Understanding Your 2021 Subaru Warranty: What's Covered and What's Not

Buying a new car is a big deal, and knowing what's covered if something goes wrong is important. Your 2021 Subaru comes with a warranty, but what exactly does it cover? It's not always super clear, right? We're going to break down what the 2021 Subaru warranty means for you, from the basic stuff to the bigger components. Plus, we'll look at what you're responsible for and what happens if you buy a used Subaru. Let's get this figured out.

Key Takeaways

• The 2021 Subaru New Vehicle Limited Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship for 36 months or 60,000 km, whichever comes first.

• A separate Major Component Warranty extends coverage for key parts up to 60 months or 100,000 km.

• Routine maintenance, damage from accidents or misuse, and normal wear-and-tear items like tires are generally not covered by the factory warranty.

• Genuine Subaru parts and accessories have their own warranty, with different coverage periods depending on when they were installed.

• Pre-owned Subarus, especially Certified Pre-Owned ones, have specific warranty terms that vary based on the vehicle's age and mileage.

Understanding Your 2021 Subaru New Vehicle Limited Warranty

When you buy a new 2021 Subaru, you're getting a vehicle backed by a solid warranty. Subaru stands behind its cars, and this New Vehicle Limited Warranty is the first layer of that promise. It's designed to cover issues that might pop up due to how the car was made or the parts used.

Coverage Duration and Mileage

So, how long does this basic coverage last? For most new Subarus, the New Vehicle Limited Warranty is good for 36 months or 60,000 miles, whichever of those two limits you hit first. This coverage starts the day you take delivery of your car. If your Subaru was used as a demo model before you bought it, the clock started ticking when it first went into demo service.

What Constitutes a Defect

Basically, a defect means something is wrong with the car because of a problem with the materials used or how it was put together at the factory. It's not about normal wear and tear or something that breaks because of how you drive. Think of it as a manufacturing flaw that causes a part to fail or not work as intended under normal driving conditions.

Exclusions from New Vehicle Coverage

It's important to know what this initial warranty doesn't cover. For starters, the original tires on your Subaru aren't part of this warranty; they have their own separate warranty from the tire maker. Also, this warranty won't cover things that go wrong due to:

• Improper maintenance or neglecting recommended service.

• Accidents, collisions, or damage from road hazards like rocks or debris.

• Using the wrong fluids or parts not approved by Subaru.

• Modifications or alterations to the vehicle.

Remember, this warranty is about manufacturing issues. If something breaks because it wasn't installed right at the factory or a part was faulty from the start, that's usually covered. But if you skip oil changes or hit a pothole hard enough to bend a rim, that's generally on you.

Major Component Warranty Details for Your 2021 Subaru

Once the initial 36-month or 60,000-km New Vehicle Limited Warranty runs out, your 2021 Subaru doesn't leave you completely unprotected. There's a separate Major Component Warranty that keeps covering key parts for a longer period. This extended coverage is a big deal for peace of mind. It basically picks up where the first warranty leaves off, offering protection for a total of 60 months or 100,000 km from when the car was first registered, whichever comes first. And the good news? It doesn't cost you extra, and it can even be transferred if you sell your Subaru to someone else, as long as they register it with Subaru Canada. If a major part fails under normal driving conditions during this extended period, Subaru will cover the cost of parts and labor to fix it.

Here's a look at what's generally included in this extended major component coverage:

• Engine: This includes the engine block, all internal parts, cylinder heads, valve train, oil pump, oil pan, timing components, water pump, flywheel, intake and exhaust manifolds, engine mounts, seals, gaskets, and the turbocharger/intercooler if equipped.

• Transmission & Differential: Covers the transaxle case and its internal parts, differential case and internals, torque converter, electronic transmission control units, and associated seals and gaskets.

• Suspension & Axle: This category includes front and rear control arms and bushings, hubs, bearings, spindles, ball joints, stabilizer and torsion bars (with bushings and links), axle shafts, and CV joints (including the boots).

• Brakes: Components like ABS parts, wheel speed sensors, magnetic encoders, the hydraulic control unit, g-sensor, electronic control unit, and VDC components are typically covered.

• Restraint Systems: Seatbelts and Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components, like airbags, fall under this.

• Steering: This covers the rack and pinion housing and its internal parts, the power steering pump, steering column assembly, and electric power steering systems.

• Fuel System: The fuel pump is generally included.

• Advance Driver Assist: Systems like Subaru Safety Sense, Park Assist, and Advanced Park are also part of this coverage.

It's always a good idea to check your specific warranty booklet for the exact list of covered parts, as there can be minor variations. But generally, these are the big-ticket items that get extra protection beyond the initial warranty period.

What Your 2021 Subaru Warranty Does Not Cover

While your 2021 Subaru comes with a solid warranty, it's important to know what's not covered. Think of it like this: the warranty covers manufacturing defects, not the everyday stuff that happens with owning a car.

Routine Maintenance Responsibilities

Your Subaru warranty doesn't pay for the regular upkeep that keeps your car running smoothly. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and replacing filters. You're responsible for all scheduled maintenance as outlined in your owner's manual. If a part fails because you skipped a scheduled service, that failure won't be covered. Also, items that naturally wear out over time, like brake pads, wiper blades, and tires, are generally not covered unless they fail due to a manufacturing defect. Even light bulbs and lamps have a limited warranty, typically just one year or 20,000 kilometers.

Damage from External Factors

Subaru's warranty is designed to protect against factory flaws, not damage caused by outside forces. This means things like accidents, whether you hit another car or a deer, are on you. It also covers damage from environmental issues. So, if a hailstorm dents your roof, or a bird dropping etches into your paint, those aren't warranty issues. Road hazards like potholes, chemicals from road treatments, or even tree sap can also cause damage that falls outside the warranty's scope. Basically, if it's not a defect from how the car was made, it's likely not covered.

Wear and Tear Items

Cars are machines, and like any machine, parts wear out with use. Your Subaru warranty doesn't cover this normal wear and tear. This category includes things that get used up or degrade over time and mileage.

Here's a quick rundown of common wear-and-tear items:

• Brake pads and rotors

• Clutch components

• Tires (covered separately by the tire manufacturer)

• Wiper blades

• Spark plugs

• Belts and hoses

• Filters (oil, air, cabin)

• Bulbs (except for the limited coverage mentioned earlier)

It's really about distinguishing between a part that failed prematurely due to a manufacturing issue and a part that simply reached the end of its lifespan due to normal driving. The warranty is there for the former, not the latter.

Also, cosmetic issues like minor paint chips from road debris or slight deterioration of rubber seals over many years are typically excluded. The warranty focuses on the functional integrity of the vehicle's components.

Coverage for Genuine Subaru Parts and Accessories

When you buy a new Subaru, it comes with a warranty that covers genuine parts and accessories, but the details can be a bit confusing. Let's break down what you can expect.

Parts Installed Before Delivery

If you have genuine Subaru parts or accessories installed by an authorized Subaru dealer before you take delivery of your new 2021 vehicle, they're covered for a pretty good stretch. You get coverage for 36 months or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This coverage also includes the cost of labor if a part needs to be replaced.

Parts Installed After Delivery

Things change a little if you add genuine Subaru parts or accessories after you've already driven your car off the lot. In this case, the warranty period is shorter: 12 months or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first. Like the pre-delivery coverage, this also includes the labor costs for replacement.

DIY Part Installation Coverage

So, what if you're the handy type and decide to install parts or accessories yourself, or have a non-Subaru shop do it? Subaru does offer some coverage here, but it's limited. Genuine Subaru parts or accessories installed by someone other than an authorized dealer are covered for the first 180 days from the purchase date. However, this warranty only covers the cost of the part or accessory itself; it does not cover any labor costs if you need to replace it.

Here's a quick rundown:

• Installed by Dealer (Before Delivery): 36 months / 60,000 miles (parts & labor)

• Installed by Dealer (After Delivery): 12 months / 20,000 miles (parts & labor)

• Installed by Owner/Other: 180 days (parts only)

It's always a good idea to check your specific warranty booklet for the most accurate details, as there can be limitations and specific conditions that apply to these warranties.

Pre-Owned Subaru Warranty Options

So, you've decided to go the pre-owned route for your next Subaru. Smart move! Buying used doesn't mean you have to miss out on protection. Subaru actually has some pretty solid warranty options for their pre-owned vehicles, and it's worth knowing what you're getting into.

Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Coverage

Subaru Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles are a big deal. They've gotta pass a pretty strict inspection – like, 160 points strict. Plus, they can't be too old or have too many miles on them. Depending on how much time and mileage is left on the original new car warranty, a CPO Subaru will either come with the remainder of that factory warranty or get its own special Subaru Certified Limited Warranty. This CPO warranty is usually pretty good, covering most mechanical parts. It's a nice way to get peace of mind when buying a used car.

Coverage Based on Vehicle Age and Mileage

Subaru's CPO warranty coverage changes based on the vehicle's history. It's not a one-size-fits-all deal. Here's a general idea:

• Newer CPO (More than 6 months/10,000 km left on original warranty): You get the rest of the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty. You can also add a Subaru Protection Plan to extend this.

• Mid-Range CPO (Less than 6 months/10,000 km left on original warranty): These usually get a 42-month/70,000-km CPO warranty from the original sale date. Again, you can extend this with a protection plan.

• Older CPO (Out of original warranty, up to 5 years old, under 100,000 km): You'll typically get a 6-month/10,000-km CPO warranty. An upgrade is usually an option here too.

• Higher Mileage CPO (Up to 8 years old, 100,000-160,000 km): These might come with a shorter 3-month/5,000-km CPO warranty, but you can still look into extending it.

Upgrading Pre-Owned Warranties

Don't think you're stuck with just the standard CPO warranty. Subaru offers what they call Added Security® plans, which are basically extended service agreements. These can really extend your coverage period and mileage, sometimes up to 8 years or 120,000 miles. They have different levels, like the Classic Plan for major components and the Gold Plus Plan for even more coverage, including things like air conditioning and brakes. Buying one of these plans while the car is still under its original warranty can sometimes lock in a better price. Plus, these plans are backed by Subaru of America, which is a big plus compared to some third-party options. You can even transfer the coverage if you sell the car, which can make it more attractive to buyers. If you're looking for long-term protection, checking out the Complete CARE Protection Plan is a good idea.

It's really important to know who is backing your extended warranty. A plan is only as good as the company that stands behind it. Subaru's own plans are backed by Subaru, which means they have a vested interest in your satisfaction and keeping you a Subaru owner.

Important Considerations for Your 2021 Subaru Warranty

When you're thinking about your 2021 Subaru's warranty, there are a few extra things to keep in mind beyond the basic coverage. It's not just about what the manufacturer covers, but also about how you use and maintain your vehicle, and what happens if you decide to sell it or if it's involved in an accident.

Tire Manufacturer Warranty

Your Subaru comes equipped with tires, but the warranty for those tires usually isn't directly from Subaru. Instead, it's handled by the company that actually made the tires. If you notice an issue with your tires, like uneven wear or a defect, you'll need to contact the tire manufacturer or their authorized service center. Your Subaru dealer can often help you find the right contact information or assist with the process, but the tire maker is the one who ultimately stands behind their product.

Impact of Total Loss or Salvage Titles

If your Subaru is ever declared a total loss by an insurance company, or if it's sold with a salvage title, this has a significant impact on your warranty. Once a vehicle has a salvage or total loss title, any remaining factory warranty coverage is typically voided. This means Subaru will no longer cover repairs that would have otherwise been included. It's important to understand this, especially if you're considering buying a used vehicle that has a history of being declared a total loss, even if it's been repaired and is roadworthy.

Exclusion of Consequential Damages

Subaru's warranty covers the cost of repairing or replacing defective parts. However, it generally does not cover what are called consequential damages. This means if a covered part fails and, as a result, causes damage to another component that isn't itself defective, Subaru might not pay for the repair of that secondary damage. For example, if a faulty oil pump (a covered part) fails and causes the engine to seize, Subaru would likely cover the oil pump, but they might not cover the entire engine replacement if the engine itself wasn't defective from the start. It's a bit of a gray area sometimes, but the main idea is that the warranty is for the faulty part, not for all the knock-on effects of its failure.

Wrapping It Up: Your Subaru Warranty Explained

So, we've gone over what your 2021 Subaru warranty generally covers, from the basic stuff to the major components that keep your car running. Remember, though, this is just a general guide. Things like regular maintenance, wear-and-tear items, and damage from accidents or misuse aren't typically included. It’s always best to check your specific warranty booklet for all the details, including any limitations or restrictions. Knowing what's covered can save you a lot of headaches down the road, and understanding what's not helps you plan for those everyday maintenance costs. Keep your owner's manual handy – it’s your best friend when it comes to understanding your Subaru's warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the basic Subaru warranty last?

Your Subaru's basic warranty lasts for 36 months or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. After that, the major component warranty keeps covering important parts for up to 60 months or 100,000 miles from when the car was first registered.

What kind of problems does the Subaru warranty cover?

Subaru covers problems caused by bad materials or how the car was put together. Things like routine maintenance, damage from accidents, or normal wear and tear, like worn-out tires or brake pads, are not covered.

Can I transfer my Subaru warranty to someone else?

Yes, the major component warranty can be transferred to a new owner if they register the car with Subaru. This is great if you sell your Subaru to someone else.

How long are Subaru parts and accessories covered?

Genuine Subaru parts and accessories installed by a dealer before you get the car are covered for 36 months or 60,000 miles. If installed after you buy the car, they're covered for 12 months or 20,000 miles. If you install them yourself, they're covered for 180 days, but you have to pay for the labor.

What warranty comes with a used Subaru?

For used Subarus, the warranty depends on how old and how many miles the car has. Certified Pre-Owned Subarus usually get a 6-month/10,000-mile warranty, or longer if they're still under the original new car warranty. You can also buy extra coverage plans.

Are there any special cases where the warranty doesn't apply?

The original tires on your Subaru are covered by the tire maker's warranty, not Subaru's. Also, if your car is declared a total loss by an insurance company or has a salvage title, the warranty is no longer valid. Subaru also won't cover extra costs like hotel stays or lost wages if your car breaks down.