QuestionHi Ray,
I have been doing a lot of research on purchasing a used car that is a couple of years old, trying to find one with a balance of the original manufacturers warranty on it. For example, I am considering 2005 and 2006 Hyundai Elantras, which are on the AutoTrader in the Toronto region for anywhere around $10,000 to $12,000 CDN (higher at actual Hyundai dealerships). These cars seem to have ~45-55,000 kms on them, yet Hyundai offers a 5 year, 100,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty. This seems to be quite good, as I could have a car that is covered for a few years down the road.
Questions I have are:
1) What is the process to ensure I get the balance of the manufacturers warranty on a used car? Does this happen by 'default' (i.e. does it follow the car), or do I need to get it transferred to my name through Hyundai?
2) It seems possible that warranties can be void if a particular maintenance schedule isn't followed. How do I ensure the car I buy is indeed clear? Does Hyundai verify this for me? Does the previous owner need to keep a record with the car for the warranty to be valid?
3)If a car has been in an accident, but has since been repaired, does this void the warranty? I am looking at a car now that has low kms, but had front-end work done on it, so I was wondering how the warranty would be affected.
Thanks in advance. Your site http://www.usedcartips.org certainly has a lot of great advice to follow when making a purchase - I want to be as informed as possible before purchasing my next car.
Cheers,
Clark
AnswerHi Clark
Thanks for your comments about my website, Its funny I have had over 20,000 visiters this year and 90% are from USA, and I am located in Oakville...lol
Now if consumers would follow in your steps doing homework they would be on a more level playing field entering a dealership.
# 1...The warranty stays with the vehicle...
# 2...If there is a problem with balance of warranty becauce of accident dealer must disclose on bill of sale, your in the clear, previous owner is out of the picture.
My only concern is your mention of front end having had work ? like what were you told ?
Its Ontario law if vehicle has been in a reported accident it must be on bill of sale for you to sign.
Have you seen an accident report ?
Also if your looking at a 2006 model, was it a rental ?
Email me from the address provided in my website with details... If you want also provide me with a link to which vehicles of interest through Autotrader.
I get much spam mail , enter on subject line RE Allexperts question, that way I wont miss it
Regards
Ray
