What is the Chevrolet bumper-to-bumper warranty?
Chevrolet’s bumper-to-bumper warranty, officially called the new-vehicle limited warranty, typically covers most components against defects in materials and workmanship for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Beyond that foundation, Chevrolet also offers separate protection for the powertrain and for corrosion, plus roadside assistance. This article explains what’s included, what isn’t, how long the coverage lasts, and how to use the warranty. Terms can vary by model year and market, so it’s wise to verify with a Chevrolet dealer for your specific vehicle.
What the bumper-to-bumper warranty covers
Here's a broad overview of the kinds of components that are typically protected under the new-vehicle bumper-to-bumper warranty.
- Most components inside the vehicle and under the hood that fail due to defects in materials or workmanship (excluding wear items and routine maintenance).
- Major systems such as the engine, transmission, and driveline components.
- Electrical systems and electronics, including control modules and wiring harnesses.
- Steering, suspension, and braking systems (non-wear parts).
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
- Safety systems and related components that are not subject to normal wear.
- Body hardware and dashboard/instrumentation related components, when defective in material or workmanship.
In short, the warranty is designed to cover manufacturing defects across most of the vehicle’s major systems, while routine maintenance and normal wear items are not included.
What is not covered
The warranty does not apply to items that are considered wear or maintenance parts, or to damage resulting from non-warranty issues.
- Routine maintenance services (oil changes, tire rotations, filters, fluids, etc.).
- Wear items (tires, brake pads, wiper blades, bulbs, battery subject to wear, etc.).
- Damage from accidents, misuse, improper maintenance, or alterations/modifications not performed by Chevrolet or an authorized dealer.
- Cosmetic issues such as scratches, dents, or interior wear unless they are caused by a defect in material or workmanship.
- Damage from environmental factors or improper storage, and issues arising from aftermarket parts not installed by Chevrolet.
Understanding these exclusions helps buyers differentiate between warranty coverage and routine ownership costs. Always confirm the specifics for your vehicle with a Chevrolet dealer.
Durations and related coverage
Key warranty periods associated with Chevrolet’s protection plan include the bumper-to-bumper warranty, the powertrain warranty, corrosion coverage, and roadside assistance. The durations shown reflect typical terms for new Chevrolet vehicles in recent years.
- New-vehicle bumper-to-bumper warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Powertrain limited warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Rust-through (corrosion) limited warranty: 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Roadside assistance: commonly 5 years or 60,000 miles, providing services such as tow, battery jump-starts, and lockout assistance.
Note that exact terms can vary by model year and market, so check your owner’s manual or ask a Chevrolet representative for the precise figures on your vehicle.
Getting service and filing a claim
If you believe you have a defect covered under the bumper-to-bumper warranty, follow these general steps to pursue service.
- Locate an authorized Chevrolet dealership or service center near you.
- Bring your vehicle, proof of purchase, and any relevant maintenance records.
- Have the dealership diagnose the issue. If it’s determined to be a covered defect, repairs will be made under warranty at no cost to you.
- If there is a question about coverage, request written explanations and contact Chevrolet customer assistance for clarification.
After a claim is filed, the dealer will perform the necessary diagnostics and determine whether the repair qualifies under the warranty terms. Always retain repair orders and documentation in case of future questions.
Frequently asked questions
Is the warranty transferable to a new owner?
Yes. Chevrolet’s new-vehicle limited warranty is generally transferable to a new owner if the vehicle changes hands, although terms and any applicable fees may vary by region. Check with Chevrolet or your dealer for the exact transfer requirements.
Does the warranty cover custom or aftermarket parts?
Coverage typically applies to defects in materials or workmanship on Chevrolet-installed components or parts functioning within the vehicle’s systems. Aftermarket parts not installed by Chevrolet or an authorized dealer are usually not covered under the bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Summary
Chevrolet’s bumper-to-bumper warranty provides a baseline of protection for new vehicles, with a 3-year/36,000-mile coverage window that shields against defects in materials and workmanship. It sits alongside a longer powertrain warranty (5 years/60,000 miles), corrosion coverage (6 years/100,000 miles), and roadside assistance (typically 5 years/60,000 miles). Maintenance items, wear parts, and damage from accidents or improper care are generally excluded. For the most accurate terms—especially if you’re evaluating a used Chevrolet or a specific model year—consult Chevrolet’s official materials or your local dealer.
