How to See if Your Car is Still under Warranty

7th February 2026

You can usually check ‘is my car still under warranty’ by looking at the car’s registration date, the length of the manufacturer’s warranty, and whether any extended or dealer warranties were added. There’s no single central database, because what warranty does my car have depends on the type. Cars may be covered by a manufacturer, extended, or dealer warranty, each with different terms - so is my car under warranty is answered by checking the relevant provider.

What type of Warranty could your car have?

Most cars in the UK are covered by one or more types of warranty at different points in their life. Knowing which type applies is the first step in understanding what repairs or faults may be covered. There isn’t just one standard warranty, and coverage can vary depending on the car’s age, mileage, and how it was purchased. Identifying the correct warranty type helps avoid confusion and makes it easier to check whether your car is still protected.

Manufacturer Warranty

A manufacturer warranty is the most common type of car warranty and usually the easiest to check. It typically begins from the car’s first registration date, not when you bought it. In the UK, manufacturer warranties commonly last between 3 and 7 years, depending on the brand. Many also include a mileage limit, which can affect whether cover is still valid. Manufacturer warranties usually stay with the car, meaning they often transfer automatically to new owners if the terms and conditions are met.

Extended Warranty

An extended warranty is an additional policy that provides cover beyond the manufacturer warranty. It may be purchased separately, included as part of a used car sale, or set to begin when the manufacturer warranty ends. Unlike manufacturer warranties, extended warranties are not always visible through manufacturer systems, as they are provided by third-party companies or dealers. To confirm whether cover is in place and what it includes, you usually need the policy documents or confirmation from the warranty provider.

Dealer Warranty

A dealer warranty is a short-term warranty often provided when buying a used car. These warranties are usually limited in duration and scope, covering specific parts or faults for a set period. Dealer warranties are common with used car purchases, but the level of protection can vary widely between sellers. Because terms differ significantly, it’s important to check the sales agreement or warranty documentation to understand exactly what is covered and for how long.

How to Check if your Car is Still under Warranty?

A car warranty check isn’t one single action - how you check car warranty status depends on the type of cover (manufacturer, extended, or dealer). Use these steps to confirm the warranty on my car quickly.

Step 1: Check the vehicle registration date

Fastest first check.

Find the first registration date (V5C logbook, sales invoice, or online vehicle check).
Manufacturer warranty usually runs from first registration, not the build date.
Compare the registration date to the brand’s warranty length to get an immediate indication of whether it might still be covered.

Step 2: Use the manufacturer’s warranty checker (most accurate for manufacturer cover)

Best way to confirm manufacturer warranty status.

Use the brand’s online warranty checker (where available).
You’ll usually need either:
Registration number, or
VIN
This can confirm whether the car is still within the manufacturer warranty period.
Note: availability and how much detail you see varies by brand.

Step 3: Check service history and paperwork (validity matters)

A car can be “in period” but not covered if conditions weren’t met.

Find service records (digital history or stamped book) and any warranty documents.
Most warranties require: Servicing to be done on time, and Servicing to meet manufacturer standards
Look for missed/late services or gaps that could affect cover.

Step 4: Contact the dealer or manufacturer (when you need confirmation)

Use this if online checks or paperwork don’t give a clear answer.

Franchised dealers/manufacturers can often confirm warranty status using the VIN.
Especially useful for: Imported cars, Cars with extended warranties, Cars with goodwill or additional cover arrangements

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Warranties

Is my car still under warranty?

A manufacturer warranty is the most common type of car warranty and usually the easiest to check. It typically begins from the car’s first registration date, not when you bought it. However, you can usually find out is my car still under warranty by checking the vehicle’s registration date, the manufacturer’s warranty length, and whether any extended or dealer warranties are in place.

What warranty does my car have?

Your car may be covered by different types of warranty depending on its age, mileage, and how it was bought. UK cars don’t have a single standard warranty, and cover can change over time. Knowing which warranty applies helps you understand what’s covered and whether your car is still protected.

Does car warranty transfer to a new owner?

Typically, yes - when a car is sold, the current warranty will usually transfer over to the new owner of that vehicle.

Can I lose my car warranty?

Car warranties can be voided by misuse, such as aggressive driving, off-roading, racing, or repeatedly mounting kerbs. Unapproved modifications, overloading the vehicle beyond its towing or weight limits, and poor maintenance - like missed services or neglected repairs - can also invalidate cover.