An extended warranty car can cover expensive repairs for a specific period of time after your manufacturer’s original warranty expires. These warranties can help protect you from unexpected breakdowns and financial hardship. However, the decision to purchase an extended warranty will depend on your personal situation and your risk tolerance. It’s important to thoroughly research the available policies and find out if they will be a good fit for your budget.
You can buy an extended warranty from a car dealership or independently, but you should be aware of the limitations of these plans. The length of the coverage and the amount of protection are the most critical elements to consider. A good extended warranty should have a short waiting period, cover major mechanical repairs and include a generous deductible. The warranty provider should also be reputable and have a history of paying out claims.
Extended warranties typically include bumper-to-bumper, stated-component and powertrain protection. They may also include optional coverage for roadside assistance, towing and rental car reimbursement. The cost of an extended warranty can vary widely depending on the level of coverage and deductible. A bumper-to-bumper warranty covers a wide range of components, from the engine to the transmission. This plan usually has a deductible of $100 or less, but it does not typically cover routine maintenance items such as oil changes, tire rotations and replacements and timing belt replacements.
A stated-component plan is similar to a bumper-to-bumper warranty, but it excludes routine maintenance items. These types of warranties are more affordable than bumper-to-bumper plans, but they can still be pricey. The EnduranceAdvantage warranty from Ford, for example, is priced below the national average and provides high-level stated-component coverage as well as prepaid maintenance and towing benefits.
Adding an extended warranty to your vehicle can increase its resale value and give you peace of mind. It can also save you money on costly repairs that aren’t covered by your original manufacturer’s warranty.
If you’re worried about the cost of a major repair, an extended warranty might be worth the extra expense. But if you’re confident in your ability to keep up with regular maintenance and can afford to pay for a potential breakdown, it might be better to skip the extended warranty and save the additional monthly payment. You can always add the warranty at a later date if you decide to change your mind. In addition, a little pre-purchase research can help you determine whether or not a warranty is necessary in the first place. For example, you might be able to avoid the need for an extended warranty by purchasing a car that’s predicted to have better reliability than average and following the recommended maintenance schedule. This will reduce your repair and maintenance costs over the lifetime of your car.