“A rock chipped my windshield and [automaker] refused to replace it under warranty. Crooks!”
I’ve read hundreds of one-star reviews like this claiming that automakers “unfairly” denied warranty claims, when in reality it points to a widespread misunderstanding of what warranties do.
An auto warranty only protects you from manufacturer defects. This means parts failing for no apparent reason and not due to neglect, abuse or damage.
If your infotainment system suddenly stops working or you get a check engine light after just 1,500 miles, those issues will likely be covered. But chips in the windshield? That’s just bad luck.
– Chris Butsch, Contributor