A Complete Guide to Vehicle Warranties in Canada – New and Pre-Owned

A Complete Guide to Vehicle Warranties in Canada – New and Pre-Owned

Whether you're buying a new or pre-owned vehicle, warranties are essential for long-term peace of mind. But not all warranties are the same, and the differences between brands, models, and powertrains—particularly hybrid and electric—can be significant. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you understand the types of vehicle warranties offered in Canada, what major brands like Mazda, Volvo, and Nissan include with their new vehicles, and what you should know about used and certified pre-owned warranty protection.

Understanding the Core Types of New Vehicle Warranties

New vehicles typically come with three primary types of warranties:

  1. Basic (Comprehensive) Warranty:
    This is often referred to as the “bumper-to-bumper” warranty, covering most of the vehicle’s components—electronics, climate control, audio systems, and more. It does not cover wear items such as brake pads or wiper blades.
  2. Powertrain Warranty:
    This covers the mechanical systems that drive the vehicle: the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. Powertrain warranties usually last longer than basic warranties.
  3. Corrosion and Emission Warranties:
    These are often forgotten but important. Corrosion warranties cover body panel rust-through, while emission warranties ensure that your car complies with environmental regulations.

Here’s how Mazda, Nissan, and Volvo structure their warranties in Canada:

Brand

Basic Warranty

Powertrain Warranty

EV Battery Coverage

Mazda

3 years / 60,000 km

5 years / 100,000 km

8 years / 160,000 km (MX-30)

Nissan

3 years / 60,000 km

5 years / 100,000 km

8 years / 160,000 km (LEAF)

Volvo

4 years / 80,000 km

Same as basic

8 years / 160,000 km (Recharge models)

Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Warranty Considerations

EVs and hybrids add complexity to the warranty discussion. Batteries, inverters, electric motors, and related cooling systems are all covered under high-voltage component warranties. Most brands offer 8-year/160,000 km coverage as standard on electric battery systems. Some manufacturers also include performance warranties that guarantee the battery won’t degrade beyond a certain percentage of its original capacity during that time.

For example, the Nissan LEAF includes a capacity retention warranty ensuring the battery maintains at least 9 bars out of 12 (approx. 70%) within the warranty period. Volvo and Mazda offer similar assurances for their Recharge and MX-30 models respectively.

What Makes Each Warranty Different?

While the duration might appear similar across brands, the difference often lies in how the warranty is administered. Volvo’s streamlined 4-year/80,000 km all-inclusive approach means fewer surprises. Mazda and Nissan split warranty tiers, giving buyers clarity but requiring more understanding of what falls under each coverage type. Additionally, roadside assistance and maintenance coverage vary: Volvo often includes complimentary scheduled maintenance, which Nissan and Mazda do not.

Certified Pre-Owned Warranties: Extra Protection, Extra Peace of Mind

A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle is one that has passed an extensive inspection and meets high standards set by the manufacturer. These vehicles come with extended warranties and benefits.

Mazda CPO:

  • 7 years / 140,000 km limited powertrain warranty (from original in-service date)
  • 160-point inspection
  • 24/7 roadside assistance

Volvo CPO:

  • 6 years / 160,000 km full warranty
  • No deductible on warranty repairs
  • Factory-backed coverage with inspection and reconditioning

Nissan CPO:

  • Up to 6 years / 120,000 km limited warranty
  • 169-point inspection
  • Optional extended coverage

CPO warranties are transferable, which increases resale value and offers continued protection for buyers who may sell or trade in their vehicle during the coverage period.

Extended Warranty Options for Used Vehicles

If you’re purchasing a non-CPO used vehicle, or if your vehicle is nearing the end of its factory coverage, you can still protect your investment with an extended service contract. These plans vary by provider and can cover:

  • Powertrain only (engine and transmission)
  • Comprehensive component protection
  • Technology or comfort systems (navigation, AC, etc.)

At Morrey OnePrice, we offer tailored extended protection plans for both used and CPO vehicles, ensuring every buyer can enjoy protection that aligns with their budget and ownership expectations.