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Powertrain vs Drivetrain: Key Differentials
A drivetrain warranty covers components that enable power to transfer from your engine to wheels, such as transmissions, driveshafts, differentials and transfer cases. A drivetrain warranty differs from bumper-to-bumper warranties offered by vehicle manufacturers or service contracts from third parties, such as Nova Warranty. To better understand these differences, continue reading.
Without getting confused, just know this: A powertrain warranty generally covers all the components that enable a vehicle to move, including the engine, transmission, and parts that transfer power to the wheels. A drivetrain warranty typically covers the components that transfer power to the wheels, such as the transmission, driveshaft, axles, and wheels, but usually excludes the engine.
Coverage of Drivetrain System Warranty
Transmission
Drivetrain warranty typically includes the transmission, but only the internal mechanical components. Think gears, shafts, torque converter, and the transmission case itself.
So if something inside the transmission fails—not because of wear-and-tear or neglect, but from a defect—it’s usually covered. Whether it’s an automatic, manual, or CVT, the core parts that make the transmission function are part of the deal.
What’s Not Covered?
- Even though the transmission is included, some related components are not:
- Transmission fluid
- Filters
- Cooler lines
- Mounts
- Damage from lack of maintenance or misuse
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Drive Shaft
The axle shaft transfers torque from the transmission to the differential on four-wheel drive vehicles and helps transmit power from front-wheel drive cars. On these cars, it also helps transfer power from transmission to rear wheels via universal joints with slip splines at one end that connect to yokes on either side.
Long drive shafts may feature additional slip joints for precise angle adjustment or alignment purposes. Poorly functioning drive shafts can create numerous mechanical issues for drivers. Vibrations within the cabin and engine overheating may result from such drive shaft issues. Additionally, these issues could impede steering responsiveness particularly on four-wheel drive vehicles.
Rear Differential
The differential is a key part of your vehicle’s drivetrain. It’s what lets the wheels spin at different speeds—especially when turning—while still getting power from the engine. Without it, your car would handle turns like a shopping cart with a locked wheel. Not fun.
Both drivetrain and powertrain warranties typically cover:
- The differential case
- Gears
- Bearings
- Seals (depending on the plan)
- Axle shafts (if they’re part of the assembly)
Transfer Case
The transfer case is the component responsible for transmitting power from the transmission to both front and rear axles in four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles, providing power transfer between transmission and axles.
Some manufacturers provide powertrain warranties, covering the engine and other key components essential to making your car move. These policies usually last 10 years or 100,000 miles whichever comes first; however, third-party providers also sell more affordable extended drivetrain warranties.
Axles Shaft
Few components play such an integral part in powering your wheels and supporting the weight of your vehicle as the axles. Serving as the heart of its drive system, these rod-like shafts transfer power between your transmission or transfer case and differential on the drive axles.
After that, axles transmit engine torque directly to the wheels for turning and forward movement of your car. In addition to transferring power, axles also ensure smooth suspension movement by evenly distributing weight between front and rear wheels.
Drivetrain VS Powertrain Warranty
A powertrain warranty offers the most complete coverage when it comes to your vehicle’s core mechanical systems. It includes everything that generates power and delivers it to the wheels. That means the engine, with all its internal components like the block, pistons, crankshaft, and oil pump, is fully covered.
A drivetrain warranty, on the other hand, covers only the components that transmit power from the engine to the wheels. This includes the transmission, differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, and axles, but not the engine. While still valuable, a drivetrain warranty leaves out one of the most expensive parts of the car to fix or replace—so you’re on the hook if the engine fails.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between a powertrain and a drivetrain warranty, it all boils down to how much protection you want—and for what. If you’re looking for the most peace of mind, especially with high-mileage or older vehicles, opting for powertrain coverage is often the smarter move.
What Sets Nova Warranty Apart?
Quick Response Time
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Competitive Pricing
We make sure you get the best coverage for your money.
Daily Customer Service
Our team is available to help with all of your needs. We are always just a call away.
Comprehensive Coverage
We cover a wide range of vehicles, including luxury, exotic, daily drivers, and supercars.
Get Covered Today with Nova Warranty
Ready to protect your car from costly repairs? Nova Warranty’s Extended Powertrain Plans are designed to give you dependable coverage without breaking the bank. Planning to keep your car for the long haul or want to boost its resale value, we have extended warranty plans that fits your needs.
Call us now or request a quote online—and take the first step toward smarter, stress-free car ownership.