Most new cars come with manufacturer warranties that last for a set amount of years or miles. Car owners can purchase an extended warranty to cover repair costs after the manufacturer’s plan expires.
A good extended warranty provider will offer multiple coverage options that fit your vehicle’s needs. It will also have excellent customer service, a reliable claims process and a financial back-up for its policies in case the company fails.
Endurance
If you’re in the market for a new car, it’s important to shop around before you make a purchase. A good place to start is by getting quotes from different companies and comparing contracts. This will help you find the best deal on your car warranty.
Endurance is a fast-growing company that provides vehicle service contracts. It’s based in Northbrook, Illinois and has been in business since 2006. It has some of the lowest yearly fees on the market and offers its plans in all states except California.
Endurance’s Select Plus plan is the most comprehensive of their plans and covers power steering components. It’s also one of the least expensive extended warranties available. However, the company’s marketing practices have earned it a low BBB rating, and they’ve been accused of sending misleading mailers that resemble factory warranty documents. The BBB has worked with them to resolve these issues. Their current mailers are acceptable, but they still need to do more to improve their reputation.
Olive
Olive is a relatively new entrant to the extended car warranty market, but it’s quickly built up a strong reputation among drivers. The company’s plans are simple to understand and easy to manage, offering a lot of value without the steep premiums of some other providers. Olive also doesn’t require a waiting period and lets drivers cancel their coverage at any time. Plus, it offers up to $100 in towing and rental car reimbursement as part of its plans.
Its other benefits include touch-free quotes and policy management, the ability to choose a deductible level, and instant coverage. It also allows drivers to compare plans and contract details before buying, which sends the message that the company has their best interest in mind. However, it’s worth noting that Olive doesn’t offer coverage for routine maintenance and certain parts, including engines and transmissions. In addition, its plans only last for 36 months, which is shorter than many other providers’ options.
Autopom!
Autopom! is an excellent provider of extended car warranties with outstanding customer reviews, an A+ BBB rating and a good industry reputation. They offer a consultative sales process, which puts the needs of customers first and matches them with the best coverage options. While they don’t provide sample contracts or a list of exclusions online, their representatives are very helpful in answering any questions.
Autopom’s extended warranty plans include bumper-to-bumper and powertrain protection, as well as mechanical breakdown insurance for cars in California. These are backed by top-rated administrators, including Mercury Insurance Group, Enterprise Financial Group and Royal Administration.
Bumper-to-bumper plans cover repairs to the major systems in your vehicle, such as the engine, transmission and drive axles. The company also offers plans that cover major components such as the transfer case, air conditioning and electrical systems. Other benefits include 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and tire protection. Moreover, they will even intervene on your behalf if a claim is denied by the plan administrator.
CarShield
CarShield provides a range of affordable extended auto service contracts, including month-to-month plans and used car coverage. The company offers affordable deductibles, a cancellation option and roadside assistance benefits like towing and rental car reimbursement. Most plans come with a 20-day/500-mile waiting period, which allows CarShield to ensure the vehicle is not experiencing consistent problems.
Satisfied CarShield customers speak of the company’s helpful customer service representatives and budget-friendly plans. Negative CarShield reviews often detail issues with the company’s claims process, which can lead to lengthy wait times and denied warranties. CarShield’s pricing is competitive, especially when compared with Endurance. However, Endurance offers better customer ratings and industry reputation. Unlike CarShield, which works as a warranty broker, Endurance offers its own warranty products. This makes it easier to compare the two providers and decide which one is best for your needs.best extended car warranty