Does the Subaru warranty cover paint scratches?
A quick overview: routine paint scratches from everyday driving are generally not covered by Subaru’s standard warranty. Only defects in the paint finish caused by manufacturing or application may be covered under the New Car Limited Warranty, and there is a separate warranty for rust-related corrosion. For most wear and tear or road debris chips, you would typically handle repairs out of pocket.
Warranty categories relevant to paint and exterior finish
Subaru’s warranty framework includes several programs. The following outlines how paint-related issues are treated under the main warranties, and where cosmetic damage falls.
- New Car Limited Warranty: typically 3 years or 36,000 miles, covering defects in materials and workmanship. If a paint defect is due to manufacturing or coating application, it may be covered; however, normal wear, rock chips, and cosmetic scratches from use are not considered defects and are usually not covered.
- Rust Perforation Warranty: typically 5 years with unlimited miles, covering corrosion that results in perforation of body panels. This does not cover cosmetic scratches or surface rust that does not perforate the metal.
- Emissions Warranty: state-dependent coverage (often up to 8 years/80,000 miles for federal standards); unrelated to paint, but part of the overall warranty picture.
In practice, this means routine paint scratches from driving are not covered unless they reveal a manufacturing defect in the paint finish within the warranty window.
What to do if you suspect a paint defect
If you believe a defect is present, review your warranty booklet and contact your local Subaru dealer for an inspection. Gather photographs and service records, and be prepared to determine whether the issue is a warranted paint defect under the New Car Limited Warranty or related to rust perforation under the Rust Perforation Warranty.
Summary
Bottom line: Subaru does not offer broad coverage for cosmetic paint scratches resulting from normal use. Only genuine paint defects due to manufacturing or coating issues may fall under the New Car Limited Warranty, and corrosion-related perforation has its own dedicated coverage. Always check your specific warranty booklet and consult your Subaru dealer for a definitive determination based on your model year and region.
