Is the Hyundai Warranty Transferable?

Yes, the Hyundai warranty is transferable to subsequent owners, but with important conditions. The original 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty transfer automatically at no cost. However, Hyundai’s extended warranties and Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranties often require a transfer fee and must be processed within a specific timeframe. Both sellers and buyers must complete paperwork through a Hyundai dealer to ensure seamless coverage. Always verify the warranty status before purchasing a used Hyundai to avoid unexpected repair costs.

Key Takeaways

• Original factory warranties transfer automatically without fee. The standard 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties fully transfer to the second owner with no charge.
• Extended and CPO warranties require a transfer fee and dealer processing. Hyundai’s extended warranties (like Hyundai Assurance) and Certified Pre-Owned warranties typically incur a fee (often $50-$200) and must be formally transferred within a set period, usually 60 days.
• Transfer must occur within a strict timeframe. For most extended plans, the new owner has 60 days from the purchase date to initiate the transfer; otherwise, coverage may be voided.
• Not all warranty components transfer. Items like prepaid maintenance plans, roadside assistance (if part of a separate program), and any warranty extensions purchased by the original owner after the initial sale may not be transferable.
• Both parties need to provide documentation to the dealer. The seller must provide the bill of sale and vehicle identification number (VIN), while the buyer needs to submit a transfer application and pay any applicable fees through an authorized Hyundai dealer.
• Transferability significantly boosts a used Hyundai’s resale value. A vehicle with a transferable factory warranty is more attractive to buyers, often commanding a higher price and selling faster than comparable models without remaining coverage.
• Always confirm warranty status in writing before finalizing a used vehicle purchase. Request a warranty verification letter from Hyundai or the selling dealer to ensure the stated coverage is accurate and active.

Is the Hyundai Warranty Transferable? Your Complete Guide

So, you’re thinking about selling your Hyundai. Or maybe you’re in the market for a used one and the big question is hanging in the air: does the warranty come with it? It’s a huge deal. A transferable warranty can mean the difference between a smooth, confident purchase and a gamble on a potential money pit. Let’s cut through the jargon and get straight to the facts about whether the Hyundai warranty is transferable.

The short answer is yes, but with some very important details that every buyer and seller needs to know. Hyundai is actually known for having one of the most straightforward transfer policies among mainstream brands, especially for its original factory warranties. However, things get a little more complicated when you start talking about extended plans and Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) coverage. Understanding these nuances protects your wallet and ensures you get the full benefit of the protection Hyundai offers.

Whether you’re a seller looking to maximize your car’s value or a buyer wanting peace of mind, this guide will walk you through everything. We’ll break down exactly what transfers, what doesn’t, the steps you must take, and how this policy stacks up against other manufacturers. By the end, you’ll be a certified expert on Hyundai warranty transferability.

Understanding Warranty Transferability: The Basics

Before we dive into Hyundai’s specific rules, let’s get on the same page about what “warranty transferability” even means. In simple terms, it’s the ability for a vehicle’s remaining manufacturer warranty to pass from the original owner to a subsequent owner when the car is sold. Not all warranties do this automatically. Some are tied strictly to the first buyer’s name and expire when they sell the car.

Why Transferability Matters So Much

Think of a transferable warranty as a golden ticket for a used car buyer. It means the new owner inherits the promise the manufacturer made when the car was new—to cover certain repairs for defects in materials or workmanship for a set period or mileage. This coverage is a huge financial safety net. A major engine or transmission repair can easily cost thousands of dollars. Having that cost covered under warranty is invaluable.

For sellers, a transferable warranty is a powerful selling point. It makes your car more desirable than an identical model without remaining coverage. You can often ask for a higher price and attract more serious buyers quickly. It signals that the car is a sound investment, not just a depreciating asset. In a competitive used car market, this advantage is huge. You can see how this feature impacts real-world buying decisions when you compare models across brands, like in our piece on which Chevrolet SUV is the best, where warranty and reliability are key factors.

Two Main Types of Warranty Transfers

It’s crucial to distinguish between two scenarios:

• Automatic Transfer: This is the best-case scenario. The warranty simply passes to the new owner upon sale with no action required, no fee, and no paperwork from the buyer’s side (though the dealer should update their records). This is typically true for the original factory bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties.
• Formal Transfer Process: This requires the new owner to take active steps, often within a deadline, and pay a fee. This is common for extended service contracts and CPO warranties. If the steps aren’t completed correctly and on time, the coverage can lapse.

Hyundai’s Official Policy: A Breakdown by Warranty Type

Now, let’s get into the meat of Hyundai’s specific policies. Hyundai offers several layers of warranty coverage, and each has its own transfer rules. The good news is that Hyundai is consistently rated as one of the more owner-friendly brands in this regard.

The Original Factory Warranties: The Crown Jewel

This is where Hyundai shines. The warranties that come standard with every new Hyundai are fully transferable to subsequent owners with no transfer fee and no formal application process required. They are considered part of the vehicle’s title. Here’s what transfers:

• 5-Year/60,000-Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty (Bumper-to-Bumper): This covers most vehicle components against defects. If you sell your Hyundai after 2 years and 30,000 miles, the new owner gets the remaining 3 years and 30,000 miles of coverage. It’s that simple.
• 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty: This is Hyundai’s famous industry-leading coverage for the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. Like the bumper-to-bumper warranty, it transfers automatically and fully. A second owner could potentially have nearly a full decade of powertrain coverage if they buy a low-mileage, recent model.
• 5-Year/Unlimited Mileage Roadside Assistance: This roadside assistance program (which includes towing, lockout service, and fuel delivery) is also fully transferable at no cost for the duration of the original 5-year period.

There is no action the buyer or seller needs to take for these to remain valid. The coverage is tied to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), not the owner’s name. When the new owner takes the car to a Hyundai dealer for a covered repair, the dealer’s system will automatically recognize the active warranty based on the VIN and mileage. This automatic, no-fee transfer is a massive perk and a key reason Hyundai’s resale values are often strong.

Hyundai Assurance Extended Warranty (Extended Service Contracts)

Many original owners purchase additional protection beyond the factory warranties, known as Hyundai Assurance. These are extended service contracts that can cover components beyond the powertrain or extend the term of coverage. The transfer rules here are different.

Hyundai Assurance plans are transferable, but it’s a formal process with conditions:

• A Transfer Fee Applies: The new owner must pay a fee to Hyundai Motor America to process the transfer. This fee is typically around $50 to $200, depending on the specific plan and its remaining term. It’s a one-time administrative cost.
• Strict Time Limit: The transfer request must be submitted within 60 days of the vehicle’s sale date. If you miss this window, the extended warranty coverage terminates on the date of sale, and the new owner loses that protection. This deadline is non-negotiable.
• Dealer Involvement: The transfer must be initiated by an authorized Hyundai dealer. The seller should provide the buyer with the extended warranty contract documents. The buyer then takes those documents, along with a copy of the bill of sale showing the new ownership and the transfer fee, to a Hyundai dealer to file the official paperwork.

If the transfer is completed correctly within 60 days, the extended warranty continues for its full remaining term, as if the original owner had never sold the car. Sellers should proactively remind buyers about this requirement, as it’s a common pitfall.

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Warranty

Hyundai’s CPO program is excellent. It offers a comprehensive limited warranty on top of any remaining original factory coverage for vehicles that pass a rigorous 150-point inspection. The CPO warranty has its own transfer policy.

Like the extended Assurance plans, the Hyundai CPO warranty is transferable but requires a formal process and fee.

• Transfer Fee: There is a fee (often similar to the extended warranty fee, around $100-$200) to transfer the CPO coverage to a new private owner.
• Time Limit: The transfer must also be completed within 60 days of the sale.
• Dealer Processing: The new owner must work through a Hyundai dealer to submit the transfer request and payment.

It’s important to note that the CPO warranty is an add-on to the original factory warranty. If the original factory warranty has already expired, the CPO plan provides its own term (e.g., 5 years/60,000 miles from the original CPO sale date, not the vehicle’s initial sale). If the original factory warranty is still active, the CPO coverage layers on top, often providing more comprehensive bumper-to-bumper protection for a longer period.

What Absolutely Does NOT Transfer?

Not everything with the word “warranty” on it moves with the car. It’s just as important to know what isn’t included:

• Prepaid Maintenance Plans: If the original owner purchased a prepaid plan for scheduled maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations), this is a service contract, not a warranty for defects. It is almost never transferable and is forfeited upon sale.
• Third-Party Extended Warranties: Warranties purchased from companies other than Hyundai (like CarShield, Endurance, etc.) have their own, often restrictive, transfer policies. Hyundai has no control over these. The new owner must contact the third-party provider directly to inquire about transfer options and fees.
• Hyundai’s Lifetime Warranty on Paint (if applicable): Some very early model years had a lifetime rust/perforation warranty. These are complex and may have specific ownership history requirements. Always get written confirmation from Hyundai on the status of any “lifetime” coverage.
• Any Warranty Purchased After the Initial Sale That Isn’t Hyundai-Branded: Again, these are external contracts. Their transferability is governed by their own terms and conditions.

The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer a Hyundai Warranty

Knowing the policy is one thing; executing it correctly is another. Here’s a clear, actionable checklist for both sellers and buyers to ensure a smooth transfer, especially for the extended and CPO warranties that require action.

For the Seller: Your Responsibilities

Your job is to set the stage for a successful transfer and provide all necessary information.

1. Gather Your Documentation: Have your original new vehicle retail installment contract (if you financed), the Hyundai Assurance or CPO warranty contract, and the vehicle’s title or bill of sale ready.
2. Disclose All Warranty Information: Be upfront with potential buyers. Clearly state what warranty coverage remains—original factory (which transfers automatically) and any extended/CPO plans (which require a transfer). Provide copies of the warranty documents.
3. Provide the VIN and Current Mileage: The buyer will need the exact VIN and the current odometer reading to complete any transfer forms.
4. Complete the Bill of Sale Properly: Ensure the bill of sale includes the full vehicle description, VIN, sale date, purchase price, and both your name/address and the buyer’s name/address. This document is critical for the dealer to process the transfer.
5. Hand Over All Physical Documents: Give the buyer the original warranty contract(s) and a copy of the bill of sale. Do not keep the originals.

For the Buyer: Your Action Plan

You are the one who must initiate and pay for the formal transfer of extended/CPO warranties. Don’t assume it happens automatically.

1. Verify the Warranty Status Before Buying: This is the most critical step. Do not take the seller’s word. Contact a Hyundai dealer with the VIN and ask them to run a warranty status report. They can tell you exactly what coverage is active, its expiration date/mileage, and if any extended plans are on file. You can also call Hyundai Customer Service directly. For a deeper understanding of what to look for in a used car’s history, our article on what year is the best Nissan Rogue discusses the importance of verified maintenance and warranty records, a principle that applies to Hyundai as well.
2. Get Everything in Writing: Ensure the bill of sale is complete and accurate. Request a copy of all warranty contracts from the seller.
3. Act Quickly: You have a 60-day window from the date you take ownership (the sale date on your bill of sale) to transfer any extended or CPO warranty. Mark this deadline on your calendar immediately.
4. Visit a Hyundai Dealer: Take your copy of the bill of sale, the warranty contract(s), your driver’s license, and the payment for the transfer fee to the finance or service department of any authorized Hyundai dealer. They will have the specific forms and will submit the transfer request to Hyundai Motor America on your behalf.
5. Get Confirmation: After the dealer processes the transfer, ask for a written confirmation letter or an updated warranty information card showing your name as the new owner and the revised expiration. Keep this with your vehicle documents.

A Practical Example: The Santa Fe Sale

Let’s make this real. Sarah sells her 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe with 40,000 miles. She has the original factory warranty (which has 20,000 miles and 2 years left on the bumper-to-bumper, and about 8 years/60,000 miles on the powertrain) AND a Hyundai Assurance extended warranty she bought for 5 years/60,000 miles from the date of her original purchase, which has 3 years and 20,000 miles remaining.

She lists the car, highlighting: “Full Hyundai factory warranty transferable! Plus, extended warranty available for transfer (fee applies).” This attracts buyer Mike.

During the sale, Sarah provides Mike with the Santa Fe’s warranty documents. Mike, being smart, takes the VIN to his local Hyundai dealer before buying. The dealer confirms: 1) Factory warranties are active and transfer automatically. 2) There is an active Hyundai Assurance plan with 3 years/20,000 miles left, which can be transferred for a $125 fee if done within 60 days of purchase.

Mike buys the car. He and Sarah complete a detailed bill of sale. Within 10 days, Mike goes to a Hyundai dealer with the bill of sale, the Assurance contract, and $125. The dealer processes the transfer. A week later, Mike receives a letter confirming the Hyundai Assurance plan is now in his name with the same expiration. He has seamless, comprehensive coverage. Sarah got a higher price because of the transferable warranties, and Mike has total peace of mind. This is how it’s supposed to work.

What Gets Left Behind? Limitations and Exclusions Deep Dive

Even with a successful transfer, it’s vital to understand the boundaries of your coverage. A warranty is not an all-you-can-repair buffet. Hyundai’s warranties have specific terms, and knowing these limitations prevents nasty surprises down the road.

The “Warranty vs. Maintenance” Distinction

This is the most common point of confusion. A manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship. It does not cover wear and tear items that are expected to be replaced during normal ownership. These are considered maintenance items, and they are the owner’s responsibility, regardless of warranty status. This includes:

• Engine oil and filter changes
• Tire rotations and replacements
• Brake pads and rotors
• Wiper blades
• Batteries (though the battery is covered under the bumper-to-bumper warranty for the first 5 years/60,000 miles if it fails due to a defect, not just because it’s old)
• Light bulbs
• Clutch discs (on manual transmission models)

Your owner’s manual has the definitive list of maintenance items and their required service intervals. Adhering to this schedule is often a requirement for warranty coverage on certain components. If you neglect scheduled maintenance and a component fails, Hyundai could deny the warranty claim, arguing the failure was due to lack of maintenance, not a defect.

The “Proper Use” Clause

Warranties assume the vehicle is being used for its intended purpose—personal transportation. Using your Hyundai for commercial purposes (like constant ridesharing, delivery services, or towing beyond its rated capacity) can void the warranty. Similarly, racing, reckless driving, or severe abuse (like off-roading in a non-Off-Road package vehicle) will nullify coverage for any resulting damage. The warranty is a contract for normal use.

Exclusions for Damage and Environmental Factors

The warranty does not cover:

• Accident Damage: Damage from a collision is the domain of your auto insurance, not the warranty.
• Environmental Damage: Corrosion from salt, acid rain, or stone chips; damage from floods, fires, or theft.
• Aftermarket Parts and Modifications: Installing non-OEM parts or performance modifications (like a tuner/chip, aftermarket suspension, or exhaust) can void the warranty on the specific system modified and potentially the entire vehicle if the modification causes a failure elsewhere. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects you in that a dealer cannot void the entire warranty just because you have an aftermarket part; they must prove that the aftermarket part caused the specific failure. However, it creates a very contentious “he said/she said” situation that is best avoided. Keep the vehicle stock if you want to preserve full warranty coverage.
• Normal Wear and Tear: As mentioned above, items like brake pads, tires, and clutches are excluded.

Understanding these limits is just as important as knowing what is covered. For comparison, you might look at how other brands handle exclusions, such as in our guide to what is covered under the Nissan powertrain warranty, to see the subtle differences in philosophy and fine print.

The Ripple Effect: How Transferability Benefits Both Buyers and Sellers

We’ve talked about the “how,” but let’s focus on the “why.” Why does this transferability feature matter so much in the real world of buying and selling? The benefits create a positive cycle for everyone involved.

For the Seller: Maximizing Your Return

Your Hyundai is a depreciating asset, but a transferable warranty is your secret weapon to minimize that depreciation.

• Higher Selling Price: A used Hyundai with 2 years and 20,000 miles left on its factory bumper-to-bumper warranty is objectively worth more than an identical model with no warranty. Buyers will pay a premium for that security. You can often recoup a significant portion of what you originally paid for an extended warranty when you sell.
• Faster Sale: In a crowded listing site, “Full Transferable Hyundai Warranty” is a powerful headline. It attracts serious, informed buyers and helps your listing stand out from the crowd of “no warranty” cars. This can mean your car sells in days instead of weeks or months.
• Reduced Hassle and Liability: Selling a car “as-is” with no warranty can lead to buyer’s remorse and unpleasant conversations later. A transferable warranty provides a clear, objective benefit that reduces post-sale disputes. The buyer knows they have recourse through Hyundai if a covered defect arises.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing you’ve provided the next owner with a valuable asset (the warranty) makes the sale feel good. You’re passing on a reliable vehicle with a safety net.

For the Buyer: Unlocking Peace of Mind and Savings

For the person writing the check, a transferable warranty is pure value.

• Immediate, Significant Financial Protection: You’re buying a used car, which inherently carries more risk than a new one. A transferable factory warranty immediately mitigates that risk. The biggest, most expensive components (engine, transmission) are covered. This can save you from a catastrophic repair bill that could exceed the car’s entire value.
• Predictable Ownership Costs: With a warranty in place, your major cost of ownership for the warranty period is limited to fuel, insurance, tires, brakes, and other maintenance items. You can budget accurately without fearing a surprise $5,000 transmission repair.
• Increased Confidence in the Purchase: Buying from a private party can feel uncertain. A transferable Hyundai warranty acts as a third-party (Hyundai) validation of the vehicle’s condition. It signals that the car was likely well-maintained (to keep the warranty valid) and that Hyundai stands behind its long-term reliability. This confidence is worth thousands in itself.
• Better Resale Value Down the Line: When you eventually sell the car, you can pass on any remaining factory warranty to the next owner just as the previous owner did to you. This creates a virtuous cycle of value preservation. A car with a continuous chain of warranty coverage is more desirable than one with a gap.

This mutual benefit is what makes Hyundai’s policy so smart. It encourages original owners to maintain their vehicles properly (to keep the warranty valid for their own use and future sale) and creates a robust used car market where buyers feel secure. It’s a win-win that strengthens brand loyalty and perceived reliability.

Debunking Myths: Common Misconceptions About Hyundai Warranties

Warranty information is often clouded by hearsay and outdated info. Let’s clear the air on the most frequent myths we hear.

Myth 1: “You Have to Pay a Fee to Transfer the Basic Hyundai Warranty.”

FALSE. This is the biggest and most persistent myth. The original 5-year/60,000-mile and 10-year/100,000-mile factory warranties transfer automatically and free of charge. There is no paperwork for the buyer to file and no fee to pay for these coverages. The confusion often arises because extended warranties and CPO plans DO have fees. Always clarify which warranty you’re discussing. This automatic, no-fee transfer is a key differentiator for Hyundai. For example, some consumers researching Subaru might find different terms; you can read about is Subaru warranty transferable to see how policies vary by brand.

Myth 2: “The Warranty Only Transfers Once to the Second Owner.”

FALSE. Hyundai’s original factory warranties are not limited to a single transfer. They remain attached to the vehicle for their full duration and mileage limits, regardless of how many times the car changes hands. If a car is sold three times in five years with 50,000 miles, the fourth owner still gets the remaining coverage. The warranty follows the VIN, not the owner’s name.

Myth 3: “If I Sell My Car Privately, the Warranty is Void.”

FALSE. The method of sale (private party vs. dealership) has absolutely no bearing on the warranty’s validity. The factory warranties transfer automatically regardless of who you sell to. For extended/CPO warranties, the 60-day transfer window and fee requirement apply equally whether you sell to your neighbor or a used car lot. The only requirement is that the new owner completes the formal transfer process through a Hyundai dealer within the deadline.

Myth 4: “All Hyundai Dealerships Are the Same for Warranty Service.”

MOSTLY TRUE, BUT WITH A CAVEAT. Hyundai’s factory warranties are honored at any authorized Hyundai dealer in the United States. You do not have to go back to the selling dealer for covered repairs. However, for the formal transfer of an extended or CPO warranty, you must submit the paperwork to a Hyundai dealer (any dealer will do, it doesn’t have to be the original selling dealer). For routine warranty repairs during ownership, you have full freedom to choose any Hyundai dealer nationwide. This is a significant benefit for people who move or travel frequently.

Myth 5: “The 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty is Fully Transferable with No Catch.”

MOSTLY TRUE, BUT WITH A KEY DETAIL. The powertrain warranty is fully transferable, but it’s important to understand its limitation: it is only for the original owner and subsequent owners. The first owner gets the full 10 years/unlimited miles (if they never hit 100,000 miles). However, for any subsequent owner, the powertrain warranty is limited to 5 years/60,000 miles from the date of the original retail sale. Wait, what? Let’s clarify.

Here’s the actual Hyundai policy (as of my latest update): The 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty is for the original owner. For the second owner, it becomes a 5-Year/60,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty from the original in-service date. For the third and subsequent owners, it is a 5-Year/60,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty from the date the second owner purchased the vehicle. This is a critical, often-overlooked nuance. The warranty duration shortens for later owners. However, the bumper-to-bumper warranty’s 5-year/60,000-mile term is the same for all owners from the original in-service date. Always get the exact expiration terms from a dealer for the specific VIN you are considering.

This myth-busting shows why getting written verification from Hyundai is non-negotiable. Don’t rely on general statements or what a previous owner told you. Get the facts for the specific vehicle.

Conclusion: Your Hyundai Warranty is a Transferable Asset

So, is the Hyundai warranty transferable? The definitive answer is yes, and that’s excellent news for the Hyundai ecosystem. The original factory warranties—the cornerstone of Hyundai’s value proposition—transfer automatically and freely, providing a lasting benefit that enhances the car’s lifetime value. This policy is a major reason why Hyundais often hold their resale value so well in the competitive compact and midsize segments.

For the extended and CPO warranties, the process is a bit more involved, requiring a fee and timely action within a 60-day window. But it’s a straightforward process when you know the steps. The key takeaway for everyone is this: knowledge is power, and documentation is king. Sellers, disclose your warranties clearly and provide all paperwork. Buyers, verify everything with a Hyundai dealer before you buy and complete the transfer process immediately if needed.

By understanding and properly handling warranty transferability, you protect your investment, build trust in transactions, and fully leverage the long-term protection Hyundai designed into its vehicles. In the world of used car buying, a transferable Hyundai warranty isn’t just a footnote in the owner’s manual—it’s one of the most valuable features on the window sticker, and it’s one that truly travels with the car. For a more detailed, brand-specific look at how this all works, our comprehensive companion article on is Hyundai warranty transferable all you need to know dives even deeper into the fine print and real-world scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to transfer the original Hyundai factory warranty?

No. The original 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties transfer automatically to subsequent owners with no fee and no paperwork required by the buyer.

How long do I have to transfer an extended Hyundai warranty after buying a used car?

You have 60 days from the date of purchase (as shown on your bill of sale) to formally transfer an extended Hyundai Assurance warranty or a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty. Missing this deadline will cause the coverage to terminate.

Can I transfer a Hyundai warranty if I buy the car from a dealership instead of a private party?

Yes, absolutely. The transfer rules are identical whether you buy from a private seller or a used car dealership. The factory warranties transfer automatically. For extended/CPO warranties, the 60-day window and fee requirement still apply, and the dealer should assist with the transfer paperwork during the sale.

What happens if I don’t transfer the extended warranty within 60 days?

If the formal transfer request is not submitted to Hyundai within 60 days of the sale, the extended warranty coverage terminates on the date the vehicle was sold to you. You will lose all remaining protection under that plan, and any fees you paid for it are forfeited.

Does transferring a warranty affect the coverage limits or what is covered?

No. If transferred correctly, the warranty continues with the exact same terms, deductibles (if any), and coverage limits as it had for the previous owner. The remaining time/mileage is what transfers, not a new or reduced plan.

Should I trust a seller who says the warranty is transferable without seeing paperwork?

Never. Always verify independently. Get the vehicle’s VIN and call a Hyundai dealer’s service department or Hyundai Customer Service. They can run the VIN and tell you exactly what active warranties exist, their terms, and their transferability status. Never rely on verbal claims alone.