How to File a Car Warranty Claim? Ways to Honor Your Extended Warranty

What is an Extended Warranty?

An extended warranty is an additional type of auto insurance that covers the cost of repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. These contracts are multi-page documents that carefully outline the terms and coverage of your extended warranty. Common exclusions that are not covered by most extended warranty contracts include parts damaged by non-covered parts, vehicles involved in serious accidents, vehicles used for racing or offroading, glass parts, wear-and-tear components, exterior trim, interior upholstery, latches, hinges, bulbs, and fuses.

When you buy a new car, the initial car warranty is typically built into the cost of the car. When the initial warranty has expired, you can buy additional coverage in the form of an extended warranty. These warranties come with a deductible and can be bumper-to-bumper or powertrain-only coverage. The cost of an extended warranty can be expensive, but it is worth it for the peace of mind it can provide.

When filing an extended warranty claim, you must do so within 60 days of when the warranty becomes effective or it will expire. It is helpful to contact your provider or the company directly as they may have phone numbers available to help with claims and customer service representatives to answer questions.

What to Consider When Filing a Car Warranty Claim

1. Warranty Company

When filing a warranty claim with a car manufacturer, it is important to consider the following outlets for help and advice: your local consumer protection office, your state’s attorney general, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the provider’s BBB page, best coverage providers such as CARCHEX, autopom!, Toco, Mercury, Concord, Endurance, Protect My Car, CarShield, and Select Auto Protect, as well as Ally Extended Car Warranty. It is also advisable to get quotes from several reputable extended warranty companies to find better service and coverage in the future.

2. Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage is an agreement between the buyer and the seller that provides a certain level of quality and protection for the product purchased. It is important to consider when filing a car warranty claim because it outlines what is and isn’t covered, and it also specifies the terms of service and repair. Knowing what is covered and what isn’t can be the difference between having a successful warranty claim approved or rejected.

For example, many warranties cover mechanical breakdowns, but they typically exclude wear and tear, misuse, or neglect. Some warranties also have restrictions on where you can take your car for repair and what parts can be used for the repair. If you don’t follow the terms of the warranty, your claim may be denied. Therefore, it is important to understand the terms and conditions of your car warranty before you file a claim.

Additionally, it’s important to know what type of warranty you have. There are different types of warranties that cover different aspects of your car, such as bumper-to-bumper warranties, powertrain warranties, corrosion warranties, and restraint system warranties. Make sure you know which type of warranty you have and what it covers so you can make sure your claim is successful.

3. Vehicle Model

When filing a car warranty claim for a vehicle model, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you should make sure you have the correct vehicle Make, Model, and Year. You should also make sure you know your estimated mileage, ZIP Code, and provide your First Name, Last Name, Email Address, and Phone Number. Additionally, you should be aware of the type of coverage and protection plan that you choose, such as Exclusionary Coverage, Stated Component Coverage, New Vehicle Protection Plans, or Used Vehicle Protection Plans. Lastly, you should make sure you are aware of the process of filing a claim and the other Driver Tools that are available, such as how to Find A Repair Facility, Renew A Contract, Upgrade A Contract, Transfer A Contract, and Submit A Review.

4. Warranty Claims Process

The warranty claims process is a necessary step in order to get your car repairs covered. It starts with filing a claim, which must be authorized by your warranty administrator before any work can begin on your car. Once your claim is submitted, you may need to review your contract in order to understand the coverage provided.

The claims process can take some time, and it’s important to be patient and take the proper steps to ensure your claim is ultimately approved. To begin, you can choose one of three ways to file your claim: call the number provided, log into your personal account online, or fill out a claims form.

It is important to contact the warranty provider before any repairs are made, as you cannot submit a claim after the repairs have been completed. If your claim is denied and you cannot appeal the decision, you may have the option of contacting state consumer protection services or reaching out to a higher-up in the company. You may also have the option of taking legal action, though this may be more costly than the claim itself.

When selecting an extended warranty provider, it’s important to research the items that are covered and to understand how their claims process works. Different states may have different laws on the appeal and dispute process and on how long a company is obligated to honor a warranty.

5. Needed Documents

When filing a car warranty claim, you will need to provide the following documents in order to have the best chance of success: your warranty, your vehicle title and registration, service records, a copy of your warranty for reference, receipts of any service done, and any other physical evidence relevant to the matter. Additionally, you may need to submit a protest in writing to the Motor Vehicle Board with a $200 filing fee, accompanied by a proof of service and a request for a fee waiver if needed. Lastly, you should keep any paperwork and communications with your warranty administrator in case your claim is denied.

6. Car Warranty Companies

When shopping for a car warranty, there are many available options and it is important to consider factors such as customer service, responsiveness, affordability, and coverage when making a decision. Some of the top-rated companies include CARCHEX, autopom!, Toco, Mercury, Concord, Endurance, Protect My Car, CarShield, Select Auto Protect, Ally, EasyCare, Zurich, Route66, Chrysler Warranty Direct, and GM Extended Protection Plan.

When filing a claim, it is important to ensure that the company is reputable and offers a customer service team to assist with any issues. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the coverage offered meets the needs of the customer and is accepted at most dealerships or repair facilities.

7. Coverage Amount

The coverage amount for a car warranty claim depends on the type of coverage plan you have purchased. Exclusionary coverage plans provide the most comprehensive coverage, meaning that all components of your vehicle are covered except for those specifically excluded in the policy. Stated component coverage plans cover specific components of your vehicle, such as the engine or transmission, and usually provide more limited coverage. New vehicle protection plans provide coverage for a vehicle that is still under the manufacturer’s warranty and will cover repairs up to a certain amount. Used vehicle protection plans provide coverage for vehicles that are no longer under the manufacturer’s warranty and will cover repairs up to a certain amount.

The amount that is covered for a claim depends on the type of coverage you have purchased and the cause of the damage. Your deductible and any non-covered charges may also apply. Certain plans may also provide rental car benefits and trip interruption coverage, which could reimburse you for hotel and restaurant expenses up to $125 per day and a maximum benefit of $500.00 per occurrence. Please refer to your contract to verify coverage amounts and rental benefits.

8. Coverage Period

The coverage period for a car warranty claim typically lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is the industry standard, though the average American drives more than 12,000 miles a year, meaning the mileage limit may be reached before three years have passed. If a car is older than 12 years, it’s likely that the car has surpassed the warranty coverage period. Once a claim is filed, the service contract company should be contacted to begin the process. The claim is then typically sent to the ASE-Certified® repair facility and the customer will be responsible for their deductible plus non-covered charges.

9. Plan and Car Manufacturer Warranties

Plan and car manufacturer warranties are policies issued by automakers that cover a range of maintenance services and repair costs for a set period of time. The warranties are designed to protect consumers from unexpected repair costs and can greatly reduce the cost of car ownership.

Manufacturer warranties are typically broken down into two main categories: a basic warranty and a powertrain warranty. The basic warranty is the most comprehensive and covers most repairs and defects related to the manufacturer’s parts or workmanship. The powertrain warranty covers the engine and other components that make up the car’s drivetrain.

The affect of these warranties on car warranty claims vary depending on the policy. Most car warranty policies are affected by the type and scope of the warranty, the coverage period, and the specifics of the claim. For example, some warranties may have conditions that must be met before the claim is honored, such as regular maintenance or use of specific parts. Additionally, some policies may offer a deductible, while others will cover the entire cost of the repair.

It is important to read the terms and conditions of each policy carefully to understand what the warranty covers and how it will affect a claim. Doing so can help ensure that you are adequately protected and able to make a successful claim if something goes wrong.

10. Mechanics and Warranty Companies

When filing a car warranty claim, there are a few mechanics and warranty companies to consider. These include CARCHEX, autopom!, Toco, Mercury, Concord, Endurance, Protect My Car, and CarShield. CARCHEX is one of the largest and most highly-rated providers of vehicle extended warranties and has been a trusted name in the business for 20 years. Autopom! is well known for customer service and responsiveness and works with certified repair facilities. Toco Warranty Corporation is a relative newcomer in the industry, but they have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and offer affordable plans with no down payment and the ability to pay in monthly installments. Mercury Insurance Company has been in business since 1961, and offers a variety of products to insure everything from your car to your business. Concord Auto Protect features ASE certified technicians available when filing claims and offers roadside assistance, towing, and rental car options. Endurance Extended Car Warranty is accepted at any dealership and any ASE-certified mechanic, and includes a 30-day money back guarantee. Finally, Protect My Car offers extended warranties for a variety of vehicles and conditions and they are transferable and refundable. CarShield is another company that provides an aftermarket warranty on cars, trucks, crossovers, and motorcycles.

Ways to Honor Your Extended Warranty

1. Research Your Warranty Company

Researching your extended car warranty company can help you honor your warranty by ensuring that you understand its terms and conditions. Knowing the terms will help you avoid any violations, and you can also use sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot to check the provider’s reputation and customer reviews. The BBB also offers customer complaints, which can help you identify potential issues with a company before they become too costly. Finally, getting free quotes from a few reputable extended warranty companies can help you find the best coverage, monthly payments, and service for used cars.

2. Read Your Warranty Coverages

When honoring an extended warranty, the following coverages should be read and understood: fluids, modifications, time, exclusions, and service. Fluids should be checked to make sure they are the ones recommended by the car manufacturer, as using the wrong fluids can void the warranty. Modifications should also be taken into account, as any modifications made to the car or truck can result in the warranty being voided. Additionally, the length of the warranty should be noted, as warranties do not last forever. Exclusions should also be checked to make sure that any wear and tear is not covered by the warranty. Lastly, service should be taken into account, including any requirements for repairs and the reimbursement for services outside of the dealership.

3. Make a Claim When the Need Arises

If you require a repair that is covered by your extended warranty, the process of filing a claim is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Call the service contract company or the claims department of the extended warranty provider. Ask for a written explanation for the denial of the claim.
2. Contact the service contract company daily and make sure that they have received your letter. Keep a record of the name of the person you spoke to, the date and time of the call.
3. Make sure to save any service records or receipts to prove that the vehicle was well-maintained. If you carry out your own maintenance, save the receipts for any parts and fluids purchased.
4. If required by the contract, take your car to an approved shop to have a diagnosis done.
5. Receive a claim authorization number from the service contract company after the diagnosis is reported.
6. Have the repairs made at the approved shop and verify that all repairs are completed to your satisfaction.
7. Your claim will be processed and paid promptly by check or credit card within five working days of the completion of the repairs.

4. Follow the Steps in the Claim Process

Step 1: Start a Claim – Contact the service contract company to start the claims process. Provide details about the problem and when it occurred.

Step 2: Find an Approved Shop – Your claims adjuster will give you the okay to find a reputable repair shop nearby.

Step 3: Get a Claim Authorization Number – After diagnosing the problem, the shop contacts PWI with the diagnosis. Your claims adjuster will review it and issue a claim authorization number for all covered items.

Step 4: Make the Repairs – The shop makes the repairs and you verify that they were made to your satisfaction.

Step 5: Get Paid Fast – After the work is completed, PWI processes the invoice and pays your claim promptly.

Step 6: Request Reason for Denial – If you feel your claim has been unfairly denied, request a reason for the claim denial in writing.

Step 7: Contact the Service Contract Company – Call the service contract company every day until they verify that they’ve received your letter and until they respond to your claim.

Step 8: Attach Letter Explaining Why You Disagree – When you submit your claim again, attach a letter explaining why you believe your claim was incorrectly denied. Be sure to attach all required documentation and make a copy of everything.

5. Seek Advice From a Warranty Expert If Needed

It is important to seek advice from a warranty expert if needed when dealing with an extended warranty because they can help you understand the terms and conditions of the warranty, as well as help you to prove your claim if it is denied. They can also help you to get greater compensation than those who try to deal with the manufacturer on their own. A warranty expert can also advise you on what to do if your claim is denied and provide you with options such as filing a complaint with local consumer protection offices, your state’s attorney general, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the provider’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page. Lastly, they can point you in the direction of reputable extended warranty companies who can provide you with better service and coverage in the future.

6. Make Sure You Have Proper Documentation

What documentation should you have to honor your extended warranty?

To properly honor your extended warranty, you should have all of your service records and receipts, a copy of your warranty, and any original, dated copies of service done. Additionally, you should make sure to keep all communications with your warranty administrator and any paperwork from your mechanic. It is also important to ensure that any maintenance is done at a licensed repair shop, if required. In the event that your claim is denied, having the proper documentation and records can be helpful for arguing your case in court.

7. Understand Your Deductible

The deductible for an extended warranty is the amount you must pay out of pocket for a covered repair. It’s important to understand the terms of your service contract before filing a claim, as the deductible may vary depending on the type of repair needed. Typically, the deductible is a set amount that applies regardless of the cost of the repair, though some contracts may have variable deductibles that increase with the cost of the repair. Generally, the amount ranges from $0 to $200. Once the repair is completed, you will be responsible for paying your deductible directly to the repair facility, after which the rest of the repair costs will be paid directly by your contract administrator.

8. Utilize Concierge Services If Needed

Utilizing concierge services can help honor an extended warranty by simplifying the process of claiming a warranty. Concierge services can provide assistance in finding and communicating with the service contract company, gathering all relevant details, and presenting them to the right people. Using a concierge service also ensures that all communication is done in a courteous manner so as to not alienate the service contract company. Furthermore, concierge services can help provide legal advice and research, recommend attorneys, and provide support for negotiations. Ultimately, utilizing concierge services can make the process of claiming a warranty much easier and more efficient, ensuring that the warranty is respected and honored.

9. Stay in the Loop During the Claim Process

Staying in the loop is essential for a successful claim process for an extended warranty. By making sure to call the service contract company every day to verify that they have received your letter, and keeping track of everyone you have spoken to, you can ensure that your claim is seen by the right people. This can help speed up the process, as well as giving you the opportunity to be courteous and show them that you are a reliable customer. Additionally, saving any paperwork from your mechanic and communications with your warranty administrator can provide you with evidence that you have kept your vehicle well-maintained if your claim is denied. This can be a crucial piece of evidence in arguing your case in court. If you feel your claim has been unfairly denied, writing a letter to the contract company can help explain why you believe it should be covered, and if you attach all the required documentation it can give you a better chance of a successful claim.

10. Get a Refund If You Do Not Receive Service

If a consumer does not receive the service or refund they are entitled to through an extended warranty, there are several steps they can take to try and rectify the situation. First, they should read the warranty agreement and make sure they understand what is and is not covered, as well as any appeal or cancellation processes. If they still feel they have a valid claim, they can contact the service contract company and make sure the claim paperwork is in order. If they are still denied after this, they can contact their local consumer protection office, their state’s attorney general, the Federal Trade Commission, or the provider’s BBB page. Lastly, if all else fails, they can file a complaint with one of these outlets. If the claim is deemed invalid, however, pursuing a warranty claim in court or through other legal avenues may not be worth it from a monetary standpoint. In this case, the consumer may wish to get free quotes from reputable extended warranty companies to find better service and coverage in the future.