Dealerships can help you with the paperwork and can refer you to approved repair workshops that will conduct a reliable, warranty-friendly check-up. If you’re using a private mechanic then you should bring all of the car’s information with you, including any documents regarding its history, such as police reports and warranty. The mechanic should refer to these documents in order to stay within the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Make sure that you always comply with your insurance company’s requirements if you need repairs for damage caused through a traffic accident. This might include gathering the formal traffic report, the police statement or the full accident statement. If you happen to be leasing a car when an accident occurs, then the damage and repairs fall under the responsibility of the leasing company. Warranties differ, so check over their policies so you know when the company should pay for damages or defects and when you’re responsible. If you decide to install after-market parts, go to your dealer first to make sure the add-ons won’t void the warranty or devalue the car.