California Emissions Warranty: Guide for Vehicle Owners

California has long been a leader in enacting stringent emissions regulations to combat air pollution and protect public health. Since 1967, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has set standards for allowable emissions from vehicles sold in the state, which are more rigorous than the federal regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Important Headings

To ensure compliance with emissions laws, California also has a unique and robust vehicle emissions warranty program designed to cover the cost of repairs for emissions-related parts. This warranty, referred to as the California Emissions Warranty or California Emissions Control System Warranty, has important implications for drivers in the state.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything vehicle owners need to know about the ins and outs of the California Emissions Warranty program.

Key Takeaways on California Emissions Warranty

The California Emissions Warranty covers expensive emissions components like catalytic converters for up to 7 years/70,000 miles.
Hybrids have specialized warranty requirements in California that exceed federal rules.
To maintain warranty coverage, required maintenance must be done on schedule.
Modifying emissions control systems void the California Emissions Warranty.
Out-of-warranty repairs may still be eligible for CARB assistance programs.

Understanding the Basics of the California Emissions Warranty

California mandates the Emissions Warranty to actively cover repair and replacement costs of emissions-related parts for registered vehicles. This policy directly alleviates the burden of expensive repairs from vehicle owners while simultaneously incentivizing manufacturers to prioritize low-emission vehicle production.

This warranty has been required for all new vehicles sold in California since 1984. It is an “emissions warranty” that covers components that control harmful exhaust emissions, including hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.

Read More: What Makes CARB Catalytic Converters Different?

What does the California Emissions Warranty Cover?

The California Emissions Warranty covers emissions control devices and systems repair, replacement, and proper functioning. Covered components may include:

Catalytic converter
Onboard diagnostics system (OBD2)
Exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR)
Fuel injection system
Ignition system
Battery thermal management system
Evaporative emissions system
And more

The specific components covered can vary by manufacturer. Hybrid vehicles also have additional warranty requirements in California covering hybrid components like the battery, inverter/converter, and transaxle.

Requirements for Coverage Eligibility

For a vehicle to be eligible for the California Emissions Warranty, it must meet certain criteria:

The vehicle must be registered in the state of California
The vehicle must be certified by CARB and EPA emissions standards
Routine maintenance must be performed according to manufacturer schedules
The vehicle cannot have its emissions control systems tampered with or altered

In addition, repairs need to be performed by authorized dealers and technicians. Independent repair shops can also perform warranty repairs if certified.

Length of Coverage

The California Emissions Warranty coverage is lengthy compared to most other warranties. By law, it must cover emissions components for the first 70,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first.

For certain major components like the catalytic converter, onboard diagnostics system, and battery thermal management system, the warranty must extend to 100,000 miles or 7 years.

This provides additional protection for vehicle owners against expensive emissions repairs. Meeting maintenance requirements is necessary to keep the warranty valid for the full duration.

Read More: Catalytic Converter Warranty: Owners’ Peace of Mind

Key Differences from Other Emissions Warranties

The California Emissions Warranty has some notable differences from emissions warranties in other states. Here are the key aspects that make California’s program unique:

Stricter Coverage Standards

Since California has stricter emissions laws than national standards, its emissions warranty also has more rigorous requirements. The length of coverage is longer, and more components are included compared to federal emissions warranties.

California also requires the warranty to cover repairs to make vehicles pass a Smog Check inspection. Federal rules do not require emissions warranties to cover repairs related to passing an inspection test.

State-Level Requirements

The California Emissions Warranty is mandated at the state level. At the same time, federal emissions warranties come from national regulations set by the EPA. Qualifying for the California warranty requires registering and operating the vehicle within state borders.

The state has the authority to set its vehicle standards under a Clean Air Act waiver from the EPA. Other states can follow California’s standards but are not obligated to do so.

Broader Purpose

The California Emissions Warranty aims to cover repairs needed to meet the state’s strict emissions limits for the vehicle’s life. This helps ensure vehicles continue to comply with standards as they age. Federal warranties aim to cover manufacturers’ defects within the short warranty period.

These key differences make the California Emissions Warranty more comprehensive and impactful for reducing air pollution across the vehicle fleet.

Coverage and Limitations of the California Emissions Warranty

While the California Emissions Warranty program is expansive, it does not cover all repairs and situations. Understanding what is and is not covered can help vehicle owners better utilize the warranty.

Parts Covered

As discussed, the emissions warranty covers repairs and replacement of emissions control components. While parts lists differ by manufacturer, categories of covered components include:

Catalytic converters – These filter pollutants from the exhaust. Coverage extends 7 years or 70,000 miles in California.
The onboard diagnostics (OBD2) system includes sensors and computers monitoring emissions systems. They are also covered for 7 years/70,000 miles.
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and control system – Recirculates exhaust back into the engine to lower combustion temperatures and reduce nitrogen oxides.
Evaporative emissions control system – Prevents gas fumes from escaping from the fuel system. Includes gas caps, carbon canisters, and control valves.
Air injection systems – Adds oxygen to exhaust to facilitate further breakdown of pollutants.
Ignition control system – Optimizes ignition timing to reduce emissions. Includes knock sensors and ignition control modules.
Fuel injection system – High-pressure, electronically-controlled fuel injection lowers emissions. Covers fuel injectors, sensors, and computers.
Turbocharger or supercharger systems – Force more air into the engine to optimize emissions. Intercoolers, wastegates, and control systems are included.
Battery thermal management system – Maintains proper temperature to prevent emissions from EV/hybrid batteries. It also has a 7-year/70,000-mile coverage limit.

And more. Always check with your manufacturer for the parts covered under your vehicle’s warranty.

Exclusions and Limitations

While comprehensive, the California Emissions Warranty does not cover all vehicle repairs. Some key exclusions include:

Regular maintenance includes oil changes, tire rotations, coolant flushes, and air filters. However, some maintenance is required to keep the warranty valid.
Wear items – Brake pads, wiper blades, drive belts, hoses, etc. These wear out from normal driving.
Damage from accidents – Collisions or impacts that damage emissions parts.
Alterations – The warranty is void if emissions control systems have been tampered with or altered after vehicle purchase. Any modifications must be CARB-approved.
Lack of proper maintenance – Failure to perform required maintenance voids warranty coverage. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.

There are also limitations to the number of repairs covered in a warranty period. Manufacturers must cover repairs needed for vehicles to pass Smog Check inspections. But costs can be capped at around $1000 in parts and labor costs.

Read More: How To Pass Smog Test With Bad Catalytic Converter?

Hybrid and Diesel Vehicles

The emissions warranty is important for hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and diesels sold in California. These vehicles have different emissions control systems and may be eligible for longer coverage:

Hybrid battery system – Warranty on hybrid batteries and control systems ranges 10-15 years or up to 150,000 miles in California. Federal warranty is only 8 years/80,000 miles.
Advanced technology vehicles – Warranty on hybrid drive components like motors, power electronics, and transaxles extends to 10 years or 150,000 miles in California. Exceeds federal requirements.
Diesel emission control systems – Covered for 7 years/70,000 miles in California vs. 5 years/50,000 miles under federal rules. Applies to diesel catalysts, sensors, EGR, and computers.
Zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs) – Battery, fuel cell, and electric drive components are covered under California rules for 10 years or 150,000 miles. Extends beyond federal ZEV warranty.

Maintenance Requirements

Although maintenance services are not covered under the California Emissions Warranty, certain maintenance is required by automakers to keep the warranty valid. Missing key maintenance services can allow manufacturers to deny a warranty claim.

This periodic maintenance is outlined in each vehicle owner’s manual. Often, it involves:

Regular oil and filter changes
Inspection and replacement of air filters
Rotation and balancing of tires
Replacement of coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid based on intervals
Adhering to severe duty schedules if applicable

Documentation of this maintenance is recommended in case warranty coverage is questioned. Use repair invoices, shop records, and manufacturer maintenance logs to verify.

California Emissions Warranty by Car Brand

The overarching requirements of the California Emissions Warranty are consistent across automakers. However, the specific parts covered, maintenance needs, and other details can vary by manufacturer. Here is a look at some key brands:

Toyota California Emissions Warranty

Covers hybrid components like inverters, transaxles, and batteries for 10 years/150,000 miles.
Requires strict adherence to 5,000-mile service intervals and maintenance items.
Known for honoring warranty repairs for high-mileage vehicles.
Maintain records of oil changes, coolant flushes, tire rotations, and all services.

California Emissions Warranty By Honda

Provides some of the most comprehensive emissions warranty coverage in compliance with CARB.
Has extended coverage on hybrid batteries and control modules beyond minimum requirements.
The warranty disclaimer notes mods like lift kits can void the warranty.
Ensure regular tire alignment and rotation and air filter replacement.

California Emissions Warranty Ford

Emissions warranty covers up to 8 years/80,000 miles in CA, exceeding the national program.
Special incentives are offered for some CA EV owners, including free home charger installation.
Ford warns that excessive idling can negatively impact emissions systems.
Covered components include catalytic converters, EGR valves, and canister vent valves.

Subaru California Emissions Warranty

Strict standards require 0W-20 oil to avoid voiding emissions warranty.
Has extended warranty on certain models prone to gasket leaks, like the Outback.
Affected models may qualify for free repairs covered by an extended settlement.
Keep meticulous service records as proof of maintenance.

Nissan California Emissions Warranty

CA warranty covers up to 5 years/60,000 miles for gas models and 8 years/100,000 miles for electric.
Warns against deferred maintenance and aftermarket modifications.
Special considerations for Nissan Leaf battery capacity loss claims.
Save service records for proof of oil changes, filter, and coolant replacement.

BMW

Covers components like DPF, EGR, catalytic converter, and CVVT up to 7 years/70,000 miles.
Requires adherence to Condition Based Servicing (CBS) plan.
Extensive details are provided in the BMW California Emission Control Systems booklet.
Certified BMW technicians should do note repairs.

Mazda

Provides 8 years/80,000-mile emissions warranty coverage for California.
Rotating tires every 7500-8000 miles is vital to prevent warranty issues.
Approved fluids like 0W-20 oil are required to avoid voiding the warranty.
Details are provided in the Mazda California emission warranty guide.

Kia California Emissions Warranty

Covers components like the catalytic converter, engine control module, and EV battery for 5 years/60,000 miles.
Requires OBD inspection every two years to maintain validity.
Approved fluids like DOT3 brake fluid must be used.
Save all repair orders and maintenance records.

Hyundai CARB Emissions Warranty

Warranty covers 7 years/70,000 miles in California.
Hybrid components have longer 10-year/100,000-mile coverage.
Requires strict adherence to the factory maintenance schedule.
Keep proofs of installation for any CARB-approved modifications.

Volkswagen Emissions System Warranty in California

Provides longer emissions warranty periods in California vs. federal coverage.
Has extended warranties on diesel models for issues like DPF clogging.
Approved oils that meet VW oil quality standards must be used.
Maintain air filter, brake fluid, and coolant based on intervals.

Audi CARB Emissions Warranty

Covers parts like SCR catalyst and evaporative system, up to 8 years/80,000 miles.
Requires CARB-approved oil and filters to avoid voiding warranty.
Must follow detailed maintenance as per owner’s manual.
Keep every service invoice, as Audi requires strict proof.

Jeep Emissions System Warranty in California

Mandatory OBDII inspections are required every 2 years to maintain the validity.
Approved oils include Mopar-branded 0W-20 synthetics.
Replacement exhaust must be CARB-certified.
Failure-prone parts like EGR cooler have extended coverage.

Mercedes California Emissions Warranty

The warranty is up to 7 years/70,000 miles when CARB maintenance is adhered to.
MB-approved oil, coolant, and lubricants must be used.
The warranty is generally less flexible than brands like Toyota.
Save detailed records of all services and repairs.

Always consult your owner’s manual for brand-specific warranty details, even though the requirements are standardized. Performing the required maintenance is key regardless of the automaker.

California’s Emissions Warranty for Hybrid Vehicles

In addition to more stringent overall emissions warranty requirements, California has special provisions for hybrid and electric vehicles. These help ensure the advanced technologies introduced in these vehicles remain functional for reducing emissions throughout their lifespan.

Hybrid Emissions System Warranty in California Basics

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has additional warranty regulations for all types of hybrids, including mild, traditional, and plug-in hybrids. These go beyond the federal requirements.

Key aspects include:

Coverage of 10 years or 150,000 miles for hybrid battery systems, inverters, converters, and transaxles
Longer coverage periods for hybrid drive motors and power electronics
Specific requirements related to battery state of health and capacity retention
Protection against excessive battery degradation

Adhering to maintenance schedules and operating conditions is necessary to retain warranty validity.

Unique Components Covered

CARB has determined the advanced electric drive and battery components in hybrids enable significant emissions reductions compared to conventional vehicles. Unique parts covered under the California hybrid warranty include:

Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) and lithium-ion (Li-ion) high-voltage batteries
Battery control modules, thermal management systems
High voltage cables, connectors
Drive motors, power inverters, and converters
Transaxles for connecting electric motors to the drivetrain

Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota have been actively releasing hybrid models in California that must comply with the stringent hybrid warranty rules.

CARB Review of Hybrid Reliability

The California Air Resources Board closely tracks data on battery failure rates, capacity retention, and overall hybrid electrical system durability. This allows it to assess adherence to the emissions warranty by manufacturers.

Suppose CARB determines a systemic defect exists affecting a large number of vehicles. In that case, it can require the manufacturer to provide repairs outside normal warranty terms. This occurred in California with certain Honda IMA hybrid batteries that experienced premature failures.

CARB’s oversight helps ensure automakers take hybrid emissions system durability seriously and stand behind their technology. Keeping more hybrids functional on the road lowers overall vehicle fleet emissions.

Making a Claim Under the California Emissions Warranty

Suppose an emissions-related failure occurs on your vehicle within the warranty period. In that case, you can file a claim to have repairs covered. Here are some tips for smoothly navigating the claim process:

Determine Warranty Eligibility

Consult your owner’s manual or warranty booklet to verify your vehicle qualifies for California Emissions Warranty coverage. This requires having the vehicle registered in CA.
Check that the issue relates to an emissions part listed under the warranty. Compare it to the sample parts outlined earlier in this guide.
Review maintenance records to ensure you have performed all required maintenance within designated intervals to keep the warranty valid.

Have Vehicle Inspected

Take your vehicle to an authorized dealership or certified independent repair shop for inspection and diagnosis. They should provide a detailed diagnosis linking the failed part to an emissions control system.
Ask the inspector to note the vehicle’s current mileage to ensure it is within the warranty period (e.g., under 70,000 miles).
Obtain documentation of the failed part description, recommended repair, and cost estimate in writing from the inspector. This documentation will support your warranty claim.

Submit Warranty Claim Process for Emissions Issues

Submit the warranty claim to your vehicle’s manufacturer, including diagnosis details, repair cost estimate, mileage, maintenance records, and all inspectors’ notes.
Provide a timeline showing the failure occurred within the specified warranty period.
Follow each automaker’s specified claim submission process and provide all necessary documentation upfront to avoid delays.
You may need to have the vehicle make, model, VIN, and emissions control system information available.

Allow Time for Review

It typically takes 30-60 days for an automaker to review a California Emissions Warranty claim and render a decision once submitted. Complex cases may take longer.
You may need to authorize the manufacturer to perform their inspection if they question the external diagnosis.
If approved, the automaker coordinates payment with the dealer or authorized repair facility and provides the next steps.
If denied, you can request details on why and determine if an appeal is appropriate. Seek help from a consumer protection agency if you feel wrongly denied.

Following California’s warranty claim process helps ensure you receive coverage for eligible emissions failures. Pay close attention to documentation and maintenance requirements throughout ownership to reinforce claim validity.

Options if Your Vehicle Exceeds Warranty Limits

Since the California Emissions Warranty only covers the first 70,000 miles or 7 years of operation, you may experience emissions system failures outside these limits that lead to a failed Smog Check. In these out-of-warranty situations, you have a few options:

Perform Repairs at Your Cost

If the repair estimate is affordable, you may pay out-of-pocket to have the needed emissions components repaired or replaced. This is often the case for minor issues. Make sure to use CARB-approved parts.

Apply for Repair Assistance

California has vehicle retirement and repair assistance programs run by BAR (Bureau of Automotive Repair), such as Consumer Assistance, Vehicle Retirement, and Repair Assistance. These can help some lower-income drivers pay for emissions repairs needed to pass Smog Check.

Request Warranty Extension

In some cases of premature failure of a major component like a catalytic converter, you can appeal to the automaker for an out-of-warranty extension as a goodwill gesture. This depends on factors like maintenance records, mileage, and repair costs.

California Emissions Warranty and Vehicle Resale or Retire

Retirement or sale may be the most cost-effective option if repair costs exceed vehicle value. CARB has a vehicle retirement program provides cash incentives ranging from $1000 to $1500 for retiring older, higher-emitting vehicles. Selling privately or to a dealer is another avenue.

While the California Emissions Warranty has long coverage limits compared to most warranties, it will eventually expire. Planning repairs or vehicle retirement outside the warranty period can prevent headaches and costs.

Maintaining Your Vehicle to Ensure Warranty Validity

To ensure your vehicle remains covered and protected by the California Emissions Warranty throughout its term, you must maintain it according to the intervals and procedures specified in your owner’s manual. Here are some tips:

Follow Maintenance Schedule

Review the maintenance schedule in your manual regularly and note upcoming services needed based on time intervals or mileage limits.
Mark your calendar for milestones like 60,000 miles when a major service is due.
Keep maintenance services within prescribed intervals. This can jeopardize warranty coverage.

Keep Detailed Maintenance Records

Retain invoices and records for all maintenance and repairs performed.
Automakers may require documentation proving services were done on schedule.
Computerized maintenance logs from dealers can also document your vehicle’s service history.
Meticulous records are your proof if any warranty concerns arise.

Use Approved Parts

When repairs are needed, use new emissions parts certified by CARB.
Salvaged or aftermarket parts without CARB approval can cause warranty conflicts.
Ask retailers to verify CA certification if you need more clarification.

Avoid Modifications

Do not tamper with or modify emissions control devices. This avoids the California Emissions Warranty.
Even seemingly innocent modifications like a new air intake system can cause issues if not CARB-certified.
Check before making any alterations that may impact emissions systems.

Retain Stock Programming

Do not override the factory engine computer programming or install performance chips.
CARB considers this emissions system tampering, which invalidates warranty coverage.
Even slightly altering fuel maps from stock calibrations is prohibited.

Following CARB’s guidelines for emissions system maintenance keeps your vehicle operating as intended and retains warranty protections. Don’t take shortcuts in service or repairs.

Other CARB Vehicle Emissions Programs

Beyond its pioneering emissions warranty rules, California has numerous other innovative programs and incentives overseen by CARB to accelerate the transition to cleaner vehicles across the state.

Vehicle Retirement and Replacement

California has voluntary accelerated vehicle retirement programs that pay California vehicle owners to retire older, more polluting cars and trucks.
Retiring your high-polluting vehicle can earn you up to $1500 cash to aid in the purchase of a newer, cleaner vehicle.
This rapidly removes the most polluting vehicles from roads to aid air quality. Over 1 million vehicles have been retired in California since 1990.

Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP)

This program provides cash rebates up to $ 7,000 for purchasing or leasing a new plug-in hybrid, battery electric, or fuel cell vehicle in California.
The incentives make cleaner vehicle options more affordable to buyers.
California drivers have received over 750,000 clean vehicle rebates to date.

Clean Cars 4 All

This CARB program incentivizes lower-income California residents living in disadvantaged communities to retire older polluting cars and purchase cleaner hybrid or electric cars.
Incentives up to $9500 are provided based on income eligibility to scrap an old car and get a replacement hybrid or EV.
The program has helped over 11,000 residents upgrade to cleaner cars as of 2021.

Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

CARB provides grants to fund the build-out of electric vehicle charging stations across the state to enable more EV adoption.
Various funding programs have allocated over $1.9 billion to install chargers, including in disadvantaged communities.
More public and workplace charging eases range anxiety for EV drivers.

Innovative Clean Transit

California has committed to transitioning all public transit agencies to 100% zero-emission bus fleets by 2040.
CARB is providing guidance and funding to assist with the large-scale replacement of diesel and CNG buses with new electric buses.
This will eliminate tailpipe emissions and pollution in disadvantaged communities near transit routes.

Supporting Future Technology

CARB continues to provide grants and other support for emerging ultra-low and zero-emissions technologies such as hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
This aids the research and development of technologies that are not yet commercial but have long-term potential.
CARB also adapts standards and policies to accommodate these evolving technologies as they reach the market.

California remains committed to constantly evolving its vehicle emissions regulations and programs to benefit air quality, public health, and the environment. The state’s pioneering efforts continue to drive technology and influence national standards.

FAQs on California Emissions Warranty

What Is the California Emissions Warranty?

CARB mandates this extended warranty to cover repairs of emissions-related parts in vehicles registered in California.

What Maintenance Is Required to Keep the Warranty Valid?

You must follow the scheduled maintenance in your owner’s manual, such as oil changes, air filter replacement, etc.

Does the Warranty Transfer If I Sell the Vehicle?

The remaining California Emissions Warranty transfers to subsequent owners if the vehicle stays registered in California.

Do Aftermarket Parts Void the Warranty?

Yes, any non-CARB-certified modifications can invalidate emissions warranty protections.

Is the Warranty Nationwide or Limited to California?

The warranty only applies to vehicles registered and operated in California.

How Long Does the Warranty Last?

It covers up to 70,000 miles or 7 years, with extra time for major components. Hybrids have 10-15 year coverage.

What If My Claim Gets Denied?

You can request details on the reason for the denial and provide additional proof to appeal the decision.

Can I Claim a Smog Check Failure?

The emissions warranty covers repairs required to pass the Smog Check.

Do All Manufacturers Have This Warranty?

Any new vehicles sold in California must provide this emissions warranty.

Where Do I Submit a Warranty Claim?

Claims go directly through the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty process, not the dealer.

Conclusion California Emissions Warranty

California’s unique and stringent emissions warranty requirements obligate automakers to stand behind emissions control systems for extended periods and high mileage. This provides robust consumer protections for vehicle owners in the state.

While the California Emissions Warranty program has limits and eligibility criteria, it remains the country’s most comprehensive and durable emissions defect warranty. Understanding how to remain covered and when to file a legitimate claim is critical for those driving newer vehicles. Careful adherence to maintenance and avoiding modifications is also essential.

Older out-of-warranty vehicles still need proper emissions-related repairs and maintenance to comply with California registration requirements and pass Smog Checks. Various CARB programs exist to aid lower-income drivers in particular.

Overall, California’s complex web of emissions regulations and supporting incentive programs demonstrates the state’s leadership in pushing toward cleaner vehicles from cradle to grave. The California Emissions Warranty, in conjunction with other CARB efforts, will continue advancing this mission in the years ahead. Vehicle owners play an important role by properly maintaining their cars, utilizing warranty protection when needed, and taking advantage of programs that support emission reduction goals.