Endurance
4.6
Reputation:8.8/10
Coverage:9.7/10
Cost:9.1/10
Transparency:9.5/10
Customer Experience:8.5/10
Quick Facts
- BestComprehensive Coverage
- Mileage Covered: Unlimited mileage
- Longest Warranty Term: Up to 8 years
- Money-Back Guarantee: Up to 30 days
- Coverage Options:6 different plans to choose from
- Discounts: $300 same-day signup discount, $250 shopping voucher and others
Plan Coverage and Perks
Plan coverage includes | Endurance Elite perks™ |
---|---|
Exclusionary plan | One-year membership for free |
Powertrain plan | Tire repair and replacement |
Maintainance coverage with Endurance Advantage | Key fob replacement |
Roadside assistance | Total loss protection |
Towing | Collision discount |
Rental car | $250 rewards voucher |
Trip interruption coverage | Endurance Protect app |
Why You Can Trust the MarketWatch Guides Team
Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated the top auto warranty providers
41
Providers ReviewedOur team looked at dozens of auto warranty providers on the market, including top choices such as Endurance, Olive, CarShield and autopom!
2,215
Data Points AnalyzedWe evaluate thousands of data points including plan costs, warranty plan inclusions and exclusions, customer reviews and more to determine the best car warranty companies.
4,000
Customers SurveyedWe surveyed thousands of customers about their auto warranty experiences in order to get a deeper understanding of how customers feel about each company, what’s most important in the purchasing process and more.
505
Research HoursOur team spent hundreds of hours getting warranty quotes, reading customer reviews and reviewing the fine print of warranty contracts to help customers make informed decisions.
Best Extended Car Warranties
In our study of the best extended car warranties, five providers stood out: Endurance, autopom!, Carchex, CarShield and Omega Auto Care. In the sections below, we’ll discuss the extended warranty coverage offerings from these providers in detail.
Comparing the Best Extended Car Warranty Providers
Based on these criteria, our researchers found that the following providers offer the best extended car warranties on the market. Each provider is graded on a 10-point scale:
Extended Warranty Provider | Overall Rating out of 10 | Coverage Rating | Number of Plans | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|
9.3 | 9.7 | 6 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 9.2 | 8.9 | 3 | Learn More |
Learn More | 9.1 | 9.6 | 5 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.9 | 9.6 | 8 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.7 | 9.8 | 3 | Learn More |
Extended Warranty Provider | Overall Rating out of 10 | Coverage Rating | Number of Plans | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|
9.3 | 9.7 | 6 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 9.2 | 8.9 | 3 | Learn More |
Learn More | 9.1 | 9.6 | 5 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.9 | 9.6 | 8 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.7 | 9.8 | 3 | Learn More |
In our study of the best extended car warranties, five providers stood out: Endurance, autopom!, CarShield, Carchex and Omega Auto Care. In the sections below, we’ll discuss the extended warranty coverage offerings from these providers in detail.
Overview
Number of plans offered: Six
Highest mileage limit: Unlimited miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and Endurance Elite Benefits
Read more: Endurance Warranty Reviews
Why We Picked Endurance
Endurance holds the number one spot in our industry wide best-extended car warranty review. The company offers flexible coverage options with term limits up to eight years and no mileage limitations. Every Endurance warranty comes with extra perks like roadside assistance, trip interruption benefits and rental car reimbursem*nt for the duration of the contract.
Our Ratings
Coverage
Endurance is one of very few direct providers, meaning it administers the best extended car warranty plans without middlemen. That generally makes for a simpler, more straightforward and often more reliable warranty claims process.
The direct warranty provider offers six vehicle service contracts, ranging from basic powertrain to comprehensive and maintenance coverage. But what really makes Endurance stand out for coverage is its EnduranceAdvantage plan and its Highline add-on.
EnduranceAdvantage is a combination plan that provides mechanical breakdown protection plus coverage for routine maintenance like oil changes and brake pad replacements. On the other hand, the Highline add-on can be included with any Supreme plan to cover luxury models like Audi and Porsche.
Here’s an overview of what each warranty covers:
Endurance Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Supreme | This is the most comprehensive plan, covering almost all mechanical and electrical components aside from a few exclusions — it is comparable to a factory warranty. |
Superior | Superior is the highest level of stated-component coverage and includes hundreds of parts on all major systems. |
Secure Plus | This plan covers the powertrain as well as the brakes, air conditioning, steering and some electrical components, plus it has the shortest waiting period. |
Secure | Secure is the most budget-friendly car warranty plan, protecting the engine, transmission and water pump. |
Select Premier | This plan is tailored to high-mileage vehicles, and covers the powertrain, electrical, cooling, air conditioning, heating and fuel systems. |
EnduranceAdvantage™ | Advantage combines prepaid maintenance like oil changes and brake pad replacements along with and stated-component warranty coverage. |
Along with standard benefits like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursem*nt, all plans also include a free year of Endurance Elite Benefits, which comes with the following perks:
- Up to $1,000 toward total loss replacement, which eases stress if you total your car
- Collision discount of $500 per accident ($1,000 total limit), which helps your finances after an accident
- Up to $500 for key fob replacement, so you don’t have to cover expensive fobs yourself
- Tire repair and replacement, which takes the stress out of road hazards damaging your tires
Cost
During our research, we found that an Endurance warranty tends to cost around $116 to $194 per month. The total costs for Endurance plan options range from around $3,700 to almost $7,000 for a four to five year plan.
Reputation
Endurance Customer Review Score
9.1/10
Endurance earned the second-highest combined customer review score in our study. A majority of online reviews reflect a positive experience with the company, with frequent mentions of helpful customer service and fast claims processing.
Endurance is a direct provider, meaning it administers the contracts it sells. This allows the company to provide a solid claims experience. At the time of publication, the provider held a3.6 out of 5-star customer review score on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website and a3.7-star rating on Trustpilot.
2. Autopom!: Excellent Customer Service
9.2/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: 3
Highest mileage limit: 150,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car coverage and trip interruption
Read more: Autopom! review
Why We Picked Autopom!
Autopom! stands out for having great customer service ratings across multiple platforms. While customers might have issues getting claims covered in some cases, the company is good at stepping in and doing what it can to make things right based on its responses to customers on the BBB website.
Our Ratings
Coverage
Autopom! offers three plans that have the basics covered. It includes a factory-level comprehensive plan, a mid-level plan and a powertrain-plus plan. Note that autopom! doesn’t offer a strict powertrain plan — which covers the engine, transmission and drive axle — but it includes other systems with powertrain coverage.
Autopom! Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Exclusionary | This is autopom!’s comprehensive warranty that covers all components of your vehicle except for a list of exclusions. |
Mid-Level | With this plan, you get coverage for the engine, transmission, drive axle, electrical systems, air conditioning, braking and steering. |
Powertrain Plus | This plan gives you basic coverage for the engine, transmission, drive axle, air conditioning and some electrical components. |
Autopom! provides the following benefits on all plans:
- Roadside assistance: Covers things like towing, lockout assistance, spare tire installation and battery jump-start up to a limit
- Rental car coverage: Reimburses you for a rental car if you have a covered claim up to a limit
- Trip interruption: Reimburses you for food and lodging, up to a limit, if you have a covered repair far from home
Roadside assistance can be a life saver if you get stuck on the side of the road, especially in an unfamiliar area. Rental coverage and trip interruption also take some of the stress out of having a breakdown.
There are a couple of things that set autopom!’s coverage apart from some other providers. For example, it provides tire protection on most plans. This covers repair or replacement if you encounter potholes, nails or other hazards that may damage your tires. Autopom! also provides 60-day money-back guarantees on some plans and at least 30 days on all plans. Most companies only offer 30-day money-back guarantees.
Cost
Our quote data shows autopom! plans range from $112 to $124 per month depending on the vehicle you own and type of plan you purchase. We found older vehicles with mileage of 90,000 cost more to cover through autopom!. Our autopom! quotes include a $100 deductible.
Reputation
autopom! Customer Review Score
9.8/10
autopom! earned the highest score of any provider in our warranty customer review analysis. Online reviews from customers are overwhelmingly positive across all platforms. Helpful, friendly customer service is a common topic, with many reviews mentioning representatives going above and beyond to help them.
This is where autopom! stands out. The company has an A+ rating on the BBB with accreditation plus a high customer rating of 4.7 stars. Similarly, autopom! has a 4.0-star rating on Trustpilot. No warranty is guaranteed to cover 100% of all repairs, but it’s nice to see that the company leadership cares about helping customers with claims.
3. Carchex: Great Industry Reputation
9.1/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: Five
Highest mileage limit: 250,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and trip interruption
Read more: Carchex Warranty Reviews
Why We Picked Carchex
With term limits up to 250,000 miles, Carchex offers some of the longest-lasting contracts on the market and is a great option for drivers who own older cars. As such, we recognize Carchex’s used vehicle coverageamong the best in the industry. With a mileage limit that high, you can keep your vehicle covered and get the most out of owning it over the years.
Our Ratings
Coverage
Carchex stands out, along with the top companies on our list, because its plans can cover high-mileage vehicles with up to 250,000 miles. This makes it easy to care for your car as it ages. You can also take your vehicle to any of the 30,000 repair shops certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE®), including your local dealership.
From powertrain coverage to comprehensive coverage, Carchex offers an extensive variety of plans, including an option that covers non-powertrain components. This can be useful if your factory bumper-to-pumper warranty has expired but you still have powertrain coverage. Here’s an overview.
Carchex Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Titanium | Titanium offers exclusionary coverage for most vehicle components and is similar to a manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. |
Platinum | This is the highest level of stated-component protection, covering hundreds of parts on all major systems of the vehicle. |
Powertrain Plus | Powertrain Plus offers robust powertrain coverage and more for your vehicle’s most essential parts like the air conditioning, electrical system and fuel system. |
Powertrain | This contract offers basic powertrain coverage, providing protection to components like the engine, transmission and drive axle. |
Extra Care | Extra Care protects components outside of the powertrain, such as parts of the electrical system, steering, suspension and braking system, and it can supplement an existing powertrain plan. |
Carchex offers these plans both as month-to-month contracts and fixed-term contracts. Carchex perks include roadside assistance, trip interruption coverage and rental car reimbursem*nt. If a customer wants to cancel their Carchex coverage, the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all warranties.
Cost
Carchex works with insured administrators like American Auto Shield to offer competitively priced contracts. The Carchex quotes we received are about $140 per month. The total cost varies depending on how long you continue your coverage.
Reputation
Carchex Customer Review Score
7.7/10
In our customer review analysis, Carchex earned a score of 7.7 out of 10, reflecting mixed but mostly positive reviews from customers online. Positive reviews typically cite a smooth and efficient claims process, while frustrations around communications were a common subject of negative comments.
As one of the industry’s best extended car warranty companies, Carchex has been endorsed by industry leaders including Carfax, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com and RepairPal. The company holds accreditation and an A+ rating from the BBB as well as a 2.2-star customer review score on Trustpilot.
4. CarShield: Affordable Monthly Payments
8.9/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: Eight
Highest mileage limit: 300,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and trip interruption
Read more: CarShield Warranty Reviews
Why We Picked Carshield
CarShield is our top choice for flexible contracts with affordable monthly payments. If you’re looking for budget-friendly coverage, CarShield offers month-to-month payment plans with reasonable rates. Additionally, coverage terms for CarShield warranties can last up to 300,000 miles, which helps you keep your reliable older vehicle going strong.
Our Ratings
Coverage
In addition, the third-party extended warranty provider has some of the longest term lengths in the industry for its eight warranty plans. Going well above 100,000 mile warranty term lengths, plans from CarShield can last up to 300,000 miles depending on the vehicle service contract you choose.
CarShield offers many plans, including a plan specifically for EV owners. This is nice to have since you can trust the plan covers electric vehicle components, which many plans don’t. CarShield customers can choose from the following extended warranty plans:
CarShield Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Diamond | Diamond is a bumper-to-bumper plan that offers exclusionary coverage for almost all mechanical and electrical components. |
Platinum | Best suited for high-mileage vehicles, Platinum protects the engine, transmission, air conditioning, electrical system, starter, water pump, fuel pump and more. |
Gold | This plan protects the engine, transmission, water pump, alternator, starter, air conditioning and power windows. |
Gold Select | This plan is a high-mileage plan that caters specifically to vehicles with a lot of miles on the odometer and covers everything in the Gold plan except for the fuel pump and fuel injector. |
Silver | Silver is the most affordable contract, covering the engine, transmission and water pump. |
Aluminum | This protects electrical and high-tech components, including the engine control module, starter, alternator and navigation system. |
Motorcycle & ATV | This offers multiple coverage tiers for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and other non-standard vehicles. |
Electric Vehicle | This offers coverage specifically designed for fully electric vehicles and components like its electric drive unit, battery pack and electrical system. |
CarShield plans also come with roadside assistance, trip interruption and rental car coverage. The allowances may differ by plan.
Cost
Quotes we received from CarShield were $120 per month. When comparing these quotes to pricing information we’ve received from several providers, we found CarShield’s monthly payments were cheaper than many competing warranties on the market. CarShield offers month-to-month contracts, which are convenient since you can choose how long to have coverage.
Reputation
Carshield Customer Review Score
9.0/10
With a score of 9.0 out of 10, CarShield ranked in a tie for third place in our customer review analysis. The vast majority of online reviews for CarShield are positive. Customer reviews online frequently mention attentive, professional and friendly customer service representatives who help solve issues.
CarShield holds an A rating with accreditation from the BBB plus it has a 4.2-star rating from customers on Trustpilot. In the past three years, the company has fielded almost 3,400 customer complaints through the BBB.
5. Omega Auto Care: Easy Quote Process
8.7/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: Three
Highest mileage limit: 250,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt, trip interruption coverage, road hazard protection (for tires) and towing
Read more: Omega Auto Care
Why We Picked Omega Auto Care
Omega Auto Care stands out from the competition due to the maintenance benefits includes with its warranty plans. The company offers three main coverage levels, two of which include optional upgrades.
Our Ratings
Coverage
Omega Auto Care offers an extensive variety of plans, shown in further detail below:
Omega Auto Care | What It Covers |
---|---|
New Exclusionary | Designed for cars up to seven years old and with less than 100,000 miles, this plan is similar to a factory warranty. Nearly all vehicle components are covered, along with two hours’ worth of labor costs for emergency repairs. |
Used Stated | The engine, transmission, transfer case, drive axles, air conditioning, steering system and electrical system are among the covered parts of this stated-component plan. This coverage option is for cars up to 10 years old with less than 150,000 miles. |
Powertrain Enhanced | This is Omega’s most extensive powertrain plan upgrade, adding protection for the cooling and fuel systems to basic engine, transmission and drive axles coverage. |
Powertrain Plus | A step up from the basic powertrain plan, this option covers air conditioning, heating and various electrical system components along with the engine, transmission and drive axles. |
Powertrain | Omega’s basic powertrain protection plan covers the engine, forced induction transmission, transfer case and drive axles. |
Omega Auto Care warranty plans provide the following perks as well:
- 24-hour roadside assistance, including flat tire changes (with your spare), battery jump-starts, fluid delivery and lockout service up to $100 per occurrence
- Road hazard tire coverage of up to $100 for each tire per occurrence (up to $400 over life of vehicle service contract)
- Rental car reimbursem*nt up to $30 per day or $150 per occurrence
- Trip interruption coverage for covered breakdowns more than 100 miles from home (up to $75 per day for a maximum of three days)
- Maintenance benefits for one year (vary by plan, but include oil changes, brake pad and shoe replacements, battery replacements, cooling system and lube maintenance and a free safety inspection)
These benefits go beyond what many providers offer. Free maintenance for a year makes it easy to keep up with oil changes. And road hazard tire repair covers damage to your tires from driving over debris.
Cost
According to our research, extended warranties from Omega Auto Care cost between $2,880 and $3,720 in total, depending on the coverage level you choose and the vehicle you’re protecting.
Reputation
Omega Auto Care Customer Review Score
9.0/10
Omega Auto Care earned an overall score of 9.0 out of 10 in our warranty customer review analysis, placing it third among all providers. Online reviews for the company are mostly positive, with many pointing to Omega’s communications with repair shops as a highlight.
Omega Auto Care holds a3.8 out of 5-star rating from over 1,200 customer reviews on Trustpilot. Many of these positive reviews mention friendly and helpful customer service and competitive pricing.
Read more:Best Car Warranty Companies
Best Extended Car Warranty Plans
Based on the coverage rating from our editorial team, Omega Auto Care, Endurance and CarShield offer the best extended warranty coverage plans overall. The table below provides our coverage rating for the top three providers, along with the number of plans and maximum mileage covered.
Extended Car Warranty Company | Extended Warranty Coverage Rating | Number of Plans | Maximum Mileage Covered |
---|---|---|---|
Omega Auto Care | 9.8 | 3 | 250,000 miles |
Endurance | 9.7 | 6 | Unlimited miles |
CarShield | 9.6 | 8 | 300,000 miles |
The sections below will explore the best extended car warranty plans for bumper-to-bumper, mid-level and powertrain coverage.
Best Bumper-to-Bumper Extended Warranty Plans
Bumper-to-bumper warranties offer the most comprehensive level of coverage you can buy. These plans are also called “exclusionary warranties” because they come with a list of what’s not covered rather than what is. The coverage found in these plans tends to be similar to the manufacturer’s warranty that comes with new cars.
1. Endurance: Supreme
Endurance Supreme earned the highest score in our extended car warranty study due to its impressive coverage and the company’s role as a direct provider, meaning that Endurance handles everything itself instead of relying on middlemen or third parties. You’ll find the claims process can be quicker and easier when working with a direct provider. This bumper-to-bumper option covers the vast majority of vehicle components and has only a short list of exclusions.
You’ll receive a free year of Endurance Elite Benefits if you pick the Endurance Supreme plan. This package includes perks such as key fob replacement, a tire allowance, collision discounts and up to $1,000 in total loss replacement. Endurance Elite Benefits also feature benefits like roadside assistance, towing services and rental car reimbursem*nt.
2. Omega Auto Care: New Exclusionary
Omega Auto Care’s New Exclusionary plan is a bumper-to-bumper extended warranty that covers nearly every component and system in your vehicle. It also pays for two hours’ worth of labor if you need an emergency repair.
The New Exclusionary plan also includes a robust roadside assistance package that includes towing, lock-out assistance, fluid delivery, jump starts and flat tire assistance. If you opt in to the Tire Hazard Protection program, tire replacements and repairs will be covered by Omega Auto Care. All of these benefits reduce stress when you have a breakdown or encounter damaging road debris.
3. CarShield: Diamond
The CarShield Diamond plan is a vehicle service contract offering coverage similar to a bumper-to-bumper warranty or a new car’s manufacturer warranty. It covers issues ranging from engine and transmission failure, to starter problems and fuel pump breakdowns. Coverage can last up to 300,000 miles, which is one of the longest mileage limits in the industry.
In addition to the components covered under the Diamond plan, most CarShield contracts also include emergency roadside assistance, towing reimbursem*nts up to $125, lockout and flat tire services and fuel deliveries.
Best Mid-Level Extended Warranty Plans
Unlike exclusionary coverage, mid-level and powertrain plans offer stated-component coverage. This type of contract lists every component that’s covered. If it’s not listed, it’s not covered. Many reliable warranty companies offer several mid-level contracts for people to choose from.
Also called “named-component” or “inclusionary” warranties, these contracts vary more between providers than bumper-to-bumper or powertrain plans. Due to their balance of cost and coverage, stated-component plans tend to be good options for used cars with high mileage. Below are mid-level extended warranty plans from some of our top providers.
1. CarShield: Platinum
The CarShield Platinum plan is one of the more comprehensive stated-component extended warranties we found through our research. It features coverage for 15 of a vehicle’s major systems, including for its air conditioning, power steering and cooling parts.
While there are some exclusions, the CarShield Platinum plan covers much of a car’s electrical system, including its power windows. It even takes care of high-tech electronics such as GPS units and infotainment systems.
2. Endurance: Superior
Endurance offers one of the most complete stated-component coverage plans available with its Superior plan. This option covers nearly everything from the company’s bumper-to-bumper Supreme coverage minus your car’s seals, gaskets and a few minor items.
Like the Supreme plan, the Superior plan comes with a free year of Endurance Elite Benefits. It also comes with benefits like trip interruption coverage and roadside assistance, which last for the duration of your extended warranty contract.
3. Carchex: Platinum
The Carchex Platinum plan is another of the most comprehensive stated-component plans on the market. It covers hundreds of components across 15 major systems in your vehicle, including high-tech electronics, audio, emissions and brakes.
While the plan covers a wide range of parts, it doesn’t protect wear-and-tear items like hoses, housing units, individual bulbs or serpentine belts. There’s also a limit to the plan’s roadside assistance, capping at $125 per occurrence.
Best Powertrain Extended Warranty Plans
Powertrain extended warranties are the lowest coverage tier and are usually the most affordable. They offer basic protection for a car’s most vital systems, making them the best extended car warranty plans for those on a budget. While there are differences between powertrain choices, they typically cover the engine, transmission and drive axles.
1. Carchex: Powertrain Coverage
Drivers looking for bargain-priced coverage from a reputable provider have a strong option with Carchex’s Powertrain Coverage. The plan is bare-bones and only offers coverage for essential components, but it has a low price to match. It’s administered by American Auto Shield and includes perks like roadside assistance and towing coverage.
2. Omega Auto Care: Powertrain
If you need a simple and affordable warranty plan that protects the most vital parts of your vehicle, Omega Auto Care’s Powertrain plan might fit the bill. The company offers three different powertrain plans to choose from, ranging from basic protection to enhanced coverage. All Omega warranties are administered by Lyndon Southern Insurance Company and are available across the nation.
3. CarShield: Gold and Silver
If you want your choice of powertrain extended warranties, CarShield is worth looking into. The company offers a Gold Plan, which is essentially a Powertrain Plus plan, and a Silver Plan that offers basic powertrain coverage. The Gold Plan covers the engine, transmission, water pump, starter, alternator, air conditioning and power window motors. The lower-tiered Silver Plan still protects your vehicles most essential components, including the engine, transmission and water pump.
Best Cheap Extended Car Warranties
Now that we’ve covered the providers with the best coverage option, our editorial team analyzed the best cheap extended car warranty companies, looking specifically at costs and plan offerings. For this category, we gave autopom!, American Dream Auto Protect and Endurance the highest cost ratings in our industry-wide study.
The table below provides a closer look into these companies, including the overall cost score given by our team, the cheapest plan and rate. The monthly rates are each based on quotes for a 2021 Toyota Tacoma.
Cheapest Extended Car Warranty Company | Cost Rating | Cheapest Extended Warranty Plan | Cheapest Monthly Rate |
---|---|---|---|
1. autopom! | 9.7 | Powertrain Plus | $66 |
2. American Dream Auto Protect | 9.4 | Gold Plan | $109 |
3. Endurance | 9.1 | Secure Plus | $97 |
Autopom! offers affordable options at each coverage level, which gave it the highest rating in the cost category. The company gives you deductible choices of $0, $50, $100 and $200. Combined with its reputation for excellent customer service and the affordable coverage autopom! offers, the company becomes even more appealing. Overall, we found autopom! gives you great value considering its low average cost.
American Dream Auto Protect also features quality warranty coverage at below-average prices. The company features a wide range of deductible options that depend on your vehicle’s age and mileage. We also like the fact that American Dream offers a discount for protecting multiple vehicles.
Endurance is our top choice for many reasons, and cost is certainly on the list. With an unmatched assortment of coverage options and added benefits, the provider’s pricing is especially impressive. Endurance also offers a host of discounts, including same-day savings when you sign up for a plan.
Compare Extended Car Warranty Prices
To find the cheapest car warranty company that fits your needs, it’s best to compare free quotes from several providers. Here are a few extended warranty costs we received between summer 2023 and April 2024 from Endurance, Olive, Carchex, CarShield and Omega Auto Care:
Extended Warranty Provider | Vehicle Details | Mileage | Warranty Plan | Term Length | Monthly Cost | Deductible | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Supreme | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $101.94 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Superior | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $106.10 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Diamond | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Gold | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Nissan Rogue | 50,000 | Titanium | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Powertrain Plus | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Toyota Corolla | 30,000 | New Exclusionary | 5 years/75,000 miles | $120 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Chevrolet Equinox | 90,000 | Powertrain Enhanced | 5 years/100,000 miles | $155 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Extended Warranty Provider | Vehicle Details | Mileage | Warranty Plan | Term Length | Monthly Cost | Deductible | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Supreme | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $101.94 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Superior | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $106.10 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Diamond | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Gold | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Nissan Rogue | 50,000 | Titanium | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Powertrain Plus | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Toyota Corolla | 30,000 | New Exclusionary | 5 years/75,000 miles | $120 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Chevrolet Equinox | 90,000 | Powertrain Enhanced | 5 years/100,000 miles | $155 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Read more: Cheapest Extended Car Warranties
Best Extended Manufacturer Warranties
While there are many manufacturers in the car industry, Audi, Ford and Honda stood out for offering the best extended manufacturer warranties. Each brand offers extensive extended warranty plans that can be added on once the factory warranty expires.
The table below lists more information about each of the top three extended warranty manufacturers, along with the number of plans each offers and the term length.
Manufacturer | Extended Warranty Program | Number of Plans | Term Length |
---|---|---|---|
Audi | Pure Protection | 3 | 10 years/150,000 miles |
Ford | Ford Protect | 4 | 10 years/175,000 miles |
Honda | Honda Care | 1 | 8 years/120,000 miles |
1. Audi: Best Overall Manufacturer Extended Warranty
Audi stands out from other vehicle manufacturers because it offers protection up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. The manufacturer offers three warranty plans — Platinum, Gold and Powertrain — that range from comprehensive bumper-to-bumper protection to basic powertrain coverage.
Most of the extended warranties offered by Audi come with a $100 deductible and benefits like roadside assistance, towing, rental car coverage and trip interruption protection.
Read more: Audi Extended Warranty
2. Ford: Most Coverage Levels
Ford offers four different coverage levels for drivers who want to purchase an extended warranty from the manufacturer. Plans can last up to 10 years or 175,000 miles, with most plans coming with a $100 deductible. The highest-tiered plan, PremiumCARE, protects over 1,000 vehicle components, while the most basic plan, PowertrainCARE, covers 29 components including the engine and transmission.
Read more: Ford extended warranty
3. Honda: Robust Vehicle Protection
Honda’s Honda Care extended warranty is a single plan that can offer protection up to eight years or 120,000 miles. This plan is different from the others on this list because it can only be purchased when you buy your new Honda vehicle. Despite this, Honda Care offers robust protection for your vehicle, covering the powertrain, electronic systems, air conditioning, heating, suspension, brake and steering systems.
The Honda Care service plan also includes benefits like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and trip interruption coverage.
Read more: Honda extended warranty
Read more: Best Extended Manufacturer Warranties
What Is an Extended Car Warranty?
An extended car warranty— also called a vehicle protection plan or vehicle service contract— foots the bill for damage caused by defective materials and workmanship after your factory warranty expires. In doing so, it protects you from having to pay out of pocket for certain vehicle repairs or part replacements.
However, it’s still a significant financial investment, which is why it’s important to evaluate your needs before you’re stuck with coverage from a low-quality provider. We put together the following sections as an extended warranty guide to help you make an informed decision about the best extended car warranty coverage plans.
Extended Car Warranty Coverage
Extended warranties cover major mechanical repairs and replacements for parts that break down over time as a result of normal use. Examples include your air conditioning blowing warm air, an alternator failing or the fuel system not providing the right mix of fuel and air. But ultimately, vehicle service contract coverage will depend on the level of coverage you choose and on the company you buy it from.
Bumper-to-bumper extended warranty plans cover everything that’s not specifically listed as an exclusion in the contract. Stated-component, powertrain plus and powertrain plans list out the components and systems they do cover.
Inclusionary vs. Exclusionary Coverage
In terms of the kinds of warranty coverage available, you’ll see that most plans fall into one of two categories: exclusionary or inclusionary.
Inclusionary Car Warranty
When looking through an inclusionary car warranty, you’ll find a list detailing exactly what the service contract covers. Because these plans only show you what’s covered, you’ll sometimes see them referred to as stated-component warranties.
Most extended warranty contracts are inclusionary. Though higher-level inclusionary warranties tend to offer comprehensive coverage, it’s not quite as extensive as a bumper-to-bumper plan. Mid-level inclusionary contracts split the difference between basic and more comprehensive coverage.
The lowest-tier inclusionary plans most companies offer resemble powertrain warranties, which only cover the engine, transmission and drive axles. These are the most expensive and basic components of automobiles. One of the benefits of choosing an inclusionary plan is that you can usually pick between multiple levels of coverage. Plans that cover fewer components are typically cheaper.
Exclusionary Car Warranty
You’ll usually see exclusionary auto warranties referred to as bumper-to-bumper warranties. These kinds of protection plans cover nearly every component and all major systems of your vehicle, including the following:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Drive axle
- Electrical systems
- Alternator
- Air conditioning
These warranty contracts are called exclusionary because they only list exclusions — the parts not covered. So, if a part isn’t listed in the exclusionary contract, you can safely know that it’s covered.
Most extended warranty companies only offer one exclusionary warranty, which is usually the highest level of coverage available. Bumper-to-bumper warranties are most similar to factory warranties, and because they cover the largest number of components, they tend to be the most expensive coverage option. This type of plan gives you the highest level of security that all major systems are covered for mechanical failure.
Types of Extended Auto Warranty Plans
As discussed throughout the article, there are several different types of extended car warranty plans. The specific parts and repairs covered in your extended warranty depend on what coverage level you choose. The three main types of extended warranty coverage plans are bumper-to-bumper, stated-component and powertrain.
The components covered in each warranty type are explained below:
- Bumper-to-bumper warranty: A bumper-to-bumper extended warranty, also referred to as an exclusionary coverage plan, is the highest level of coverage typically available. Aside from a list of exclusions, they protect almost all mechanical and electrical components between your bumpers during a mechanical breakdown. These exclusions will vary from company to company but typically include tires, brake pads, windshield wipers and routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Bumper-to-bumper warranties are most similar to your original manufacturer’s warranty.
- Stated-component warranty: Most stated-component extended warranties, also referred to as named-component warranties, cover the most vital parts of your vehicle. This means contracts will list each covered component and can range from powertrain warranties, which cover your vehicle’s most essential parts, to more comprehensive coverage plans that cover components like the water pump, air conditioning, gaskets and alternator. And while most stated-component plans come with roadside assistance, towing, trip interruption and rental car coverage, they typically won’t cover any wear-and-tear or maintenance.
- Powertrain warranty: These warranties cover only your vehicle’s major systems, including the engine, transmission, drive train and drive axles. A powertrain warranty is the most basic type of stated-component contract.
Extended Warranty Coverage Benefits
Many of the best car warranty companies throw in a few bonus perks with each of their service plans, such as:
- Rental car reimbursem*nt: If your car’s in the shop and you need transportation, your warranty company will help you get a rental car.
- 24-hour roadside assistance: If you get a flat tire or need a jump-start when traveling, your warranty company will send someone to help.
- Towing services: If your car breaks down and isn’t driveable, your provider will send a truck to tow your vehicle to the nearest repair shop.
- Trip interruption coverage: If your vehicle breaks down and you can’t make it home, your warranty company will help cover your lodging and food expenses while your car gets fixed in the repair facility.
What an Extended Car Warranty Doesn’t Cover
While specific coverage varies from one provider to the next, all extended warranty contracts have some exclusions. For the most part, extended warranties won’t cover any routine maintenance like oil changes, wear and tear items, such as brake pads, cosmetic items or emissions components. They also won’t cover collisions, environmental damage, theft or vandalism.
Here are some of the most common exclusions:
- Wear and tear items: Brake pads, rotors, windshield wiper blades and inserts, tires, hoses, spark plugs, filters, bulbs, belts and other items that need regular replacement are rarely covered — even by the best extended car warranty plans.
- Routine maintenance: Most warranties don’t cover services that are part of your regular maintenance schedule such as oil changes, alignments and tire rotations.
- Collision damage: Damage that comes as a result of an auto accident falls under the responsibility of your car insurance company and is not typically covered by an extended auto warranty plan.
- Damage from neglect: Failing to follow your manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule could void your warranty coverage.
- Damage from misuse: If your car breaks down as a result of using it in reckless ways like street racing or towing over capacity, your coverage plan won’t pay for repairs.
- Damage from modifications: Most warranty plans won’t cover damages caused by unauthorized aftermarket parts or modifications you’ve made to the vehicle.
- Environmental damage: Corrosion and other damages caused by weather or other environmental factors are not typically covered by an extended car warranty.
- Incidental damage: Damages caused by theft, vandalism, fire or sources other than normal mechanical failure won’t usually be covered by an auto warranty provider. These repairs are instead typically covered under a comprehensive auto insurance policy.
![Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (33) Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (33)](https://i0.wp.com/d2tez01fe91909.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/MW-Warranty-Typical-Warranty-Exclusions-01-1-1024x987.jpg)
Depending on the company you select, you may find warranty options that include maintenance plans. These let you pay a specific amount up front to cover routine maintenance items for a certain period of time.
If your warranty provider doesn’t offer a maintenance package, you may want to look into purchasing mechanical breakdown insurance from your car insurance company.
How Do Extended Warranties Work?
An extended auto warranty, sometimes referred to as a vehicle service contract, is an optional contractual agreement that says a company will cover the cost of repairs and replacement parts if your car has a mechanical breakdown for a monthly or total plan cost.
When you purchase a new car from a dealership, it usually comes with a factory warranty, also known as a manufacturer’s warranty. These are service contracts backed by the automaker that guarantees certain repairs and parts will be covered by the manufacturer.
These car warranties cover most of your new vehicle’s components, but typically only last for the first few years that you own the car. They also have low mileage limits, so if you drive often, factory coverage may expire quickly. An extended car warranty continues your protection coverage, whether you bought it from a manufacturer or an aftermarket provider.
Most extended warranty providers are actually brokers that sell plans by other administrators (the administrator is the one you call to file a claim). This is the most common industry practice, so it’s important to look into a company’s administrators when you shop around.
Coverage Periods
Most car warranties, whether a manufacturer warranty or extended, are set for a specific distance in miles and period of time. For a factory warranty, most coverage lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
But with an extended car warranty, term lengths tend to be customizable and last for an extended period of time. For example, you can purchase a vehicle service contract with a company like CarShield and have your car covered up to 300,000 miles on the odometer.
In addition to offering customizable coverage lengths, most extended warranty companies will allow you to transfer your contract if you sell your vehicle. Your extended warranty will essentially be taken over by the buyer, who will continue making monthly payments or just use the contract if it’s already been paid off, which can actually make your vehicle more marketable when selling.
The best car warranty companies also allow you to cancel your policy within a specified time frame. In general, companies will provide you with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not happy with your extended warranty purchase.
What Repair Shops Take Extended Car Warranties?
If you’re using your extended car warranty coverage for the first time, there are a few things you should know. Most vehicle service contracts only cover specific components, which likely means not every part of your vehicle is covered under warranty. It’s important that you read the fine print to know what is and isn’t covered if your vehicle has a mechanical breakdown.
If you experience a mechanical breakdown, like an air conditioning failure or transmission malfunction, you’ll need to take your vehicle to an in-network repair facility that’s certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Keep in mind that some companies will only allow you to take your vehicle to specific repair shops or dealerships, which may not be accessible depending on where you live.
If your car does break down, here are some things you should immediately do:
- Take your vehicle to a licensed repair shop or dealership that is associated with your car warranty company
- Have the facility call your warranty provider for authorization
- Pay your deductible if you have one
Your warranty provider will then likely pay the repair shop directly for any vehicle repairs that are covered under your extended warranty.
Extended Car Warranty Claims Process
You’re required to follow your provider’s claims process in order to receive coverage. Before the repair shop can work on your vehicle, you’ll need to get approval from your contract administrator for a covered repair. In some cases, a vehicle inspection or teardown may be required.
After the repair is performed, you’ll pay a deductible to the facility. Based on your provider, either the rest of the repair bill will be paid directly to the shop or you’ll pay the balance and be sent a reimbursem*nt check.
Extended Car Warranty Cost
The average cost of an extended warranty is about $128 per month, based on quotes we received from the industry’s leading providers. Extended warranty costs also include deductibles, which you only have to pay when you need a covered repair.
Depending on which plan you choose, extended car warranty deductibles typically range from $0 to $200. When different levels of coverage, deductibles and other factors are taken into consideration, this means that the total cost of an extended warranty can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more.
Extended Auto Warranty Cost Factors
To ensure you get the best coverage at a price you can afford, it helps to understand how providers determine extended warranty pricing. Factors that are important in determining what you will pay for coverage include:
- Deductible: The best extended car warranty providers allow you to choose your own deductible. A lower deductible means you’ll pay less for repairs, but will likely pay more overall for extended warranty coverage.
- Coverage length: Longer-lasting contracts typically cost more.
- Coverage level: The higher the level of coverage you choose, the higher your warranty will cost. The most expensive type of extended warranties tend to be exclusionary, bumper-to-bumper warranties because they are more comprehensive, while basic powertrain protection is usually the cheapest.
- Vehicle make and model: Vehicles that are more expensive to repair or are more likely to need repairs generally cost more to cover.
- Vehicle age: Older cars and higher-mileage used cars tend to break down more frequently, which means that warranty companies tend to charge more for them.
- Mileage: When older or used vehicles have more miles on the odometer, they are more likely to break down, leading to pricier coverage.
- Existing coverage: If your vehicle is still covered by the factory warranty when you reach out for a quote, you’ll likely pay less for added coverage.
- Provider: Increased competition between third-party providers drives contract costs down.
![Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (34) Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (34)](https://i0.wp.com/d2tez01fe91909.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/MW-Warranty-Factors-That-Affect-Extended-Warranty-Costs-1024x735.png)
Extended Car Warranty Monthly Payments
Depending on the provider, drivers can pay for their extended warranty plans up front, through a monthly payment plan or roll it into their vehicle’s financing plan. In general, you can expect to pay less overall if you choose a payment structure that includes a larger upfront payment and higher deductible and isn’t included in your vehicle’s financing.
While lower payments and deductibles may sound easier in the short term, these options usually lead to higher extended warranty costs in the long run.
Can You Cancel an Extended Car Warranty?
For drivers who aren’t happy with their coverage, most providers offer 30-day money-back guarantees. After 30 days, prorated refunds are usually available. To cancel an extended warranty, you need to contact the contract administrator and submit a written cancellation request. You may also need to provide a notarized odometer statement.
Our Experience Purchasing Third-Party Extended Warranties
A member of our team recently purchased plans from several of our top aftermarket extended warranty providers. Their experiences with each company varied significantly. With some providers, it took an hour or more to return our initial phone call, while others only took five minutes.
In general, representatives from each of our top-rated warranty providers were helpful and patient. Communication with the companies could be a bit spotty, though, with long hold times and important emails finding their way into junk folders.
Here’s a summary of the Titanium plan we bought from Carchex:
![Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (35) Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (35)](https://i0.wp.com/d2tez01fe91909.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Carchex-plan-summary-table.jpg)
The monthly payment of $119.99 lines up with other quotes we received from Carchex.
Our experience with CarShield was one of the faster ones. We were connected to an agent within a few minutes and they began trying to sell us the Diamond plan. We ended up getting the Silver plan, which is $159 per month, but we were quoted a first-time caller price of $130.
Below is a summary of the plan we purchased from CarShield:
![Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (36) Best Extended Car Warranty Plans & Coverage (2024) (36)](https://i0.wp.com/d2tez01fe91909.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Carshield-contract-summary.jpg)
MARKETWATCH GUIDES TIP
When discussing the price of an extended warranty plan with the provider, we recommend doing some bargaining over the phone. In our experience, companies are willing to lower their price in order to gain your business.
Are Extended Car Warranties Worth It?
Purchasing an extended warranty can be a smart choice for some car owners, but it isn’t the right decision for everyone. For this reason, it’s best to consider your situation when shopping for a contract.
Since cars with higher repair costs benefit most from extended warranties, your expected vehicle repair expenses are the most important factor in determining whether or not an extended car warranty is worth it. Here are some average annual repair costs for popular automakers, according to RepairPal:
Car Brand | Average Annual Repair Cost |
Honda | $428 |
Acura | $501 |
Lexus | $551 |
Subaru | $617 |
Ford | $775 |
BMW | $968 |
Land Rover | $1,174 |
After considering your expected repair costs, you may determine that an extended warranty is worth it because you cannot afford to pay out of pocket for unexpected repairs. On the other hand, if your car doesn’t incur a lot of repair costs, you may decide that purchasing an extended warranty isn’t worth it.
Should I Buy an Extended Car Warranty?
If you own a highly reliable vehicle with inexpensive repair costs or plan to sell your car before the factory warranty expires, a vehicle protection plan may not be worth the cost. This is also true for drivers with savings set aside for auto repairs.
An extended warranty is typically worth it for drivers who own unreliable vehicles that are expensive to maintain or if covered repair costs meet or exceed the total price of the plan. Others who are likely to see the most benefits from extended warranty coverage include:
- Drivers who want peace of mind: Vehicle repairs can be costly to pay for out of pocket. Once your manufacturer’s warranty expires, you’re financially responsible for any mechanical or electrical breakdowns. Extended warranties foot the bill for covered repairs, which can provide peace of mind and make car ownership less of a hassle, especially for those with older cars.
- Drivers who want a predictable auto budget: By paying for a vehicle service contract up front, through a monthly payment plan or as part of your vehicle’s financing, you can avoid expensive and costly repair bills after an unexpected mechanical breakdown. Instead, just pay your monthly amount and your deductible in case of an accident, which can make ironing out your finances easier and more predictable over time.
- Drivers who plan on owning their vehicle for a long time: According to research from Statista, the average age of operable light vehicles in the U.S. was 12.5 years as of 2023. Since most manufacturers’ bumper-to-bumper warranties expire within 4 years/50,000 miles, you could be driving an unprotected vehicle for over half its life span. If you plan on driving your car for a long time, warranty coverage could help prevent costly repair bills.
- Drivers who want the perks that come with an extended warranty: The best extended auto warranty plans come with perks like roadside assistance, trip interruption coverage, rental car reimbursem*nt and maintenance benefits, like free oil changes and tire rotations. These perks can be valuable since you’d have to pay for them out of pocket otherwise.
Read more: Should You Get An Extended Warranty?
Buying an Extended Car Warranty
If you have decided an extended warranty is right for your situation, it’s important to do your research during the buying process. This starts with understanding the various types of extended warranties offered by your automaker or an aftermarket warranty provider. The option that is right for you depends on your vehicle, coverage needs and personal preferences.
Aftermarket Extended Warranty vs. Manufacturer Extended Warranty
You can either buy warranty coverage from an aftermarket (or third-party) provider or your car manufacturer, and each type of plan has its benefits and disadvantages. Here are a few things to consider when you’re deciding which type of extended warranty you want:
Manufacturer Plans | Third-Party Plans | |
Purchase Date | Typically when the vehicle is purchased at the dealership or before the initial factory warranty expires | Anytime online or over the phone, including well after your vehicle reaches 100,000 miles |
Repair Facility | Dealership or authorized auto repair center using only brand approved parts and factory technicians. | Generally a licensed repair shop of your choice |
Cancellation | Varies by manufacturer | Varies by provider, but generally a fee of about $50 |
Transferability | Transferable | Transferable |
Plan Selection | Only have one or very few plans to choose from | Tend to have more coverage options and customizable plan features than automakers |
Third-Party vs. Manufacturer Warranties: Pros and Cons
There are pros and cons to any vehicle protection contract, and we’ll outline the main characteristics of third-party and manufacturer warranties below:
Manufacturer Warranties | Third-Party Warranties | |
Pros | Reputable | Affordable contracts |
Guarantees factory-trained technicians and genuine parts | Up to five or six warranty options with some providers | |
Long-term limits with some providers | ||
Cons | Strict eligibility requirements | Some disreputable providers or potential scams |
Possibility of dealership markups | No guarantee for factory-trained technicians or genuine parts | |
Limited plan choices with some providers |
Vehicle Service Contracts: What To Look For
After you decide where you want to purchase your coverage, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t covered in your contract. Based on our research and surveys, one of the top complaints from drivers who have purchased extended warranties is that expensive repairs weren’t covered.
To avoid disappointment down the road, read the fine print on your contract thoroughly before buying the plan. Look for specifications on:
- Labor rate coverage limits
- What defines mechanical failure
- Maximum payout per contract
- Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts coverage
- Waiting periods or inspections required before coverage
- Required maintenance documentation
- Emergency repair procedures
- Cancellations (make sure there’s a money-back guarantee) and contract transfers
Our Extended Warranty Survey
In November 2023, our team surveyed 1,000 people who had purchased an extended car warranty. Coverage was the most important factor when choosing a provider for 53% of respondents. Cost was second, with 23% of those surveyed reporting that the price of the warranty was the most important consideration.
Compare Extended Car Warranty Quotes
Once you understand the coverage that’s available and have determined the level of protection you need, the best way to get the most bang for your buck when purchasing an extended warranty is to get and compare extended warranty quotes.
To get the best deal possible, we recommend reaching out to at least three companies that offer the best extended car warranty plans so you can compare your options. In addition to checking out our top recommendations, it’s a good idea to read customer reviews and research companies through online resources like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website and Trustpilot.
To get a car warranty quote, you will need to provide each company with some basic information about your vehicle, such as its mileage, make and model, which will be used to estimate your price.
Best Extended Auto Warranty: The Bottom Line
To recap, our top picks for the best extended car warranties are Endurance, autopom!, Carchex, CarShield and Omega Auto Care. The best option for one driver isn’t necessarily the best for another, so we encourage you to get a few quotes from different companies and compare the plans side by side.
Endurance
4.6
Reputation:8.8/10
Coverage:9.7/10
Cost:9.1/10
Transparency:9.5/10
Customer Experience:8.5/10
Quick Facts
- BestComprehensive Coverage
- Mileage Covered: Unlimited mileage
- Longest Warranty Term: Up to 8 years
- Money-Back Guarantee: Up to 30 days
- Coverage Options:6 different plans to choose from
- Discounts: $300 same-day signup discount, $250 shopping voucher and others
Plan Coverage and Perks
Plan coverage includes | Endurance Elite perks™ |
---|---|
Exclusionary plan | One-year membership for free |
Powertrain plan | Tire repair and replacement |
Maintainance coverage with Endurance Advantage | Key fob replacement |
Roadside assistance | Total loss protection |
Towing | Collision discount |
Rental car | $250 rewards voucher |
Trip interruption coverage | Endurance Protect app |
Our Warranty Experts
Matt LoftonOwner and President of Strut Daddy’s Complete Car Care
Extended Car Warranty: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about extended car warranties.
An extended warranty is an optional service agreement that covers mechanical breakdowns on a car. Technically, a manufacturer is the only entity that can truly extend a warranty. Vehicle service contracts offer similar coverage for repairs and are often called extended warranties, but they’re administered by third-party providers.
Extended warranties differ from standard auto insurance coverage. An extended auto warranty covers mechanical breakdowns caused by defective parts, meaning it won’t cover accidents or collisions. Some car insurance companies offer similar coverage through mechanical breakdown insurance, but this isn’t a standard option.
Extended car warranties can be worth it for drivers looking for peace of mind after their car’s factory warranty expires. It may also be a worthwhile investment for those with unreliable cars and drivers looking to establish predictable auto budgets.
A fair price for an extended car warranty is generally between $1,500 and $4,000. While this is a wide range, over 30% of the 1,000 respondents in our car warranty survey reported paying about $1,000 to $2,000 for their vehicle service contracts.
Based on our research, we found that the best warranties for a car are the Endurance Supreme and the CarShield Platinum.
Our Methodology
Because consumers rely on us to provide objective and accurate information, we created a comprehensive rating system to formulate our rankings of the best extended car warranty companies. We collected data on dozens of auto warranty providers to grade the companies on a wide range of ranking factors. The end result was an overall rating for each provider, with the companies that scored the most points topping the list.
Here are the factors our ratings take into account:
- Coverage (30% of total score): Companies that offer a variety of choices for warranty coverage, long contract terms and added benefits are more likely to meet consumer needs.
- Cost (30% of total score): Auto warranty companies with affordable rates and multiple deductibles scored highest in this category.
- Transparency (20% of total score): This score is based on contract transparency and the availability of a money-back guarantee.
- Reputation (10% of total score): Our research team considers availability, ratings from industry experts and years in business when conferring this score.
- Customer experience (10% of total score): Based on customer satisfaction ratings and our extensive shopper analysis, we consider the responsiveness, friendliness and helpfulness of each warranty company’s customer service team.
Our credentials:
- 500+ hours researched
- 50 companies reviewed
2,000+ consumers surveyed
*Data accurate at time of publication.
View Plans For Our #1 Provider – Endurance
×
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at editors@marketwatchguides.com.