What to Know Before Purchasing an Extended Warranty
When it comes to deciding whether or not you need an extended warranty, confusion almost always seems to be a part of the process. You sweat through loads of paperwork for your new car, sign a ton of documents, and set up financing—then comes the final question…Do you want an extended warranty?
What even is an extended warranty?
Don’t worry, your mind is not the only one that’s drawing a blank.
To help you figure out if an extended warranty is right for you, Smith Chevy Warranty has compiled a list of common questions to help you decide. Don’t miss this guide for extended vehicle warranties.
What’s the Difference Between a Factory Warranty and an Extended Warranty?
A factory warranty is essentially a contract from the manufacturer. This warranty will cover certain repairs if they happen within a certain time frame or mileage—a common factory warranty length is 3 years or 36,000 miles. Factory warranties are typically given when buying a new vehicle, but used cars may come with one as well.
An extended warranty, on the other hand, covers your vehicle after the factory warranty has expired. You typically choose the number of years or mileage that you want your vehicle covered for, and you can choose specific plans to cover differing components like the engine, powertrain, or vehicle accessories.
What is the Cost of an Extended Warranty?
The cost of a warranty will differ for each person.
Typically, the price of a warranty is based on:
- The warranty package you want
- The number of miles you want covered
- The number of years you want to cover your vehicle for
- The make and model of your vehicle
- The history of your vehicle
After these aspects are taken into consideration, most warranty companies will provide you with a free quote.
What Do Most Extended Warranties Cover?
Extended warranty plans come in all shapes and sizes.
Typically, a very basic extended warranty plan will cover:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Front / Rear Wheel Drive
- Four-Wheel Drive
- All-Wheel Drive
- Steering
The next standard plan typically covers:
- Engine
- Front / Rear-wheel-drive assemblies
- Transmission / Transaxle
- Fuel system
- Front Suspension
- Steering system
- Vehicle manufacturer-installed air conditioning systems
- Braking system components
- Electrical and computer systems
- Wear and tear
More advanced plans cover the powertrain and the electrical and mechanical components:
- Engine
- Front / Rear-wheel-drive assemblies
- Transmission / Transaxle
- Fuel system
- Front Suspension
- Steering system
- Vehicle manufacturer-installed air conditioning systems
- Braking system components
- Electrical and computer systems
- Wear and tear
What Are the Benefits of Having an Extended Warranty?
The biggest advantage that comes with purchasing an extended warranty is being free from paying for costly repairs out of pocket.
Though saving money on repairs is the main benefit, here are some other ones:
- Roadside assistance (if offered in the plan)
- Access to experienced technicians when needing a repair
- Transportation reimbursement (if offered)
- Peace of mind
How Can I Use My Extended Warranty?
If you need a repair on your vehicle, you can visit any dealership or licensed mechanic throughout the United States. Your warranty plan will be reviewed, and the appropriate changes will be made at no cost to you!
How Do I Avoid Scammy Extended Warranties?
It’s important to ensure that the auto warranty you purchase is backed by the actual dealer. For instance, all GMPPs sold through Smith Chevy Warranty are backed by General Motors.
Before you buy a warranty, always read the fine print! Make sure the deductible is a reasonable amount and that you understand your duties (regular maintenance and oil changes) so that the warranty isn’t voided. You should also ask how claims are processed and handled.
Okay, I Want an Extended Warranty—How Do I Get One?
For help getting an extended warranty for your GM vehicle, visit Smith Chevy Warranty. Smith Chevy can help you choose a GMPP for a price that won’t break your budget! Backed by GM and providing roadside assistance, the Silver and Platinum Plans ensure that your vehicle will be covered anywhere in the US. Call (866) 495-6123 for more information.
Drive a Chrysler?Visit Chrysler Warranty Online for more information on factory-backed extended warranty plans.