Buying a car is a significant investment, often second to purchasing a home. Unfortunately, high new car prices force many car shoppers to buy used vehicles with expired warranties, leading to high maintenance and repair costs. However, purchasing an extended warranty on a used car can protect your investment and your wallet against these costly repairs and extend your vehicle’s life.

However, an extended warranty for a used vehicle is only helpful if you use it fully. We’ll help you make the most out of your auto protection plan to ensure that the extended car warranty cost is worth it.

Understanding Your Extended Car Warranty

More accurately called a vehicle service contract (VSC), an extended car warranty provides financial protection and peace of mind to car owners by covering unexpected repair costs. For a low monthly payment, the warranty provider assumes responsibility for the car repair bills when the vehicle breaks down. Auto warranty coverage is especially helpful as the vehicle ages, as the additional miles and wear and tear cause parts to inevitably fail.

It’s important to note that extended warranties for used cars aren’t the same as the all-inclusive, original manufacturer’s warranty. Each is unique, with varying conditions, term lengths, and degrees of protection. Auto protection plans range from a limited powertrain warranty to a more comprehensive coverage similar to the bumper-to-bumper. It is essential to read and understand the fine print on your warranty contract and ask a customer service representative if you have any questions.

Know What Your Extended Warranty Covers

Extended vehicle warranties can be purchased through car dealers or auto manufacturers. However, a vehicle service plan can be purchased through a third-party provider, such as Endurance Warranty, CarShield, Olive, or CARCHEX.

An auto protection plan with a third-party provider often has additional benefits that aren’t available with the car dealership. Each provider has plans with helpful perks, applicable terms and conditions, restrictions, and exclusions.

Vehicle Make & Model

One of the advantages of purchasing an extended warranty from a third-party provider is the flexibility it offers. Unlike automaker warranties, which are often limited to specific makes, models, and model years, third-party warranty providers usually have a wider range of coverage options. This means that no matter what type of vehicle you own, even older cars or high mileage vehicles, you’ll likely find a plan that suits your needs. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it covers all parts of the car.

Coverage Options

Finding an extended auto warranty company that covers your vehicle make, model, model year, and mileage is a great start, but having the right level of coverage is also important. Whether you’re still comparing extended car warranty companies or trying to understand your vehicle service contract better, you’ll need to know some important terms.

The majority of independent companies provide “exclusionary” plans. These types of vehicle service contracts cover almost everything except for specific parts and repairs that are specifically stated as not included in the agreement. Exclusionary warranties are easier to understand and more comprehensive than their alternative, inclusionary auto protection plans. Inclusionary plans only include the limited covered repairs,  parts, and services expressly listed.

Car warranty plans have various choices, including the following common contract terms:

• Bumper-to-Bumper: The bumper-to-bumper warranty is an all-inclusive warranty, typically provided solely by car makers, and generally covers most parts from the front to the rear. The bumper-to-bumper coverage may vary depending on the provider but usually excludes body panels, wiper blades, tires, and brake pads. Some third-party providers may offer similar plans but might only encompass some items covered under a factory warranty.
• Powertrain: Powertrain warranties encompass all essential components that enable the vehicle to operate, including the engine, transmission, and associated parts. However, this warranty does not include non-power-related elements like radios, air conditioners, windows, and additional features.
• Drivetrain: The drivetrain warranty is the most basic form of coverage, protecting the transmission, driveshaft, axle shafts, and wheels, excluding the engine.

Additional Benefits

Third-party extended car warranty providers not only cover expensive repair bills, but they often offer additional benefits that can enhance your ownership experience. These benefits may include roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and even trip interruption coverage. These extra perks can provide you with peace of mind and save you from unexpected expenses in case of a breakdown or accident. Before paying for a tow truck, check if your auto protection plan already covers it.

In addition to 24/7 roadside assistance and towing, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage, Endurance Warranty customers can activate an additional year of Endurance Elite Benefits. By paying a small activation fee, you will have access to a range of benefits worth $2,000, including replacements for lost key fobs, tire repairs or replacements, discounts on collision repairs, and more.

Common Exclusions

Typically, a used car warranty will not cover routine maintenance needs. This means expenses associated with regular services, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, will not be covered. These are considered the car owner’s responsibility.

In addition to routine maintenance, wear and tear items are generally not covered under a used car warranty. These items include parts prone to deteriorate over time or with regular use, such as brake pads, tires, windshield wipers, and batteries. Since these components are expected to wear out naturally, the warranty provider usually does not offer coverage for their replacement.

Other parts that often make the exclusions list are those considered perishable or consumable, such as bulbs, fuses, and filters. Certain aftermarket modifications or accessories may also be excluded from warranty coverage.

Maintenance and Record Keeping

Proper maintenance is essential for your car’s warranty validity. It ensures your car works well and addresses potential problems promptly. When you buy an extended warranty for your used car, the provider expects proper maintenance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Following the maintenance schedule prevents mechanical failures. Regular maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements keep your car running smoothly and reduce the likelihood of major repairs.

Additionally, warranty providers often require proof of maintenance records when filing a claim. If you cannot provide evidence that you have properly maintained your vehicle, the warranty provider may deny your claim, citing negligence or lack of proper care as the reason. Therefore, keeping detailed records of all maintenance and repair work is essential to ensure that your warranty remains valid and that you can take full advantage of its benefits.

How to File a Claim

To ensure you get the most out of your extended car warranty from Endurance Warranty, it’s essential to understand how to use its benefits when the time is right. Follow our step-by-step guide to file a claim easily and make the claims process go smoother:

1. Gather Necessary Documentation

To file a claim, you must provide certain documents to support your request. These may include your warranty contract, vehicle information (make, model, VIN), maintenance records, and any relevant repair invoices or estimates.

2. Have the Repair Shop Contact Endurance

Once you have all the required documentation, you will need to take your vehicle to a certified repair shop and have the service manager contact Endurance Warranty with your contract information. The service manager will inform us about the issues you are experiencing with your vehicle and begin the process of filing a claim. Be prepared to provide details about the problem you are facing with your car with the service manager and our representative.

3. Follow the Instructions

The customer service representative will guide the service manager through the claim process and provide any additional instructions or forms that must be filled out. Follow their guidance and provide accurate information to avoid any delays or complications.

4. Get Authorization for Repairs

If your claim is approved, Endurance will provide you with authorization for the necessary repairs. Make sure to follow all instructions to ensure that your vehicle service contract covers the repairs.

5. Pay Your Deductible

Depending on your contract, you may be responsible for paying a deductible for each claim. Endurance deductibles range anywhere from $0 to $500.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes people make with extended warranties include the following:

Neglecting Maintenance

One of the most common mistakes is failing to maintain the vehicle properly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, is essential for the validity of the warranty. Neglecting maintenance can lead to mechanical failures and may result in the warranty provider denying a claim.

Not Reading the Contract Thoroughly

Many people make the mistake of not thoroughly reading and understanding the terms and conditions of their extended warranty. Each warranty is unique, with varying coverage options, exclusions, and limitations. It is important to carefully review the contract to know what is covered and what is not, as well as any specific requirements for filing a claim.

Assuming All Repairs Are Covered

Another mistake is assuming that the extended warranty will cover all repairs. Extended warranties typically have exclusions and limitations, and not all repairs may be eligible for coverage. It is important to understand what is included in the contract and what is not so there are no surprises when filing a claim.

Not Keeping Proper Records

Failure to keep detailed records of maintenance and repair work can be a costly mistake. Warranty providers often require proof of maintenance records when filing a claim. The warranty provider may deny the claim if you cannot provide evidence of proper maintenance. Keeping organized records of all maintenance and repair work is essential to ensure the warranty remains valid and to maximize its benefits.

Waiting Too Long to File a Claim

Some people make the mistake of waiting too long to file a claim under their extended warranty. It is important to report any issues or problems with the vehicle as soon as they arise. Delaying the claim may result in the warranty provider denying coverage or may limit the options for repairs.

5 Ways to Maximize Your Extended Warranty

To maximize the benefits of your extended car warranty and ensure that you are getting the most value for your money, it is important to follow these recommendations:

1. Understand the Coverage: Read and understand the terms and conditions of your extended warranty. Know what is covered and what is not, as well as any specific requirements for filing a claim. This will help you make the most of the benefits provided by the warranty.
2. Utilize All Benefits: Take advantage of any additional benefits your extended warranty provider offers. These may include roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage. Knowing and utilizing these benefits can save you from unexpected expenses in case of a breakdown or accident.
3. Maintain Your Vehicle Properly: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your vehicle in good working condition. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, can prevent mechanical failures and reduce the likelihood of major repairs. Proper maintenance is also crucial for the validity of your warranty.
4. Keep Detailed Records: Maintain organized records of all maintenance and repair work. Warranty providers often require proof of maintenance records when filing a claim. Detailed records will ensure that your warranty remains valid and that you can take full advantage of its benefits.
5. Transfer the Warranty If Selling the Car: If you decide to sell your car before the extended warranty expires, check if it is transferable to the new owner. Transferring the extended car warranty can increase your used car’s resale value and provide the buyer additional peace of mind.

Make the Most of Your Extended Car Warranty

Buying a car is a big decision, and finding the perfect vehicle within your budget can be challenging. Often, used cars are the best option for those looking to save money, but investing in a vehicle close to the end of its new vehicle warranty coverage can be worrisome. That’s where an extended warranty for used cars can provide peace of mind by protecting your investment and ensuring your car’s longevity.

Endurance Warranty provides flexible options tailored to suit various budgets, vehicles, and driving preferences. Even individuals other companies have turned down may still be able to obtain coverage through Endurance. Additionally, Endurance extends its services to high-mileage or older vehicles, luxury cars, salvaged or rebuilt titles, Canadian grey market vehicles, and those utilized for commercial purposes, such as ride-sharing or delivery.

Call our dedicated team at (800) 253-8203 for award-winning customer service and a FREE quote. Or, browse our online store for instant pricing and shop with confidence.

You can also find answers and helpful resources on the Endurance blog, including answers to your frequently asked questions (FAQ), tips for getting the most out of your extended car warranty, used car eligibility, and more.