Australia’s automotive market features over 60 brands, each offering distinct warranty terms. Navigating these provisions can be complex for buyers, so this article consolidates key information, updated continuously as policies evolve. Understanding these warranties is crucial, as they directly impact long-term vehicle ownership costs and peace of mind.
Warranty Trends and Considerations
The length and scope of warranties vary significantly. Some manufacturers offer industry-leading coverage, while others provide minimal protection. Commercial use often voids or reduces warranty periods, a critical factor for businesses or rideshare drivers. Many brands differentiate between standard warranties and extended options, sometimes requiring strict maintenance schedules at authorized dealerships to maintain validity.
Brand-Specific Warranty Details
Here’s a breakdown of warranty provisions from major manufacturers (as of late 2026):
Nissan: Currently leads with a 10-year/300,000km warranty, provided scheduled servicing is performed at an official Nissan dealership. This is a standout offer, but the servicing requirement is a key condition.
Hyundai: Now provides a seven-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty on privately registered vehicles if regular servicing is maintained through its network. This is a substantial improvement over previous offerings, where paint coverage was limited. Commercial vehicles retain a shorter, 150,000km limit.
Jaecoo: Boasts Australia’s longest standard warranty at eight years, unlimited kilometers, covering both the vehicle and high-voltage battery where applicable. This includes capped-price servicing and roadside assistance. Commercial use reduces the distance to 150,000km.
BYD: Simplified its warranty structure to a six-year/150,000km “bumper-to-bumper” warranty, with an eight-year/160,000km guarantee on the high-voltage battery and drive unit. This eliminates previous discrepancies in component coverage.
BMW: Offers a five-year/200,000km warranty for commercial vehicles. It also includes a 12-year, unlimited-kilometer body rust warranty and a five-year, unlimited-kilometer paintwork warranty, providing long-term protection against corrosion.
Geely: Provides a seven-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty for private use, with a guaranteed minimum 70% battery capacity retention for the first eight years. Commercial use is limited to 150,000km.
Audi: The Audi Advantage Package adds two years of unlimited-kilometer warranty to qualifying vehicles under eight years old with less than 120,000km. Approved Plus provides a similar benefit for pre-owned vehicles passing a rigorous inspection.
Other Notable Terms:
- Genesis: Reduces commercial warranties to five years or 130,000km.
- Honda: Offers an optional three-year extension with regular servicing.
- Kia: Provides transferable warranties, with commercial vehicles limited to 150,000km.
- Deepal: Reduces warranty to one year/120,000km for hire/rideshare use.
- GWM: Commercial use is capped at seven years/150,000km.
The Importance of Fine Print
Many warranties have exclusions. For instance, Ferrari requires vehicles to be inspected and under 90,000km to qualify for extensions. Similarly, some brands void warranties for competition or rental use. Always read the full warranty documentation before purchase to avoid surprises.
Conclusion
Australia’s car warranty landscape is increasingly competitive. Manufacturers are responding to consumer demand for longer, more comprehensive coverage. However, conditions apply, and understanding the fine print is essential for making informed buying decisions. As brands continue to adjust their offerings, staying informed about these changes remains crucial for all Australian car buyers.
