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Question: A friend of mine told me that the problem
I'm having with my engine might be covered by the dealer
even if the car is out of warranty. Is that true?
Answer: Consumer Reports (October 1999) tells you about
hidden warranties that may cover some or all out-of-pocket
costs of automobile repair, even if the vehicle is out of
warranty. These are not car recalls, which are based on
potentially serious safety problems. For all serious safety
problems, manufacturers must notify owners and repair the
vehicle without charge to the owner.
"Hidden warranty" problems may not be hazardous, but
they could be caused by manufacturing defects at the factory
and be costly to repair. A few examples include engine
malfunctions that cause emissions to exceed the federal
norm, paint that peels off, and faulty headgaskets. Although
car dealers notify the government of these defects, they are
not required to notify you.
When manufacturers find problems that are beyond normal
wear and tear, they send technical service bulletins to
their dealers and file them with the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). You can find
technical service bulletins, Consumer complaints and defect
investigations at NHTSA's Web site
(www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems). You can also use this
site to help you make a decision on a used car. Or check on
your present model to find out if your problems are one of a
kind or if there is a pattern. Problems due to manufacturing
faults at the factory may be covered by "secret warranties."
In other words, the dealer may pay for all or a substantial
part of getting the defect repaired.
The Lemon-Aid Web site (www.lemonaidcars.com) lists
various defects for selected models. It gives advice on
complaining and sample letters. Check their "Secret
Warranties Watch" for specific makes and models. These go
back to 1988 models that have not exceeded 100,000 miles.
Lemon-Aid also links you to other sites dealing with
problems such as brake, transmission and paint repairs.
You can join a Web based discussion group to get
information from other owners. Check www.liszt.com and
search for your auto.
Check out these sites to see if your problem shows up.
You might have thought you were the only person dealing with
it. And you may just find that the dealer will fix the
problem and cover the costs!
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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