What Kinds of Vehicles Do Extended Warranties Cover? [Extended Warranty Guide]

What is Extended Warranty?

Extended warranty, also known as a vehicle service contract, is an optional plan that you can purchase 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, and it can cover both defects in materials and workmanship and wear-and-tear. A manufacturer’s warranty is included in the purchase price of the car, while an extended warranty must be purchased separately. An extended car warranty is a safeguard against unexpected maintenance costs after the manufacturer’s standard warranty is expired. It can help cover repair costs when parts start failing and give you the option of prolonging your vehicle’s warranty coverage.

What to Consider When Purchasing an Extended Warranty

1. Extended Warranties: Features and benefits

Extended warranties offer a range of features and benefits that can provide peace of mind and significant savings. Generally speaking, most extended warranties cover major mechanical repairs such as the engine, transmission, drivetrain, electrical system, and more. Some plans might also cover entertainment systems (e.g. radio and GPS), climate control systems, paint chips, dents, and normal wear and tear. Depending on the plan, they may also include additional features such as 24/7 roadside assistance, towing services, rental car reimbursement, trip interruption benefits, and coverage for powertrain parts. Extended warranties can be purchased from both automakers and third-party providers, and are usually a separate purchase from the car itself.

2. Extended Warranties: Cost and coverage

Extended warranties can provide extra coverage and peace of mind when it comes to vehicle repairs, but they can also come with certain costs and coverage limitations. There are two main types of coverage plans offered by third-party providers: an entry-level powertrain plan, a mid-level mixed coverage plan, and a comprehensive bumper-to-bumper plan.

The cost of an extended warranty can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the type of coverage purchased. Additionally, the plan may include a depreciation clause, which would reduce the amount paid for repairs due to the mileage of the vehicle.

When it comes to coverage, extended warranties typically do not cover wear and tear, such as replacing brake pads. Additionally, some warranties may restrict where the vehicle can be serviced or require that pre-authorization from the provider be obtained before repairs can be done. Furthermore, a warranty may have a deductible, meaning the customer may have to pay a certain amount before the warranty covers the rest of the cost.

Finally, while an extended warranty may be a good option for some, insurance such as mechanical breakdown coverage may be more cost-effective in other cases. It is important to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of your chosen warranty before making a purchase.

3. Extended Warranties: Eligibility requirements

The eligibility requirements for an extended warranty vary from provider to provider, but generally speaking, the following criteria must be met: the vehicle must be of a certain age and have a certain mileage; the vehicle must be in good working condition and have a clean title; there must be no outstanding recalls or open warranties associated with the vehicle; and the vehicle must not have been modified in any way. Additionally, most extended warranty programs exclude routine maintenance, wear items such as tires, brakes or wiper blades, collision damage, damage resulting from lack of maintenance or abuse, and heavily modified vehicles. Customers should also be aware that certain vehicle systems or components may not be covered depending on the type of vehicle service agreement or extended warranty they purchase.

4. Extended Warranties: Types of coverage

When it comes to extended warranties, there are several different types of coverage available. These include OEM parts, bumper-to-bumper plans, and warranties based on years or mileage. An OEM parts warranty guarantees the use of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, while a bumper-to-bumper plan covers almost anything in the car, not everything, but a lot. Extended warranties based on years or mileage are simply an extension of what was originally offered with the vehicle, while warranties based on certain areas of the car will cover things like the engine, transmission, and other areas of the drivetrain. It’s important to note that extended warranties will not cover parts that require replacements over time, such as batteries and tires, as well as damage caused by misuse or routine services.

5. Extended Warranties: Limits of coverage

Extended warranties offer coverage for general wear and tear, but the specific components that are covered will depend on the protection plan and provider. Generally, there are two main types of coverage plans available from third-party providers: exclusionary and limited. Exclusionary cover typically does not cover routine maintenance, damage to the vehicle’s body, interior, or environmental factors, or damage due to alterations or modifications. Limited warranties may cover things like the engine, transmission, and other parts of the drivetrain but not interior components, air conditioning, or exterior items like clear coat, paint, and body panels.

Overall, it is important to read the fine print and confirm what the manufacturer’s warranty covers and for how long, as well as what is excluded from the extended warranty. Generally, extended warranties do not provide coverage for routine maintenance, wear items, collision damage, or damage resulting from lack of maintenance or abuse, and heavily modified vehicles may also not be covered.

6. Extended Warranties: Refund policy

The refund policy for an extended warranty can vary, depending on the provider. Generally, manufacturer warranties are easier to cancel and can provide a prorated refund. With third-party warranties, refunds may be more difficult to obtain and come with fees, depending on the provider. It is important to compare providers before purchasing an extended warranty so you know the refund policy of each provider. Additionally, when purchasing a third-party warranty, you may need to pay the mechanic upfront and wait for a reimbursement.

7. Extended Warranties: Terms and expiration dates

An extended warranty is a service contract that covers repairs for a specific period of time, usually after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. The length of an extended warranty can vary, but most plans last between six years or 100,000 miles and 10 years or 125,000 miles. The terms of an extended warranty depend on the specific plan purchased, with some plans covering general wear and tear issues and others covering more specific components. Additionally, the start date of an extended warranty can vary depending on whether it’s purchased from the manufacturer or from a third-party provider. If bought from a manufacturer, the start date may be years or miles from the original service date, while a third-party extended warranty may start from the date of purchase. Finally, an extended warranty will only go into effect once the manufacturer’s warranty on the car has expired, meaning that both types of warranties can be active at once, but only the manufacturer’s warranty will be in effect.

8. Extended Warranties: Coverage options

Extended warranties offer a range of coverage options, from entry-level powertrain plans to more comprehensive bumper-to-bumper plans. Most extended warranties guarantee the use of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and some offer limited coverage based on years or mileage. Extended warranties also may allow you to purchase add-ons and customize coverage to fit your needs. Compared to standard car warranties, extended car warranties are technically vehicle service contracts or protection plans, usually last longer, and start on the car’s in-service date.

9. Extended Warranties: Covers and restrictions

Extended warranties typically offer two types of coverage plans, which are the OEM parts and the bumper-to-bumper plans. OEM parts warranty covers the use of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Bumper-to-bumper warranties cover almost anything in the car, though not everything.

In addition, extended warranties may also come with restrictions such as the years or mileage limited coverage, areas of the car covered, and general exclusions. Years or mileage limited coverage means that the car is only covered up to a certain number of years or miles, whichever comes first. Areas of the car coverage refers to extended warranties that are based on certain areas of the car, such as powertrain, interior components, air conditioning, or exterior items. General exclusions may include routine maintenance, wear items such as tires, brakes or wiper blades, collision damage, and damage due to negligence, accidents, vandalism, environmental factors, and alterations/modifications.

10. Extended Warranties: Service and repair

An extended warranty — also known 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. Extended warranties typically cover both defects and wear-and-tear, but they do not cover everything. Generally, an extended warranty will cover repairs and parts that are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, such as mechanical and electrical components. However, some services and repairs may not be included in an extended warranty, such as routine maintenance, wear items like tires, brakes, or wiper blades, collision damage, damage resulting from lack of maintenance or abuse, heavily modified vehicles, damage due to negligence, accidents, vandalism, environmental factors, and alterations/modifications.

11. Extended Warranties: Warranty transfers

When it comes to extended warranties and transferring them with a car, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Transferring a warranty can change the terms of the agreement, so it’s important to check the contract and ensure that the warranty is transferable before advertising it.

Generally, extended warranties will add value to a used car, but only if the service contract has been paid for and is transferable to the new owner. Private-party buyers are more likely to be interested in a car with a transferable warranty than a dealership or when you are trading the car in.

However, when it comes to how insurance companies view a transferable warranty, they generally do not add any additional value to the car in case of a total loss.

The cost of an extended warranty can vary depending on the provider and the type of vehicle, with some plans costing less than $1000, and others costing more than $3000. Additionally, extended warranties do not generally cover tires or normal replacement items such as belts, batteries, and bulbs, and they often exclude exterior items like sheet metal, glass, trim, and the like.

Therefore, it is important to consider all of these factors when deciding whether or not to transfer an extended warranty with a car.

12. Extended Warranties: Data collection policy

When purchasing an extended warranty, it is important to understand the different types of coverage plans available and to review the details of the policy to ensure that it meets your needs and budget. Data that should be collected includes the type of coverage plan, the specific components covered, the duration of the coverage, if routine maintenance is included, the exclusions of the warranty agreement, the coverage amount, and the premium. Additionally, you should review the warranty agreement to ensure that the provider offers negotiable plans that allow you to purchase add-ons and customize coverage to fit your needs.

13. Extended Warranties: Customer service

When purchasing an extended warranty, customers should consider the types of service contracts offered, the smoothness of the claims process and the financial backing of the warranty company. It’s important to check the warranty provider and administrator behind the product to make sure it has the coverage and protections needed. Customers should also look for companies that offer sample contracts, detailed coverage information and flexible certified repair shop options. Additionally, customers should look for companies that are certified by the Vehicle Protection Association (VPA) and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), have good customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and have financial support from large insurance companies. It’s also important to be cautious of scams and not engage with telemarketers trying to sell extended warranties.

14. Extended Warranties: Warranty satisfaction

When purchasing an extended warranty, it is important to understand the details of the warranty agreement and the satisfaction that comes with that coverage. Before making a decision, it is important to understand the type of coverage each plan offers, the coverage amounts, and the premium. Additionally, it is important to understand what is and what is not covered under the extended warranty, such as routine maintenance, damage due to negligence, and damage due to environmental factors.

It is also important to research the extended car warranty company and their partners who handle claims to get a good understanding of their level of customer satisfaction. While extended warranties may be beneficial for some, for others, it may not make sense to pay for extended coverage, as the cost may not be worth the amount of protection.

Overall, it is important to consider warranty satisfaction before purchasing an extended warranty to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money and that the coverage you are purchasing meets your needs.

15. Extended Warranties: Dispute resolution

The dispute resolution process for an extended warranty is as follows:

1. Contact your extended warranty provider and discuss the issue. Be sure to provide all relevant details regarding the problem and all supporting documentation.
2. Your provider will review the claim and let you know if it’s covered by the extended warranty. If it is, the provider will send you a claim form to fill out and submit.
3. Once the claim form is received, your provider will review it and contact the repair shop to arrange payment for the repair.
4. If your provider denies your claim and you feel it should be covered, you can contact their customer service department to discuss the situation further.
5. If you’re still not satisfied with their decision, you can file a complaint with your state’s Attorney General’s Office and/or the Better Business Bureau.

16. Extended Warranties: Protection against damage

An extended warranty provides protection against repair costs related to mechanical failure and normal wear and tear. Depending on the plan and provider, it can cover a wide range of components, from engine and transmission repairs to electrical and HVAC system malfunctions. It can also provide protection against damages caused by neglect, vandalism, accidents, environmental factors, and alterations, such as non-OEM aftermarket parts. Additionally, some plans offer maintenance coverage for essential services such as oil changes and tire rotations. Ultimately, the level of coverage depends on the type of plan and provider chosen.

17. Extended Warranties: Warranty provider

When selecting a warranty provider for an extended warranty, it’s important to compare and contrast the different providers. You should look at the warranty provider and administrator behind the product, the coverage provided, and the cost. Endurance offers a wide range of fully flexible coverage options, while CarShield and Carchex provide more affordable options. It’s important to understand what each company covers and to compare the cost of each plan. Additionally, you should look at the customer reviews for each provider to make sure you’re getting the best protection for your money.

18. Extended Warranties: Warranty plan

When it comes to extended warranties, there are two main types of coverage plans available: those provided by dealerships or manufacturers, and those provided by third-party vendors. Manufacturer warranties typically start on the car’s in-service date and last until the warranty expires. Extended warranties, such as those from third parties, start on the day you purchase the contract and usually last between six to 10 years or 100,000 to 125,000 miles.

The level of coverage under an extended warranty will depend on the type of plan you choose and your provider. Most providers offer three tiers of coverage plans, including an entry-level powertrain plan, a mid-level mixed coverage plan, and a comprehensive bumper-to-bumper plan. These plans generally cover general wear and tear issues, but the specifics of the coverage will depend on the plan you select and your provider.

Before purchasing an extended warranty, it is important to consider the pros and cons of the plan, as well as compare plans side-by-side to see what components they cover and the extent of coverage. You should also take note of the deductible, as a higher deductible tends to lower the premiums but will still provide coverage in the event of more serious repairs.

19. Extended Warranties: Warranty information

When purchasing an extended warranty, it’s important to consider several factors. Firstly, you should look into the type of coverage the warranty provides. Make sure to check whether the warranty covers defects and manufacturing faults, as well as wear-and-tear. You should also find out if the warranty covers your specific year, make, and model of car, as this can vary. Additionally, you should compare the cost of the extended warranty with the cost of repairs that you may have to pay for if you don’t buy the warranty. Finally, research the best extended auto warranty providers to ensure you’re getting the most coverage for your money.

20. Extended Warranties: Car insurance

When it comes to protecting your car after the original factory warranty has expired, you have two options: purchasing a service contract from your vehicle manufacturer or from an independent warranty company. Car insurance and extended warranties are two completely different services and protect your vehicle in different ways. Car insurance is a requirement in nearly all 50 states and covers damage from accidents, extreme weather, or theft. On the other hand, an extended vehicle warranty is an optional purchase and covers repairs caused by normal wear and tear. When deciding which option to choose, it’s important to consider how car insurance could affect the purchase of an extended warranty. For instance, if you are already covered by your car insurance for certain repairs, you may not need to purchase an extended warranty. However, if your car insurance does not cover certain repairs, an extended warranty may be the best option for protecting your vehicle and keeping it running smoothly.

Types of Vehicles that are Covered by Extended Warranties

1. New Vehicles

Most new cars are covered by extended warranties that typically cover mechanical and electrical components of the vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, air conditioning, and fuel system. In addition, they may cover certain systems within the interior, such as the audio and navigation system, as well as exterior components such as the paint, body, and windows. In some cases, extended warranties may even cover certain services, such as roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement.

2. Used Vehicles

Used vehicles covered by extended warranties typically include sedans, like the BMW 3 Series, Dodge Challenger, and Nissan Altima; sports cars, like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna; and SUVs, like the BMW X3 and Honda CR-V. Each warranty is typically determined by the model year, make, and model of the vehicle, and can vary from dealer to dealer. Depending on the extended warranty, it may cover parts and labor for repairs, or even roadside assistance.

3. Hybrid Vehicles

What are the coverage requirements for hybrid vehicles under an extended warranty?

Hybrid vehicles typically receive an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on their hybrid components, and a separate 10-year/150,000-mile warranty on their battery. This covers repairs to the battery, electric motor, control module, inverter, and other unique components found in hybrid cars. In addition, most extended warranties will cover other major vehicle systems, such as the electrical systems (alternator, power windows, door locks, and sunroofs), safety features (air bags and seat belts), air conditioning and heating (compressor, condenser, and evaporator), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering pump, and power steering hoses), high-tech systems (cameras and GPS system), select emissions components, and certain hybrid vehicle parts like batteries.

4. Modified Vehicles

Extended warranties can cover a variety of modified vehicles, including those modified for off-road use, racing, and towing. These warranties may cover most major systems of the vehicle, such as the electrical system, safety features, air conditioning and heating, steering system, high-tech systems, select emissions components, and hybrid vehicle parts like batteries. It is always best to discuss the specific details of the warranty with the dealer to ensure that all modifications are covered.

5. Luxury Vehicles

The types of luxury vehicles covered by extended warranties vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of warranty purchased. Generally, extended warranties cover cars, SUVs, luxury sedans, convertibles, and other high-end vehicles. Depending on the extended warranty, some vehicles may also be covered for additional features such as navigation systems, infotainment systems, and advanced safety features.

6. Vintage Vehicles

Vintage vehicle extended warranties typically cover classic, antique, and older vehicles which are generally defined as being at least 15-25 years old. These warranties typically offer coverage for mechanical and/or electrical components, depending on the policy. Coverage can also include roadside assistance, towing, and even car rental reimbursement in the event of an extended repair.

7. Commercial Vehicles

Extended warranties typically cover cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and some other commercial vehicles, such as limousines or delivery vans. These warranties will cover major vehicle systems, such as the electrical system, safety features, air-conditioning, and heating systems, as well as other high-tech components, like cameras and GPS systems. Additionally, extended warranties may also cover select emissions components and hybrid vehicle parts, such as batteries.

8. RVs

Extended warranties for RVs generally cover motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers and other larger recreational vehicles. These warranties can provide coverage for the motor, the chassis, the generator, the interior components, towing and roadside assistance, and more. Some extended warranties may also include coverage for off-road vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes.

9. Motorcycles

Extended warranties offer varying types of coverage for motorcycles, depending on the provider. CarShield is one of the few companies that offer specialty coverage for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), with two coverage options: an Aluminum tier and coverage for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. The Aluminum package covers most electrical and computer systems, while the motorcycle and ATV coverage extends to engines, transmissions, drive axles, fuel injectors, fuel pumps, steering, suspension, brake and electrical systems.

CarShield also offers six different warranty options that range from basic powertrain to comprehensive exclusionary coverage. The powertrain coverage includes all lubricated engine parts, transmission and water pump, while the Powertrain Plus coverage covers major and minor vehicle parts, including transmission, engine, water pump, alternator, starter, AC and power windows. The Platinum and Diamond coverage is the highest coverage level, covering engine and transmission failure, starter and fuel pump.

Each of CarShield’s contracts include emergency roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and trip interruption coverage, with most contracts being transferable if you sell your vehicle. Concord Auto Protect is another provider that offers exceptional customer satisfaction, and Endurance is great for older and high-mileage cars. Carchex is also a great option, as it offers different plan options.

10. ATVs

What are the features of an ATV extended warranty? [Expanded list]: CarShield offers six warranty options that range from basic powertrain to comprehensive exclusionary coverage, including an Aluminum tier and coverage for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). ATV coverage extends to engines, transmissions, drive axles, fuel injectors, fuel pumps, steering, suspension, brake and electrical systems. This package also includes water pumps, radiators, alternator, starter and factory audio repair. GPS or navigation coverage are not included. Additionally, CarShield contracts include 24-hour roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and trip interruption coverage, and most contracts are transferable if you sell your vehicle. Finally, CarShield’s vehicle protection plans include both betterment and consequential loss clauses.

Benefits of Having an Extended Warranty

1. Protection Against Costly Repairs

An extended warranty can provide significant protection against costly repairs. By signing up for a car extended warranty, car owners can potentially save hundreds of dollars on expensive repairs. This is because the terms and conditions of coverage often make it more cost-effective for car-buyers to cover the costs of repairs through an extended warranty than to pay for them out of pocket. Insurance such as mechanical breakdown coverage is often more cost-effective, but if a customer has a poor claims history or high premium costs, an extended warranty may be a better option. In addition, extended warranties can also provide peace of mind, as they provide a buffer against component breakdown as your vehicle ages. Finally, having an extended warranty can also help reduce the amount of money you have to pay for a major repair, as the warranty will cover the majority of the cost with only a small deductible left to pay out of pocket.

2. Peace of Mind

The peace of mind benefit of having an extended warranty is clear: it provides car owners with a buffer against costly repairs due to component breakdown as the vehicle ages. Without an extended warranty, car owners may be faced with an unplanned repair bill they cannot afford, leaving them unable to work and earning income. An extended warranty helps protect a car owner against these financial crises, allowing them to pay a deductible in the hundreds rather than a repair bill in the thousands. Additionally, an extended warranty can also help to minimize the stress of dealing with a car repair, as the warranty provider will handle the repair and payment for covered services.

3. Coverage for Unfamiliar Parts

An extended warranty provides exclusionary coverage for unfamiliar parts, which is the closest you can get to bumper-to-bumper coverage. This type of coverage includes most of a powertrain warranty’s protection, plus coverage for air conditioning/heating, core electrical system components, front and rear suspension, brakes, cooling system, and fuel delivery system. However, it still includes certain minor component exclusions such as the chassis frame, interior trim, exterior paneling, cabin fabrics, seat upholstery, window glass, and tires. Ultimately, the cost of the warranty depends on how extensive the coverage you want is.

4. Access to Factory Warranties

An extended warranty can be a great way to help protect your car from costly repairs after the factory or manufacturer’s warranty has expired. An extended warranty can help by providing coverage for repairs and replacements that may not be covered under the factory warranty. This coverage can be valuable in helping to cover the cost of parts and labor, which can be expensive if the repairs are not covered by the factory warranty. Additionally, an extended warranty can provide peace of mind by knowing that if something were to go wrong with your car, you would be covered.

5. Ability to Negotiate a Warranty Plan

Having an extended warranty can help in negotiating a warranty plan by providing peace of mind and the ability to shop around for the best coverage. Extended warranties cover general wear and tear issues and come in two main types: manufacturer warranties and third-party warranties. Manufacturer warranties are typically more expensive and offer coverage for factory parts serviced by factory-trained technicians at a dealership. Third-party warranties are generally more flexible, covering aftermarket parts serviced at any authorized shop. They usually require a down payment and monthly payments for the entire term of the contract. Comparing multiple plans can help you find the best coverage at the right price, and many warranty providers are open to negotiation. Having an extended warranty can also be helpful when selling a car, as the warranty may transfer to the new owner with a minimal fee.

6. Coverage for Unusual Damage

An extended warranty covers damages caused by normal wear and tear, apart from any applicable deductibles. This includes any repairs or replacements of malfunctioning components or defective systems. However, an extended warranty does not cover routine maintenance services, wear and tear items, damage caused by accidents, theft, weather, or similar factors that have nothing to do with the quality of the car. For those, you’ll need car insurance.

7. Ability to Avoid Waiting in Line at Service Stations

Having an extended warranty can help avoid long waits at service stations by providing an array of coverage options that can be tailored to fit the individual needs of the vehicle owner. With an extended warranty, car owners can have repairs completed at an approved repair shop, avoiding long lines and potential delays at service stations. This helps ensure that their vehicle is given the necessary attention and care it needs, without having to wait in line. Additionally, extended warranties often cover more than just repairs, providing other benefits such as roadside assistance, rental car coverage and trip interruption expenses. With an extended warranty, car owners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their vehicle is covered in the event of an unexpected repair or breakdown.

8. Access to 24-Hour Roadside Assistance

With an extended warranty, you can expect to get 24/7 roadside assistance and towing, as well as rental car reimbursements and trip interruption coverage. Endurance also offers additional Elite Benefits when you pay a $25 activation fee, such as up to two (2) tire replacements or repairs ($125 per tire), key fob replacement or repairs (up to $500), collision discounts of up to $500 per accident ($1,000 total) and total loss protection (up to $1,000).

9. Security Against Theft and Vandalism

Having an extended warranty provides a layer of security against theft and vandalism. Many extended warranties cover repairs that are necessary as a result of theft or vandalism, such as replacing broken windows, or repairing damages caused by malicious activities. Additionally, having an extended warranty in place can be a deterrent to thieves and vandals, as they know that the car is protected and any damages they cause will be covered. As well, some extended warranty plans include coverage for car rentals if the damage sustained is due to theft or vandalism – allowing you to stay safe and mobile while your car is being fixed. Therefore, having an extended warranty is an effective way to safeguard your vehicle against theft and vandalism.

10. Ability to Avoid Depreciation on Parts

Having an extended warranty can help avoid depreciation on parts by covering any repairs or replacements that may be required due to parts failure. These warranties provide a buffer against component breakdown as the vehicle ages, meaning that the owner can avoid unexpected repair costs that would otherwise occur due to the natural wear and tear of parts. Additionally, some extended warranties also cover parts such as the powertrain, air conditioning, and audio systems, as well as normal wear and tear. Furthermore, hybrid component and electric vehicle warranties can cover repairs to the battery and other unique components found in electric or hybrid cars. Finally, some extended warranties even include roadside assistance, towing services, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption benefits. All of these features help minimize the cost of vehicle ownership, allowing owners to maintain their car’s value longer and avoid the costly depreciation of parts that typically occurs with age.