FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Everything you need to know about DriveSafe Warranty Ltd
General Questions:
1. What is Drive Safe Warranty and what do you do?
Drive Safe Warranty provides comprehensive and reliable used vehicle warranties designed to protect you from unexpected mechanical and electrical repair costs. We offer various plans to ensure peace of mind, covering essential components and offering additional benefits.
2. Why should I consider a warranty plan for my vehicle?
Even new vehicles can develop faults. A warranty plan protects you against potentially high repair costs for mechanical and electrical failures, offering financial security and peace of mind for your motoring.
3. How is Drive Safe Warranty different from a typical dealer or insurer warranty?
Our plans are designed for flexibility and comprehensive coverage, often with more inclusive benefits such as nationwide garage choice, wear and tear considerations (depending on the plan), and dedicated UK-based support. We aim for transparency and customer-centric solutions.
4. Which types of vehicles do you cover?
We cover a wide range of vehicles, including cars, vans, minibuses, and HGVs up to 44 tonnes GVW, across various ages and mileages, depending on the specific plan chosen.
5. Is breakdown cover included as well as warranty?
Breakdown cover is included FREE with our Platinum Plan and is available as an optional add-on for the Gold Plan. It is not standard with the Silver Plan but can be added ( additional £50 ).
6. Can I buy a warranty directly from you?
Yes, you can purchase warranty plans directly from us through our website or by contacting our sales team.
7. What is a vehicle protection plan?
A vehicle protection plan is designed to help cover the cost of unexpected mechanical and electrical failures after your manufacturer’s warranty has expired. It provides peace of mind by reducing the financial burden of sudden repair bills and keeping your vehicle running smoothly.
8. How is this different from dealer or manufacturer cover?
Unlike manufacturer warranties, which are usually limited in duration and must be purchased with the vehicle, our plans offer more flexibility. You can choose a plan that suits your needs, often at a more competitive price, even after your original warranty has ended.
9. What types of vehicles can be covered?
We cover a wide range of vehicles including cars, vans, and light commercial vehicles. Eligibility depends on factors such as the vehicle’s age, mileage, and overall condition at the time of application.
10. Can I cancel my plan?
Yes, you can cancel your plan at any time. Refunds, if applicable, will depend on how long the plan has been active and whether any claims have been made, in accordance with our cancellation terms.
11. Is there any upfront inspection required?
In certain cases, we may request proof of your vehicle’s condition, such as service records or photos. This helps ensure the vehicle meets our eligibility requirements before the plan is activated.
12. Do you provide cover across the UK?
Yes, our plans provide nationwide coverage, allowing you to access approved repairers wherever you are in the UK.
Eligibility Questions:
1. Do you cover used vehicles?
Yes, our warranties are specifically designed for used vehicles, offering protection against unexpected faults.
2. What are the age and mileage limits for eligible vehicles?
Our plans cater to various vehicle ages and mileages. For example, the Silver Plan covers any vehicle regardless of age or mileage. The Platinum Plan is for vehicles under 7 years old and under 70,000 miles at policy inception. We have a 150,000 mileage cut off. Please check specific plan details for precise limits.
3. Can I get cover if my service history is incomplete?
While a complete service history is recommended, we may offer cover depending on the circumstances. If your vehicle has no previous service history, a service must be completed within 1,000 miles or 30 days of ownership. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation.
4. Can I transfer my plan to another vehicle if I change car, van, or bike?
Our plans are specific to the vehicle purchased. However, if you sell your vehicle to a private buyer, the warranty can be transferred to the new owner for a small administration fee. It cannot be transferred to a different vehicle.
5. Is the warranty suitable for normal business-use vehicles?
Yes, our plans can cover vehicles used for business purposes, including cars, vans, and minibuses. Please specify the intended use when inquiring about a policy.
6. Can I get cover for my everyday car, van, or motorbike?
Yes, our plans are suitable for everyday vehicles, including cars, vans, and minibuses.
7. Who can apply for a plan?
Any vehicle owner whose car meets our eligibility criteria can apply. This typically includes requirements related to mileage, age, and service history to ensure the vehicle is in good working condition.
8. Are modified vehicles accepted?
Vehicles with significant or performance-enhancing modifications may not be eligible. However, minor or manufacturer-approved modifications may still be accepted, depending on their nature.
9. Is there a mileage limit?
Yes, there are mileage limits for eligibility. These limits help ensure that vehicles covered under the plan are still within a reasonable condition for coverage.
10. Can I cover a vehicle already under another warranty?
Yes, you can purchase a plan even if your vehicle is currently covered elsewhere. In most cases, your new plan will begin once the existing warranty expires.
11. Are imported vehicles eligible?
Eligibility for imported vehicles depends on their specifications and service history. Some imported models may not qualify for coverage.
12. Can I transfer my plan if I sell the car?
Yes, most plans can be transferred to the new owner, which can make your vehicle more attractive to buyers and may increase its resale value.
Coverage Questions:
1. In simple terms, what does the warranty cover?
Our warranties cover the cost of repairs for sudden mechanical and electrical failures of covered components, up to your plan’s claim limit, after you have paid your excess.
2. Do you cover both mechanical and electrical faults?
Yes, our plans provide comprehensive coverage for both mechanical and electrical failures of listed components.
3. Do you cover hybrid and electric vehicle systems too?
Yes, our Platinum Plan includes coverage for Hybrid & Electric Components such as inverters, drive motors, and power delivery modules. Please check plan specifics for battery coverage.
4. Do you cover wear and tear?
Yes, wear and tear items are covered on specific components, depending on the plan level and the vehicle’s age and mileage at the time of claim. Please refer to the plan details for specific inclusions.
5. Do you cover consequential damage caused by another failed part?
Yes, we may consider covering consequential damage where a non-covered part causes failure to a covered component, subject to our discretion and plan terms.
6. What types of faults are usually covered?
Covered faults typically include sudden mechanical breakdowns and electrical failures of the components listed within your chosen warranty plan.
7. What does the plan typically include?
Our plans generally cover major mechanical and electrical components such as the engine, gearbox, drivetrain, and other essential systems that keep your vehicle operational.
8. Are electrical systems included?
Yes, many electrical components are included, such as control units, sensors, and internal systems. The level of coverage will depend on the specific plan you choose.
9. Is wear and tear covered?
Some plans include wear and tear cover, while others may not. This will depend on the level of protection you select when purchasing your plan.
10. Are diagnostic costs included?
Diagnostic costs may be covered if the issue leads to an approved repair. This ensures you are not paying out of pocket just to identify a valid fault.
11. What is not covered?
Items such as routine servicing, maintenance, consumables (like tyres and brake pads), and cosmetic issues are generally not included in the coverage.
12. Are safety systems included?
Yes, many modern safety features such as sensors, cameras, and assistance systems may be covered, depending on your selected plan and its limits.
Repair Request Questions:
1. How do I make a repair request?
You can make a repair request online 24/7 via our website (www.drivesafewarranty.co.uk) or by calling our customer care team.
2. Do I need authorisation before any work starts?
Yes, absolutely. All repairs must be authorized by Drive Safe Warranty BEFORE any work commences. Unauthorized repairs will not be covered.
3. What information will you ask for when I make a repair request?
We will typically ask for your vehicle details, policy number, a description of the fault, and the garage’s contact information. You may also need to provide service history and diagnostic reports.
4. Are diagnostic costs covered?
Diagnostic costs are partially covered, with a contribution towards them depending on your chosen plan level (£25 for Silver, £50 for Gold and Platinum £75).
5. What if my vehicle breaks down outside your normal business hours?
Our claims process is available online 24/7. For breakdown assistance, our Platinum plan includes free 24/7 roadside assistance, and it’s an optional add-on for the Gold plan.
6. What happens if I need to use the warranty?
You will need to report the fault, get a diagnosis from a VAT-registered garage, and await authorization from us before repairs begin. We will then contribute to the approved repair costs.
7. How do I report a fault?
If your vehicle develops a fault, you should contact our claims team or submit a request online as soon as possible. It’s important to report the issue before any repair work is started.
8. Do I need approval before repairs?
Yes, all repairs must be authorised by us before any work begins. This ensures the issue is covered under your plan and avoids any unexpected costs.
9. How long does approval take?
We aim to process repair requests quickly. In many cases, approvals are provided the same day, depending on the information available.
10. What if my request is declined?
If your request is not approved, we will explain the reason clearly. You may also have the option to provide additional information or appeal the decision.
11. Can I choose my own garage?
Yes, you are free to use your preferred VAT-registered repairer, as long as they meet our requirements and the repair is authorised in advance.
12. What documents are required?
You may need to provide supporting documents such as service history, invoices, and diagnostic reports to help us assess your claim.
Repairs Questions:
1. Can I use my own choice of garage?
Yes, you can take your car to any UK VAT-registered garage. We do not restrict repairs to a specific network.
2. Do you pay the garage directly?
In most cases, yes. Once a claim is authorized and approved, we arrange payment directly with the garage for the approved costs.
3. Do you cover both parts and labour?
Yes, our plans cover both parts and labour costs for authorized repairs, up to the limits of your chosen plan.
4. Will you use manufacturer-approved, OEM, or reconditioned parts?
We will authorize the use of manufacturer’s parts where reconditioned or generic parts are not available. We may also adjust the price of covered parts in line with trade pricing for reconditioned and generic parts.
5. Can I make more than one repair request during my plan?
Yes, you can make multiple claims, up to the current market value of your vehicle or the purchase price, whichever is lower.
6. How are repair requests reviewed and approved?
Repair requests are reviewed based on the provided diagnostic reports, the terms of your warranty plan, and our assessment. Approval is granted for valid claims that meet all policy conditions.
7. Where can repairs be carried out?
Repairs can be completed at authorised independent garages or main dealerships, giving you flexibility and convenience.
8. Do you pay the garage directly?
In most cases, we handle payment directly with the repairer, so you don’t have to manage large repair bills yourself.
9. Is there a limit per repair?
Yes, each plan has a maximum claim limit per repair or per year, depending on your level of coverage.
10. Can I get a courtesy car?
Some plans may include additional benefits such as a courtesy car, helping you stay mobile while your vehicle is being repaired.
11. Do I have to pay anything?
For approved repairs within your plan limits, you typically won’t need to pay anything extra.
Requirements Questions:
1. What do I need to do to keep my cover valid?
You must adhere to the servicing requirements, ensure your vehicle has a valid MOT, and report any faults promptly.
2. Do I have to use a main dealer for servicing?
No, you do not have to use a main dealer. All servicing and maintenance work must be carried out by a UK VAT-registered garage.
3. What proof of servicing and maintenance should I keep?
You must keep all service invoices and receipts as proof of regular maintenance, along with your vehicle’s V5 log book and MOT certificates.
4. Are there mileage or usage limits on the plan?
Some plans have mileage or age limits for eligibility (e.g., Platinum Plan). Wear and tear coverage may also be restricted by mileage and age limits depending on the plan. Please check your plan details.
5. What happens if my vehicle is overdue a service?
Failure to adhere to the manufacturer’s servicing schedule may void your warranty.
6. What do I need to do to keep the warranty valid?
Maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s schedule, use VAT-registered garages for servicing, keep valid MOTs, and retain all service records.
7. Do I need to service my vehicle regularly?
Yes, regular servicing in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines is required to keep your plan valid and ensure your vehicle remains in good condition.
8. What happens if I miss a service?
Failing to maintain your vehicle properly may affect your coverage and could result in claims being declined.
9. Do I need to keep records?
Yes, it’s important to keep all service and maintenance records as proof that your vehicle has been properly cared for.
10. Is there a waiting period?
Some plans may include a waiting period before coverage becomes fully active. This helps prevent claims for pre-existing issues.
Plan Questions:
1. Is this an insurance policy?
No, this is a warranty plan, not an insurance policy for road risk. It covers specific mechanical and electrical breakdowns.
2. When does my cover start?
Your cover begins once full payment has been received and your plan has been activated.
All warranty plans are subject to a 14-day waiting period and a requirement that a minimum of 250 miles has been driven from the plan start date—whichever occurs later.
Please note:
Any faults that occur during this initial period will not be covered.
Any faults that existed before the warranty start date are considered pre-existing and are not covered under the plan.
3. How long can I take cover out for?
We offer coverage periods of 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the plan.
4. Can I choose a future start date?
Yes, you can choose a future start date for your warranty plan.
5. Can I cancel my plan and get a refund?
Yes, you have a 30-day money-back guarantee and can cancel your plan anytime, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the policy document.
6. Do you offer different warranty plan options?
Yes, we offer three distinct warranty plan options: Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each with varying levels of coverage and benefits to suit different needs and budgets.
7. When does my cover start?
Your cover begins once your plan is activated and any applicable waiting period has passed.
8. How can I pay?
We offer flexible payment options, including monthly instalments or one-time payments, depending on your preference.
9. Can I renew my plan?
Yes, you may be able to renew your plan at the end of the term, subject to eligibility at that time.
10. What happens at the end of the plan?
When your plan ends, you can choose to renew, upgrade, or simply let the coverage expire.
11. Is this an insurance policy?
No, this is a vehicle protection plan and not a regulated insurance product, although it provides similar benefits in covering repair costs.