What is an Extended Warranty?
An extended warranty (sometimes referred to as a vehicle service contract) is an optional plan you can buy to help you pay for the cost of certain repairs your vehicle may need while you own it. It usually begins when the manufacturer’s warranty expires, but sometimes the two may overlap. Extended warranties are typically offered by the vehicle manufacturer or by a third party and can be purchased when buying a new car or after purchase as an aftermarket offering. Coverage varies and additional out-of-pocket costs may apply. The main benefit of having an extended warranty is that it can save you money if your car needs a costly repair that’s covered under your contract, and it can also provide peace of mind.
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What are the Benefits of Purchasing an Extended Warranty for a Used Car?
1. Extended coverage for repair of major mechanical and electrical failures.
An extended warranty for a used car provides coverage for expensive repairs due to mechanical breakdowns and system failures. This type of warranty typically covers major parts of the car such as the engine and transmission, as well as additional coverage such as 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, trip interruption service, and tire protection. It does not include routine maintenance or damage caused by normal wear and tear. Additionally, some auto insurance companies offer mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) as an add-on to a policy, which works in a similar way to extended warranties. MBI typically covers the cost of repairs when needed, however the exact coverage will vary with every provider. It is important to note that extended warranties and MBIs do not cover damage caused by a driver, repair damage from an accident, or wear and tear – these are covered by basic car insurance. Ultimately, an extended warranty or MBI can help cover the cost of unexpected car repairs and provide peace of mind.
2. Peace of mind knowing your car is covered if anything goes wrong.
An extended warranty for a used car provides protection against unexpected repairs and costs that may arise. It gives drivers peace of mind and protection in the event of a breakdown. An extended warranty is similar to car insurance, in that you may never need it, but if you do, it can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs. It also provides coverage for routine car care services, such as heating and cooling system repairs, engine and transmission servicing, and more. Additionally, an extended warranty may include roadside assistance, which can be very helpful in the event of a breakdown.
3. Ability to negotiate the terms of the warranty with the dealer.
Step 1: Research the average extended warranty cost , types of coverage, and perks offered by third-party providers. This will help you determine a price range and level of coverage that makes sense for you.
Step 2: Before you buy, ask the dealer to give you a breakdown of the cost of the warranty and any fees or add-ons included.
Step 3: Negotiate to get the best deal possible. Try to get the dealer to reduce or waive any fees or add-ons.
Step 4: Be sure to get any agreements in writing. This ensures that the dealer cannot change the terms of the warranty before or after you purchase it.
Step 5: When you are ready to buy, make sure to get a copy of the paperwork outlining the terms of the warranty. This includes a copy of the itemized cost, proof of insurance, and any other documents related to the warranty.
Step 6: Keep the paperwork in a safe place and be sure to read through it carefully to make sure it contains all the information you need. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the dealer for clarification.
4. Coverage for parts and labor not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
An extended warranty for a used car typically covers major mechanical parts of the car, such as the engine and transmission, and may also cover add-ons like 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, trip interruption service, and tire protection. However, extended warranties typically do not cover routine maintenance, wear-and-tear items such as brake pads and tires, body damage due to accidents, or oil changes. It is important to read the fine print before purchasing an extended warranty, as each policy and plan will have different coverage levels and exclusions.
5. Ability to receive repairs without waiting in line at the service center.
Step 1: Choose an extended warranty provider that offers the coverage you need. Look for a provider that offers long-term coverage of up to 15 years and 250,000 miles, as well as multiple coverage plans to customize your level of protection.
Step 2: Make sure the provider you choose offers coverage for the repair shop you’ll be using. Most reputable MBI/VSC companies allow you to take the car to any certified repair shop.
Step 3: Take your car to a licensed repair shop for diagnosis if you are covered by a used car warranty and your vehicle breaks down. The provider or administrator will pay the repair shop directly minus your deductible, if repairs are covered under warranty.
Step 4: Check to see if the provider offers additional benefits such as roadside assistance, hotel expenses if you get stranded, or movie ticket vouchers.
Step 5: Receive the benefit of cutting the cost of expensive repair bills. With an extended warranty, you pay your deductible along with any uncovered items and you are back on the road, enjoying life.
6. Access to repair centers with quality assurance certification.
Purchasing an extended warranty for a used car can help with quality assurance by providing peace of mind that your car will have the necessary repairs and maintenance covered in the event of a breakdown or malfunction. Extended warranty providers, like Endurance, often have additional bonus features such as roadside assistance or movie ticket vouchers, and can also provide coverage plans with term lengths up to 15 years and 250,000 miles. With a third-party provider, drivers can choose from multiple coverage plans that allow for more customization and are able to take their vehicles to thousands of authorized repair shops. Certified Pre-Owned warranties also offer coverage for used vehicles purchased from a car dealership, although these warranties usually need to be done at the dealership where the car was bought. Ultimately, purchasing an extended warranty for a used car helps to ensure that the vehicle is taken care of and can be trusted to last for the long-term.
7. Potential savings compared to paying for repairs out of pocket.
Purchasing an extended warranty for a used car can help save money by paying for unexpected auto repairs. An extended warranty will provide coverage for needed repairs and is readily available, often being offered through dealerships, auto clubs, and insurance companies. It is often cheaper than paying for your own repairs, as it might be worth researching the typical repairs needed for the used car you are looking to buy. Additionally, having an extended warranty can provide peace of mind and help protect against costly repairs.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider before purchasing an extended warranty. This includes varying levels of protection available, depending on the price paid, and the need to make an upfront deposit with monthly payments following. Additionally, for third-party providers, deductibles range from $50 to a few hundred dollars, meaning you may end up paying a deductible for each part repaired, even if it is on the same day. Moreover, there are contract length limitations which means you must purchase a new one to cover repairs moving forward.
If an extended warranty isn’t the best option for you, you may want to consider alternatives such as setting aside a reasonable amount of money every month to create a pool for future repairs. This way, if you don’t use the money for repairs, you can spend it on something else.
8. Coverage for unexpected trips and mechanical failures.
An extended warranty for a used car can cover a variety of unexpected trips and mechanical failures. Major system repairs such as those related to the engine and transmission, as well as add-ons like 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, trip interruption service, and tire protection are typically covered. Minor mechanical repairs, such as those related to brake systems, exhaust systems, and power systems, may also be covered. In addition, certain policies may cover typical wear and tear as well. However, it is important to remember that an extended warranty will not cover damage caused by a driver or repair damage from an accident or wear and tear. Those repairs are covered by service agreements or basic car insurance.
9. Ability to receive reimbursement for rental cars if your car is in the shop.
An extended warranty or mechanical breakdown insurance coverage can help reimburse you for the cost of a rental car if your car is in the shop. This type of coverage helps to protect you from unexpected costs that may arise from having to use the warranty. With the coverage in place, you can be connected with a towing company to take you to a certified auto repair shop and your provider may also cover the repair bills and provide rental car options. Additionally, some third-party providers offer customer bonus features, such as movie ticket vouchers, making the coverage even more attractive.
10. Warranty coverage for parts and labor not covered by the aftermarket warranty.
An extended warranty typically provides coverage for major mechanical parts of a used car, such as the engine and transmission, plus added benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, trip interruption service, and tire protection. However, it does not cover routine maintenance, wear-and-tear items, body damage, or parts that break due to normal wear and tear, such as brake pads, tires, and clutches. It also may not cover cars used for commercial purposes, such as taxis, commercial delivery vehicles, or cars used for ride-hailing, though some plans may offer such coverage for an extra cost. Additionally, some extended warranty plans may include exclusions such as “betterment” and “consequential loss” clauses, which can severely limit a customer’s repair options and nullify their claims.
How to Find the Best Extended Warranty for Used Cars
Step 1: Research car warranty providers
Finding the best extended warranty for your used car can be a daunting task. To help you make the right decision, here is a step-by-step guide to researching car warranty providers:
- Compare plans: Compare the plans offered by your car manufacturer and by different third-party providers. Look at sample contracts to understand the coverage offered and its limitations and exclusions.
- Compare prices: Get quotes from different providers for the same car model and year to determine price differences.
- Check claims handling: Determine if claims are handled in-house or externally, and whether the provider allows customers to choose a certified repair shop.
- Check reputation: Look at customer feedback and certifications to evaluate the company’s customer service standards.
- Check financial backing: Ensure that the company has financial backing from larger insurers to guarantee the enforcement of the service agreement.
- Verify identity: Verify that the company you are dealing with is legitimate, and request a quote and all the coverage details via email.
By following these steps, you can research and compare car warranty providers to make an informed decision and find the best extended warranty for your used car.
Step 2: Compare price and coverage options
When it comes to finding the best extended warranty for a used car, it is important to compare and contrast price and coverage options. There are a variety of different levels of coverage available, so it is important to research and understand the different plans in order to choose the one that is best for you. Shopping online can be daunting because of the numerous choices, so it is important to be aware of the criteria used to rank various car warranty providers. Factors to consider include plans, claims, and reputation.
When obtaining quotes, it is important to consider the make, model, year, and mileage of the vehicle in order to get an accurate price estimate. Additionally, it is important to look at sample contracts if they are available in order to understand the coverage options and limitations. Furthermore, looking into how claims are handled, if customers can choose certified repair shops, if prices are fair, and if there is financial backing are all important factors to consider. Finally, researching customer feedback and the company’s reputation can also be beneficial.
By carefully researching and understanding the different coverage options, customers can find the best extended warranty for their used cars.
Step 3: Maximize the resale value of your car
An extended warranty can help maximize the resale value of your car by providing additional coverage for costly repairs and maintenance that would otherwise not be covered. This increased protection can make your car a much more attractive purchase for potential buyers, as they know that the car has been well taken care of. Many extended warranties are also transferable for a small fee, which will also add value to your vehicle when it comes time to sell. Additionally, some warranties even cover general maintenance fees, up to $3,500 per year, to help keep your car in top condition. All of these benefits will help maintain the value of your car and make it easier to sell when the time comes.
Step 4: Consider minimizing the cost of ownership
Extended warranties can help minimize the cost of ownership for used cars by providing coverage for unexpected and costly repairs. Such warranties can provide peace of mind, knowing that should a major repair arise, it won’t deplete savings or max out credit cards. Extended warranties also offer different levels of coverage, so consumers can find one that meets their needs and budget. Pay-as-you-go plans also provide the added benefit of being able to cancel at any time should the need arise. Ultimately, extended warranties offer protection and peace of mind, helping to minimize the cost of ownership for used cars.
Step 5: Check the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction ratings
When looking for an extended warranty for used cars, it is important to check the reputation and customer satisfaction ratings of the company. Here are the steps to do so:
- Check the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The BBB rating is the toughest to get and companies cannot fake them easily.
- Read reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Make sure to pay attention to how the company treats their customers and responds to complaints as well as compliments.
- Ask your friends if they know of someone they would recommend.
- Request a quote and all the coverage details via email to make the best decision to meet your specific needs.
- Check if the company is part of a larger insurance company, as this can be a sign of reliability.
- Research the companies that receive the best reviews and ratings on the internet, including at the BBB, Google, and Yelp.
- Verify that the company is who they say they are before providing your personal information.
- Read reviews from independent review sites, such as olive.com, to get an independent, unbiased assessment of the company.
Step 6: research their availability, location and abilities to fix your car
Researching the availability, location, and abilities of car repair shops can seem daunting, but with the right tools and information, it’s actually quite easy. Here are the steps you should take:
- Start by doing an online search for local car repair shops. Compare the prices and services offered by different shops in your area.
- Check the rating of each shop on the Better Business Bureau website. Make sure they have an A+ rating.
- Ask the shop if they are certified to work on your specific car make and model. Make sure they have the right tools and technicians to do the job.
- Ask if they offer extended warranties on car repairs. Some shops offer warranties and discounts on labor and parts.
- Read customer reviews to get a better understanding of the quality of service a shop provides. This will help you decide if they are right for you.
By researching car repair shops before you take your car in for service, you can make sure you get the best experience possible.
Step 7: Read reviews regarding the quality of customer service offered by the provider
Step 1: Research and compare the extended warranty providers available. Look at the quality of their coverage and customer service ratings.
Step 2: Check their BBB ratings and read reviews on platforms such as Google and Facebook.
Step 3: Ask friends and family for recommendations if possible.
Step 4: Verify that the customer service representative that is contacting you is from the company they say they are from.
Step 5: Request a quote and all the coverage details via email so you can make the best decision to meet your specific needs.
Step 6: Read customer reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the responsiveness and helpfulness of the customer service representatives.
Step 7: Consider the affordability of the coverage. Compare quotes for different vehicles, mileages, warranty plans, and locations to get a sense of the cost.
Step 8: Analyze the types of extended warranty plans offered, coverage terms, and additional benefits such as roadside assistance.
Step 8: Make sure there is a waiting period before coverage begins
When it comes to purchasing an extended warranty for used cars, it is important to compare and contrast the different options available. Many dealerships offer a MBI or VSC program, with a 30 day/1,000 mile waiting period. This can be a reasonable option, but if something happens during that time it will not be covered. Alternatively, olive.com has no waiting period for coverage, allowing customers to quote today and be covered tomorrow.
When deciding between extended warranty providers, other factors should also be taken into consideration. Both “named-component” and “exclusionary” coverage plans are available, with different deductibles and limitations. With third-party providers, deductibles usually range from $50 to a few hundred dollars. Additionally, some deductibles are “per visit” while others are “per repair”, which can make a difference depending on the repair needs.
In summary, it is important to compare and contrast the different extended warranty options available. It can be beneficial to choose a provider such as olive.com, with no waiting period for coverage, multiple levels of protection, fixed payment prices, and cancellation flexibility.
Step 9: Check if the policy is transferable
Yes, extended warranties are often transferable with the car when it is sold. However, the terms of the warranty may be different for the new owner. It is important to verify the specifics of the warranty with the manufacturer or dealership before purchasing the car. Additionally, the warranty may be shorter for a used car, depending on when it was first sold.