A warranty is a great safety net—but it’s not a blank cheque. Many drivers assume “still on warranty” means everything is covered, and they only find out the hard way when a repair gets denied or a small problem becomes a major one.
This guide breaks down what often doesn’t get explained clearly when your vehicle is under warranty, and how to protect yourself with smart maintenance and good records.
Important note: Not every dealership operates the same way, and many are honest and helpful. This is about common misunderstandings and what you should know as a consumer.
1) “Warranty” Does NOT Mean Routine Maintenance Is Free
What you may not hear clearly:
Most warranties cover manufacturing defects, not regular services.
Usually not covered:
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Oil changes and filters
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Brake pads and rotors
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Tires and alignments
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Wiper blades, bulbs, fuses
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Many fluid services (coolant/brake fluid/driveline)
Why it matters:
If you skip maintenance because you “have warranty,” you can create problems that won’t be covered later.
2) Some Repairs Get Denied Because of “Cause,” Not the Part
What you may not hear clearly:
A part failing doesn’t automatically mean it’s covered. Warranty claims can be denied if the failure is linked to:
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Low oil / oil starvation
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Overheating from low coolant or leaks
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Ignoring warning lights
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Impact damage (potholes/curbs)
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Modifications or incorrect parts/fluids
Why it matters:
Two vehicles can have the same failure—one covered, one denied—based on history and the cause.
3) You Don’t Always Have to Service at the Dealer
What you may not hear clearly:
You can often have your maintenance done at an independent shop without “voiding” your warranty, as long as:
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The correct oil/fluids/spec parts are used
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The work is done properly
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You keep receipts and records
Why it matters:
This gives you more control over cost, convenience, and service style—especially for routine maintenance.
4) “Lifetime Fluids” Can Be Misleading
What you may not hear clearly:
Some vehicles are marketed with “lifetime” transmission or driveline fluids. In real-world conditions (short trips, heavy traffic, temperature swings), fluid still degrades.
Why it matters:
Servicing fluids preventatively can reduce wear and help avoid expensive driveline issues—many of which won’t be covered if they’re considered wear/neglect.
5) Wear-and-Tear Adds Up—Even Under Warranty
What you may not hear clearly:
Warranty doesn’t cover parts that naturally wear out due to driving conditions, including:
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Brakes
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Tires
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Suspension/steering wear parts (often)
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Batteries (sometimes limited/prorated)
Why it matters:
Road conditions and climate can shorten the life of wear items. Budgeting for them avoids surprises.
6) A “No Problem Found” Visit Doesn’t Mean You Should Ignore Symptoms
What you may not hear clearly:
If you report a noise or intermittent issue, you might be told it’s normal or “can’t be duplicated.” That doesn’t mean the issue isn’t real.
What to do instead:
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Document the symptoms (when it happens, temperature, speed, braking/turning)
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Ask for it to be noted on the work order
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Follow up if it worsens
Why it matters:
Paper trails help if the issue becomes obvious later—especially while you’re still within coverage.
7) Maintenance Records Protect YOU
What you may not hear clearly:
If something major fails, the first question is often: Was the vehicle maintained correctly?
Best practice:
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Keep invoices/receipts (digital is fine)
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Track dates + mileage
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Use the correct spec oil/fluids
Why it matters:
Good records reduce disputes and help defend warranty eligibility.
8) You Can Ask for a Second Opinion—Especially for “Not Covered” Calls
If you’re told a repair isn’t covered, it’s fair to ask:
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What evidence supports the decision?
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Was the failure due to defect or another cause?
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Is there documentation/photos?
Why it matters:
A second inspection can confirm the diagnosis and sometimes reveal a different root cause.
Quick Checklist: How to Avoid Warranty Surprises
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✅ Don’t skip maintenance because “it’s on warranty”
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✅ Keep receipts and service history
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✅ Use correct oil/fluids/spec parts
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✅ Fix coolant leaks and oil leaks early
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✅ Scan warning lights promptly
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✅ Document noises/symptoms and request they’re written on the RO
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✅ Get a second opinion when “not covered” doesn’t make sense
Ask for documentation, clarify the cause, and consider a second opinion to verify the diagnosis.
8304 Fairmount Dr, SE 403-258-3030 Calgary, AB, T2H 0Y8
At Heritage Auto & Tire we install quality NAPA replacement parts.
