How to Navigate the Dodge Factory Warranty: A Comprehensive Guide

What’s better than ultimate peace of mind as you enjoy your Dodge vehicle’s all-American style and performance?

Dodge provides every vehicle with a comprehensive factory warranty right from the factory. The warranty covers everything from the engine and transmission to advanced technology like UConnect infotainment systems. Owners simply need to visit their local Dodge dealer, and any issues covered within the warranty period are handled without additional cost.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about the Dodge factory warranty and some options for extending your peace of mind.

Understanding the Dodge Factory Warranty

A new Dodge vehicle comes with a factory warranty that provides peace of mind and protection against unexpected repairs.

Breakdown of the Different Warranty Features

Basic Limited Warranty (Bumper-to-Bumper)

Coverage: This comprehensive warranty covers nearly all parts of your vehicle, from the front bumper to the rear bumper, excluding regular maintenance items and wear-and-tear parts such as brake pads and tires.
Duration and Mileage: 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Benefits: Provides broad coverage for a wide range of components, giving you extensive protection during the initial years of ownership.

Powertrain Limited Warranty

Coverage: This warranty covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, which are crucial for the vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Duration and Mileage: 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Benefits: Ensures that your vehicle’s most critical and expensive parts are protected for a longer period, offering significant savings in case of major repairs.

Corrosion Perforation Warranty

Coverage: This warranty protects against rust and corrosion that cause perforations (holes) in the metal parts of your vehicle’s body.
Duration and Mileage: 5 years and unlimited miles.
Benefits: Provides long-term protection against rust-related damage, which can compromise your vehicle’s structural integrity and appearance.

Federal Emissions Warranty

Coverage: This warranty covers specific emissions components, ensuring your vehicle meets federal emissions standards. Components such as the catalytic converter, engine control module, and other emission-related parts are included.
Duration and Mileage: Most parts are covered for 2 years or 24,000 miles, with certain components covered for up to 8 years or 80,000 miles.
Benefits: Ensures your vehicle remains environmentally friendly and compliant with emissions regulations, avoiding potential fines and penalties.

Duration and Mileage Limits for Each Component

Basic Limited Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
Powertrain Limited Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
Corrosion Perforation Warranty: 5 years, unlimited miles
Federal Emissions Warranty: 2 years or 24,000 miles (most parts), 8 years or 80,000 miles (specific components)

Common Problems Covered by the Dodge Factory Warranty

When you own a Dodge vehicle, the factory warranty offers crucial protection against a range of common issues that can arise. Here, we explore the typical problems covered under the factory warranty and their estimated repair costs if your warranty is expired.

Engine and Transmission Problems

Engine issues: These include problems like engine stalling, oil leaks, and malfunctioning engine components.
Transmission issues: Covers issues such as transmission slipping, hard shifts, and complete transmission failure.
Estimated Costs Without Warranty: Engine repairs can range from $500 to $7,000 depending on the severity. Transmission repairs or replacements can cost between $1,500 and $4,000.

Electrical System Issues

Common problems: Malfunctioning sensors, faulty wiring, issues with the vehicle’s computer system, and defective alternators.
Estimated Costs Without Warranty: Electrical system repairs can vary widely but typically range from $200 to $1,500.

Suspension and Steering Issues

Suspension issues: Problems like worn-out shock absorbers, broken springs, and faulty control arms.
Steering issues: Includes power steering pump failures, steering rack issues, and alignment problems.
Estimated Costs Without Warranty: Suspension repairs can cost between $200 and $2,000, and steering repairs can range from $150 to $1,500.

Air Conditioning and Heating Problems

AC problems: Issues such as refrigerant leaks, faulty compressors, and broken condensers.
Heating problems: Includes malfunctioning heaters, defective blower motors, and thermostat issues.
Estimated Costs Without Warranty: Air conditioning repairs can cost between $150 and $1,000, and heating system repairs can range from $100 to $900.

The Limitations of the Dodge Factory Warranty

While the Dodge factory warranty provides extensive coverage for various components and repairs, it’s essential to understand what it does not cover to avoid unexpected expenses and ensure you maintain your vehicle correctly.

Here’s a breakdown of the limitations of the Dodge factory warranty.

Wear and Tear Items

Brakes: Pads, rotors, and other brake components that wear down through normal use.
Tires: Regular tire wear and damage.
Other wear items: Wiper blades, brake linings, clutch linings, and similar parts that are expected to wear out over time.

These items naturally degrade with use and are not covered because they need regular replacement.

Regular Maintenance Services

Oil changes: Regular oil and filter changes to keep the engine running smoothly.
Fluid replacements: Including coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid.
Tune-ups: Regular inspections and adjustments to ensure the vehicle runs efficiently.
Other maintenance: Air filter replacements, spark plug replacements, and tire rotations.

Maintenance services are part of the routine care required to keep the vehicle in good condition and are the owner’s responsibility.

Damages Due to Accidents or Improper Use

Accidental damage: Includes collision damage, dents, and scratches.
Misuse: Damage from racing, overloading, or using the vehicle for purposes it wasn’t intended for.
Environmental damage: Issues caused by external factors such as floods, hail, and extreme weather.

These damages result from external factors or improper use that are not related to manufacturing defects or workmanship.

Importance of Understanding These Limitations to Avoid Surprises

Knowing what the Dodge factory warranty does not cover is crucial for several reasons:

Preventing Unexpected Costs: Being aware of the exclusions helps you plan for potential out-of-pocket expenses for maintenance and wear-and-tear items.
Proper Vehicle Maintenance: Understanding that regular maintenance is not covered by the warranty encourages you to keep up with essential services to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and avoids larger issues.
Avoiding Warranty Voids: Misuse or failure to maintain the vehicle can void parts of the warranty, leading to uncovered repairs. Proper use and maintenance ensure you remain eligible for warranty benefits.

Introducing Mopar Vehicle Protection

Mopar Vehicle Protection steps in when your factory warranty expires to provide additional financial protection and peace of mind.

Here’s an overview of the various Mopar Vehicle Protection plans and the benefits of choosing a Mopar extended warranty.

Benefits of Choosing a Mopar Extended Warranty

Extended Coverage Period

Extended Protection: Mopar Vehicle Protection plans offer coverage well beyond the original factory warranty, ensuring you’re protected for a longer period.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have extended coverage helps alleviate concerns about potential costly repairs down the road.

More Comprehensive Coverage

In-depth Protection: Plans like Maximum Care cover nearly every component of your vehicle, providing thorough protection.
High-Tech Coverage: Modern vehicles come with advanced technology, and Mopar plans ensure these features are included in the coverage.

Roadside Assistance and Rental Car Reimbursement

Roadside Assistance: Includes services like towing, battery jump-start, flat tire change, and emergency fuel delivery.
Rental Car Reimbursement: If your vehicle needs a repair that will take longer than expected, you’ll receive reimbursement for rental car expenses, keeping you on the move without additional cost.

Detailed Look at Mopar Extended Warranty Options

When it comes to extending the warranty coverage for your Dodge vehicle, Mopar offers several comprehensive plans designed to suit various needs and budgets. Here’s a detailed look at each Mopar plan, covering its specific benefits, costs, and how it compares to third-party warranty providers.

Mopar Maximum Care

Coverage Details: Provides the most comprehensive coverage, protecting over 5,000 components, including nearly all mechanical and electrical parts. It’s the closest you can get to bumper-to-bumper protection.
Costs and Value for Money: This plan is more expensive due to its extensive coverage. However, it offers significant value by minimizing out-of-pocket repair costs for virtually all parts of your vehicle.
Flexibility and Transferability: Highly flexible with various term lengths and mileage options. The plan is transferable, making it a great choice for those who might sell their vehicle in the future.

Mopar Added Care Plus

Coverage Details: Covers over 800 major components, including the engine, transmission, steering, brakes, and air conditioning. It also includes high-tech features such as sensors and electronics.
Costs and Value for Money: The cost varies based on the vehicle model, age, and mileage. Typically, it’s a mid-range option offering excellent value by covering numerous essential systems without the higher price of more comprehensive plans.
Flexibility and Transferability: Can be transferred to a new owner if you sell your vehicle, potentially increasing the resale value. Flexible terms and mileage options are available to suit different needs.

Mopar Powertrain Care

Coverage Details: Focuses on the core components of the powertrain: the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Ideal for those looking to protect the most crucial and costly parts of their vehicle.
Costs and Value for Money: Generally the most affordable option among Mopar plans. Offers substantial value by covering high-cost repairs without the expense of more comprehensive plans.
Flexibility and Transferability: Provides various term lengths and mileage options. Like other Mopar plans, it is transferable, offering added value to potential buyers.

Comparison with Other Third-Party Warranty Providers

When comparing Mopar extended warranty options to third-party providers, several key points stand out:

Coverage and Customization: Mopar plans are designed specifically for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, ensuring optimal compatibility and comprehensive coverage. Third-party providers may offer broader coverage options but lack the specific expertise and parts compatibility that Mopar guarantees.
Cost: Third-party warranties can sometimes be cheaper, but they might not offer the same level of coverage or the ease of service at authorized dealerships.
Service and Repairs: With Mopar, repairs are handled by certified technicians using genuine Mopar parts. Third-party warranties may allow for repairs at a wider range of service centers, but the quality and parts used can vary.
Flexibility and Transferability: Mopar and top third-party warranties offer flexibility regarding mileage options. However, Mopar’s plans are tailored explicitly to Dodge and other Stellantis family vehicles, often providing better overall value for owners of these brands.

Where can you buy Mopar Vehicle Protection?

Granger Motors is the best place to purchase a factory-backed Mopar Vehicle Protection plan for several reasons.

As a trusted dealership with a strong reputation for customer satisfaction, Granger Motors offers unmatched expertise in Mopar products and services. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right plan tailored to your needs, ensuring you get the most comprehensive coverage.

At Granger Motors, you benefit from personalized customer service and support, making purchasing and managing your extended warranty straightforward and stress-free. Buying directly from a dealership like Granger Motors means you get factory-backed coverage, guaranteeing genuine Mopar parts and certified technicians for all repairs.

Plus, Granger Motors offers flexible financing options and competitive pricing, making it easier to protect your investment. Choose Granger Motors for peace of mind and top-notch service when securing your Mopar Vehicle Protection plan.

FAQs About Mopar Vehicle Protection and Dodge Factory Warranty

What are the common problems covered by the Dodge factory warranty?

The Dodge factory warranty covers several common issues that may arise during the initial years of ownership. These include:

Engine and Transmission Problems: Issues like engine stalling, oil leaks, transmission slipping, and hard shifts.
Electrical System Issues: Faulty wiring, malfunctioning sensors, and defective alternators.
Suspension and Steering Issues: Worn-out shock absorbers, broken springs, and power steering pump failures.

Air Conditioning and Heating Problems: Refrigerant leaks, faulty compressors, and broken heaters.

Without warranty coverage, these repairs can be costly, with engine repairs ranging from $500 to $7,000 and transmission repairs from $1,500 to $4,000.

What does the Dodge factory warranty not cover?

The Dodge factory warranty has certain limitations and does not cover:

Wear and Tear Items: Parts that naturally degrade over time, such as brake pads, tires, wiper blades, and clutch linings.
Regular Maintenance Services: Routine services like oil changes, fluid replacements, tune-ups, and tire rotations.

Damages Due to Accidents or Improper Use: Collision damage, environmental damage (floods, hail), and damage from racing or overloading the vehicle.

Understanding these exclusions helps you avoid unexpected costs and maintain your vehicle properly.

What are the different Mopar Vehicle Protection plans available?

Mopar offers several extended warranty plans tailored to different needs:

Added Care Plus: Covers over 800 components, including major systems and high-tech features. It offers excellent value with flexible terms.
Maximum Care: The most comprehensive plan, covering over 5,000 components, providing nearly bumper-to-bumper protection.
Powertrain Care: Focuses on the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, offering essential protection for critical parts.
Essentials Plans: Includes specialized plans such as maintenance packages, tire and wheel protection, and key fob replacement.

How does Mopar Vehicle Protection compare to third-party warranty providers?

Mopar Vehicle Protection plans offer several advantages over third-party warranties:

Coverage and Customization: Mopar plans are designed specifically for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, ensuring optimal compatibility and comprehensive coverage.
Cost: While third-party warranties can sometimes be cheaper, Mopar plans offer better value with comprehensive coverage and genuine Mopar parts.
Service and Repairs: Repairs under Mopar plans are handled by certified technicians at authorized dealerships using genuine parts, ensuring quality and reliability.
Flexibility and Transferability: Mopar plans offer flexible terms and are transferable, often providing better overall value for owners of these specific vehicle brands.