Get this deal! Call now.
Speak with a vehicle protection plan specialist and get $450 off any new policy instantly.
Call 866-678-4172The ability to hop in a car and drive to or from wherever you’d like is the ultimate when it comes to convenience and personal freedom. It’s an unmatched experience that’s been around for more than a century. But, while owning a car can bring about plenty of new places to go and things to see, there’s more to it than just purchasing a vehicle, such as staying up-to-date on maintenance or handling mechanical issues and related repairs.
For example, the average cost to replace a transmission is more than $5,000. So it’s essential to prepare yourself whether you have a new vehicle right off a dealership lot or an old yet reliable used car.
One way to offset expenses like this and prepare for unexpected repair costs is to buy additional coverage outside your average car insurance policy. However, while coverage in the form of an extended car warranty or car repair insurance may sound similar, they have significant differences. To help better protect yourself and your vehicle from costly car repairs, it’s essential to understand the key differences between these two types of coverage.
Car repair insurance is a form of auto insurance coverage that only protects a vehicle against mechanical failures. Sometimes called mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI), its coverage is separate and different from other policies you may have on your car, such as:
Like standard auto insurance policies, car repair insurance is provided by major car insurance companies. However, general coverage (like liability and collision) does not include a car repair policy. Instead, it must be purchased separately and is only offered by some providers.
Additionally, car repair insurance has other restrictions and is only available in certain states. For example, California only offers mechanical breakdown insurance for cars because it helps to protect drivers from the costs of repairs if their vehicle is damaged due to a mechanical failure. This type of coverage is not available in all states, but California has prioritized ensuring drivers have access to coverage for mechanical breakdowns.
These can include:
If you own a vehicle that does not have a manufacturer’s warranty, car repair insurance, or an extended auto warranty, you would be left on the hook when paying any repair bills. For example:
While a factory warranty can provide excellent coverage for specific car repairs, it’s important to remember that it won’t last forever. For example, automaker coverage typically lasts 3 years/36,000 miles to 5 years/60,000 miles. Some luxury brands are usually covered for 4 years/50,000 miles, while others can extend as long as 10 years/100,000 miles. Some manufacturers may provide additional bumper-to-bumper terms or extra protection for the powertrain. But, at some point, regardless of how long the initial warranty coverage was, it will end. When that happens, purchasing an extended car warranty can provide much-needed peace of mind.
However, while you can often purchase an extended warranty right from your automaker (though your factory coverage may still have to be active), you can also find help in vehicle service contracts (VSCs) or auto protection plans. Vehicle service contracts act as an extended warranty from your automaker but are issued from third-party providers like us at Endurance. But, regardless of what you may call them, a vehicle service contract protects against unexpected repairs and expenses after the manufacturer’s warranty expires and those not covered by your car insurance or car repair insurance.
Car owners concerned about surprise repair bills often ask, “are extended car warranties worth it?” And for many, the answer is yes. For example, a vehicle service contract from Endurance offers numerous advantages, including:
Unexpected car repairs can be expensive, but no longer having your manufacturer’s original warranty doesn’t have to leave you unprotected. Car repair insurance (or mechanical breakdown insurance) can provide some coverage like your original factory warranty. Whereas an auto protection plan or extended warranty can help with mechanical failures – especially for older cars or high-mileage vehicles.
No matter which type of coverage you need, extra peace of mind from unexpected auto repairs and breakdowns is worth it. Endurance plans are bolstered by several available benefits, including towing, trip interruption, and rental car reimbursements. And most Endurance plans are transferable, meaning you can help upsell your vehicle to any potential buyers should you ever look to sell it.
Don’t wait to protect your car from unexpected breakdowns and repairs. Request a free quote by calling our award-winning care team at (800) 253-8203. Speak directly with one of our representatives to learn how Endurance protection can help you – or shop online to find your perfect plan.
We’re also here to help make car shopping and vehicle ownership easier with the Endurance blog. Explore informative articles with make/model comparisons, extended warranty tips, DIY maintenance lists, and much more.
The advantages of having an extended warranty can’t be overstated when a surprise car repair pops up. Coverage can make a difference during a breakdown, thanks to protection against expensive..
Nothing beats being able to hit the open road and head wherever you like, whenever you like. Plenty of drivers fall in love with our vehicles, maintaining them with total..
There’s a lot to get excited about buying a new or used car, but one feature that often gets overlooked is the manufacturer’s warranty. Understanding this coverage helps owners maximize..
Your protection is our top priority. Your quote is in progress and you will
receive a confirmation
email shortly.
We're here to make sure you get the most comprehensive EV protection. That's why we've partnered with Xcelerate Auto to offer you transparent and dependable Tesla coverage.
Want us to contact you about XCare coverage for your Tesla?
Save $450 during Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale!
By clicking the button, you consent to Endurance using automated technology to call, email, and text you using the contact info above, including your wireless number, if provided, regarding auto protection or, in California, mechanical breakdown insurance. You also agree to the Endurance Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Consent is not a condition of purchase, and you can withdraw consent at any time. Message and data rates may apply.
Speak with a vehicle protection plan specialist and get $450 off any new policy instantly.
Call 866-678-4172Simply fill out the information below and we will follow up fast with your free no-obligation quote.
By clicking the button, you consent to Endurance using automated technology to call, email, and text you using the contact info above, including your wireless number, if provided, regarding auto protection or, in California, mechanical breakdown insurance. You also agree to the Endurance Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Consent is not a condition of purchase, and you can withdraw consent at any time. Message and data rates may apply.
After more than 16 years as a technician and service advisor, Adam Karner transitioned to the auto protection industry in 2009. As a Product Manager for Endurance Dealer Services, he brings valuable hands-on experience. Read more about Adam.