Written by: Jen Wagner
Last updated: November 30, 2022
Owning a diesel-powered Ford means having the towing power you need to carry out a task with a little extra ‘oomph.’ It also means knowing you can rely on your vehicle to do the job when needed. But, like all vehicles, unexpected repair costs can pop up with time and use. And once your Ford’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty expires, you will be accountable for paying any maintenance bills you face. So how do you avoid paying for high-cost repairs while gaining peace of mind after your factory contract runs out? The simple answer is to invest in a solid diesel Ford warranty.
Exploring Ford Extended Service Plans
Before the original factory warranty expires on your diesel vehicle, you can purchase a Ford Protect Extended Service Plan directly from your dealership. Ford offers four tiers of coverage for gas and diesel-powered vehicles, ranging from the most comprehensive to basic. Options include:
- PremiumCARE: Covering over 1,000 components, Ford Protect PremiumCARE is the most comprehensive plan you can get directly from the manufacturer. Because it is so extensive, Ford notes it only lists the parts not covered in the contract, which are maintenance items. A PremiumCARE contract will protect your diesel vehicle’s mechanical and electrical components, from the engine, steering, brakes, and transmission to A/C, heating, audio, and safety features.
- ExtraCARE: By choosing this Ford extended service plan, you will receive coverage for 113 components, including engine, transmission, rear/front-wheel-drive-axle systems, steering, brakes, front Suspension, A/C and heating, electrical, and high tech. However, the coverage excludes rear suspension, emissions, audio, and safety components.
- BaseCARE: This 84-part plan covers a little less than the ExtraCare plan, with the addition of coverage for the brakes, steering, suspension, and electrical systems of the vehicle. However, it excludes rear suspension, emissions, audio, safety, and high-tech components.
- PowertrainCARE: As the most limited coverage plan, a PowertrainCare plan protects 29 components within the engine, transmission, and rear/front-wheel-drive-axle systems.
Besides understanding what each plan covers, there are other factors you will want to examine to ensure you make an informed decision before committing to a dealership contract. Consider the following questions.
What is the length of a Ford extended service plan?
According to the service plan brochures, a Ford extended contract will protect your vehicle from unforeseen covered repairs for “up to the earlier of 10 years or 175,000 miles.” However, there are varying time and mileage options, allowing you to customize a plan based on your needs.
Are Ford plans transferable?
Every Ford plan is 100% backed by the Ford Motor Company, with coverage that is also 100% transferrable, for all models including F-150, F-250, F-350, and others. However, transfer fees vary by state.
Is there a deductible rate, and are financing options available?
Ford offers a few optional deductible choices, but the standard rate is $100. They also provide interest-free financing for up to 30 months.
Do you get any extra perks with a Ford extended service plan?
Investing in a Ford extended service plan entitles you to 10 days of rental car benefits at $60/day for covered repairs. You also receive 24/7 roadside help should you face an unforeseen mechanical breakdown.
Additional benefits include tire changes, lockout services, fuel delivery, battery jump-starts, and towing for up to $100 per occurrence. Ford also provides emergency travel expense coverage up to $1,000 within the first 5 days per occurrence and destination assistance up to $75.
Are there limitations?
Yes. Ford contracts do not cover non-factory components that someone else installs. They only cover Ford-installed parts. Also, you cannot take your vehicle to any repair shop for vehicle services. When under contract, you must use a Ford or Lincoln dealer for the warranty to cover the repairs. In addition, Ford’s extended service plans do not include wear-and-tear items. However, Ford offers a maintenance plan that you can buy along with a service plan.
What’s the cost?
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to extended auto warranty pricing because several factors can influence the cost of a service agreement. Examples include:
- Vehicle condition
- Vehicle type
- Coverage level
- Deductible amount
That said, dealership contracts are often more expensive than those from third-party providers. Dealerships can raise warranty prices and profit from sales, earning as much as half the selling price. They can also include extra fees or unnecessary add-ons as part of an agreement. Across the board, however, the average cost for an extended auto warranty is about $2,800 but can range between $1,500 and $4,500.
Are Other Ford Diesel Warranty Options Available?
Yes. Investing in extended auto coverage for your diesel vehicle means more than just getting a breakdown coverage plan through the dealership. Several third-party providers sell contracts at any point during ownership—even after your original factory warranty expires. Finding a plan that fits your circumstances and budget can help ensure your diesel Ford runs for years to come.
The best way to start your search is by researching providers and comparing plans and prices. The most well-rated vehicle warranty programs provide several perks, like:
- Flexible payment programs
- Budget-friendly contracts
- High mileage and older vehicle coverage
- Your choice of ASE-certified mechanic
- Coverage for up to 250,000 miles
- Low or no-cost deductibles
- Rental car reimbursements
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Some companies even offer discounts to help lower contract costs, making coverage more affordable for varying budgets. But the only way to determine which contract is best for you is by requesting a free quote and speaking to a representative. When you directly contact the company, you can ask questions and gain a better sense of the business and its employees. You can also check out online reviews for complaints and recognition.
Who Offers the Best Third-Party Plans?
At Extended Auto Warranty, it’s our job to find the best extended warranty companies with top-notch customer service, flexibility, benefits, and extensive coverage options. Our top picks include:
- Endurance Warranty
- CarShield
- Olive
- Protect My Car
- Concord Auto Protect
Since Ford diesel repairs can be costly, having a comprehensive contract can help save you from paying thousands of dollars out-of-pocket. Some providers, like Endurance, offer plans that include maintenance coverage, saving you even more money on things like brake pads and tire rotations. Start your search for a Ford diesel warranty today by checking out our in-depth reviews on the top extended car warranty companies here.
