the only way they will truly cover the tire. Side wall blowouts or other manufacturing defects can typically be covered, but proving the defect is essential.

Conclusion

In summary, car warranties do not typically cover tires, unless the tires are part of a specific package or offering provided by the manufacturer. It is important to familiarize yourself with the tire manufacturer’s warranty and ensure proper maintenance to maximize the benefit of the warranty.

Links to Relevant Warranty Pages:

Understanding the differences between car warranties and tire warranties can save you significant costs and ensure your tires remain in optimal condition.