Long term vehicle warranties have been increasingly used by car makers as a major selling point in recent years, but a new study of their actual worth says many buyers are being caught out by the small print.

A UK research study by Warranty Direct has found that 5 and 7 year warranties now offered by some manufacturers suggests that the number of restrictions and exclusion built into the contracts mean that repair costs are frequently not covered when things go wrong, especially in the later years of the warranty. 

The study found that mileage caps often apply leaving many drivers exposed to repair costs once they exceed a set limit. David Gerrans, Managing Drector at Warranty Direct commented, “Prospective car purchasers need to be wary of the limitations of policies that may promise total peace of mind.  Motorists who cover high mileages or plan to replace their car after a short time are very unlikely to reap the full benefit of an extended warranty, so should take other considerations into account when making the purchase.”

The study points out that some manufacturers also restrict policies to only drive train components after 3 years of a 5 year warranty, while others exclude items such as air con after two years. It is also said that some drivers are losing out over the interpretation of “normal wear and tear” of parts. 

David Gerrans also points out the importance of regular maintenance and says that warranty cover will be invalidated if a car is not properly maintained.