The emergence of self-driving vehicles has marked a revolutionary shift in the automotive industry by promising safer roads, enhanced mobility, and an unprecedented level of convenience. However, the technological advancements that come with these vehicles also come with new considerations for vehicle ownership, particularly regarding the maintenance and repair tasks required.

The sudden and rapid development of autonomous vehicle technology has led to a fundamental transformation in how vehicles are manufactured. Self-driving cars are equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and even state-of-the-art artificial intelligence algorithms that heavily reduce the potential for accidents on the road.

By increasing efficiency and improving overall road safety, self-driving cars are sure to become the wave of the future in just a matter of years. However, the integration of these complex systems into vehicles introduces unique challenges for drivers trying to find effective warranty coverage, whether through a dealership or with third-party providers.

Advanced Technologies that Make Up Self-Driving Cars

To understand why a comprehensive extended warranty, also known as a vehicle service contract (VSC), can be so difficult to find with self-driving cars, it’s important to examine the technology within these vehicles. Self-driving cars rely on a sophisticated array of technologies to perceive the environment around them in order to make decisions and navigate the road safely.

Common examples of this technology include an assortment of sensors such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), radar, and cameras, along with powerful artificial intelligence algorithms that allow for a multitude of connectivity features.

LiDAR sensors work by emitting laser pulses meant to measure distances and create a detailed 3D map of the surrounding environment around a vehicle, similar to how you can see the location of other vehicles in a Tesla. This is then combined with the inputs received by radar sensors, which assess the speed and trajectory of objects.

The final piece of the puzzle comes from the advanced cameras under the hood, which capture visual information on the road, such as lane markers, pedestrians, street signs, and more. The artificial intelligence algorithm then takes all of these inputs and processes them in order to make real-time decisions regarding vehicle control and navigation.

The varying complexity and integration of these systems in autonomous vehicles are paramount for meeting the required capabilities of these cars. Unfortunately, they also introduce new challenges for maintenance and coverage that can result in a higher out-of-pocket cost. Unlike traditional mechanical components in a used car or older vehicle, electronic systems and software in a new car require specialized repair skills and diagnostic tools for maintenance, which can heavily impact warranty costs and coverage.

Challenges for Extended Auto Warranties in the Age of Self-Driving Cars

The advent of self-driving vehicles poses unique challenges for warranty companies, given the advancements in technology used in manufacturing. Traditional warranties and manufacturer’s warranty are designed to cover mechanical failures, such as engine or transmission issues. However, the advanced electronic systems and software powering self-driving vehicles require a notable shift in coverage.

One of the primary challenges faced by warranty providers is what was described above: the complexity of electronic systems and software within self-driving vehicles. Electronic systems, unlike mechanical components, are prone to software glitches, sensor malfunctions, and connectivity issues, all of which can impact vehicle performance and safety. These issues are often far less tangible than standard mechanical issues and require specialized training and equipment in order to diagnose the issue. This comes at a higher repair cost and longer downtime for the owner of the vehicle.

Moreover, the purely specialized nature of autonomous vehicle components results in higher repair costs. LiDAR sensors, for example, are precision tools that require careful calibration and maintenance to ensure accurate performance over time. Artificial intelligence also requires software updates periodically to optimize vehicle performance and address safety concerns, but they may not be covered under traditional warranty plans as a result.

Evolving Coverage Needs for Advanced Technology

Naturally, the rise of self-driving vehicles has resulted in extended warranty and factory warranty providers adapting their offerings to encompass some of the sophisticated technologies found in these cars. Comprehensive coverage is now starting to extend beyond traditional mechanical components to include electrical systems and more advanced technologies.

Extended warranties or VSCs for self-driving cars are still limited due to the fact that the technology is still in development. However, it’s not uncommon to see cutting-edge warranty plans that include coverage for the electrical system, various sensors, cameras, and even control units. On top of this, some providers, such as Endurance, also offer additional benefits such as roadside assistance, rental car reimbursements, and more in the event a breakdown does occur while you’re on the road.

As the technology within self-driving vehicles continues to evolve, flexible warranty options will be crucial for addressing the diverse needs of owners. Warranty providers can help owners navigate the complexity of owning a self-driving vehicle by offering customizable coverage plans with a variety of coverage options.

What Owners Should Look For in an Extended Warranty

For owners of self-driving cars, knowing the right warranty package to select can be a challenge, though it is essential to safeguarding your investment from automakers. It’s important to scrutinize coverage details, exclusions, and the warranty provider’s experience with high-tech vehicles. Specifically, consider some of the following factors:

• Level of Comprehensive Coverage: Start by looking for warranties that offer coverage for both mechanical and electric components, ideally including the sensors, cameras, and control units under the hood.
• Software Update Inclusion: This is perhaps the most difficult coverage to find, but warranty packages that include any variant of software updates and diagnostic services should be a top priority.
• Experience and Reputation: Choosing a warranty provider with a proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction, particularly with high-tech vehicles, can ensure you partner with a provider you trust.
• Additional Benefits Offered: Finally, protection for your electronics isn’t where warranty coverage should stop. Seek out providers who go above and beyond to offer even more than is necessary, such as 24/7 roadside assistance, trip interruption coverage, towing reimbursement, and more.

The Role of Endurance in the New Landscape

As a leading provider of auto protection, Endurance Warranty is at the forefront of addressing the unique needs of self-driving car owners. While we have yet to venture into autonomous car products, given that they are not widely accepted and approved for use on the roads, we offer full Tesla coverage and coverage for crucial electrical components under the hood.

The Superior and Supreme packages offer coverage for high-tech options and the electrical system that can help reduce repair bills on your new vehicle if a mechanical breakdown occurs. Covered electrical items and high-tech options include features such as, but are not limited to:

• Electronic Ignition Module
• Ignition Switch
• Electronic Instrument Cluster
• Cruise Control Module
• Alternator
• Voltage Regulator
• Backup Camera
• Anti-theft System
• Navigation System

As time and the technology within self-driving vehicles continue to evolve, the level of coverage offered by Endurance will undoubtedly expand. Until that time, rest assured, knowing we provide state-of-the-art protection for state-of-the-art vehicles.

The Future of Extended Warranties and Fully Autonomous Vehicles

As technology advances, the relationship between extended warranty companies and self-driving cars will undoubtedly evolve to give you peace of mind on the road. Future extended warranty plans may incorporate predictive maintenance capabilities such as real-time diagnostics and enhanced coverage for emerging technologies.

With the increasingly rapid innovation of the automotive industry, owners can expect to see a continued emphasis on tailored extended car warranty packages that anticipate and address the needs of autonomous vehicles. Owners can confidently embrace the future of autonomous driving by staying informed and partnering with reliable providers such as Endurance.

Shop for Comprehensive Auto Protection Today

The era of self-driving cars brings excitement and complexity to the world of automotive warranties. As drivers navigate this new landscape, comprehensive extended warranties can offer invaluable protection against the uncertainties of tomorrow’s technology and expensive repairs.

Choosing a reliable auto protection plan provider, like Endurance Warranty, can help get you the coverage you need while also setting you up with a provider who understands the importance of evolving with technology. We offer a 30-day free look period and affordable deductible options from $0 to $500.

In addition to vehicle service contracts offered by Endurance, new customers can also enjoy Elite Benefits for a small activation fee, which offer bonus perks including reimbursements for up to four tires per year due to road hazards, up to $1,000 in total loss protection, and much more for car repairs.

To learn more about how Endurance can help keep your vehicle protected, call (800) 253-8203 to request a FREE quote or shop online to see your price today.

Continue reading informative articles, such as provider comparisons with CARCHEX and CarShield, used vehicle reviews, DIY auto repairs, repair shop suggestions, and more, on the Endurance blog.