Are Brakes Covered Under Warranty? Surprising Facts

When you purchase a vehicle, one of your top priorities is undoubtedly ensuring that your investment is protected. Warranty coverage can help with this, but are brakes covered under warranty?

Here’s the quick answer: Typically, warranties do not cover brakes because they are considered wear-and-tear items. However, exceptions may exist depending on your specific policy, with some manufacturers offering limited warranties on certain brake components. Always review your warranty terms to understand your coverage.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the world of brake warranties and learn more about what’s typically covered, common exclusions, and how to make a warranty claim.

Are Brakes Covered Under Warranty? A Detailed Explanation

Brakes usually do not have warranty coverage due to their wear-and-tear nature, but some exceptions might apply. For example, certain manufacturers might offer a limited warranty on specific brake components like calipers, master cylinders, or even brake pads (also read: Standard Vs. Lifetime Warranty Brake Pads). It’s essential to thoroughly review your warranty policy to determine the extent of any brake coverage.

Types of Brake Warranties: Comprehensive vs. Limited

Brake warranties typically fall into two main categories: comprehensive and limited. Grasping the differences between these warranty types is vital for understanding the protection your vehicle’s brake system has.

A comprehensive brake warranty is designed to cover nearly all aspects of your brake system. This includes the master cylinder, calipers, brake pads, and more. These warranties are extensive, providing peace of mind to vehicle owners that their entire brake system is protected. 

However, comprehensive warranties are not very common. They are typically reserved for high-end or luxury vehicle manufacturers, who want to offer an added level of assurance to their customers.

In contrast, limited brake warranties are much more common and can be found accompanying new or certified pre-owned vehicles. As the name suggests, these warranties provide coverage for specific brake components only. 

It’s important to note that the scope of coverage can vary significantly between different limited warranties, so it’s crucial to thoroughly read and understand your policy to know exactly what’s covered.

The duration and terms of limited warranties can also differ greatly. Some may only last a certain number of years or up to a specific mileage, while others might have unique stipulations regarding the use or maintenance of your vehicle. 

For this reason, carefully review your warranty policy to know what’s covered and for how long.

What’s Typically Included in Brake Warranty Coverage

The exact coverage of a brake warranty can vary based on the manufacturer and the specific warranty policy. However, some components that may be covered under a limited warranty include:

1. Brake calipers: Playing a critical role in your vehicle’s braking system, brake calipers are responsible for clamping the brake pads against the rotors. This action generates the necessary friction to bring your vehicle to a halt. Some limited warranties may include coverage for these vital components, ensuring that any issues with the calipers can be addressed without incurring out-of-pocket expenses.
2. Master cylinder: When you press down on the brake pedal, the master cylinder is the component that transforms that pressure into hydraulic force. This force is then distributed to the calipers, enabling them to clamp the brake pads and slow the vehicle. In some cases, limited brake warranties may cover the master cylinder, providing added peace of mind should any issues arise with this essential part.
3. Brake rotors: Attached to the wheel hub, brake rotors are the discs that the brake pads clamp onto during the braking process. The friction created between the brake pads and rotors is what ultimately slows your vehicle down. While not always included, some limited brake warranties may cover the rotors, ensuring that you’re protected from any potential defects or issues related to these components.

Common Exclusions and Limitations in Brake Warranty Policies

When evaluating brake warranty policies, it’s crucial to understand that there are often exclusions and limitations. Some common ones include:

1. Wear-and-tear items: Certain parts of your braking system, such as brake pads and shoes, naturally wear down over time due to regular use. Because of this, these components are generally excluded from warranty coverage. In essence, you’ll likely be responsible for the costs associated with replacing these wear-and-tear items as needed.
2. Damage due to misuse or neglect: Proper care and use of your vehicle are crucial. If your brakes sustain damage from misuse, such as overloading or constantly riding the brakes, or neglect, like ignoring the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations, your warranty might not cover the necessary repairs. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent voiding your warranty.
3. Unauthorized repairs or modifications: Unauthorized alterations to your brake system, like installing aftermarket parts or DIY repairs without proper guidance, can potentially void your warranty coverage. 

Being aware of these common exclusions and limitations can help you avoid unexpected surprises when dealing with your brake warranty policy.

How to Make a Warranty Claim: Steps and Tips

If you believe your brake issue is covered under warranty, follow these steps to make a claim:

Step 1. Review Your Warranty Policy

Before contacting the manufacturer or dealer, review your warranty policy carefully. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the coverage and any exclusions or limitations. This knowledge will enable you to confidently discuss your claim and address any questions that may arise.

Step 2. Gather Documentation

Prepare any relevant documents that may be required during the claim process. This can include service records, receipts, and other paperwork that demonstrates the issue and shows that you’ve maintained your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Having this documentation on hand can help streamline the process and support your claim.

Step 3. Contact The Dealer Or Manufacturer

After reviewing your policy and collecting necessary documentation, contact the dealer or manufacturer to discuss the issue. Provide the required paperwork and explain the problem. They’ll likely schedule an inspection and repair appointment or direct you to an authorized service center.

Step 4. Keep Records

Throughout the warranty claim process, be sure to document all communications and transactions that take place. This covers phone calls, emails, receipts, and all other claim-related correspondence. Having a well-organized record can prove invaluable if any disputes arise later on or if you need to reference the claim in the future.

To further enhance your warranty claim experience, consider these additional tips that can help you avoid potential pitfalls and maximize your chances of a successful outcome:

1. Be proactive: Addressing brake issues proactively is essential. If you notice any signs of trouble, like unusual noises or reduced braking performance, act immediately. Delaying could lead to further damage not covered by your warranty, costing you time, money, and frustration.

2. Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule: Adhering to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing issues with your brakes. Regular maintenance, such as fluid changes and inspections, can help you catch potential problems before they become severe. 

Additionally, following the recommended schedule increases the likelihood that your warranty will cover any issues that do arise, as it demonstrates that you’ve taken proper care of your vehicle.

3. Use authorized service centers: Lastly, always choose authorized service centers for your vehicle’s maintenance. These facilities employ trained and certified technicians who work on your specific make and model, ensuring repairs and maintenance align with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Using authorized service centers not only protects your warranty but also maintains your vehicle’s overall reliability and longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while brakes are not typically covered under warranty due to their wear-and-tear nature, some exceptions may apply depending on your specific policy. Be sure to review your warranty coverage and follow the recommended maintenance schedule to protect your investment. If you need to make a warranty claim for your brakes, follow the steps outlined above and keep all documentation to help ensure a smooth process.