Rain or shine, the extremes of weather can put a lot of strain on your new or used car and its components. Over time, this can ultimately lead to unexpected breakdowns, which can set you back hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars in repair bills — and it’s usually at the worst possible moment.

Whether it’s a dead battery, heating system malfunctions, or tire-related issues, having a dependable vehicle service contract in place can offer peace of mind should things go wrong. Below, we look at the top 5 car problems that are preventable with a car warranty, as well as tips for choosing the extended auto warranty coverage that will give you the best protection.

What Do Extended Warranties Generally Cover?

Whether purchased via an automotive dealership or a third-party provider, an extended car warranty covers you in the event of unexpected component failure. When the worst happens with your used or new car, all you need to do is visit an authorized repair shop or car dealership, and eligible repairs will be taken care of under your warrant claim without charge (unless you have a deductible).

There are countless extended warranty providers out there, each with its own range of plans and levels of coverage. In theory, this gives you the option to cover as much of your vehicle as you like, with more comprehensive plans, of course, costing more per month but potentially saving you much more in the long term. Most plans usually fall into one of three brackets – but be sure to read a contract’s fine print:

Powertrain Plans

The most basic level of protection, this type of plan covers your powertrain only, which includes your engine, transmission, driveshafts, transfer case (for all-wheel and four-wheel-drive vehicles), differentials, suspension, and constant velocity joints. Some warranty companies offer add-ons to include other components.

Inclusionary Plans

Also known as stated component protection, inclusionary extended auto warranty plans will cover your powertrain, plus a list of other components. You can expect the addition of suspension and fuel systems, for example, but specifics will vary between plans and providers.

Exclusionary Plans

The most comprehensive type of coverage available, exclusionary plans are as close as you can get to bumper-to-bumper protection outside of your original manufacturer warranty (or factory warranty). Covering every component except those on a list of limited exclusions, you can drive with confidence, knowing that your engine, suspension, fuel system, gaskets, and a wide range of electrical components will all be repaired or replaced in the event of failure.

While we’re on the topic, it’s also important to know what extended warranties don’t generally cover: namely wear and tear components. Things like bulbs, wiper blades, and tires are all designed (and expected) to need replacing somewhat regularly and usually have their own manufacturer warranty (not from the automaker) that protects you in the event of premature failure.

You’ll be pleased to hear that coverage often doesn’t end at components. Most third-party providers will also give you access to bonus perks and services that can help in the event of a breakdown. This could be things like 24/7 roadside assistance (plus towing), rental car coverage while yours is being worked on, or even trip interruption costs.

Choosing an Extended Car Warranty Provider

As with any contract, you want to do your research before you put pen to paper. Your first port of call should be to find out who the most reputable providers are, as a coverage plan isn’t worth a whole lot if you can’t rely on your provider when you need to. You should also have an idea of how much (or how little) of your vehicle you want to protect.

Once you have some providers in mind, take the plan from each that most closely meets your needs and line them up side by side. Compare things like monthly cost, coverage specifics, and additional benefits. If you have any questions, reach out to the provider’s customer service team and ask them. A prompt and friendly response is always a good sign and should go a long way to helping you make your decision.

It’s also worthwhile looking at reviews for your favored providers on websites like ConsumerAffairs and the Better Business Bureau. Hearing existing customers’ experiences (bad and good) can give you a rounded picture of what to expect and maybe what you need if you still can’t choose between your top two or three providers.

Common Problems You Can Prevent with a Car Warranty

It’s important that you opt for a top-quality extended warranty that protects everything you require. A comprehensive plan with benefits means you’ll have more confidence when driving, and it can help you deal with the following common car problems:

Problem 1: Battery Failures

In winter, cold temperatures affect how chemical reactions inside the battery acid create electric charges. The lower the temperatures go, the harder the battery has to work, and this might be enough to push an older battery to complete failure. In summer, extreme heat can also have a similar effect. But thankfully, an extended car warranty can come to your rescue.

A battery is considered a wear-and-tear item; therefore, it might not be explicitly covered under your contract. Fortunately, however, your alternator and other components that are covered can cause premature battery failure. So, you’ll likely be protected at the root of the problem. If you have 24/7 roadside assistance as part of your warranty claim, it can also come in handy if your battery leaves you stranded, as they could be able to jumpstart it back to life.

Some of the very best vehicle service contract providers have plans that will help you with battery replacements. For example, Endurance Warranty offers an industry-leading Advantage plan, the only one on the market to include up to $3,500 in annual routine maintenance coverage. Plus, it also covers a one-time covered replacement of a car battery and regular oil changes — a rarity in the world of extended warranties!

Problem 2: Heating System Malfunctions

Hot or cold weather can also mess with your car’s heating systems by freezing fluids, making them evaporate, forcing fans to work much harder, or stopping them from working as efficiently.

If you’re worried about yours letting you down, you’ll be pleased to hear that many extended warranties include coverage for air conditioning and other such systems. At Endurance, even our more affordable Secure Plus plan includes air conditioning protection, so you won’t be left in the cold, whatever level of coverage you choose.

Problem 3: Tire-Related Problems and Seasonal Wear

A rise or fall in temperature will affect your tire pressure. The hotter it is, the higher the pressure will be, which can be extremely dangerous and even lead to blowouts. The colder it is, the lower the pressure will be, leading to increased road contact and faster wear. Neither is good for the longevity of your tires, but thankfully, an extended warranty can come to your rescue if things go wrong out on the road.

Just like your battery, if tires let you down when you’re away from home, your 24/7 roadside assistance perk can come to the rescue. While your coverage won’t pay for new tires to be fitted, it will cover the cost of being towed to the nearest tire shop — which is still a significant amount of money saved.

Problem 4: Engine and Cooling System Failures

Whether high or low, extremes in temperatures are tough on your car’s engine, and warmer days will push the coolant and cooling system to its limits. Both are costly to repair should they conk out for whatever reason, but an extended warranty will have your back if they do. The majority of engine components are covered under even the most basic of powertrain plans, and while cooling systems are usually reserved for inclusionary and exclusionary protection, it’s easy to find coverage if it’s on your list of priorities.

Problem 5: Electrical System Issues

In winter, moisture can build up in electrical systems and cause them to short circuit. Likewise, the summer heat can fry them until they can’t function properly anymore. While there are some electrical systems that warranty providers commonly avoid, reputable providers will do their utmost to ensure as many are protected as possible. For example, Endurance’s Superior plan covers over 40 individual electrical systems, with the option to add more high-tech components if you’d like to.

How Endurance Plans Help Cover Common Seasonal Problems

Your car works hard enough to get you from A to B, but add extreme weather into the mix, and you will have a recipe for component failure on your hands. With a plan from Endurance in place, however, many of those common seasonal problems will be taken care of without having to worry about your wallet.

As America’s most trusted vehicle service contract provider, we offer a wide range of plans that are something for almost everyone — from everyday commuters to high-mileage vehicle owners and even select luxury car owners. From more basic powertrain protection to our comprehensive Supreme program, you can cover the components that concern you the most. And if the base plans don’t quite meet your needs and budget, our award-winning customer service team can customize a plan that does.

Every Endurance plan also includes a suite of unbeatable benefits for no extra charge, such as 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage. For an affordable activation fee, Endurance customers also receive a year’s access to our Elite Benefits. These perks include complete tire coverage, key or key fob replacement, $500 in collision discounts, and up to $1,000 in total loss protection.*

Protect Yourself Whatever the Weather with Endurance

The changing seasons can take a real toll on your car, but they don’t have to impact your finances too. Protect yourself with an extended auto warranty, and worry less about unexpected component failure when extreme weather rolls around.

To learn more about our auto protection plans and which might work for you, call our team at (800) 253-8203 to request a FREE quote. Alternatively, you can shop our eStore to check out plan options and pricing first.

For other useful articles on extended car warranties, preventative maintenance, saving money, and more, make sure to keep reading our extended warranty blog.