What a used car warranty should actually cover
- Engine, gearbox and transmission. the components behind the largest bills — a gearbox replacement typically runs £800–£3,000.
- Turbocharger. where fitted — a common and expensive failure point on both petrol and diesel engines.
- Steering and suspension components. genuine failures, not gradual wear, which every policy excludes as maintenance.
- Electrical components. control units, sensors and modules — increasingly the source of unexpected bills on modern cars.
- Air conditioning and cooling systems. faults that can escalate into engine damage if ignored.
- Electric and hybrid drive components. on EVs and hybrids — the electric drive unit, charging components, cooling systems and hybrid drive components, where the technology is designed for it.
The RAC's Report on Motoring found 59% of drivers faced an unexpected repair cost in a year, averaging £617 — and individual mechanical failures run much higher, with a gearbox replacement typically £800–£3,000. As a real example, a 2019 petrol car with 70,000 miles costs £480 for one year of ClearPath cover, or £1,296 for three years (£432 a year) — a fixed, known cost against an unpredictable one. Cover doesn't include tyres, brake pads, discs or other wear items on any policy from any provider; it covers sudden mechanical and electrical failure, not maintenance.
The numbers, in full
£3,000Per claim
UnlimitedEligible claims
£100/hrLabour rate covered
15 yrs/ 150,000 miles eligibility
14 daysTo change your mind
UK-wideGarage network
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a used car warranty worth it in 2026?
It comes down to three things: whether the car is out of manufacturer cover, whether it's still worth repairing, and whether an unexpected four-figure bill would cause you real difficulty. If all three are yes, it's usually worth it.
What is the average car repair bill in the UK?
The RAC's Report on Motoring found 59% of drivers faced an unexpected repair cost in a year, averaging £617 across the year. Individual mechanical failures run much higher — a gearbox replacement typically costs £800–£3,000.
Do used car warranties cover tyres and brakes?
No. Tyres, brake pads and discs, bulbs and other consumables are wear items, and every mechanical warranty excludes them as maintenance rather than sudden failure.
What hourly labour rate does a used car warranty pay?
ClearPath contributes up to £100 an hour. The average UK independent garage charges around £60 an hour, so labour is normally covered in full — main dealers charge £85–£165 an hour for mainstream brands.
How much does a used car warranty cost in the UK?
It varies with the age, mileage and fuel type of the car. As a real example, a 2019 petrol car with 70,000 miles costs £480 for one year with ClearPath, or £1,296 for three years, which works out at £432 a year. Older or higher-mileage cars cost more, and electric and hybrid vehicles are priced higher again. Get an instant online quote for your exact car.
Can I buy a used car warranty if the car already has a fault?
No. Every policy excludes pre-existing faults. If something's already making a noise or showing a warning light, get it diagnosed and repaired first, then take out cover for whatever happens next.
Cover for your used car, quoted in minutes.
See what protection costs, with no obligation.
Get a Quote
Important information. This page is general information only. Warranty eligibility, covered components, exclusions, waiting periods, claim limits, excess, labour-rate limits and claim procedures are governed by the applicable ClearPath Protection terms and conditions. Pricing shown is indicative and your actual price depends on your vehicle's age, mileage, fuel type and the cover length you choose.
