An estimated 3 per cent of the purchase price of a new truck will be returned in warranty reimbursement-if you pay attention to coverage and claims. Some fleets have sophisticated software to help track warranty claims, others use simple spreadsheets and paper-based filing systems. But far too many fly by the seats of their pants, filing extraneous claims because they don’t know what’s covered. Here’s a checklist to help you make the most of your warranty:

Read the policy. It’s the only way to know what’s covered-and what isn’t. A “basic” truck warranty covers all but service parts (filters, windshield wipers, etc.). Tires usually have separate coverage. Major components and some parts are often covered by their manufacturer beyond the basic warranty. Does the plan cover parts and labour? Is coverage 100 per cent or prorated over time and mileage? Is there a limit and/or deductible? If a covered part causes others to fail, will the seller cover all repair and replacement costs?

Breakdowns caused by driver abuse, improper maintenance, unauthorized modifications, misapplication, or unauthorized modifications usually aren’t covered. Some extended protection programs pay for towing and a substitute vehicle. Reimbursement for lost revenue is rare.

Preventive maintenance isn’t covered by warranty. Replacement or retrofit parts not sold by the original manufacturer are excluded, although they may have warranties of their own. Damage caused by failure of those parts may also be limited or excluded.

Negotiate extra coverage when haggling price.

Check the warranty before You authorize repairs. Never assume a part or component isn’t covered. Look for extended warranties, and check for manufacturer recalls or component defects.

Good maintenance records can show failure patterns.

Train mechanics. If you’re authorized to do your own warranty work, make sure your techs understand what to look for and what recordkeeping is required. Repair orders should have a column to indicate a possible warranty claim, signaling shop managers to look further. Parts that are warranty candidates should be tagged and kept separate from others. Tags should show the truck, date or repair, mileage, mechanic, and repair order number.

Manufacturer “helplines,” for no charge or a nominal fee, can direct you or your drivers to the nearest authorized repair facility. Some can answer warranty questions, arrange towing or roadside service, and, if needed, deal with the dealer or shop.

Avoid hard-to-diagnose problems. Strange noises and odd vibrations go to the dealer. If the dealer can’t find a problem or won’t do anything, document the complaint and response – a failure may occur after the warranty has expired.

File properly. If the work is done in your shop or in a shop not authorized to file claims, you can avoid problems and delays by knowing what information is required. Appoint one person to keep track of warranty coverage, handle paperwork and follow-up on claims.

When problems occur, the dealer is usually the best place to start. If you don’t get help, go to the manufacturer. Describe the problem, what you’ve done to resolve it and what solution you want. If you are refused and feel you have a valid claim, don’t give up.