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A concise, practical summary of the Honda Care New and Used EV vehicle service contract: what it covers, key exclusions, how to file a claim, cancellation and transfer rules, and tips for EV owners.
Coverage overview
Type of coverage: Vehicle service contract (VSC) for new and used electric vehicles (EVs). This is a service contract, not insurance.
Who provides service: Repairs must generally be performed by an authorized dealer or repair facility and often require prior authorization.
What’s covered: Mechanical and electrical components that fail due to defects in materials or workmanship, subject to the contract’s listed components and limits. Typical covered items include major EV systems (drive unit, battery system components, onboard chargers, power electronics) and related labor and parts.
Service options: The provider may repair, replace, or reimburse covered repairs. Some plans include rental reimbursement for covered repairs (daily limit and maximum days apply).
Key inclusions
- Genuine parts and authorized repairs for covered failures.
- Rental reimbursement for covered repairs (daily limit and maximum days specified in the contract).
- Transferability in many cases (subject to fees and timing).
- Coverage start date and mileage limits are shown on the contract identification page; some plans begin when the factory warranty ends, others begin on the contract effective date.
Major exclusions (what is not covered)
- Routine maintenance (oil changes, wiper blades, filters, tire rotation).
- Wear-and-tear items (brake pads, rotors, tires, bulbs) unless explicitly listed.
- Cosmetic damage (body panels, paint, glass) and non-mechanical items.
- Damage from misuse, neglect, racing, or off-road use (unless a specific commercial or off-road option is purchased).
- Pre-existing conditions or damage known before contract purchase.
- Environmental or external damage (flood, hail, fire, vandalism) unless otherwise specified.
- Unauthorized repairs performed without prior authorization (except in emergencies where the contract requires prompt notification).
Owner responsibilities
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Keep service records and receipts; failure to maintain the vehicle per the owner’s manual can void coverage for related failures.
- Obtain prior authorization for non-emergency repairs from the contract provider or selling dealer.
- Use authorized repair facilities when required by the contract.
- Notify the provider promptly after an emergency repair if prior authorization was not possible.
Filing a claim
- Contact the selling dealer or nearest authorized dealer before scheduling non-emergency repairs.
- Provide vehicle information, contract ID, and maintenance records.
- Obtain prior authorization for covered repairs; the provider will approve, deny, or request additional diagnostics.
- Emergency repairs: If prior authorization isn’t possible, keep all receipts and notify the provider as soon as possible for reimbursement consideration.
- Reimbursement: If the provider authorizes reimbursement, follow the instructions and submit required documentation.
Cancellation, refunds, and transfer
Cancellation window: Many contracts allow cancellation within a short period (often 60 days) for a full refund if no claims were made; after that, refunds are typically pro‑rata minus fees.
Processing fees: A small administrative fee may apply to cancellations after the initial period.
Transferability: Contracts are often transferable to a private buyer within specified timeframes and may require a transfer fee and paperwork.
State variations: Cancellation and refund rules can vary by state; check the contract’s state‑specific notices.
Arbitration and dispute resolution
Many vehicle service contracts include a binding arbitration clause (often under AAA rules) that requires disputes to be resolved through arbitration rather than court litigation. Arbitration limits some court options; review the dispute resolution section carefully if you anticipate disagreements.
Practical tips for EV owners
- Keep detailed maintenance records and receipts for all service visits and diagnostics.
- Read the contract identification page to confirm effective dates, mileage limits, and plan type.
- Get prior authorization for non-emergency repairs to avoid denied claims.
- Understand rental reimbursement limits so you know what to expect while your EV is being repaired.
- Ask about EV-specific coverage (battery system, power electronics, onboard charger) and any exclusions or caps on those components.
- Confirm transfer rules if you plan to sell the vehicle — a transferable contract can increase resale value.
Honda Care is a vehicle service contract that functions similarly to an extended warranty but is a separate contract with its own terms, limits, and provider. It is not insurance.
Coverage for battery components varies by plan. The contract typically lists EV battery system components that are covered; confirm limits and exclusions on the contract identification page.
The contract usually requires repairs at authorized dealers or repair facilities for coverage. Emergency repairs may be reimbursable if you notify the provider promptly.
Check the transfer section of the contract for eligibility, timing, and any transfer fees.
The contract’s dispute resolution section explains appeal steps and arbitration procedures. Keep records and follow the Honda Care’s appeal process.
Routine maintenance (oil changes, wiper blades, filters, tire rotation).
Wear-and-tear items (brake pads, rotors, tires, bulbs) unless explicitly listed.
Cosmetic damage (body panels, paint, glass) and non-mechanical items.
Damage from misuse, neglect, racing, or off-road use (unless a specific commercial or off-road option is purchased).
Pre-existing conditions or damage known before contract purchase.
Environmental or external damage (flood, hail, fire, vandalism) unless otherwise specified.
Unauthorized repairs performed without prior authorization (except in emergencies where the contract requires prompt notification).
Reviews
Liam Mitchell – Amazing Experience
Harper Young – Amazing Experience
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between Honda Care and an extended warranty?
Honda Care is a vehicle service contract that functions similarly to an extended warranty but is a separate contract with its own terms, limits, and provider. It is not insurance.
Will Honda Care cover my EV battery?
Coverage for battery components varies by plan. The contract typically lists EV battery system components that are covered; confirm limits and exclusions on the contract identification page.
Can I use any repair shop?
The contract usually requires repairs at authorized dealers or repair facilities for coverage. Emergency repairs may be reimbursable if you notify the provider promptly.
How do I know if my plan is transferable?
Check the transfer section of the contract for eligibility, timing, and any transfer fees.
What if I disagree with a denied claim?
The contract’s dispute resolution section explains appeal steps and arbitration procedures. Keep records and follow the provider’s appeal process.
Closing note
The most practical and customer‑facing points from the Honda Care New and Used EV vehicle service contract. For full legal terms, definitions, state notices, and exact coverage language, consult the contract PDF directly: