Isuzu's Gold Star pre-owned trucks are getting expanded optional powertrain warranties, to as long as 24 months/50,000 miles (whichever comes first) on qualified vehicles.

Current coverage is for 3 months/10,000 miles, 6 months/20,000 miles, and 12 months/30,000 miles for major powertrain components.

Isuzu also announced a new Gold Star Plus program that covers the fuel pump and injectors, turbocharger, turbo control module, alternator, starter and water pump for 12 months or 20,000 miles, the company said.

Gold Star and Gold Star Plus limited warranty coverage will be available on select inspected and qualified 2005 model year and newer Isuzu-built N-Series and W-Series diesel-engine vehicles with less than 170,000 miles and gasoline-engine vehicles with less than 100,000 miles.

"The average Isuzu Class 3 to Class 5 vehicle is traded in after about six and a half years," according to Shaun Skinner, executive vice president and general manager of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America.

"Many of these vehicles have what we consider low mileage, considering that our diesel models have a B-10 engine life of 310,000 miles and our gasoline trucks have an engine design life of 200,000 miles," he said.

"So offering extended major powertrain component coverage on qualified and thoroughly inspected pre-owned Isuzu trucks makes sense for our dealers and makes sense for our customers."

Beyond the peace of mind offered by extended powertrain coverage, all Isuzu Gold Star limited warranties include roadside assistance for the time/mileage duration of the selected warranty, along with a coupon for a free oil change at a participating Isuzu dealer.

No additional dealer inspections are required for a qualified Isuzu truck to be eligible for the new 24-month/50,000-mile Gold Star or 12-month/20,000-mile Gold Star Plus limited warranties, Skinner said.

"As a result, the Isuzu Gold Star continues our Pre-Owned truck program that represents real value for both our customers and our dealers," he said.

Isuzu launched the original Gold Star program in October 2009. The coverage is available at 294 authorized Isuzu commercial truck dealers throughout the United States.