Honda Factory Warranty Explained

Honda builds some of the most popular cars and SUVs in the country, from the Civic and Accord to the CR-V and Pilot. Every new Honda comes with a factory warranty, and understanding it helps you get the most from it and plan for what comes after. Here is a straightforward breakdown.

Honda's main warranty terms

Honda's factory coverage has two main parts. Terms can vary by model year, so confirm the details for your vehicle in the warranty booklet.

• Basic (new vehicle limited) warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Powertrain warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Both start on the vehicle's in-service date, the day it was first delivered to a buyer or put into use. If you buy a used Honda, the remaining coverage generally carries over to you.

Honda also provides separate coverage for things such as emissions components, corrosion and certain hybrid or electrified components on some models. Check your booklet for these terms.

What the basic warranty covers

The basic warranty covers repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship on most parts of the vehicle. That typically includes:

• Electrical systems and power accessories.
• Air conditioning and heating.
• Infotainment, audio and navigation.
• Steering and suspension components.
• Sensors and many driver-assist components.

It does not cover routine maintenance, normal wear items such as brake pads, wiper blades and tires (which have their own manufacturer warranty), or damage from accidents, misuse or the environment.

What the powertrain warranty covers

The powertrain warranty continues after the basic warranty ends and focuses on the parts that make the car go:

• Engine: internal parts such as the block, cylinder heads, crankshaft and pistons.
• Transmission: including automatic, manual and CVT units, depending on the model.
• Drive system: axles, differentials and, on all-wheel-drive models, related components.

Honda uses CVTs in many models, so the transmission portion of this coverage is especially valuable. Our page on transmission coverage explains these components in more detail.

Keeping your warranty valid

To keep coverage in good standing:

1. Follow the maintenance schedule. Many Hondas use a maintenance reminder system that tells you when service is due based on driving conditions.
2. Keep records. Save receipts whether you use a dealer, an independent shop or do the work yourself.
3. Use the right fluids and parts. Use fluids that meet Honda's specifications, especially for CVTs.
4. Report problems promptly. Waiting can let a small issue cause additional damage.

In general terms, federal law means you do not have to use a Honda dealer for routine maintenance to keep your warranty. Warranty repairs, however, are performed at authorized Honda dealers.

What happens when coverage ends

Here is how a typical Honda's coverage timeline plays out:

• Before 3 years or 36,000 miles: Most defects are covered.
• Between basic and powertrain expiration: Only powertrain parts are covered. A failed AC compressor, power window motor or touchscreen becomes your cost.
• After 5 years or 60,000 miles: No factory coverage for mechanical or electrical failures, aside from any separate emissions or corrosion terms that may still apply.

Drivers who cover a lot of miles can reach these limits well before the time runs out. Check your odometer against the mileage limits regularly.

Extended coverage options

Honda owners who want protection beyond the factory warranty can look at manufacturer-backed plans sold through dealers or at plans from independent third-party providers. When comparing, look at:

• Whether the plan is exclusionary (covers everything except listed exclusions) or stated-component.
• The deductible and whether it applies per visit or per repair.
• Where you can take the car for repairs.
• Transferability and cancellation terms.

Our Honda warranty page covers model-specific considerations, and our plans page explains common coverage tiers.

How Warranty Wizards can help

We help Honda owners compare plans from independent third-party providers and explain what each one covers before you buy. Shopping before your factory coverage ends often gives you more options. You can request a free quote at /get-a-quote/.