VIDEO From Medialink and General Motors: The Second Time Around

NEW YORK, March 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Most of us will own several cars in our lifetimes. Recently, you may have noticed yours is spending more time on the road and less time in the shop. Automakers say that repairs covered under new car warranties have decreased significantly in the last couple years. In some cases, they have declined as much as forty percent.

(See video from General Motors at: http://media.medialink.com/WebNR.aspx?story=33121)

There's no question that the quality of all vehicles in the marketplace is significantly better than it was 20-25 years ago. Both imported and North American-based vehicles are being made a lot better -- so in turn, manufacturers are making longer term warranties available on used vehicles.

Nearly all carmakers today offer extended warranties for their "certified pre-owned" cars and trucks. To "certify" a used vehicle, a dealer must perform a comprehensive multi-point inspection laid out by the original manufacturer. In addition, the vehicle must meet age and mileage requirements. If the vehicle meets all the required criteria, the dealer will then "certify" the vehicle and its warranty will be extended. This creates a third option for consumers between the new and used vehicles traditionally found on retail lots. With better warranties and incentives like roadside assistance coverage, your used car can be like new.

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