Cars are pretty major purchases for a driver at almost any income level, and car manufacturers understand that. Motor1 says that warranties are the manufacturer's way of saying they've got your back if you choose to make this major purchase from them. The warranty for Kia shows how strongly they back up the quality of their vehicles.
Warranty Basics
Most factory warranties for new cars last for three years or 36,000 miles, depending on which limit is met first. Frequently, a powertrain warranty is offered separately and lasts five years or 60,000 miles, also depending on the first limit met. The powertrain refers to the various parts of the car that make it go, like the engine, transmission, etc.
According to The Drive, Kia stands out from other automakers for its powertrain warranty that lasts for 10 years or 100,000 miles. This warranty was first introduced to the market at the beginning of 2008. Kia models manufactured from 2008 and on come with this impressive warranty coverage.
This long-term warranty makes a powerful statement about Kia's confidence in their designs and the overall quality of their vehicles, according to Motor1. Think about it, if you offer to cover any issues with a powertrain for 10 years on a vehicle that's likely to have a lot of these issues, you're setting yourself up to lose a lot of money. But Kia doesn't seem worried.
Ten-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty
Kia calls their 10-year/100,000-mile warranty a testament to the quality of their vehicles. This program includes powertrain coverage for up to 10 years or 100,000 miles depending on the first limit the vehicle reaches. This applies to the following elements:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Axles
- Driveshafts
Five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty
Kia of Marin says that they also offer a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty program that acts as bumper-to-bumper coverage. As its name suggests, this warranty covers almost everything on the vehicle between the front and rear bumper. Common items that are subject to regular wear and tear aren't covered.
So, If you purchase a brand new 2021 Kia Sorento with this basic limited warranty, The Drive reminds us that common issues will be covered. These issues only include problems that would be a result of poor workmanship in the factory or faulty materials. This means that problems resulting from environmental damage or accidents aren't included in the coverage.
Regular maintenance comes with a limited amount of support from the warranty, but it's best to stick with the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for the best coverage.
Five-year/100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty
According to Auffenberg Kia, drivers can also opt for a five-year or 100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty. This coverage includes perforation and corrosion of the body panels along the exterior that comes from the inside of the car moving outward. However, this warranty won't cover damage from accidents or extreme weather like hail.
Five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan
There's also a five-year or 60,000-mile plan available for roadside assistance. This limits covered services to $75 for each occurrence, which includes any costs of towing to the nearest Kia dealership. Other costs included in the coverage are:
- Gas delivery
- Jump start help
- Flat tire help
What Happens to Coverage of a Used Kia When Sold under Warranty?
Kia's limited powertrain warranty switches to a shorter version of the warranty when the car is sold. The remainder of the warranty under this new term length then transfers to the new owner. When sold, the Kia's original 10-year/100,000-mile term length becomes a five-year/60,000-mile term length.
The following Kia warranties also transfer their remainders:
- Five-year/60,000-mile limited basic program
- Five-year/100,000-mile limited anti-perforation program
- Five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance program
Transferring warranties add to the resale value of a vehicle, so this is another point for Kia models.
What Is Covered under a Manufacturer Warranty?
The Drive notes that warranties only work to cover factory defects. This focuses coverage on the car's basic internal systems like the engine, steering system, transmission, and fuel system. While this might seem like they aren't covering a decent amount of the car (interior, windows, sound system, etc.), the manufacturer is actually saving you from major potential expenses. For instance, replacing a transmission is a lot more expensive than replacing a windshield.
When you combine Kia's powertrain warranty with its limited comprehensive coverage, you'll benefit from major savings and worry-free ownership. Kia's warranties provide almost twice as much coverage as other typical manufacturers.
Roadside Assistance
Kia's roadside assistance coverage adds more value to a vehicle. With this type of coverage, you could be driving your new 2021 Seltos and encounter an unexpected issue like a flat tire and you'll have help from the nearest Kia dealership at your side. If your vehicle needs additional attention, this plan will cover the cost of towing to the nearest dealership.
According to Kia.com, they have a network made up of more than 17,000 roadside assistance providers. No matter when you need help, they are ready to come to you. Call from anywhere in the United States, 24 hours a day, and you'll be taken care of. Even if you simply run out of gas, Kia's roadside assistance program will get you the fuel you need.
If you end up stranded further than 150 miles from where you live due to a warranty-related issue and lengthy repairs, Kia will reimburse you for any meals, rental car costs, or lodging necessary.
What's Not Covered?
Most manufacturers don't cover absolutely everything in their warranties. There are some things that Kia doesn't cover either, but they aren't major expenses. Here are the things you can expect to pay for even under a Kia warranty, says Motor1.
- Collision damage
- Damage due to poor driving
- Unnecessary modifications
- Damage from poor maintenance practices
- Damage from the environment
- Common wear and tear
- Driver-caused damage (coffee stains, burn damage, etc.)
- Damage to windows
- Damage due to owner or driver negligence
The Kia standard warranty is very similar to other manufacturer warranties. They back their models and take care of their drivers as long as you take proper care of your Kia.
Sources:
https://www.kia.com/us/en/warranty
https://www.auffenbergkia.com/kia-warranty-second-owner/#:~:text=
https://www.motor1.com/reviews/374271/kia-warranty/
https://www.kiamarin.com/blog/what-is-the-warranty-coverage-for-kia-vehicles/
https://www.thedrive.com/reviews/29825/kia-warranty
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a31941463/2021-kia-sorento-details-revealed/
https://www.caranddriver.com/photos/g30933797/2021-kia-seltos-us-drive-gallery/
