Van warranty

Buying a van is a big commitment, so it makes sense to protect your investment. While insurance covers you for unexpected events like collisions, a van warranty can help cover the cost of repair if there's a mechanical or electrical failure. Here we lift the hood on the different types of van warranties, what they cover and how much they cost.

What is van warranty?

A van warranty is a service contract covering repairs or replacement if your van has a mechanical or electrical fault.

These are often provided by the manufacturer if you buy the van new, or the dealer if you buy second hand. You can also buy one independently. The warranty gives you assurance that the van will be of a good working standard and condition - and it'll be fixed for you if anything goes wrong.

It usually runs for a set period of time, and then the responsibility of repairing the van falls to you. It's also worth noting that a warranty doesn't replace van insurance, which you'll need in place to drive legally.

Van warranty vs van insurance: what are the differences?

While a warranty is like insurance in the sense that it's there to cover you if things go wrong, they actually have very different functions.

A van warranty covers repairs if there's an electrical or mechanical failure. In these instances, parts fail on their own, rather than being damaged as a result of outside forces.

On the other hand, depending on your level of cover, van insurance protects you financially against damage caused by collisions, fire or theft. And, crucially, it covers you for injury to third parties or damage to their property - which is why it's a legal requirement.

Another difference is that you can't currently get a van warranty through Confused.com, whereas you can compare van insurance.

Why do you need a van warranty?

Warranties aren't compulsory, but they do provide a safety net from repair costs, which can be expensive - especially with new vans.

Some vans will be sold with a warranty, which can give you peace of mind from the off. You may then have the option of renewing it annually.

Terms and conditions will usually apply to the warranty. For instance, you may need to service the van regularly for it to remain valid. The warranty may also expire after you've exceeded a specified mileage.

Types of van warranty available

There are three types of van warranty:

Manufacturer van warranties

If you buy a new van, it'll usually come with a manufacturer's warranty. These generally last 2 to 5 years, but can be as long as 7.

You still have the option of buying a different warranty if you find one with better cover.

Extended van warranties

These can be taken out for new or used vans, even if you already have a warranty in place. Also known as 'after-market' warranties, these give you extended cover after the original warranty expires.

In order to buy an extended warranty, you'll probably need to show your van has been recently serviced and has an MOT.

Independent dealer van warranties

When you buy a van from a dealership or garage, you may be offered a warranty. Cover tends not to last long - usually just a few months - but you may be able to extend it for an extra charge.

What does van warranty cover?

Warranties cover repairs to mechanical or electrical components which might fail on their own. This can include:

• Engine
• Gearbox
• Transmission
• Brakes
• Clutch
• Steering
• Electrics
• Fuel system
• Cooling system
• Suspension

Cover is likely to vary from provider to provider, so check to see what's covered before you commit. It's also worth looking for a 'betterment' clause. This means that if a part is fitted which is better than the original, you may have to contribute to the cost.

What doesn't it cover?

As mentioned, warranties don't cover the same things as van insurance policies - such as accidental damage or vandalism. In addition, here are some of the common exclusions:

• Wear and tear. This tends to apply to things like tyres, the clutch, brake discs and pads, the exhaust and catalytic converters
• Cosmetic damage
• Replaceable parts such as the battery, bulbs, tyres and wheels
• General maintenance

Policy breaches, such as if you make modifications, or use unapproved parts

How long does van warranty last?

It depends. If you buy your van new, a warranty might last from 2 to 5 years, or even up to 7. Other policies may last for a year with the option to extend. And independent dealer warranties for second hand vans may only last a few months. It's always best to check.

Alternatively, you might get a warranty which expires after you clock up a certain number of miles, rather than a length of time.

How much does it cost?

Again, it depends. Several factors can influence the cost of a van warranty, including:

• The driver's age
• The make and model of van, and its size
• How often it's used

If you're clocking up a high mileage, it's likely that your van warranty will cost more. But it's always best to compare policies to find the right one for you before you commit.

What else should I consider before buying a van warranty?

When shopping for a van warranty, it's possible to buy insured warranty products and uninsured warranty products. In the case of the former, these are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). This can offer extra peace of mind if something goes wrong.

It's also worth considering van breakdown cover, which can get you home or get your van to a garage if it breaks down. This usually covers the cost of recovery, labour and some parts. But it won't go as far as a warranty in terms of replacing electrical or mechanical components if they fail.

Rather than paying for a warranty, some people choose to put aside some money each month in a repair fund. This will ultimately save you money if nothing goes wrong with the van. But it's a gamble, because if something does, it could end up being much more expensive - especially with a new model.

Can you get a warranty for a used van?

Yes. Assuming the original van manufacturer's warranty has expired, you can still buy a warranty for a second hand van.

You may be able to get a warranty from the dealer you buy the van from. Alternatively, you may be able to buy a standalone warranty - in other words an extended warranty. Whether you can get one and its cost will depend on the age and mileage of your van.

Is a van warranty worth it?

Van warranties can be useful if something goes wrong. Repairs, especially for parts and labor, can get expensive, so a warranty might help you avoid a big bill if something unexpected happens.