VW is working hard to pull itself out from under the black cloud that has floated overhead since it was caught cheating on diesel emissions. To help make its cars more appealing, the company has announced that it has extended the bumper-to-bumper warranty for all of its cars to 6-years or 72,000 miles. Previously that long warranty was only offered on the Tiguan and Atlas.
Now every car in the VW line carries that same warranty. Before the upgrade, the warranty was only 3-years or 36,000 miles which is standard across the board. The better warranty puts VW ahead of Hyundai, Kia, and Mitsubishi for warranty length with those firms having a 5-year or 60,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty, but a 10-year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.
Implications of the Extended Warranty
The extension of the warranty is a strategic move by VW to regain consumer trust and enhance the perceived value of its vehicles. This extended warranty is not just a marketing gimmick; it represents a significant commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. By offering a 6-year or 72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, VW is signaling to potential buyers that it stands behind the reliability and durability of its cars. This move could be particularly appealing to those who are wary of the brand due to past controversies.
Moreover, the extended warranty could potentially reduce the overall cost of ownership for VW customers. With longer coverage, owners are less likely to incur out-of-pocket expenses for repairs during the warranty period. This can be a significant selling point, especially for budget-conscious consumers who are looking for long-term value in their vehicle purchase.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to its competitors, VW’s new warranty policy stands out. Hyundai, Kia, and Mitsubishi offer a 5-year or 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, which is already considered generous in the automotive industry. However, VW’s 6-year or 72,000-mile warranty surpasses these offerings, providing an additional year and 12,000 miles of coverage.
It’s worth noting that while Hyundai, Kia, and Mitsubishi offer a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, these warranties often come with limitations. For instance, the powertrain warranty is usually not fully transferable to subsequent owners. This means that if the car is sold, the new owner may not benefit from the full extent of the warranty. In contrast, VW’s warranty is fully transferable to a new owner if the car is sold. This feature adds to the resale value of VW vehicles, making them more attractive in the used car market.
Only Mitsubishi offers a fully transferable warranty to match VW. This makes VW’s warranty policy one of the most competitive in the industry, potentially attracting buyers who prioritize long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs.
Consumer Reactions and Market Impact
The consumer reaction to VW’s extended warranty has been largely positive. Many potential buyers see it as a sign that VW is committed to making amends for past mistakes and is serious about the quality of its vehicles. This move could help VW regain market share that it lost due to the diesel emissions scandal.
Additionally, the extended warranty could influence other automakers to reevaluate their own warranty policies. If VW’s strategy proves successful, competitors may feel pressured to offer similar or better warranties to remain competitive. This could lead to an overall improvement in warranty offerings across the automotive industry, benefiting consumers.
In conclusion, VW’s decision to extend its bumper-to-bumper warranty to 6-years or 72,000 miles is a bold and strategic move aimed at rebuilding consumer trust and enhancing the value proposition of its vehicles. By offering one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry, VW is setting a new standard for customer assurance and long-term vehicle reliability.
via Autblog
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
