Brake Pad Warranty: Types, Coverage, Limitations,
Brake pads are a key component of a vehicle’s braking system. They are the friction material that presses against the brake rotor to slow and stop the wheels from turning. Quality brake pads are essential for safe and effective braking. As the brake pads wear down from friction, they need to be replaced periodically to maintain proper braking performance.
Brake pads come in different materials like ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic. Each has their pros and cons in terms of noise, dust, stopping power, wear rate, and more. Most vehicles use front and rear brake pads of different sizes. It’s important to select the correctly sized replacement pads per wheel when servicing your brakes.
This article will provide an overview of brake pad warranties – what’s typically covered, not covered, limitations, and how to file a claim. We’ll also discuss tips for extending your warranty and what can void it. Third party brake pad warranties will also be examined.
Types of Brake Pad Warranties
There are several common types of brake pad warranties:
Lifetime
Lifetime warranties cover brake pads for as long as you own the vehicle, regardless of mileage. These warranties are usually offered by aftermarket manufacturers like Wagner and Raybestos, not OEMs. Lifetime warranties only apply to materials and workmanship defects, not normal wear. You must have the brake pads installed by a certified mechanic and save the receipt to make a valid warranty claim. 1
Limited Mileage
Limited mileage warranties cover brake pads up to a certain mileage, usually between 50,000-70,000 miles. The warranty expires once this mileage limit is reached. Limited mileage warranties may be offered by OEMs or aftermarket manufacturers. As with lifetime warranties, you’ll need proof of professional installation to make a claim. 2
Pro-Rated
Pro-rated warranties provide partial coverage for brake pads based on mileage or time of use. For example, a pro-rated warranty may cover the full cost of replacement pads for the first 30,000 miles, then go down to a 50% or 75% coverage after that. You pay the balance not covered by the prorated warranty. 3
Transferable
Transferable warranties can be transferred to a new owner if you sell the vehicle before the warranty expires. This provides added value and assurance over the lifetime of the pads. Not all warranties are transferable so check the fine print.
What is Typically Covered
Most new vehicle warranties provide some coverage for brake pads, though the specifics vary between manufacturers. According to Chrysler-Factory-Warranty.com, brake pads are generally not covered under the bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranty since they are wear items that degrade over time and use 1. However, some warranties will cover brake pads if a defect causes premature wear.
Parts that are typically covered under a brake pad warranty include the brake pads themselves and sometimes rotors or calipers if a defect is present. Most manufacturers will not cover the labor costs to replace brake pads, though some luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz have been known to cover both parts and labor for a short period 2.
If brake pads are covered due to a defect, the warranty will generally provide replacement pads. The warranty likely will not reimburse pads purchased from third-party retailers. Overall, standard brake pad coverage is quite limited under new vehicle warranties.
What is Not Covered
Most brake pad warranties do not cover normal wear and tear. As a consumable part designed to gradually wear down from friction, brake pads deteriorate naturally over time and use. Manufacturers typically classify brake pads as a “wear item” not eligible for warranty coverage.
Noise or squealing from the brakes is also not covered under warranty. Noises can occur as the brake pads wear and require replacement. While annoying, squeaky brakes are not generally considered a defect.
Additionally, any problems caused by improper installation of the brake pads would not be covered. For the warranty to be valid, brake pads must be installed correctly per the manufacturer’s specifications. Damage from incorrect set up, handling, or use voids the warranty.
In summary, wear and tear, noise, and improper installation are common exclusions not covered under brake pad warranties. The warranty only applies if the brake pads have an inherent defect in the materials or construction. Normal deterioration or incorrect installation leading to issues will not be covered under warranty. Consult your brake pad manufacturer’s policy for full details on exclusions.
Warranty Limitations
Brake pad warranties often come with limitations and fine print details that consumers should be aware of. Some key limitations to look out for include:
Many warranties do not cover normal wear and tear. Brake pads degrade over time naturally, so manufacturers may not cover replacement if the pads wore down through normal use.
Warranties have eligibility requirements. You may need to have had original factory pads installed or have service records proving regular maintenance.
“Lifetime” warranties usually mean the lifetime of the brake pads, not the vehicle or owner. Once installed pads reach the end of their usable life, the warranty expires.
Warranties only cover defects in materials and workmanship, not damage from external factors like improper installation or debris.
Reimbursement is often limited to the original purchase price or prorated based on pad wear. Labor costs may not be included.
Transferability to future owners may be limited or prohibited. The warranty applies to the original purchaser.
Documentation, proof of purchase, and/or return of worn pads may be required for warranty claims.
There are often mileage and time limits. Most brake pad warranties expire after 3-5 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
How to File a Warranty Claim
The process for filing a warranty claim on brake pads will vary depending on the manufacturer, but there are some common requirements:
Proof of Purchase – You’ll need to show proof that you purchased the brake pads, usually in the form of the original receipt or invoice. Make sure it shows the date and place of purchase. According to Brakes-Shop’s warranty policy, “To process a warranty claim, we require you to contact our customer service. Warranty Brake Pads. The Brakes-Shop Brakes warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship when installed correctly.”
Authorized Dealer – Most manufacturers require that you have the brake pads installed at one of their authorized dealers in order to maintain the warranty. As Brake Performance states, “All warranty claims require proof of purchase and must be approved by an authorized representative of Brake Performance.” Doing the work yourself or going to an independent shop often voids the warranty.
Reimbursement – The brake pad manufacturer will typically reimburse you for the cost of the replacement pads only, not any labor costs. Make sure to find out the reimbursement policy and keep records of any expenses. As noted by Motor1, you’ll often have to initially pay out of pocket for the repair work before being reimbursed under the warranty.
The key is to understand the warranty terms upfront and follow the procedures closely when filing a claim. Keep detailed records and submit the required documentation. With patience, you can successfully obtain coverage under your brake pad warranty.
Extending Your Warranty
Proper maintenance is key to extending your brake pad warranty. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and keeping detailed service records can help demonstrate that you’ve properly cared for your vehicle. Always retain paperwork and invoices for any brake service or repairs. Some manufacturers may extend your warranty if you can prove the brakes were maintained according to specifications.
Certain companies like Endurance offer extended brake pad warranties that go beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, covering brake pads and rotors for additional time or mileage. You’ll need to purchase their extended warranty plans for this extra coverage. Compare plans and pricing to see if an extended third-party warranty makes sense for your situation.
Extended warranties can provide peace of mind by covering repairs that would otherwise come out of pocket. But they do add cost upfront, so weigh the benefits vs. potential repair costs on your specific vehicle.
Voiding Your Warranty
It is possible to void your brake pad warranty through improper installation or abuse. Most brake pad warranties state that in order for the warranty to be valid, the brake pads must be installed by a certified mechanic according to the manufacturer’s specifications. If you or an uncertified mechanic installs the brake pads incorrectly, this can void the warranty.
Additionally, abusing your brakes or using them in a way that they were not designed for can also void the warranty. For example, if you use your vehicle for towing or hauling heavy loads on a regular basis, this puts extra stress on the brake pads and can cause premature wear and failure. The warranty does not cover brake pads worn out due to customer abuse. Track use or racing your vehicle can also void the brake pad warranty.
In general, as long as you have your brake pads installed properly by a certified mechanic and use your vehicle as intended by the manufacturer, you should not run into issues with voiding the warranty. But improper use or installation that causes premature brake wear or failure will not be covered.
Third Party Warranties
In addition to manufacturer warranties, there are also aftermarket warranty providers that offer extended coverage for brake pads. Companies like AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Pep Boys provide their own lifetime warranties on brake pads purchased through their stores. These third party warranties can provide extra coverage beyond the original manufacturer’s warranty.
The key benefit of third party brake pad warranties is that they typically last for the lifetime of the pads, rather than just a few years/miles. For example, AutoZone offers a lifetime warranty on its Duralast brake pads covering defects in materials and workmanship. As long as you own the vehicle the pads were installed on, you can get free replacement pads if they wear out prematurely due to manufacturing defects.
The downside is that third party warranties may have more limitations in coverage compared to the original manufacturer’s warranty. They do not cover normal wear and tear, only defects. You also need to have the pads installed and keep proof of purchase to maintain the warranty. Still, for extended brake pad protection after the factory warranty expires, a lifetime third party warranty can provide additional peace of mind.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the details of your brake pad warranty is crucial to avoid any surprises or disputes when needing to make a claim. While most standard manufacturer warranties do not cover wear items like brake pads, some dealerships or third party providers may offer extended or lifetime warranties. However, these often come with limitations and exclusions. Before purchasing an extended brake pad warranty, carefully review what is and is not covered as well as any mileage, time duration or other restrictions. When filing a claim, follow the proper procedures and have documentation ready to show proof of purchase, installation and maintenance records. With some diligent research upfront and proper documentation, you can feel confident you are getting the coverage you expect from your brake pad warranty.
Brake pads are a critical safety component, so take the time to understand any warranty that comes with them. Doing your homework on the terms and limitations will help ensure you can take advantage of the coverage you are entitled to. A brake pad warranty provides useful consumer protection, but you must understand exactly what is and is not included.