Auto Trader

Most warranties are only valid if an approved dealer has serviced the car to the manufacturer's schedule.

'Servicing tolerances' are often between 500 and 1000 miles or 30 days over the scheduled mileage or dates.

Service records are needed to maintain warranty terms and in the event of a claim, the original paperwork will need to be produced.

Validity and the extent of cover, can be affected by usage (some exclude driving school vehicles and mini cabs) and the fitting of non-standard parts.

Other exclusions include misuse, neglect, and faults subject to recall. Pre-existing mechanical or electrical faults are also excluded, there is no point signing up for a warranty if you suspect your car is about to give up!

Information supplied by Warranty Direct. Find out more at warrantydirect.co.uk