How to Claim Your Car Warranty: Step-by-Step Guide

Owning a car in India requires the manufacturer’s warranty, which is a promise by the automaker to repair or replace faulty parts free of charge for a specified period or mileage. An extended warranty is an optional add-on that extends this coverage even further.

Warranties are critical as they protect consumers from unforeseen maintenance expenses and car insufficiencies, and they are legally binding obligations under Indian legislation. A valid warranty will save you money and time by covering the expense of any real manufacturing defect in the covered components.

Here is a step-by-step explanation of all you need to know to claim your car’s warranty in India, including both manufacturer and extended warranties.

Types of Car Warranties in India

A warranty from the manufacturer typically accompanies the purchase of a new car by Indian buyers. This standard warranty applies to defects in materials or workmanship in any covered part. For example, most brands offer a 3-year warranty per 100,000 km on new cars.

This effectively means that if a component breaks down due to a manufacturing defect within the warranty period, the automaker will either repair or replace it at no additional cost.

The following table summarises the major distinctions between the 2 types of car warranties: manufacturer warranties and extended warranties in India:

Feature	Manufacturer Warranty	Extended Warranty
Cost	Free with new car purchase	Optional, paid coverage that extends the warranty period
Duration/Limit	Generally 3 years -5 years or 100,000 km (whichever is earlier)	Gives an addition of 1-4 years to the original coverage
Activation	Included automatically at purchase	Must be purchased before the original warranty expires
Provider	Automaker (via its dealer/ authorised network)	Dealer/automaker or third-party provider, often through the dealer
Coverage	Mechanical and electrical defects due to regular usage	Coverage extended beyond the standard term; can have extras (e.g. roadside assistance)
Exclusions	Wear-and-tear parts, routine maintenance, abuse, and accidents	Wear-and-tear, maintenance services, modifications, accidents
Service Centers	Service warranty by authorised dealers/service branches only	Same authorised network; claims processed through service centres (or per provider’s instructions)
Transferable	In most cases, movable to the new owner (when it is properly documented)	Often transferable (depending on policy); check terms with provider

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Your Car Warranty

If you require warranty service on your car here in India, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Verify Warranty Status and Coverage

The first step is to determine whether your car is still under warranty (in terms of time and mileage) and whether the issue is covered. Refer to your warranty booklet or an official manufacturer’s brochure for more information.

The defect should be caused by normal usage and should occur within the warranty period.  If you have an extended warranty, confirm it’s active and keep the certificate ready.

• Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Gather the required paperwork in the service centre. This usually contains the original purchase invoice, warranty card/certificate, and service book/owner’s manual, which contains all the maintenance records stamped. You will also need:

• Registration Certificate (RC) of your car
• Valid insurance and Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate 
• Some photo identification of the owner (Aadhaar/PAN)

If you have an extended warranty, please also bring the contract document. It is always a good idea to save duplicates of such documents in the form of scans or copies so that they can be used later.

Indian law even allows bank statements or digital receipts as proof of purchase if the original invoice is lost or destroyed.

• Step 3: Contact the Dealer/Service Centre

Warranty repairs must be done at authorised service centres. Find the nearest one via the manufacturer’s website or app, and explain the issue by calling or visiting. Many dealers let you book appointments online.

Describe the problem clearly and confirm if it’s covered under warranty. For third-party extended warranties, notify the warranty company or insurer, who will direct you to an approved workshop.

• Step 4: Visit the Service Centre

Take your car to the authorised centre on the appointment day. Carry all documents listed above. Inform the service desk that the repair is under warranty and show your warranty and invoice.

You may need to pay a small inspection or consumable fee. If the car isn’t drivable, arrange towing to the nearest authorised workshop as advised in the warranty document.

• Step 5: Diagnosis by Service Centre

The workshop will examine the car and diagnose the fault. An authorised technician will determine if the issue is due to a manufacturing defect (warranty-covered) or not.

At this stage, you may be asked to sign an authorisation form. Provide the service advisor with your service booklet so they can verify that the dealer has performed all required scheduled services.

• Step 6: Approve Repairs

If the technician confirms the defect is covered by warranty, the service centre will proceed with the repair or part replacement at no charge. Major parts that fail due to a defect will be replaced under warranty.

• Step 7: Get an Itemised Job Card

It should list “Covered under Warranty” or “Warranty Claim” so you pay nothing for parts/labour on covered items. If any unrelated faults are found, you will be informed and given a separate quotation.

You can choose to have those repaired at your own cost or reject them; however, only the covered defect is mandatory to fix under the warranty claim.

• Step 8: Completion and Documentation

After the repairs are complete, inspect the work and request the final repair order. The service bill should show zero charge for warranty-covered work and any waived charges. Keep this as proof of completion.

The service centre will typically re-stamp your service booklet to show the work done. Even after repairs, continue to monitor your car for a short period to ensure the fault is resolved correctly.

• Step 9: Follow Up if Necessary

Keep the contact and job numbers handy. If you encounter any delays or disputes, follow up with the dealer’s service manager. Indian law treats warranties as legally binding commitments, so the company is obliged to honour valid claims.

If your claim is unreasonably denied or stalled, you can escalate, first within the company and ultimately to consumer forums. The Consumer Protection Act 2019 makes warranties enforceable and allows you to approach the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission if needed.

Manufacturer Warranty vs. Extended Warranty Claims

The basic claim process is similar for both warranties, but here are some specific pointers:

• Manufacturer Warranty Claims: Follow the steps above using your warranty booklet issued with the car. You do not need to buy anything extra, and the dealer will validate the manufacturer’s warranty themselves. During the visit, please note that the repair is covered under the primary warranty.
• Extended Warranty Claims: If you purchased an extended warranty (whether from the automaker or a third-party insurer), also carry the extended warranty contract or certificate. Many manufacturers contact them before any claim is made. The dealer will then liaise with the warranty provider for approval.

Important: Extended plans must be bought before the standard warranty expires. Once active, extended coverage is usually honoured through the same dealer network, but check your plan’s terms (some third-party plans may have their own network of garages).

In either case, be honest about the problem. Warranty fraud (like claiming a breakdown caused by misuse) can lead to rejection. The onus is on the manufacturer to prove customer “misuse” before denying a claim, but it’s best to document the issue clearly.

What are the Legal Tips and Documentation for Car Warranties?

Here’s a concise guide on legal tips and documentation essentials when claiming your car warranty:

• Understand Your Rights

Under India’s Consumer Protection Act 2019, warranties are legally enforceable promises, and a company cannot deny a valid claim without proving misuse or a breach of terms. If a dealer rejects your claim unfairly, you can escalate it by filing a written complaint with the manufacturer’s regional office or contacting the consumer grievance cells.

As a last resort, you may approach the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC) to enforce your rights.

• Keep Documents Safe

Store your invoice, warranty certificate, and service booklet in a secure location. Digital backups (photos or scans) are useful. If you lose the physical invoice, the record of purchase might be shown via bank statement or RTO records.

At the service centre, you’ll typically need:

• The original purchase invoice
• The warranty card/certificate 
• The service book (stamped with past services) and the owner’s manual 
• RC book of the vehicle
• Insurance and PUC certificates
• Your identity proof
• Car keys and any keys from child seats or accessories.

The dealer may also record your vehicle’s chassis/engine number to verify the warranty status.

• Use Authorised Centres

Always service and claim warranty at authorised dealerships. Manufacturers explicitly require this: Hyundai’s warranty terms state that warranty service shall be provided only by HMIL’s authorised dealers.

Similarly, Maruti allows warranty repairs only at an authorised Maruti Suzuki Service Centre. Servicing at unauthorised garages or using non-genuine parts may void your warranty.

• Maintain Service Schedule

Stick to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Missing scheduled services (oil changes, periodic inspections) is a common reason for warranty rejection. Keep stamps of each service (date, odometer reading) in the service booklet.

If a dealer skipped a free recall or preventive service that was due, ask them to update it; lapses can affect your warranty.

• Escalation and Consumer Forum

If your claim is wrongly denied, please escalate the issue in writing. Write to the dealership GM and copy the manufacturer. As a consumer in India, you have the legal right to have your case heard if service is refused.

The Consumer Protection Act allows a consumer to seek recourse through a consumer court if the company doesn’t honour a valid warranty claim. Keep a record of all communications (emails, call logs, complaint numbers).

What are the Common Mistakes to Avoid During Car Warranty Claims?

Listed below are the common mistakes to avoid when you’re claiming your car warranty:

• Skipping Scheduled Maintenance: Not following the service schedule is a top reason warranties get voided. Always service your car on time at the dealer workshops.
• Using Unauthorised Garages: Servicing at a non-authorised shop or by unqualified mechanics can invalidate warranty coverage. Stick to the brand’s service network.
• Aftermarket Modifications: Adding modifications (e.g., performance chips, turbochargers, non-OEM electrical components) can lead to a claim denial, even if unrelated to the failure. Check with the dealer before making changes.
• Losing Service Records: Failing to keep bills and job cards is a risky practice. Dealers may refuse warranty work if you can’t prove the car was correctly maintained.
• DIY Repairs on Complex Issues: Attempting major DIY fixes (such as the engine or transmission) can lead to the manufacturer denying warranty claims for related damage. Simple tasks (like wipers and bulbs) are fine, but let the pros handle anything else.
• Delaying Repairs: Ignoring dashboard warning lights or delaying the repair of defects can exacerbate the damage. Driving on a known fault (e.g. engine light on) and then claiming warranty can be problematic.
• Not Reading Terms Carefully: Extended warranties vary widely in coverage. Ensure you are aware of any excess coverage limits or excluded items. Also, note whether your warranty was supposed to be activated or registered at the time of purchase.

Summary

To maximise the benefits of your car warranty, consider transferring it if you sell the vehicle, and escalate issues if the dealer is uncooperative. Keep all repair records, consider purchasing extended warranties before factory coverage expires, and stay informed about brand advisories. Clear communication and proactive follow-ups help ensure smoother warranty repairs.

By following these steps and tips, Indian car owners can navigate the warranty claim process smoothly and avoid common pitfalls. Remember that a valid warranty claim should cost you nothing beyond your time and effort.

Stay organised, know your rights, and use your warranty to keep your car running reliably.

FAQs about How to Claim Car Warranty