Buying a Used Mitsubishi? What You Need to Know About Warranty Transferability

Mitsubishi has carved out a niche for itself by offering vehicles that often provide excellent value for money, especially on the used market. Their models are known for their practical features, comfortable rides, and typically good fuel economy. From the versatile Outlander SUV, perfect for families and adventurers, to the economical Mirage hatchback, ideal for city driving and budget-conscious buyers, there's a Mitsubishi for many different needs. Buying used allows you to get more car for your money, often with desirable features that would cost significantly more in a new vehicle. Plus, Mitsubishi's reputation for building durable vehicles means that a well-maintained used model can still offer many years of reliable service.

Many buyers are attracted to Mitsubishi not just for their affordability but also for their historical commitment to long-term warranties on new vehicles. This perception of long-term protection often carries over to the used market, which is why understanding the specifics of warranty transferability is so vital. You want to ensure that any perceived protection is actual and applicable to you as a subsequent owner.

When a new Mitsubishi is purchased, it comes with one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) typically offers a New Vehicle Limited Warranty package that includes a 5-year/60,000-mile (whichever comes first) Bumper-to-Bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty. More notably, and often a significant selling point, is the 10-year/100,000-mile (whichever comes first) Powertrain Limited Warranty.

This powertrain warranty covers major components such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, providing an exceptional level of protection for the original owner. Additionally, there's usually a 7-year/100,000-mile Anti-Corrosion/Perforation Limited Warranty and 5-year/Unlimited-mile Roadside Assistance. These robust warranty terms are designed to instill confidence in new car buyers, promising many years of worry-free driving. However, the crucial detail lies in how these impressive coverages apply to someone who isn't the original owner.

This is where many potential used Mitsubishi buyers can get confused, and it's perhaps the most important detail to understand. The answer is both yes and no, depending on which part of the warranty you're referring to. For the original owner, Mitsubishi's warranty package is indeed industry-leading. However, when the vehicle is sold to a second owner (or subsequent owners), the extensive 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty generally does NOT transfer.

Instead, the 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty reverts to the standard 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty for any subsequent owners. This means that while the first owner enjoyed a decade of powertrain protection, a second owner will only inherit the remainder of the 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. It's a significant distinction that can greatly impact your decision-making process when buying a used Mitsubishi.

So, as a second or subsequent owner of a used Mitsubishi, what can you expect in terms of warranty coverage? You will inherit the remainder of the 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty, measured from the original in-service date of the vehicle. This includes coverage for most components of the vehicle, including the powertrain, up to that 5-year or 60,000-mile limit.

For example, if you buy a three-year-old Mitsubishi with 35,000 miles on the odometer, you would have approximately two years or 25,000 miles (whichever comes first) of the basic New Vehicle Limited Warranty remaining. This still offers some protection, but it's crucial to understand it's not the full 10-year powertrain coverage that was advertised to the original buyer. Always confirm the original in-service date and current mileage to accurately calculate any remaining coverage.

Don't assume anything when it comes to warranty coverage. Always verify! The best way to do this is by getting the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the specific Mitsubishi you're interested in. With the VIN, you can contact any authorized Mitsubishi dealership. They have access to the vehicle's history and can tell you exactly what, if any, factory warranty remains on the car based on its original in-service date and current mileage.

You should also ask the seller for all service records and the original purchase documents if available. These documents often include the original in-service date, which is the starting point for all warranty calculations. While online VIN decoders can give you basic vehicle information, a direct check with a Mitsubishi dealer is the most reliable method for warranty status.

If the used Mitsubishi you're eyeing has little to no factory warranty remaining, or if you simply want additional protection, you still have options. Mitsubishi offers a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program for vehicles that meet strict age and mileage requirements and pass a comprehensive inspection. CPO Mitsubishi vehicles typically come with a reinstated 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty (from the original in-service date) and the remainder of the 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty, plus added benefits like roadside assistance and a clean CARFAX vehicle history report. This is an excellent way to get the extended powertrain coverage as a second owner.

Alternatively, you could consider purchasing an extended service contract or third-party warranty. These can offer coverage for major components for a set period or mileage after the factory warranty expires. Be sure to thoroughly research any extended warranty provider, understand the terms and conditions, deductibles, and exclusions before committing. Always compare the cost of the extended warranty against the potential repair costs and the peace of mind it offers.

To ensure a smooth and confident purchase of your used Mitsubishi, prepare a list of questions for the seller and dealership:

• What is the original in-service date of the vehicle?
• What is the current mileage?
• Can you provide the VIN for a warranty check?
• Is the vehicle Mitsubishi Certified Pre-Owned? If so, what are the CPO warranty details?
• Are there any service records available?
• Has the vehicle been involved in any accidents? (Always cross-reference with a vehicle history report like CARFAX or AutoCheck).
• What is your return policy or inspection period?

Asking these questions upfront will help you gather all the necessary information to assess the vehicle's condition, its history, and its remaining warranty coverage, allowing you to make an informed decision.