All new vehicles sold in America come with at least two auto warranties, and many include roadside assistance coverage. Described below are the major types of warranties and assistance provided to consumers.Basic: Your basic automobile warranty covers everything except items subject to wear and tear, such as oil filters, wiper blades, and the like. Tires and batteries often have their own warranty coverage, which will be outlined in your owner's manual. Emissions equipment is required to be covered for two years or 24,000 miles by the federal government and 8 years and 80,000 on certain components.

Drivetrain: Drivetrain warranties take care of most of the parts that make the car move, like the engine, transmission, drive axles and driveshaft. Like the basic auto warranty, parts subject to wear and tear like hoses and belts are not covered. However, most of the internal parts of the engine, such as the pistons and bearings, which are subject to wear and tear, are covered by the drivetrain warranty. See your owner's manual or local dealer for specific coverage.

Rust or Corrosion: A rust or corrosion warranty protects you from rust-through problems with the sheetmetal. Surface rust doesn't count. The rust must make a hole to be covered. Keep your car washed and waxed, and rust shouldn't be a problem.

Roadside Assistance: Most manufacturers provide a service that will rescue you if your car leaves you stranded, even if it's your fault. Lock yourself out of the car? Somebody will come and open it up. Run out of gas? Somebody will deliver some fuel. Flat tire? Somebody will change it for you. See your owner's manual for details, or ask the dealer about specifics.