As a car owner, ensuring you feel confident when you are out on the road is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. Often, this means making the right choices when it comes to the services you use and the care you give your vehicle. An extended car warranty is a great way to combine these two considerations and protect yourself from expensive repairs and stressful, costly breakdowns that can leave you stranded on the side of the road.
If you already have an extended car warranty provider but aren’t sure how much you’re benefiting from it, it is important to know if you are ready to switch. Understanding what to look for in a provider can help you see if your current warranty is working for you and allow you to find a new one that will give you the best possible service. With the right plan, you can feel safe on the road and have the confidence you need.
How to Know if You Should Switch Providers
Knowing when to switch providers can be difficult, especially if you haven’t had to use your warranty yet. That being said, there are things that you should have at your disposal if you are paying for a protection plan every month. One of the most important features to look for in a warranty provider is extra perks and benefits. 24/7 roadside assistance can help you get your money’s worth for your warranty, even if you run out of gas or lock your keys in the car.
You should also consider switching providers if an issue arises with your car and you find it very difficult to file a claim. The claims process should be smooth and easy, and you should feel that your provider is on your side through everything. If this isn’t the case, consider finding a warranty company that treats their customers more respectfully and tries to make everything as simple and stress-free as possible.
What to Look for in an Extended Car Warranty Provider
If you have decided that the time has come to find a new extended car warranty provider, you must know what to look for. There are all kinds of providers on the market, and some will be more comprehensive and customer-oriented than others. Knowing what qualities and features to keep an eye out for will help you make the right choice and find the provider that will serve you best.
Before getting a new extended warranty, you will most likely have to cancel the one you already have. You can cancel most extended warranties at any time and receive a prorated refund for the coverage time you have already paid for. However, make sure you get your cancellation in writing and always follow up with the provider so you can be certain that they terminated your plan.
Customer Service
One of the most important things you should look for in an extended warranty provider is the quality of their customer service. It is crucial to reach someone at the company when you need them most. This will ensure that you can get the help you need if something goes wrong with your vehicle and you need to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Look for any customer reviews of an extended warranty provider you are considering, especially from trusted sites like TrustPilot, Consumers Advocate, Consumer Affairs, and more. These reviews will almost always be focused on their level of customer care and can give you a good idea of how they deal with their clients.
Variety of Plans
Only some extended warranty plans will suit your car and driving habits. Look for providers that offer many different plans for you to choose from. This will ensure that you aren’t paying for services you don’t need and that you will be covered if something goes wrong with your vehicle.
Generally, you should look for plans that cover vehicles within your car’s mileage. You should also know what common issues your car tends to have and ensure the plan covers them. This is a great way to ensure that your provider will be there for you when you need them most.
Flexibility
Flexibility is key when searching for an extended warranty provider. Look for companies that allow you to go to various shops and mechanics. This makes things much more convenient when fixing your car and helps you find the perfect shop for your car’s specific issue.
You should also look for a provider that will tailor plans and quotes to your needs. One of the best ways to do this is to shop around and get as many quotes as possible. This will give you a full picture of what is available and help you pick the perfect plan.
Manufacturer vs. Third-Party Warranties
When searching for a new extended car warranty provider, you will have two options: going through your car’s manufacturer or a third-party provider. An extended warranty from your car’s manufacturer will usually only be available while the factory warranty is still valid, though it will depend on the automaker. Some may even offer coverage on certified pre-owned vehicles. Some may also limit you to the dealership shop when you need to get your car fixed, which can be inconvenient and limiting.
On the other hand, a third-party provider will be much more flexible. You can usually get an extended warranty through a third-party provider whenever you want, as long as your car is within the mileage limits. You also will have a much wider variety of shops to choose from when you have to get your vehicle repaired.
Protect Your Vehicle With the Right Extended Warranty
Finding the right extended warranty for your car can be difficult, but if you know what to look for, you can stay safe on the road and be protected from expensive repairs. If you are ready to switch your extended car warranty provider, understanding the qualities, you should keep an eye out for and how they can help is going to be your best bet. Explore our extended warranty provider reviews and buying guide to find out which extended warranty will work best for you and your vehicle.
