When is the Best Time to Buy an Extended Car Warranty?

Learn when is best time to buy an extended car warranty and what factors determine its cost.

When is the Best Time to Buy an Extended Car Warranty?

It's important to note that you have the option to purchase a car warranty at any time before the manufacturer's warranty expires. You can even buy an extended warranty after the manufacturer's warranty expires, although the price will go up considerably. Nearly every new car comes with a comprehensive warranty of at least three years and 36,000 miles. For many brands, the warranty is even longer.\If you keep or lease your car for less than the duration of the factory coverage, you don't need an extended warranty.

However, if you plan to keep your car until its wheels fall off, you might consider buying an extended warranty to cover repairs in the fifth and sixth year or more. Buying the warranty when buying the car is easier, of course; you can include the cost in your monthly payment. And most warranties are transferable if you decide to sell.\The length of the warranty varies by manufacturer, but many offer full warranties of three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Powertrain warranties can last up to 60 months or 60,000 miles.

The extended vehicle warranty usually begins after the manufacturer's warranty expires, but in some cases, the two protection plans overlap. Since the factory warranty will end at some point, you might consider purchasing an extended warranty to help defray unexpected expenses, but do you really need it? A vehicle service contract, commonly known as an extended warranty for car owners, is an optional protection plan that you can purchase to help cover repair costs.\Another reason why companies use the extended car warranty waiting period is for YOUR benefit. You have 30 full days (sometimes more, depending on the policy you choose) to ensure that you have the right coverage. If you decide that you're not happy or interested, we'll cancel and refund your money.\When it comes to deciding when to buy an extended warranty, if you decide that an extended warranty makes sense for you, the best time to buy it is usually when the original manufacturer's warranty is about to expire.

This way, you can avoid any interruption in coverage. Keep in mind that you may be able to get a better deal on an extended warranty if you buy it before your car reaches a certain age or mileage limit. There's no doubt that it's possible to purchase an extended warranty after you've purchased your car. Vehicle service contracts, often referred to as extended warranties, are a tempting option for consumers buying a used car or for those who want to extend coverage for a new car.

These are typically included in certified used cars sold by dealerships, along with a thorough inspection.\Factors such as the make, model, mileage, and age of the vehicle help determine how much an extended car warranty will cost. This is because extended warranties can have a lot of drawbacks since they rely on the small print of the contract to deny coverage for almost any reason. The manufacturer or a third-party company can offer extended warranties and both can be sold at a dealership. The warranties do not cover oil changes, brakes, tires or other “wear items” that are subject to wear and tear.\CARCHEX's expanded vehicle protection plan helps protect your car and wallet for years to come.

Some manufacturers also offer warranties for cars that have been through a certified used vehicle (CPO) program. While companies such as Endurance, Protect My Car, Concord Auto Protect, Delta Auto Protect, AutoAssure and AA Auto Protection offer extended warranties for cars, they don't have BBB accreditation. Because of the different factors involved in determining the price of an extended car warranty it's best to contact your warranty provider and get a quote. In addition, extended warranties are definitely available for used cars with more than one hundred thousand miles.\You want one that is as close as possible to the terms of the original warranty that is offered preferably by the car manufacturer and not by a third party - a true extended warranty.

In some cases you may be reimbursed for part of the manufacturer's deductible if you have a factory warranty and an extended warranty and the repairs are covered by the factory warranty. The good news is that it is possible to purchase an extended warranty after you have purchased the car. An extended car warranty from a third-party company also gives you the option to customize your coverage with some guarantees; you'll have to visit a specific auto mechanic or choose a repair shop from your network.

Célia Peals
Célia Peals

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