Choosing the best extended car warranty can be an excellent financial investment depending on your situation. While they are perfect for protecting you from major repairs, warranties may or may not be worth the cost, depending on the repairs you face.
How Do Extended Warranties Work?
Extended warranties are service contracts between the owner and the company that has promised to cover your vehicle’s repairs. Most of the time, repairs cost less than the out-of-pocket cost for the warranty. Extended warranties also don’t cover routine maintenance like tire replacements or oil changes.
Most also have deductibles that must be met, but often, the deductibles aren’t worth the cost of the warranty compared to the repairs. If you have a more expensive vehicle, you may consider an extended warranty, as higher-end parts cost more, but skipping the warranty may be worthwhile if you have a less expensive car.
How Long Does a Warranty Last?
With various options in warranties, you can find different coverages for a variety of timeframes. Warranties can be a few years or many years, depending on what you need. They become active once the manufacturer’s warranty ends.
If you plan on keeping the car for just a few years, getting an extended warranty won’t be worth the expense. On the other hand, if you plan to keep your car until it runs into the ground, an extended warranty is absolutely a sound financial investment.
How Do You Decide if You Need an Extended Warranty?
To decide whether or not you need an extended warranty depends on whether you plan to keep the car for a long time or just a few short years. If you intend to keep a vehicle for longer than five to eight years, consider purchasing an extended warranty.
Having an effective extended warranty can save you money and give you peace of mind. Additionally, protecting your car becomes an obvious priority because you’re more inclined to take care of something covered by a warranty. If your car requires maintenance or repair services, you may take advantage of your warranty by looking for a mechanic for extended warranty cars.
On the other hand, warranties tend to cost more than typical repairs, and the reality is that most people do not use their warranties. This is where reading the fine print comes in because not all repairs are covered by an extended warranty. Knowing what is covered will help you decide whether you need a warranty or if you should instead decline.
Where Can You Get an Extended Warranty?
Purchasing a warranty is an easy thing to do. If you are buying your car from a dealer, you’re going to be able to buy a warranty as well without any issues. Alternatively, if you purchase a vehicle from a private seller, you will need to go through a third-party broker to find a good warranty.
Remember that warranties are entirely negotiable, much like the price of a car, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for what you want. The first quote you get will be the most they want you to pay, but you can absolutely haggle for a lower cost. Bargaining with the dealer is the best way to go, but you can still negotiate with a broker or directly with the insurance provider if you wish.
What Should You Pay for an Extended Warranty?
The cost of an extended warranty depends on the coverage you want and how long you need it. Prices are also dependent on your type of car, including its make and model. All of these factors combined will determine how much you can expect to pay for your warranty.
Scams are rampant and disguised as extended warranties, so you need to know what you’re looking for in finding a legitimate option. Research options and read reviews to see what is out there. Check business reviews for complaints and read to understand why they exist. Selecting the proper extended warranty should take some time, and you don’t have to do it right away. Extended warranties can be purchased at any time.
What Does Getting an Extended Warranty Mean to You?
An extended warranty may be a sound financial investment depending on your needs, but it might not be, too. Consider how long the warranty will last and how it applies to your car situation. If you want to keep your car for a significant length of time, a warranty could be an excellent investment. Owning a vehicle for a shorter amount of time may result in wasting money on a warranty you’ll never use. Research your options and get to know what is available for your vehicle. When you decide to take the plunge, stay away from scams and always negotiate for the lowest price for the best financial investment for you and your car.
