Understanding tire warranties Complete Guide

Are you confused about how tire warranties work?

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about tire warranties and how to make sure you get the most out of them. Take the guesswork out of your tire purchases and make sure your tires are covered with this essential guide.

It is important to understand the details of a tire warranty when making an investment and deciding which tires are right for you. Whether they come with the purchase of a vehicle or are bought separately, tires can be expensive and need to be taken care of in order to get the most out of them. Different manufacturers may provide different levels of coverage, so it is important to be familiar with the specifics before making a purchase.

This guide will offer an overview of what you should look for when shopping for tires and how various warranties compare.

Explanation of what tire warranties are and why they matter

Tire warranties are important considerations for vehicle owners when it comes to safety and performance. Tire warranties offer peace of mind to drivers, as well as provide an additional measure of protection against tire failure. This can include damage from everyday wear and tear or from potential defects or flaws in tire construction or materials.

A tire warranty typically covers a specific period of time, number of miles driven or types of roads used, depending on the particular warranty and manufacturer. Tire manufacturers have adopted different types of warranties in order to provide their customers with the best coverage for their needs. Generally, a standard warranty covers a basic level of protection against tire failure due to defects in materials or workmanship during a set period of time, usually two years. In addition, some manufacturers offer extended service plans, which are optional and may be purchased separately from the original purchase price. These plans typically extend coverage beyond what is included with a standard warranty, providing more comprehensive coverage against both common wear and possible defects discovered after the purchase date.

For consumers looking to prolong the life of their tires while protecting themselves against unexpected repair costs, these added warranties are well worth considering when selecting the best-fit tires for their car or truck. Knowledgeable automotive sales staff can help guide purchasers through available options to ensure they understand what is offered by each particular issuer before making a final decision. With information readily available regarding tire warranties and additional service plan options, consumers can make informed decisions when purchasing replacement tires for their vehicles.

Importance of understanding tire warranties before purchasing tires

It is important to understand tire warranties before purchasing tires as warranties from different tire manufacturers vary significantly. It is important to be familiar with the types of warranties available and ensure that you are purchasing a tire that has been backed by a reliable warranty provider. It is also wise to understand any exclusions, limitations or special conditions that may be included in a warranty, as these can affect your rights as a consumer.

When researching the different types of tyres available and evaluating potential purchases, consider the length of warranty coverage each tyre model offers as well as what types of situations/losses are excluded from coverage. Tire warranties may cover losses due to tread wear, road hazard, and/or defect (material or workmanship). They may also provide protection against damage caused by improper installation or service procedures. Specific details regarding these topics can often be found on the manufacturer’s website or in catalogues/brochures related to the product.

In addition to understanding the terms of specific warranty programs, it is also advisable for consumers to find out if coverage for punctures, sidewall damage and other incidents resulting from everyday use are provided by their insurance policy prior to buying new tires. Many car insurance companies offer some form of roadside assistance coverage which can help cover costs associated with repairs related to flat tires and other issues resulting from normal use of vehicles.

Therefore, it is essential for individuals planning to purchase new tires understand both the manufacturer’s specific tire coverage offered through their warranty program as well what is covered through their car insurance policy prior to making a purchase decision. Being knowledgeable about such policies helps ensure consumers have received all protections they are entitled too when dealing with unexpected incidents such as mechanical failures or flat tires related directly or indirectly when using their vehicles on public roads and highways.

What Is Covered in Tire Warranties

The extent of coverage provided under a tire warranty will vary depending on the brand and type of tires you are buying. Generally speaking, most tire warranties cover defects in manufacturing or materials which uncover themselves after some use.

Tires begin to wear down with everyday use, and as they wear, their tread depth decreases. When the tread depth reaches a certain level, below what is considered safe for driving in many jurisdictions, you may be eligible for a partial or full refund due to part of the warranty that covers premature wear. This type of coverage is still considered valid even if it’s caused by owner negligence.

However, tire warranties rarely cover damage resulting from mis-mounted tires or road hazards such as nails and potholes. In addition, many companies require that any warranty claims must be made within the first 6-12 months of purchase and usually require visual proof that all guidelines were met such as regular rotations and alignment checks to receive benefits from any “Road Hazard” policies that are found in coverage tiers.

Details on what is typically covered under each type of warranty

When shopping for tires, it’s important to understand the different types of warranties and what they cover. Generally, tire warranties differ based on the type of tire and the manufacturer in question, but there are some basics that apply across the board.

Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty: Most manufacturers have a limited warranty that is offered at no extra cost. This generally covers against defects in materials and workmanship. It also may include protection against road hazards and normal/abnormal wear for either a specific period of time or based on miles driven. This warranty may also provide for repair or replacement of tires for specific reasons, such as tread or sidewall damage or failure due to improper mounting or balancing.

Road Hazard Protection: Many manufacturers offer road hazard protection as an option when you purchase new or replacement tires. This coverage usually covers damage from punctures caused by potholes, nails, glass and other road-related factors up to a certain length of time after purchase or until the original tread is worn down past a certain level (usually two thirty-seconds inch).

Consumer Guarantees: In addition to manufacturer warranties, there are consumer guarantees outlined by each province which may provide you with more protection depending on applicable laws in your area. These guarantees typically address issues related to fitment/condition at time of sale, availability of parts/services if needed etc., so it’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws before making your purchase.

Examples of what may not be covered

When buying a new set of tires, most customers assume that the tire warranty covers all sorts of damage due to normal wear and tear. While it is true that most tire warranties will cover defects and certain types of accidents, there are some specific cases that may not be covered under the standard warranty.

Here are examples of what may not be covered under a tire warranty:

  • Improper inflation or maintenance. If a customer does not rotate, balance or inflate their tires per the instructions given by the manufacturer or retailer, this could void the warranty.
  • Damage due to misuse or abuse. Heavy impacts from curb strikes or road hazards can void the warranty if they exceed the guidelines as outlined in the policy documentation.
  • Tire misapplication. Incorrect size tires on vehicles can cause serious issues and are not typically covered by warranties for this reason alone.
  • Altering tires in any way will usually void any coverage offered by the manufacturer. Examples include brakes applied to skateboard wheels, wheels rotated in reverse direction etc.
  • Trading in used tires onto new vehicles generally erases any remaining coverage offered by their previous ownership.
  • Typical road hazards like nails and pothole damage are generally outside of most non-road hazard warranties.

How to Make a Claim

Making a claim on your tire warranty is relatively simple and painless. Depending on the type of warranty you have, you may be able to file a claim online or over the phone. Before contacting your manufacturer, gather all relevant documentation related to your tires and any repair bills that have already been paid. The more information you can provide, the quicker and more efficient the claims process will be.

When filing a warranty claim, you’ll need to provide the following information:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Tire model, size and date purchased
  • The retailer where the tires were purchased
  • Mileage at purchase and current mileage on tires (if applicable)
  • The nature of problem/complaint as precisely as possible
  • Any repair history/bills from previous repairs, if applicable

Your tire manufacturer will investigate your claim thoroughly before giving their decision as to how it will be handled. They may cover all or part of the expenses for either replacing or repairing your tires depending on the specifics of your individual situation.

Understanding Tire Warranties | Edmunds

Steps to take when making a claim

If you experience tire trouble, taking the right steps when making a claim can ensure that you get the full value of your warranty. First, check your original tire documentation or any registration documents on file with the tire manufacturer to make sure they’re still within the warranty period. If so, it’s important to take photos of any damages and save all receipts associated with repairs or replacements related to your tires. Additionally, you should detail any mileage and road conditions during which your tires were driven before encountering problems.

After determining that your tires are still within the warranty window and gathering necessary paperwork and information about your experience, contact the manufacturer for more information about how to make a claim in accordance with their specific policies. Depending on the type of tire warranty offered (mileage, treadwear/road hazard), customers may need to submit proof that purchased tires are still owned by them; such as an original invoice from purchase or registration verification from when bought new.

Your next step will be submitting an official warranty claim. Most tire companies provide forms online that allow customers to provide detailed information regarding suspected defects and other pertinent details. With regards to how long it takes for a decision on a given claim, this can vary based on its complexity—simpler issues may be resolved in two days while some claims could extend several weeks before reaching a final resolution.

Documents needed to make a claim

Before you make a claim on your tire warranty, there are certain documents that need to be collected for the process. It may be helpful to make a checklist of the materials that need to be obtained before you take your tires in for service.

The documents often required for making a tire warranty claim include:

  • Your original tire sales receipt from when the tires were purchased
  • A copy of the original invoice containing the date and place of purchase, type and size of tire, as well as any kind of additional services applied at purchase
  • Tire installation receipts showing when and where tires were mounted on your vehicle as well as any kind of balancing/rotation services applied at installation. This can also include a service report
  • Photos of affected tires (before and after pictures are often helpful)
  • Proof of tread depth measurements from each affected tire
  • Copy (s) or electronic transcript (s) from maintenance logs (if applicable)

It is important to note that some warranties may not require this list be fulfilled; some are more lenient than others. Asking questions beforehand can help save time and avoid frustration during the claims process. Make sure to ask about what will be necessary for filing a claim before you engage any kind of repairs or customer service regarding your warranty coverage.

Factors That May Void Tire Warranties

Vehicle owners need to understand that warranties are only offered on specific conditions being met, and “voiding” a tire warranty may be caused by any number of factors. It is crucial for vehicle owners to pay attention to the various aspects of tire warranties that could lead to claims being denied.

Some common factors that may cause vehicles tires to be void of warranty protection include improper maintenance, road hazard damage, mechanical defects, improper installation or use of a tire not recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Additionally, if the tires have more than 6/32” tread depth once they have reached their designed life expectancy, any resulting property damage will not be covered.

Proper maintenance of tires is essential in order for any manufacturer’s warranty to remain in effect. This includes checking air pressure regularly and having them rotated every 7-10 thousand miles in order to evenly distribute wear on each tire. Tires should also be inspected regularly for signs of impact or puncture damage and any other abnormalities from running over sharp objects or glass shards on the roads. Any damages should immediately warrant proper attention from an expert technician before continuing use and further damaging all four tires or the vehicle itself even further.

In addition, it is important for drivers to be aware that any modification made towards their vehicle’s handling performance – such as adding new wheels or lowering a car with specialty suspension components – could also possibly void a tire warranty due its increased likelihood of abrasion and rubbing against non-street surface debris when used either on potholes or off-road conditions where they were not designed originally function properly upon continued everyday use. Therefore it is best advisable that prior modifications are consulted with the manufacturer’s specifications before attempting installation as additional insurance measures taken against possible future accidents resulting catastrophic injuries in order warranties still remain protected under possible predicated road hazards after years of usage later on down the line.

Explanation of actions that may void warranties

When investing in a new set of tires, it’s important to understand exactly what is and isn’t covered by the tire company’s warranty. Generally, most tire warranties will cover defects in materials and workmanship as long as the tires are used as intended. However, certain actions may void the warranty and cause you to lose out on coverage from the tire company.

It’s important to fully read and understand your specific tire warranty coverage before investing so that you can be aware of any actions that may void the warranty. Here is a list of common actions that may void your tire warranty:

  • Misuse: Misusing your tires in any way can void your warranty coverage. This includes excessive spinning during off-roading or burnouts, exceeding speed limits specified by manufacturer, habitual overloading, improper inflation, excessive braking or acceleration, racing or competitive driving (such as autocross) outside of sanctioned events sanctioned by the manufacturer and much more. It’s important to follow all safety recommendations listed by the manufacturer when using your tires for fuel efficiency and better handling performance.
  • Parts or Accessories: Installing parts or accessories not recommended by a licensed tire expert is not recommended because it could cause premature wear and tear on your tires which could void warranties in some cases even if you haven’t misused them. Additionally, aftermarket wheel modifications should be carefully considered as they can impact alignment issues with some vehicles that could also void warranties from some manufacturers.
  • Abuse & Neglect: Unavoidable conditions such as pot holes and curbside debris can affect traffic safety but they can also alter alignment issues which can lead to premature wear patterns on all four of your tires at once—known as cupping—in which case warranties will likely not cover it due to abuse/neglect even if no other misuse was involved with those particular tires–so get them rotated regularly!
  • Lack Of Tire Care & Maintenance: Proper care for any set of tires is necessary while they are still under their original manufacturer’s warranty– this includes regular rotation (according to vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations) plus appropriate balancing & alignment each time which should be done every 6-8k miles typically unless otherwise specified from within owner’s manual(s). Failing to do so could result in quick negative changes within tread depth that would ultimately cause drivers traction problems–and this type of issue usually means wasting money during costly repairs (or replacement costs) due because no fault on behalf of their original manufacture covers these type avoidable problems related directly from improper use &/or neglecting routine maintenance needs required during original purchase agreements generally speaking–of course always check!

 

Complete Guide to Tire Warranties - Are They Worth It?

Conclusion

In order to make the most of a tire warranty, it is essential to understand each manufacturer’s terms and conditions. Knowing what exactly is covered by the warranty, who can take advantage of it, and how long it lasts are important considerations.

It is also advisable to read product reviews to gain an understanding of what kind of mileage, wear and tear you may be able to expect from your tires. Taking the time to do research about tire warranties can ensure that you get the most value for your money.

FAQs

How does the tire warranty works? 

Tire warranties typically cover certain types of damage or defects within a specified time period or mileage limit.

What do tire warranties include? 

Tire warranties may include coverage for defects in materials or workmanship, road hazards, treadwear, and mileage limitations.

What does a 50000 mile warranty on tires mean? 

A 50000 mile warranty on tires means that the manufacturer guarantees the tires will last for up to 50000 miles before needing to be replaced due to normal wear and tear.

What does a 40000 mile tire warranty mean? 

A 40000 mile tire warranty means that the manufacturer guarantees the tires will last for up to 40000 miles before needing to be replaced due to normal wear and tear.

What is not covered by tire warranty? 

Tire warranties typically do not cover damage from accidents, vandalism, improper installation or maintenance, or wear and tear from normal use.

How many miles should tires last? 

Tire lifespan can vary depending on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance, but on average, tires should last around 50,000 miles.

Is it smart to buy tire warranty?

 It can be smart to buy a tire warranty if you want added protection against unexpected tire damage or defects, but it’s important to weigh the cost against the likelihood of needing to make a claim.

Is it worth buying warranty on tires?

 Whether or not a tire warranty is worth buying depends on your individual circumstances and needs, as well as the terms and cost of the warranty.

Do tire warranties cover punctures?

 Tire warranties may cover punctures caused by road hazards, but it’s important to check the terms of the warranty to see what types of damage are included.

Does warranty cover tire replacement? 

Tire warranties may cover the cost of replacing a tire if it is deemed defective or damaged within the warranty period, but the exact coverage can vary depending on the warranty.

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