Engine Replacement and Warranty Transferability: A Comprehensive Guide for Hyundai Owners

When a Hyundai warranty covers an engine replacement, it raises the question of whether the remainder of the warranty is transferable when the vehicle is sold to another owner. This piece aims to clarify these concerns and provide guidance for both original and subsequent owners.

Typical Warranty Transferability

In general, warranty policies for Hyundais are designed to be transferable when a vehicle is sold to a new owner. However, the specifics can vary based on the type of powertrain warranty and the terms outlined in the warranty documentation.

For a replacement engine covered under warranty, the Powertrain Warranty is generally transferable to subsequent owners. It is crucial to check the original warranty terms as some warranties may have specific clauses regarding transferability.

Ensuring Warranty Coverage

Upon purchasing a used Hyundai from a previous owner, the new owner should ensure that the warranty is registered in their name with Hyundai to maintain coverage. This involves contacting a Hyundai dealership or customer service to validate the transferability of the warranty on the replaced engine.

Specific Concerns: Engine Replacement and Recalls

Engine replacements under warranty or recall situations can be complicated. Without being certain, we can speculate that the engine in question might have been a 4-cylinder in a 2012–2014 Sonata or Santa Fe. Both KIA and Hyundai experienced issues that led to engine replacements under recalls rather than warranties.

Engine Issues: Metal shavings in the oil pan and excessive oil consumption Recall Information: These issues were resolved through recalls, not warranty claims

In my own experience, my 2012 Kia Sorento experienced excessive oil consumption. I was required to add a quart of oil every 400 to 600 miles. My local KIA dealer replaced the engine with a remanufactured unit provided by KIA. Along with the new engine, I received an extended engine warranty that is valid until 250,000 miles. I presume this coverage remains with the car if it is sold since it was part of a recall.

Additionally, KIA added an extended warranty covering the lower engine components, which is valid for the life of the car. Hyundai provided a similar arrangement for owners who experienced these issues.

Warranty Transferability in Specific Scenarios

If the engine in question was replaced under a warranty claim rather than a recall, the situation changes. The 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty is not transferable beyond the original owner. After the initial owner, it becomes equivalent to the basic warranty of 5 years and 60,000 miles.

To summarize, if the engine replacement was covered under a warranty, the remainder of the warranty is not transferable. However, if the replacement was part of a recall, the warranty may extend to subsequent owners. It is essential to verify the specific terms and conditions by contacting a Hyundai dealership or customer service.