Ford Factory Warranty Explained

Ford sells a wide range of vehicles, from compact SUVs to heavy-duty trucks and electric models. Every new Ford comes with factory warranty coverage, and knowing how long it lasts and what it includes helps you plan for repairs. Here is a plain-language overview.

Ford's main warranty terms

Ford's new vehicle coverage is built around two main warranties:

• Bumper-to-bumper (basic) coverage: 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first
• Powertrain coverage: 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first

Terms can vary by model year, and certain vehicles or components may have different coverage. Electric vehicles, for example, have separate coverage for their high-voltage battery and electric drive components. Your warranty booklet is the final word for your specific vehicle.

Coverage starts on the warranty start date, which is the date the vehicle was first delivered to a customer or put into service, not necessarily the date you bought it.

What bumper-to-bumper coverage includes

The basic warranty covers repairs needed because of defects in factory materials or workmanship on most parts of the vehicle. That generally includes:

• Electrical components and modules
• Air conditioning and heating
• Infotainment and audio systems
• Steering and suspension components
• Power accessories like windows, locks and seats
• Sensors and driver assistance hardware

What powertrain coverage includes

The powertrain warranty focuses on the parts that make the vehicle go. Typically that means:

• The engine and its internal parts
• The transmission and transaxle
• Front and rear drive axles
• On four-wheel and all-wheel-drive models, the transfer case
• Seals and gaskets on those components in many cases
• Turbochargers on engines that use them, in many cases

Ford trucks and SUVs with turbocharged engines and complex four-wheel-drive systems make powertrain coverage especially relevant to many owners.

What the factory warranty does not cover

Like most automakers, Ford excludes:

• Normal maintenance, such as oil changes, filters and fluids
• Wear items like brake pads, rotors, wiper blades and clutch linings
• Tires, which are covered separately by the tire manufacturer
• Damage from accidents, misuse, environmental factors or lack of maintenance
• Damage caused by certain aftermarket parts or modifications

Commercial use, towing beyond rated limits and racing can also affect coverage. Check the booklet for specifics.

Transferring coverage when you sell

Ford's factory coverage generally stays with the vehicle, so a second owner can benefit from any remaining time and miles. That is different from some brands that limit their longest powertrain coverage to the original owner. If you are buying a used Ford, confirm the original warranty start date so you know how much coverage remains.

Planning for coverage after the factory warranty

Ford's basic coverage ends at 3 years or 36,000 miles, while powertrain coverage continues to 5 years or 60,000 miles. During that gap, repairs to systems like air conditioning, electronics and infotainment are out of pocket. After 5 years or 60,000 miles, all repairs are.

Options for continued coverage include:

1. Manufacturer-backed extended plans sold through dealers
2. Third-party vehicle service contracts from independent providers
3. A dedicated repair fund you build yourself

When comparing service contracts, check the coverage level, deductible, waiting period, claim process and whether you can use any licensed repair shop. Also check how each contract treats components common on Ford vehicles, such as turbochargers, four-wheel-drive systems and in-dash electronics. Our Ford warranty page has more brand-specific details.

Whatever you choose, a few habits help you get the most from your coverage:

• Keep maintenance receipts with dates and mileage.
• Check for open recalls using your vehicle identification number.
• Ask the dealer about any technical service bulletins if you notice a recurring issue.
• Report problems while still under warranty, even if they seem minor, so they are documented.

How Warranty Wizards can help

We help Ford owners compare vehicle service contracts from independent third-party providers and explain what each plan covers before you buy. To see options for your Ford, request a free quote at /get-a-quote/.