Choosing the Best Vehicle Service Contract

Disclosure: This content was produced by an independent editorial party for the purposes of educating our customers, and is not influenced by the other business operations of CARCHEX.

An extended car warranty is protection from the vehicle manufacturer against mechanical breakdowns. This term is sometimes incorrectly used to describe coverage from third-party providers, which offer similar protection plans called vehicle service contracts. CARCHEX is a vehicle service contract provider.

Reports show that used car sales are higher now than they’ve been in years, according to Edmunds.com. More and more people are investing in used cars. Used cars are often more affordable than new cars, but can be far less reliable. If you want to buy a used car, you should also buy a service plan to protect it. A used car vehicle service contract is a great way to keep your car on the road longer and provide peace of mind should an expensive and unexpected repair cost come up. Read on to learn more about what’s covered in the best used car vehicle service contracts, where to find them, how to find the right one for you, and why CARCHEX is the best provider.

You’ll find that the best vehicle service contracts have a long track record of industry expertise and exceptional customer service. When looking for a reputable vehicle protection company, these are some of the most popular providers:

• CARCHEX
• AA Auto Protection
• Liberty Bell Auto Protect
• AutoAssure
• Concord Auto Protect
• Endurance
• CarShield

Let’s take a good look at how these top vehicle protection providers stack up against each other:

CARCHEX is not only accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), but we offer high-level coverage, affordable pricing, and access to a variety of repair shops. If you’re ready to purchase a vehicle service contract, get a fast and free used car quote.

Buying a used car requires upfront research and preparation. It’s important to compare cars, evaluate the mileage, and learn the history of the vehicle. The same amount of time and research should go into purchasing vehicle protection coverage. Have this list of questions ready when getting a used car extended protection plan quote:

• What exactly is covered under the contract? What’s excluded?
  Make sure the provider will customize your service plan to your personal needs.
• What have you done to find the best price for me?
  Make sure the provider has your best interest in mind. Ask about the fine print and make sure all of your concerns are heard and considered.
• What repair shops are covered?
  When buying a vehicle service contract, you want to read the fine print. Make sure the provider allows you to visit a variety of auto shops, not just pre-approved ones—and confirm there aren’t hidden fees.
• Is there a deductible?
  Oftentimes, you have choices when it comes to deductibles. CARCHEX offers a $0 deductible option, or you can increase it to decrease your premiums.
  
• What if I’m not happy with my purchase?
  The best vehicle protection companies offer a money-back guarantee.

When it comes to choosing the right used car plan, the more information you have, the better. Wear and tear is inevitable, but unexpected repairs and replacements could end up really costing you.

Should I buy a vehicle service contract on a used car? Even if you’re not a gearhead, you should still do your homework before buying a vehicle service contract. Here are some tips for the savvy used car protection plan shopper:

Think About Buying Before Your Factory Warranty Is Up

Sometimes, you can purchase a used car that’s still under factory warranty, but not always. Buying a vehicle service contract on a new car before your factory warranty plan expires can help your lower your cost.

Don’t Buy Through a Dealership

Car dealers will often mark up the price—and what’s worse—if you finance the warranty, you’ll also pay interest on it. When you shop with a third-party provider, you’re making a separate purchase that isn’t tied to your car’s purchase price.

Skip the AAA Extended Warranty Option

AAA extended warranty plans are available for up to seven years and 230,000 miles, depending on your car and selected plan. There are four levels of coverage, which includes rental car service and trip interruption benefits. However, there is a $100 deductible on services that aren’t provided by approved AAA repair shops. Keep in mind that coverage options may differ by AAA region or club.

Consider a Vehicle Service Contract for New Cars, Too

Before your factory warranty expires on your new car, it’s a good idea to research extended auto vehicle protection plans and consider what plan is best suited for your needs. From powertrain plans to exclusionary coverage, CARCHEX offers a variety of plans for both new and used cars.

Consider Extended Coverage on Your Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles

Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles are typically inspected by the manufacturer and come with their own coverage. However, the factory coverage usually comes with deductibles and is pricier than what’s sold by a third-party company.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), technically, a warranty is the coverage that comes with new cars, and the service contract is more akin to what people know as an extended car warranty. However, practically speaking, the terms “warranty” and “service contract” are used interchangeably for most consumers.

This is an additional plan you purchase for use after the manufacturer new car warranty or short-term used car dealer warranty runs out.

The best third-party providers offer high-mileage warranty options for used car owners. CARCHEX, for instance, provides vehicle service contracts for cars that have more than 100K miles on them—but this isn’t the case for all vehicle protection providers.

Some of the pros of buying a CARCHEX plan is that you can avoid repair costs, save money on repair bills over the long haul, add to the resale value of your car, and protect your budget should you need roadside assistance, experience unexpected breakdowns, or require frequent repairs on car parts.

The used car vehicle service contract cost varies depending on the make and model of car, the type of plan chosen, and where you get it from. A manufacturer’s warranty typically costs $1,000 or more. For example, a GMC Protection Plan starts at $1,500 for just two years/24,000 miles of coverage. CARCHEX offers more affordable options, along with monthly payment plans for those who need them.

The more history a car has, the more extensive the coverage should be. Otherwise, you could end up paying a lot of out-of-pocket costs—and you don’t want to spend more money on repairs than you spent on the actual car.

Are vehicle service contracts worth it for both new and old cars? Regardless of how new or old your car is, or how many miles you’ve put on it, having coverage after a factory warranty ends can save you the headache of dealing with unexpected costs.

According to U.S. News & World Report, having an unreliable used car is reason enough to invest in a vehicle protection plan. You never know how accurate a used car’s maintenance and accident history report really is.

Reputable vehicle protection companies provide several coverage options, such as exclusionary or basic powertrain coverage, as well as plans that fit your budget. As a used car owner, consider a plan which includes roadside assistance, optional repair shops for services, and exceptional customer service.

CARCHEX has covered used car owners nationwide for over 20 years. With five different coverage levels and 21 plans, we aim to provide coverage that fits your needs and budget.

If you’re not happy with your plan, CARCHEX offers a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. When we say Customer Experience Above All, we mean it. Our vehicle protection specialists are committed to serving as an advocate for you, so you can get the best deal and the most coverage with your used car vehicle protection plan.

Call Now for a Free Quote

A consistent, monthly vehicle service contract payment is much more affordable than a surprise repair or replacement cost. Finding a used car vehicle protection quote is fast, free, and easy. Call CARCHEX at 866-261-3457 to speak with a vehicle protection specialist today.

Sources:

Edmunds: https://www.edmunds.com/industry/press/used-vehicle-market-poised-for-record-sales-in-2019-according-to-new-report-from-edmunds.html

FTC: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0054-auto-service-contracts-and-warranties#auto

Edmunds: www.edmunds.com/auto-warranty/how-to-get-the-best-price-on-an-extended-car-warranty.html

U.S. News and World Report: https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/should-you-get-an-extended-warranty

Better Business Bureau: https://www.bbb.org/greater-maryland/business-reviews/extended-warranty-contract-service-companies/carchex-in-hunt-valley-md-23015869