Many drivers ask us the same important question after an accident: do you offer a warranty on repairs? At Re-Lux Collision, we believe a warranty is more than a promise; it is a responsibility. When you invest money spent on repairing your car, you deserve clear warranty coverage, honest warranty terms, and confidence that the repair will hold up under normal use. This article explains how a warranty works in collision repair, how federal law protects consumers, and why choosing the right shop matters just as much as the repair itself.

What Does a Repair Warranty Really Mean in Collision Repair?

A warranty in collision repair is a form of consumer protection that applies to repairs performed on your vehicle. Unlike an oil change or routine maintenance service, collision repair addresses damage caused by an accident, which often involves major repairs and safety-related components. A warranty sets expectations for normal durability and outlines what happens if a product fails due to defects or workmanship issues.

Why Collision Repair Warranties Are Different From Other Auto Warranties

Collision repair warranties differ from extended warranty products sold as a sales promotion at the time of purchase. Those are often vehicle service contracts that cover mechanical breakdowns after factory coverage ends. A collision repair warranty focuses on the specific repair and service provided. It does not replace a factory warranty or manufacturer’s warranty, but it works alongside them to protect consumers.

The Three Types of Warranties Involved in Collision Repair

Most repairs involve written warranties tied to three areas:

1. An express warranty from the shop that covers workmanship.
2. Warranty coverage on parts from the manufacturer, whether those are OEM parts or aftermarket parts.
3. Paint and material guarantees.

Together, these consumer product warranties define who pays, who fixes the issue, and how warranty claims are handled.

Implied Warranty: What It Means for Collision Repairs

Implied warranty concepts such as warranty of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose apply to collision repair services, unless sellers properly disclaim implied warranties as allowed by law. These warranties ensure that repairs meet basic standards of quality and durability expected under normal use.

Do We Offer a Warranty on Repairs at Re-Lux Collision?

Yes, we offer a warranty on repairs because we believe a good warranty reflects pride in our work. Our warranty covers repairs performed by our technicians and stands behind the service we provide.

Our Commitment to Standing Behind Every Repair

A warranty is part of our warranty obligations to each customer. We do not rely on fine print to avoid responsibility. If warranty repairs are needed because of defects related to our workmanship, we address them. This approach protects consumers and builds long-term trust.

What Our Repair Warranty Covers

Our warranty covers workmanship-related defects that affect the repair. This includes fit, finish, and structural integrity tied to the original repair. Warranty coverage applies when a product fails due to how it was repaired, not due to improper maintenance or new damage.

How Long Does the Warranty Last?

The warranty period typically lasts for as long as you own the car. Many sellers describe this as a limited warranty based on ownership. Once the warranty expires due to sale of the vehicle, coverage usually does not transfer to subsequent owners.

Extended Warranty and Vehicle Service Contracts: How They Differ

Extended warranties, often sold as vehicle service contracts, provide additional protection beyond factory coverage for mechanical breakdowns and major repairs. These contracts differ from collision repair warranties, which focus specifically on the quality and durability of the repair work performed.

What’s Not Covered by a Collision Repair Warranty And Why

Understanding exclusions helps avoid warranty disputes later.

Normal Wear and Tear

Normal wear, environmental exposure, and everyday driving are not defects. These conditions fall outside warranty coverage because they relate to normal use.

New Damage or Subsequent Accidents

If the car is damaged again, that repair is not covered under the original warranty. Insurance or a new service contract would apply instead.

Improper Maintenance or Modifications

Failure to follow a maintenance schedule or altering repaired areas can void coverage for those components.

Workmanship vs Parts vs Paint: Understanding the Difference

Different warranties apply to different parts of the repair.

Workmanship Warranty Explained

A workmanship warranty is an express warranty that addresses how the repair was completed. It reflects professional standards and normal durability expectations.

Parts Warranties: OEM and Aftermarket

Parts warranties come from the manufacturer. OEM parts may align closely with factory warranty terms, while aftermarket parts carry separate coverage. These warranties often specify certain mileage or time limits.

Paint and Refinish System Coverage

Paint-related warranty work addresses defects like peeling or adhesion failure tied to materials or application.

Magnuson Moss Warranty Act: Federal Protection for Consumers

The Magnuson Moss Warranty Act protects consumers from unfair warranty practices. Under this federal law, manufacturers cannot deny warranty coverage simply because repairs were done by an independent shop or aftermarket parts were used unless they prove that the repair caused the defect.

The Truth About Manufacturer Warranties

A manufacturer cannot deny coverage simply because repairs were done by an independent shop. Under federal law and common law principle, the manufacturer must show the repair caused the issue.

When a Manufacturer Could Deny Coverage

If a repair directly causes a defect, coverage for that issue may be denied. This does not cancel the entire factory warranty.

How Re-Lux Protects Your Vehicle’s Value

We follow proper repair procedures and document our service to support future warranty claims.

How Insurance Repair Guarantees Work And How They Compare

Insurance companies often advertise a guarantee tied to their service network.

What Insurance Lifetime Guarantees Actually Mean

These guarantees usually mirror a limited warranty for workmanship during ownership.

Shop Warranty vs Insurance Guarantee

A shop-backed warranty allows direct contact and faster resolution without added layers.

Navigating Insurance Claims With Confidence

We assist with warranty claims and repairs performed under insurance guidelines.

Why a Strong Warranty Starts With the Repair Process Itself

A warranty is only meaningful when the repair is done correctly.

OEM Repair Procedures Matter

Following manufacturer guidelines supports safety and product’s merchantability.

Certified Technicians and Modern Equipment

Training and tools ensure repairs meet standards for a particular purpose.

Quality Checks Before Your Vehicle Is Returned

Inspections reduce the likelihood of warranty disputes.

Questions to Ask Any Body Shop About Their Warranty

Asking questions helps protect your purchase.

• Is the warranty written or verbal? Written warranties provide clarity and enforceability.
• Is it transferable? Most warranties do not extend to subsequent owners.
• Who do I contact if there’s an issue? Direct contact simplifies service.
• Are OEM procedures followed? Proper procedures help avoid warranty issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Repair Warranties

Do you offer a lifetime warranty on repairs?

Yes, for workmanship during the ownership period.

Is the warranty transferable if I sell my car?

Typically no.

What if I notice an issue months later?

Contact us to review warranty coverage.

Does insurance affect my warranty coverage?

Insurance does not remove warranty protection.

Are paint repairs covered under warranty?

Yes, when related to defects in workmanship or materials.

What documentation should I keep?

Keep invoices and warranty documents.

Why Re-Lux Collision’s Warranty Gives You Peace of Mind

A good warranty reflects fairness, fair value, and accountability. We respect the money spent by our customers and aim to deliver repairs that meet expectations without hidden fine print. Our approach aligns with guidance from the Federal Trade Commission and principles found in the Uniform Commercial Code, including implied warranty concepts such as warranty of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, unless sellers properly disclaim implied warranties as allowed by law.

Schedule With Confidence: We Stand Behind Our Work

If you are considering collision repair and want clear warranty terms, our team is ready to help. We believe warranty service should be simple, honest, and supportive. Contact us to discuss coverage, costs, and how we can fix your car with confidence and care.