"warranty" on a '97 TJ (long)

Well after selling my YJ back in 2001 I've been trying to figure a way to get back into a Jeep ever since. I finally did it a few weeks ago without selling my wife, her car or the two kids and landed a 97 TJ sport from a dealer. Upon taking the Jeep to my local mechanic for PA inspections (purchase was in NJ) he noticed a noise coming from the rear diff and after taking it apart realized the bearings and one axle shaft were pitted and worn and would need to be replaced. Obviously not something I heard during the test drive or ride home. I was not that concerned as the dealer included a Powertrain warranty in the deal which included coverage on "all lubricated parts in the differential".

So I call the warranty company with a description on the problem and they send an adjuster to look at the rear. After taking pictures and writing the report they confirm what the mechanic found that the pinion bearings and axle shaft would need to be replaced and this type of repair is typically covered. (estimated between $800-$1000 by my mechanic) However the claims adjuster states that this was a pre-existing condition at the time of sale and there is nothing they can do for me. So now I figure I'm screwed. After settling down I can see the warranty company's point. They probably see cases like this a lot.

Next step, the dealer. Much to my surprise I call the dealer and explain the situation and they say bring it in we'll take care of it! Not only that, they offered to come tow it from my mechanic to their shop (50 miles). Too good to be true? We'll see, but I am going to give them a shot at repairing it as there will be no money out pocket, yet and they seem to be willing to make good on this deal. There's no doubt there's some risk involved buying used and I've learned some lessons for the next time. I have to believe the dealer was aware of the rear diff issue and was pushing the burden to the warranty company to save a buck.

Hopefully in a week or so I'll be happily driving the TJ around waving to the rest of you again...(hopefully no poorer than I already am) !!!

Hope to be Jeepin soon!!!

Reply to
HG97TJ
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LOL.... That is soooo typical of a warranty company. How does the Adjuster know it was a pre-existing condition.

Rem> Well after selling my YJ back in 2001 I've been trying to figure a way

Reply to
FrankW

How did the adjuster know it was a pre-existing condition? Just on the basis that those parts wear out over time and could not have happened in the 50 miles that I drove it home. Just an excuse that gets them out of paying for it!

Reply to
HG97TJ

If plan to get bigger tires, now is the time to re-gear. The will have to reset the pinion anyway. They would enjoy making money on the front.

Reply to
JimG

Reply to
L.W.( ßill ) Hughes III

Reply to
L.W.( ßill ) Hughes III

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