What Is the Kia Drivetrain Warranty in Canada and What Does It Cover?
When shopping for a new vehicle, one of the first questions we often hear at Orleans Kia is: “What kind of warranty does Kia offer in Canada—and what exactly does the drivetrain warranty cover?” It’s an important question, especially for buyers who want peace of mind over the long haul.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Kia Powertrain (or drivetrain) Warranty in Canada, how it differs from other warranties, and what components are covered. Whether you’re buying a new Kia Carnival, Sportage, Forte, or EV6, this guide will help you understand exactly what’s included—and how you’re protected.
What Is the Kia Powertrain Warranty in Canada?
In Canada, Kia offers one of the most comprehensive warranty programs in the auto industry. The Powertrain Warranty, sometimes referred to as the drivetrain warranty, is a key part of this protection plan.
The Kia Powertrain Warranty covers essential components that are critical to keeping your vehicle running smoothly. These include the engine, transmission, differentials, axles, and driveshafts. This coverage is valid for 5 years or 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.
What makes this warranty so valuable is that it protects you from the high costs of repairing or replacing these crucial systems, which can be expensive out-of-pocket without warranty coverage.
What Does the Powertrain Warranty Actually Cover?
To be specific, Kia’s Canadian Powertrain Warranty covers the core systems that make your vehicle go:
- The engine, including all internal lubricated components, timing gears, and cylinder block
- The transmission, including the case, torque converter, and all internal parts
- The drive axle, which includes the driveshafts, CV joints, and differentials
If any of these parts fail due to a defect in materials or workmanship within the warranty period, Kia will cover the repairs at no cost to you—provided the vehicle has been properly maintained according to the owner’s manual.
How Is It Different from the Comprehensive Warranty?
Many customers confuse the Powertrain Warranty with Kia’s Comprehensive Warranty, and it’s easy to see why. The Comprehensive Warranty, also known as the Basic Limited Warranty, covers nearly everything on the vehicle for the first 5 years or 100,000 kilometres.
However, the Comprehensive Warranty includes more wear-and-tear items and interior systems—like climate control, infotainment, and electronics. The Powertrain Warranty is more focused on the mechanical systems that keep your vehicle moving. Think of the Powertrain Warranty as your coverage for the “big stuff”—the systems that are most expensive to fix or replace if something goes wrong.
What About Roadside Assistance and Corrosion Coverage?
Alongside the drivetrain and comprehensive warranties, Kia Canada also includes:
- 5 years of unlimited kilometre roadside assistance, covering emergency towing, battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout help.
- 5 years or 100,000 km anti-perforation warranty, which protects against rust-through of the vehicle’s body panels, giving added peace of mind for our Canadian winters.
Together, these programs show that Kia’s warranty is designed not only to protect your wallet but also to make sure you feel supported every time you hit the road.
What If You Own a Kia Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or EV?
Kia owners in Ottawa who drive hybrid or electric vehicles can also rest easy. Kia Canada offers extended warranty protection for electric and hybrid components.
The Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, and EV components are covered for 8 years or 150,000 km. And the high-voltage battery—arguably one of the most important parts of an electric vehicle—is covered for 8 years or 160,000 km.
That means if you’re considering the Kia EV6 or upcoming Kia EV9, you’re getting robust protection for the advanced technology powering your vehicle.
Can I Extend My Kia Warranty in Canada?
Absolutely. Kia offers a series of extended protection plans under the Kia Protect umbrella, designed to give you even more peace of mind. These include additional mechanical breakdown coverage, cosmetic protection, tire and wheel coverage, and even prepaid maintenance plans.
At Orleans Kia, we can walk you through these options and help you choose a protection plan that matches your driving habits and long-term goals.
Is the Warranty Transferable?
If you decide to sell your Kia before the warranty expires, the Powertrain Warranty is transferable to the next owner, but only for the remaining duration of the 5 years or 100,000 km from the original in-service date.
This transferability adds resale value to your Kia, making it a more attractive option for private buyers or those shopping for certified pre-owned vehicles.
Final Thoughts from Orleans Kia
So, what does the Kia drivetrain warranty cover in Canada? In short, it protects the most essential parts of your vehicle for up to five years or 100,000 kilometres. It’s one of the most generous and comprehensive warranty programs offered by any automaker in the country. And it’s a big part of why so many Ottawa drivers trust Kia with their families, their commutes, and their adventures.
If you’re considering a new Kia, or just want to learn more about your current warranty coverage, our team at Orleans Kia is here to help. We’ll explain everything in plain language and ensure you feel confident in your purchase—no guesswork, no pressure.
Visit us in person or explore our new inventory online to find the right vehicle for your needs—backed by one of the best warranties in Canada.