What Is an Extended Auto Warranty?
An extended auto warranty is a service contract that covers repairs or replacements on vital components of your car after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
These contracts are offered by dealerships and third-party companies and can be customized to cover as much or as little as you’d like.
Warranty prices are set by the vehicle’s make, model, and mileage and can be paid in a lump sum or monthly installments.
Usually, if you pay in a lump sum, you will get a discount on the cost of the service.
What Does an Extended Auto Warranty Cover?
Extended auto warranties can cover repairs or replacements on your car’s engine, transmission, electrical system, air conditioning, and more.
Some plans also cover towing, rental cars, and roadside assistance.
The most comprehensive coverage will cover everything except for normal wear and tear.
An extended auto warranty does not cover cosmetic repairs, like a new paint job or anything that is not essential to the car’s functioning.
Be sure to read the fine print of your contract, so you know exactly what is and isn’t covered.
The Coverage Short-List
Here’s a quick list of some of the things that might be covered under an extended auto warranty:
-Engine repairs or replacement
-Transmission repairs or replacement
-Electrical system repairs or replacement
-Air conditioning repairs or replacement
-Suspension components repairs or replacement
-Towing
-Rental cars
-Roadside assistance
How Do You Buy an Extended Auto Warranty?
If you’re interested in purchasing an extended auto warranty, you can get a quote from your dealership or a third-party company.
Shop online and get a good understanding of what is covered.
When getting a quote, have your vehicle’s make, model, and mileage handy.
You should also know what type of coverage you’re looking for and what you’re willing to spend.
Once you’ve got a few quotes, compare the prices and coverage to find the best extended auto warranty.
What to Look for In a Warranty
When shopping for an extended auto warranty, you want to ensure you’re working with a reputable company.
Look for a company that’s been in business for a while and has positive customer reviews.
You should also make sure the company is licensed and insured.
Next, look for the coverage that you need.
If you live in an area often impacted by hail, ensure the warranty you’re considering covers hail damage.
If you do a lot of off-roading, look for a plan that will cover repairs if you damage your car while driving on rough terrain.
Finally, look for fringe benefits that meet your needs.
Often warranties will offer roadside assistance, towing, or even travel interruption reimbursement.
Find a plan that meets your needs and budget to get your car’s best-extended auto warranty.
Manufacturers Warranties
Most new cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers repairs or replacements for a set time.
These warranties are typically good for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Some manufacturers offer more comprehensive warranties, but most will only cover the most essential components.
For example, a manufacturer’s warranty might cover repairs to your engine or transmission, but it won’t cover things like your car’s paint job or upholstery.
While these warranties are helpful, they often don’t cover everything and run out quickly.
That’s where extended auto warranties come in.
What to Do When Your Warranty Runs Out
If your manufacturer’s warranty has expired, you have a few options for coverage.
You can purchase an extended auto warranty, get a service contract from your dealership, or pay out of pocket for repairs as they come up.
If you’re considering an extended auto warranty, be sure to do your research.
Get quotes from multiple companies and compare the coverage to find the best plan for you.
Third-Party and Extended Warranties
If you’re looking for more comprehensive coverage than what your manufacturer’s warranty offers, you might want to consider an extended auto warranty from a third-party company.
Third-party companies offer a variety of plans that can be customized to meet your needs.
These plans typically cover more than just the essentials, like engine and transmission repairs.
Some plans even cover towing, rental cars, and roadside assistance.
When shopping for an extended auto warranty, compare the coverage and prices of different companies to find the best deal.
What is a Maintenance Plan?
A maintenance plan is a contract that covers the cost of routine maintenance and repairs.
These plans often cover oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements.
If you worry about remembering when to have your oil changed or tires rotated, a maintenance plan can take the guesswork out of car ownership.
However, maintenance plans only cover routine maintenance and repairs, so you’ll still have to pay out of pocket if you have a major problem with your car.
Maintenance plans can be purchased from your dealership or a third-party company.
Protect My Car
Join one of the leading companies in the extended auto warranty industry.
We offer a variety of plans that can be customized to meet your needs and budget.
We can cover any car on any budget.
Ask about our Select plan, one of our most popular plans.
It covers many repairs and includes benefits like towing, roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage.
For more information, visit us online or give us a call today.
We’re here to help you find your car’s best extended auto warranty.
Purchasing an Extended Auto Warranty Is a Big Decision
Do your research and compare quotes before making a final purchase.
An extended auto warranty can give you peace of mind on the road and help you budget for unexpected repairs down the line.
When your manufacturer’s warranty expires, you have a few different options for coverage.
One option is to purchase an extended auto warranty from a third-party company.
Third-party companies offer a variety of plans that can be customized to meet your needs.
Be sure to research and compare the coverage and prices of different companies before making a final purchase.
Do you have an extended auto warranty?
Tell us about your experience in the comments below.