Extended warranties are a great way to protect your car from unexpected maintenance costs after the manufacturer's standard warranty has expired. However, it's important to understand what an extended warranty does and does not cover. The extended warranty does not cover any pre-existing damage to the vehicle, normal wear and tear, or anything that could be considered abuse. In addition, most basic extended warranties don't cover anything that could be considered an element of routine maintenance, such as changing oil or rotating tires.
The primary purpose of an extended warranty is to cover major mechanical repairs. An extended warranty is very similar to the manufacturer's warranty, since it usually covers faults in major systems, such as the powertrain. A comprehensive warranty can cover more systems, including heating and air conditioning, steering and safety technology, and more. Some extended car warranties may also cover repairs for typical car wear and tear.
Some extended warranties are based on certain areas of the car. For example, you may be able to get an extended powertrain warranty, which will cover aspects such as the engine, transmission, and other areas of the powertrain. However, this will not cover other elements, such as interior components, air conditioning, or exterior elements, such as the transparent coating, paint and body panels. The most premium extended warranties will also cover the car entertainment system, such as the radio and GPS, and the climate control system.
An extended car warranty is a guarantee against unexpected maintenance costs after the manufacturer's standard warranty has expired. On the other hand, the extended vehicle warranty is a totally optional purchase (but highly recommended). Manufacturer warranties are typically included in the purchase price of the car, while extended warranties must be purchased separately. A vehicle service contract (VSC) is often referred to as a “car warranty” or “extended car warranty”, but it is not a warranty.
For example, most providers offer some type of roadside assistance and towing service, so you can get help if your car breaks down while you're away from home. An extended car warranty can be useful if the car has high mileage or beyond the manufacturer's warranty. Insurance, such as coverage for mechanical breakdowns, is often more cost-effective than an extended warranty. So while insurance covers damage caused by accidents, extreme weather conditions, or even if your car is stolen, extended warranties specifically help cover the costs of covered repairs caused by normal wear and tear, in addition to applicable deductibles.
If you have an extended warranty and one of the parts or systems in your car breaks down, you can take it to an authorized dealer or mechanic to have it repaired at no or very low cost. Without an extended warranty, you would be responsible for the full cost of the repair, which can amount to several thousand dollars. Many warranties offer limited coverage depending on years or mileage, so an extended warranty could simply be an extension of what was originally offered with the vehicle. When choosing an extended warranty, it's important to consider the length of coverage, the type of coverage, and the cost.
If you use your vehicle for work or just drive for a long time, you might want to consider an extended warranty as you're likely to reach the mileage limit much sooner than other buyers. Extended warranties provide protection against unexpected maintenance costs after a manufacturer's standard warranty has expired. They are similar to manufacturer warranties in that they usually cover faults in major systems like powertrains but may also cover repairs for typical car wear and tear depending on the protection plan chosen and supplier. Comprehensive warranties may even include coverage for heating and air conditioning systems as well as steering and safety technology.
Premium plans may even include coverage for entertainment systems like radios and GPS as well as climate control systems. Insurance may be more cost-effective than an extended warranty since it covers damage caused by accidents or extreme weather conditions in addition to theft whereas extended warranties specifically help cover repairs caused by normal wear and tear with applicable deductibles. Without an extended warranty you would be responsible for all repair costs which can amount to several thousand dollars so it's important to consider length of coverage type of coverage and cost when choosing one especially if you use your vehicle for work or drive for long periods of time since you're likely to reach mileage limits sooner than other buyers. Start protecting your car today by requesting a free no-obligation quote or call (800) 253-8203 to speak to a member of the Endurance customer service team.
