As vehicle technology continues to advance and software, often delivered via Wi-Fi or cellular networks, increasingly controls many of the processes in modern cars’ embedded systems, updates are a necessary part of vehicle ownership. Over-the-air, or OTA, updates enable manufacturers to provide software updates to connected devices that keep vehicles running smoothly without requiring physical visits to the service center at the dealership. Most of the time, the update process is performed through the infotainment system, allowing you to view the firmware changes that have been made and confirm their success via a notification.

​Sometimes, though, these updates can cause issues and even complete failures. So the question is, when this happens, is the issue covered under the vehicle’s warranty? The answer depends entirely on the true root cause of the problem. If the issue is due to a software glitch, it usually only requires a quick software reflash or a rollback to a previous version. If, however, the problem is due to a hardware failure, it may be covered under your extended warranty, depending on the specific terms and exclusions of your contract.

Understanding the differences between these scenarios can help alleviate stress associated with over-the-air updates and ensure your vehicle continues to run smoothly over time.

When Coverage Applies to OTA Updates

​Every extended coverage provider will have its own rules and exclusions when it comes to what is and is not covered. For the most part, though, hardware component failures may be covered under many vehicle service contracts, while software-related issues are often addressed by the manufacturer. Typical hardware failures include things like dead control modules, worn sensors, faulty wiring, and other component failures that were not caused by neglect or a specific action by the owner.

​In some cases, an over-the-air update, especially those related to cybersecurity, will reveal an issue with the vehicle’s hardware. If an update triggers a fault code from a pre-existing hardware failure, coverage would depend on the contract terms and diagnostic findings. You will need to take the car in for a diagnostic check, though, to find the true cause of the fault code and where the problem actually lies.

You may also get coverage through the manufacturer if the software update causes a problem and it is a known issue. In some cases, manufacturers may issue a recall or service campaign if a widespread issue is identified.

What Is Not Commonly Covered

​Oftentimes, a problem that starts happening when a software update is installed can be attributed to some kind of user error. When that happens, coverage may be denied if the issue is determined to result from user interference or improper installation. If you interrupt a software installation in the middle of the update, for example, it could be counted as user interference, which will void any kind of warranty coverage you may have otherwise been able to get.

​You can also get denied coverage by the OEM if you fail to do the update in the first place. Sometimes, drivers get concerned that updates will result in their vehicle being “bricked,” meaning it will cause a massive failure in its functionality. To prevent this, users will sometimes skip the update or won’t start it on time, and failure to follow the manufacturer’s update guidance may void your warranty.

To keep your vehicle covered by the OEM and your extended coverage provider, be sure to do updates in a timely manner and to do everything the OEM recommends when it comes to maintenance, even when that maintenance relates to software updates.

Real-World Scenarios and OTA Coverability

Scenario 1: “My update failed and now the car won’t start.”

​If your vehicle installed an OTA system update overnight, and the next morning it wouldn’t start, this could be due to a software bug. Most of the time, this will only require a reflash by the service center, and the manufacturer will likely address the issue under your factory warranty.

Scenario 2: “My EV shows a battery fault right after an OTA update.”

​If a new fault comes to light after a software update, this could be the new software version revealing a previously unknown issue. Chances are the battery module was already failing, and the software’s new features include a more advanced reading of the sensors. In this case, as long as the component is covered by your extended coverage provider, it may qualify for coverage, and you can get the issue repaired.

Scenario 3: “I tried the update three times and then the module died completely.”

​When an OTA update is being done, the last thing you want to do is stop it in the middle. No matter how long it is taking, be sure to let an update finish before trying to move on. A failed update could result in all kinds of glitches and issues. Firmware updates need to be fully completed, and if they aren’t allowed to, the resulting problems might not be covered by the OEM.

How Endurance Approaches Modern Software-Driven Vehicles

​While many third-party vehicle protection plan providers began before the advent of electric cars and over-the-air updates, Endurance has adapted our plans to address modern vehicle technology. Depending on your particular contract, hardware failures may be covered.

If, for example, a control module fails, Endurance will evaluate the hardware failure and cover it subject to the terms and specific components listed in your contract. This ensures that you won’t be left without a vehicle if your essential electrical parts aren’t working properly.

​Endurance does not specifically cover software update failures, but, fortunately, true software issues, often related to authentication, are typically addressed by the manufacturer. Whether the vehicle is still under the factory warranty or not, software and firmware updates are the responsibility of the OEM that has issued them. As long as you have properly initiated the installation and did not interrupt it, any problem should be covered, and Endurance is here to protect the rest of your car, even with increasing automation, in the meantime.

FAQs About OTA Updates and Warranty Coverage

Can skipping OTA updates void my warranty?

​Yes, skipping manufacturer OTA updates may cause hardware failures and other issues as the vehicle ages. If you don’t keep up on your updates, this could affect your coverage eligibility in the same way skipping oil changes may void your warranty.

Does an extended warranty cover software updates?

​Most of the time, software updates are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Extended warranty or vehicle service contract providers, such as Endurance, cover the hardware used in the actual operation of the vehicle. If an update reveals a hardware problem, though, this could be covered by your extended coverage.

If an OTA update breaks my car, is it the manufacturer’s responsibility?

​If an update occurs automatically or is required, any kind of failure resulting from that update will usually be the responsibility of the manufacturer. If you interrupt the update or fail to do it entirely, though, the manufacturer generally won’t cover any issues resulting from that failure.

Can aftermarket tuning affect coverage?

​Yes, aftermarket tuning may impact warranty coverage, depending on how it affects your vehicle’s systems and the manufacturer’s policies. Because tuning changes all the different parameters of your vehicle’s components and timing, it can also cause software glitches. Before doing any kind of tuning on your vehicle, be sure to read the fine print of your coverage.

Get Coverage That Fits Your Vehicle’s Tech Level With Endurance

​With all of the different issues that are affecting the changing landscape of electric vehicles in the automotive industry ecosystem, including those from Tesla, and high-tech control systems, it is important to have the coverage you need. Endurance offers coverage for eligible hardware components, which may help reduce unexpected repair costs if an issue arises.

Endurance has a wide range of plans for all kinds of cars and all kinds of drivers. Whether you have an older high-mileage vehicle or a top-notch luxury or exotic car, there is a plan for you. Endurance even covers cars that other providers won’t, such as Canadian Gray Market cards, vehicles with a rebuilt or salvage title, and cars used for commercial purposes like delivery or rideshare.

​On top of excellent protection, Endurance customers also get a range of extra perks and benefits. These include things like 24/7 roadside assistance, travel interruption protection, and rental car coverage. You can also access a year’s worth of our Elite Benefits program, which includes tire repair or replacement, key fob replacement, windshield coverage, and more.*

​When you’re ready to explore coverage options for your vehicle, get in touch with our team at (800) 253-8203 to get your FREE quote. You can also shop online to see your price and plan recommendations instantly.

​For more automotive expert resources like this one, be sure to check out the Endurance Warranty blog. There, you will find DIY tips and tricks, provider comparisons, and much, much more.