ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Consumer Protections

Warranties and the Uniform Commercial Code

With regard to automobile purchases, what is the difference between a limited warranty and a full warranty?

A full warranty provides for a refund or free replacement part, including installation, if the dealer cannot fix a car or a part after a reasonable number of attempts. A dealer must replace the car or the part within a reasonable time. A full warranty applies to anyone who owns the car during the warranty period.

A limited warranty is any kind of warranty that is not a full warranty. At least one of the above promises is missing. Most car dealers do not give full warranties on the entire car, but may do so on a specific part, such as the battery. Most used car warranties are limited.