
- Levels of coverage
- 6
- Maximum mileage
- Unlimited
- Waiting period
- 30 days and 1,000 miles
- Availability
- Nationwide (not MA)
Our research team compared 55 warranty companies and chose our top five based on availability, value, customer service and coverage. Read our full methodology for details on how we selected our top picks. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear.
California state regulations prevent any business other than a car dealership from selling vehicle service contracts, but you can purchase mechanical breakdown insurance from one of our top picks.
Company | Customer rating | Our pick for | Levels of coverage | Maximum mileage | Waiting period | Availability | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 4.6
14,885 reviews
14,885 reviews
| Best overall | 6 | Unlimited | 30 days and 1,000 miles | Nationwide (not MA) | Get Pricing |
![]() | 4.2
1,102 reviews
1,102 reviews
| Focused coverage | 3 | 130,000 | 30 days | Nationwide (not CA) | Learn more |
![]() | 4.0
1,428 reviews
1,428 reviews
| Maximum coverage | 5 | 250,000 | 30 days | Nationwide | Learn more |
![]() | 4.4
874 reviews
874 reviews
| Value | 3 | 150,000 | 10 to 30 days (varies) | Most states (not FL) | Learn more |
![]() | 4.8
751 reviews
751 reviews
| Customer service | 4 | 250,000 | 90 days and 1,000 miles | Most states (not AK, MO or WA) | Learn more |
Jump into our guides and start learning
Regardless of your vehicle’s make, age and mileage, repairs are rarely cheap. They’re also getting more expensive — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the cost of maintaining and repairing a vehicle rose over 34% between December 2020 and December 2024.
That’s where extended auto warranties come in. Think of an extended warranty as insurance against high repair bills. They can actually save you money if you need enough covered repairs, and they often provide peace of mind — even when you’re not using them.
But how exactly do extended auto warranties work? What do (and don’t) they cover? What do they cost? And how do you know if it’s worth buying one?
Extended warranties, also known as vehicle service contracts, pay to fix your car when a covered part breaks on its own.
Jump to insightThe exact parts covered will depend on your contract, but exclusionary, bumper-to-bumper coverage is often the best value.
Jump to insightThat kind of comprehensive coverage will usually cost about $1,000 per year, but prices vary a lot based on your vehicle and warranty provider.
Jump to insightAn extended warranty won’t be worth it for everyone, so make sure you have the best chance of benefiting from one before you buy.
Jump to insightAn extended car warranty functions as a contract between you and your warranty provider — either your car’s manufacturer or a third party — that states the provider will help cover the cost of certain repairs following a breakdown during an agreed-upon period.
Extended car warranties help pay for repairs or replacements when parts fail, but they do not cover damage caused by accidents or misuse.
The key word there is “breakdown.” The most common misconception about warranties is that they cover everything: chips, dings, flood damage, worn leather, etc. In reality, warranties cover parts that fail entirely on their own and not as a result of damage.
To maintain this coverage, you must pay your warranty provider ahead of time. (How much will largely depend on the coverage you want and the car you want covered.) And you’ll typically have a deductible of up to $200, which you’ll pay each time you take your car in for a covered repair.
Your car warranty company may decide where you can take your vehicle for repairs, but they usually let you visit any ASE-certified mechanic. Just note that you’ll likely need to have your repairs pre-authorized by your warranty provider before the shop can begin working.
Once your car is ready for you to pick up, you’ll pay your deductible to the shop and be on your way.
You can buy an extended car warranty, more accurately called a vehicle service contract, at nearly any time. But it’s usually a good idea to have your coverage start when your factory warranty ends. You may see your warranty term written as “three years/36,000 miles,” which means it expires after three years or 36,000 miles — whichever comes first.
Some companies will cover your vehicle for up to 250,000 miles, but a typical extended warranty term is more like five years/50,000 miles. Just know that doesn’t always mean it adds five years to your factory warranty. Some warranty providers count their terms from when your car was new, so your “five-year warranty” may expire when your vehicle is just 5 years old. In these cases, you’re effectively purchasing up to two years of additional coverage on top of your three-year factory warranty.
» READ OUR SURVEY: Do you trust your mechanic?
A bumper-to-bumper extended warranty will typically cost you $1,000 for each year of coverage. Some warranty companies require a lump-sum payment, while others may offer financing plans. An increasingly popular option is to let warranty holders pay month to month, which means you can cancel at any time.
Costs can vary based on several factors. If you drive a $90,000 BMW M4, you can expect to pay significantly more for warranty coverage than the driver of a $30,000 Mazda Miata, for example.
When quoting a price for coverage, the best extended car warranty companies examine multiple factors, including your vehicle’s make, model, condition and location. Some of the most significant factors that affect the price of your extended auto warranty include:
Depending on your car’s age and mileage, you should have a variety of extended car warranty plans to choose from. However, only 35% of drivers are confident about choosing warranty coverage for their vehicles, according to our survey results.
Here’s a summary of the most common coverage options that you’ll see as you shop for an extended warranty:
You may also see labels like “Supreme” or “Gold Plus” as you shop, but for the most part, 95% of extended warranty plans are just exclusionary, midtier or powertrain plans by other names.
Car warranties only cover parts that fail entirely on their own during normal, everyday driving. They do not cover failures due to damage, bad weather, abuse or lack of maintenance (e.g., missed oil changes).
Exclusionary warranties are often called “bumper-to-bumper” or “platinum” plans.
Let’s say you’re driving down the road, and your infotainment system suddenly stops working for no discernible reason. A part failure like this would very likely be covered under warranty.
However, if you spill coffee on it first, that would not be covered under an extended warranty. Again, the general idea of a warranty is to protect you from factory defects, not damage.
Not all car warranties are built the same, some cover a few dozen parts, while some cover 5,000-plus parts. It mostly depends on whether the warranty is inclusionary or exclusionary.
A great example of an inclusionary warranty, also known as a stated-component warranty, is your standard “powertrain warranty.” Most powertrain warranties only cover 50 or so parts inside your engine, transmission and drive systems — the absolutely essential parts needed to make your car go.
“Bumper-to-bumper” and “Platinum” are labels typically reserved for exclusionary warranties, which cover virtually everything on your car except wear and tear, cosmetics and the excluded parts listed in your contract (hence, the name).
Let’s break down what car warranties don’t cover in more detail to prevent any misunderstandings or false expectations. Car warranties — factory or extended — typically will not cover the following:
If the car warranty company can link a part failure to damage (e.g., a rear-end collision causing an emissions failure), negligence (e.g., missed oil changes causing engine damage) or abuse (e.g., doing donuts), it will deny your warranty claims for repairs and may void your warranty entirely.
If something was a problem on your vehicle before your warranty became active, your warranty won’t cover it. Many extended auto warranties have 30-day/1,000-mile waiting periods to prevent consumers from purchasing them the minute they break down. Likewise, breakdowns or part failures that you can’t prove happened during the warranty period may not be covered, which is why we strongly suggest you get a pre-purchase inspection (typically around $150) in tandem with your warranty purchase.
Most car warranties won’t cover regular maintenance items like oil changes, filter changes, tire rotations, fluid top-offs, alignments and more. You’ll be required to stick to the regular maintenance schedule in your owners manual and prove that you’re maintaining your car in order to keep your warranty active. Keep your receipts!
Unless otherwise stated, most warranties will not cover upholstery, dashboards, trim, fabrics, leather and other visual items that don’t impact the function of the car.
Items that are expected to need replacing after a certain mileage won’t be covered. That typically includes your brake pads, tires, wiper blades, clutch and more.
Your warranty likely won’t cover parts that fail while you’re off-roading or tracking your car. Certain specialty vehicles may be covered during this kind of use (e.g., Jeep Wranglers or Z06 Corvettes), but never assume they are — check your contract.
The Magnuson-Moss Act prohibits companies from voiding your warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket part. However, if that part causes a factory part to fail (e.g., a lift kit ruining your truck’s suspension), neither part will be covered under warranty.
Finding the right extended warranty takes time and research. Don’t just go with the first offer you get, even if it’s from a top-rated car warranty company. Prices, benefits and coverage can vary between providers, so it pays to shop around.
Here’s how to find the best extended car warranties for you:
» LEARN MORE: Car warranty guide: what you need to know
As you shop for an extended warranty, it’s important to consider the benefits and costs involved so that your warranty is worth what you pay for it. Basically, if your repairs don’t qualify for coverage (or your vehicle just doesn’t break down enough), your warranty may cost you more than it saves you.
Extended car warranties offer protection against costly repairs, but it's crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the costs.
As wise an investment as an extended warranty may look on paper, even the most robust Platinum-level warranty has exclusions and exceptions. A warranty is not bulletproof; it will cover only some parts in some cases.
You can judge the odds of a warranty being worth it for you depending on how you answer the following questions.
If your vehicle only needs affordable, infrequent repairs, you’re probably fine paying out of pocket when it needs to go to the mechanic. But if you plan to purchase a model that’s known for breaking down, an extended warranty may be a smart choice.
Look up the expected cost to repair your vehicle each year and multiply that by the number of years you plan to own it. Is the cost of your extended warranty (plus a few deductibles) significantly less? If so, getting a warranty might make mathematical sense, even if it doesn’t cover 100% of expected repairs (which it won’t).
If a large repair could mean you lose your main mode of transportation, you might consider paying monthly for an extended warranty. When we surveyed drivers nationwide, almost 60% of respondents said they couldn’t pay cash for a $1,000 repair bill, and 13% of people said they’d have no way to pay for it at all — even by taking on debt.
Just note that a catastrophic problem could theoretically exceed your plan’s coverage limits. (Most extended warranties have coverage limits close to your vehicle’s estimated value.)
Some folks sleep better knowing they're partially protected against surprise repair bills. Just don’t make the common mistake of thinking your warranty will cover 100% of parts 100% of the time.
If you answered yes to any of those questions, you may find a warranty worth it, both financially and emotionally.
If you didn’t, consider paying out of pocket for repairs to potentially save money over the investment in a warranty. That way, you’ll also maintain more control over your vehicle, deciding where and how your repairs are done and what replacement parts are used. (Some warranty companies may force you to use rebuilt or aftermarket parts for covered repairs.)
» RELATED: Should I buy an extended auto warranty on a used car?
Wondering how expensive car repairs can get? Understanding these costs may help you feel more confident in purchasing an extended warranty.
Repair or replacement | Average cost |
---|---|
Air conditioning | $400 to $550 |
Axles | $287 to $1,254 |
Brake pads and rotors | $600 per axle |
Catalytic converter | $900 to $4,500 |
Head gasket | $3,400 to $5,500 |
Transmission | Starts at $3,000 |
Are consumers who invested in an extended warranty happy with their purchase? Tens of thousands of ratings on ConsumerAffairs would indicate that, yes, they’re happy for the most part.
We analyzed a year of consumer ratings for auto warranty companies on our site and calculated an overall satisfaction rating of 4.5 stars out of a possible 5. Overall, 78% of reviewers in that period were happy or satisfied with their extended auto warranty provider.
Look for a warranty company with good reviews, and pay extra attention to the reviews that actually mention filing a claim.
“The deductible was $500. But I’m okay with that because the repairs were up in the $2,000 range,” said one reviewer from California. “I’m very satisfied.”
“I was pleased with my experience because that was a $775 repair of which I only paid $100 on,” said a reviewer from Texas. “I paid $2,800 for the policy. So, I'm going to keep a running total to see whether it was worth it or not. I don't put that many miles on the car and I may have another repair or I may not. But at least I know if I have a major repair, it's going to be covered.”
It’s worth noting, however, that among our verified reviewers during that time who mentioned filing a claim, 40% were upset. Reviewers especially express frustration after discovering their coverage limitations, such as a California reviewer who learned their warranty did not cover consumable parts such as batteries.
The deductible was $500. But I’m okay with that because the repairs were up in the $2,000 range.”
Other reviewers noted communication issues with their providers. Reviews that mentioned sales and marketing and those that mentioned refunds and payouts had the lowest average sentiment, with roughly 30% of those reviewers being upset.
In short, most purchasers of warranties are happy, but experiences can vary.
» RELATED: Best online car buying sites
A ConsumerAffairs survey of 1,000 drivers found that about 45% of respondents either didn’t know what was covered under a car warranty or weren’t sure about what was covered. And the 55% who said they did know what a warranty covered? About half of them mistakenly thought that a warranty usually covers routine maintenance.
“Hello, we’ve been trying to reach you about your car’s extended warranty.”
Car warranty scams are common, but they’re also easily avoided. Here are the key takeaways from our feature on how to avoid car warranty scams:
It’s especially worth prioritizing stable, established warranty companies so that you’re not left with a worthless service contract.
An extended auto warranty, also known as a vehicle service contract, is like an insurance policy that can safeguard you against repair bills when your car breaks down — after you pay a deductible. This coverage lasts for an agreed-upon period of time or until your car hits a given mileage.
Different providers offer varying types and levels of coverage, and an extended warranty is not the same as car insurance, which you’ll want to have regardless.
Most third-party extended warranty companies will let you purchase an extended warranty at any point while your vehicle is under 10 years old or has fewer than 100,000 miles. Some automakers, however, require you to purchase coverage before your factory warranty expires.
In either case, the price will typically rise as your vehicle ages.
Top-of-the-line exclusionary warranties may cover most parts, but practically no warranty will cover cosmetic items or wear-and-tear parts that are designed to be replaced over time, like brake pads, wiper blades, tires and fluids. We’ve spent hundreds of hours researching extended warranties, and we’ve never come across a plan that covers every part of your vehicle.
It’s rare for an extended warranty provider to void a warranty altogether. In most cases, they’ll simply deny your claims repeatedly until you cancel the plan yourself for a partial refund.
Reasons for repeated claim denials may include:
These three terms can be a bit confusing at first, so here’s a clear breakdown:
All new cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty, also called a factory warranty, that's backed by the car maker. The minimum new car warranty is three years/36,000 miles, and factory warranties are transferable to subsequent owners.
To see what warranties automakers currently offer on their new vehicles, check out our factory warranty guide.
We should also mention that most manufacturers have their own extended warranty programs. However, these plans are usually limited to covering the brand’s own vehicles.
» LEARN: What to know about manufacturers’ extended warranties
To find out which manufacturer offers the best extended car warranties, we performed an in-depth analysis of 34 major car brands and the extended warranties they offered for their own vehicles, collecting hundreds of quotes along the way.
Honda offered us the best value by far, with some Honda Care plans priced 50% below their Toyota or Hyundai equivalents.
That being said, Honda vehicles only come with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty from the factory. Hyundai, Kia and Genesis vehicles come with a five-year/60,000-mile factory warranty, which some might consider to be a “free” extended warranty. But if you’re looking for the brand with the best overall warranty protection, all four are worth considering.
We’ve covered the pros and cons of most automakers’ extended warranty programs in other articles. If you want to know how your car’s manufacturer stacks up, click on the relevant link below.
» READ MORE: What are vehicle protection plans?
Yes, most extended warranty providers allow you to cancel your warranty. The process may involve a cancellation fee, and the amount you get refunded will depend on the length of time the warranty has been in place and whether you've made any claims.
Most extended warranty providers will require you to use an ASE-certified mechanic for repairs, but you usually have the flexibility to choose your own mechanic. Some providers might also have specific repair networks you need to use to get the full benefit of the warranty, so it's always best to check your contract to see if there are any limitations.
Check out our car warranty check by VIN article. You can also check your owner's manual or your automaker’s main warranty page.
» READ MORE: Best EV warranties
The majority of extended auto warranty companies do not require an inspection. However, most warranty companies do have a waiting period before coverage begins. This is to prevent claims on preexisting conditions.
The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach informed by our expert editors to choose the best extended car warranty companies. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks.
To decide our five initial top picks for buyers with different priorities, like our pick for maximum coverage, as well as our top overall extended warranty company, we used a weighted scoring system that took into account both reviews about each company from ConsumerAffairs users and specific company offerings that we researched.
The process for scoring each company across all six categories and overall is entirely statistical. To complete it, the team conducted sentence-by-sentence sentiment analysis of thousands of reviews on our site from Aug. 1, 2023, to Aug. 1, 2024, to identify the aspects that people care about most in extended warranty companies — and which companies reviewers are happiest with for each aspect. For extended auto warranties, these aspects included:
We then carefully selected the most important offerings consumers should consider before choosing an extended warranty and researched these offerings at each company. For extended car warranties, these features included:
The company with the highest score in each category’s uniquely weighted formula was given the “Our pick for” or “Best for” designation. In some cases where a single company received the top score across multiple categories, the company with the next-highest score was named the winner.
Lori Lohman
Professor, marketing, Augsburg UniversityThe best way to determine if an extended warranty fits within your budget is to find out the cost of some of the most common repairs and determine whether you have the funds to cover them. It also depends on how much you like your vehicle and are willing to spend to keep it running. Some major repairs, such as engine or transmission failure, can easily run $4,000-$8,000, and you might not want to keep the car if it's older and has high mileage. Other repairs, such as air conditioning, are expensive but don't affect the drivability of the vehicle and can cost $1,000-$2,000.
If you don't think you can afford such a repair, then you might want to consider an extended warranty, but make sure it doesn't overlap with any existing coverage offered by the auto manufacturer — and remember that it may end up costing you more in the long run if it's wrapped into your auto financing. Rather than buying a warranty, you could develop a dedicated savings account to handle anticipated future repairs because all cars, sooner or later, will need some repairs as well as basic maintenance (such as brakes) that isn't covered by a warranty. If you bought a vehicle that has had good reliability ratings, it's unlikely that you will experience the need for major repairs.
Read their bioMichael Noel
Professor, economics, Texas Tech UniversityFirst, ask yourself if you need an extended warranty. New cars come with warranties, often three years, while used cars purchased from a dealership may or may not have a (shorter) warranty attached. Extended warranties can extend that time but not indefinitely. While repairs can be expensive, if you have the funds and can handle the risk of a big repair, it is cheaper over the long run to self-insure, i.e. pay for repairs yourself as you go … If an expensive repair would be outside your budget, however, then you should consider additional insurance. Paid by the month or annually, it provides a known expense that is easier to manage. It is then straightforward to see if such a number fits within one's budget. But be wary of what the insurance does and does not cover, so you don't find, surprisingly, you're paying twice. Check in particular about policies on hybrid-related parts. Note that emissions systems often come with an extended warranty for free under state law. For new cars, it is worth checking if there is a no-use refundable option as well, which some manufacturers have offered — with this, if you go through the extended warranty period without a claim, you are refunded the premium altogether. This protects not only against things going wrong but also against things going right. After three years of driving and learning about your car's reliability, you may well learn which is the greater risk after all.
Read their bioOguzhan Batmaz
Assistant professor, economics, Lewis UniversityTo determine whether the cost of an auto warranty is affordable, consumers should consider the following:
Tin-Chun Lin
Professor, economics, Indiana University NorthwestIn my opinion, consumers need to figure out their vehicle’s age and mileage because older vehicles with higher mileage would have higher warranty costs. In addition, consumers need to estimate their future costs for repairing their vehicle and compare quotes from different providers to figure out the best value and benefit for their needs. Moreover, consumers need to study what components would be covered by the warranty and further compare them to the potential repair cost of these parts.
Read their bioLori Lohman
Professor, marketing, Augsburg UniversityExtended warranties are moneymakers for dealerships, but they could potentially be negotiated if you do your homework and check with other dealers/other plans, both those provided by manufacturers and by other third parties. Here is an instance in which using artificial intelligence tools may be useful to compare prices and coverage. That will give you some leverage, but remember that many dealerships are moving away from sales negotiations and may refuse to budge on the price tag; it's worth a try, however. If you want to get the best deal, do your homework.
Read their bioDina El-Mahdy
Associate Professor, accounting, Morgan State UniversityTo secure the best prices and terms on extended warranties, consumers should shop for and obtain multiple quotes from various providers, including dealerships and third-party companies, for comparison. Competitor offers can provide leverage in negotiations. Recognizing that dealerships often increase warranty prices before negotiation can also give consumers an advantage and a margin to negotiate. Timing is another critical factor. Negotiating an extended warranty when purchasing a vehicle or during holiday sales events may result in better offers, as dealerships are often motivated to close sales. Consumers should carefully review contract terms and conditions, including cancellation policies, transferability, and claim procedures, to ensure the terms are flexible and fair.
Read their bioD. Scott Emge
Professor, finance, Loyola University MarylandLaura Gonzalez
Professor, finance, California State University - Long BeachMost households need more than one car. This is a powerful negotiation leverage when getting to know a new provider. Potential extended business helps negotiate the conditions of an extended warranty for just one car. It allows for better conditions and time to test, gather information, and plan effectively for the future and other cars, motorcycles, etc. No significant financial commitment or decision should be made in a rush or following a soon-expiring deal with some discount for a multi-item contract.
Read their bioDina El-Mahdy
Associate Professor, accounting, Morgan State UniversityAuto warranties are especially valuable for vehicles prone to frequent or costly repairs. They are also beneficial for owners of cars with unique features (e.g., body trim that is easily damaged and requires frequent repairs or an expensive electronic 'sunroof'), providing peace of mind and financial protection. Warranties that offer transferability to new owners (e.g., warranties linked to the vehicle's identification number (VIN) regardless of the owner) deliver the greatest value to consumers. For consumers with tight budgets, an auto warranty ensures predictable costs (e.g., fixed monthly fees) and reduces the risk of significant out-of-pocket expenses for unexpected repairs. Additionally, in areas where repair services are expensive (e.g., due to high labor costs or scarce materials), an auto warranty can be a cost-effective safeguard against steep repair bills.
Read their bioOguzhan Batmaz
Assistant professor, economics, Lewis UniversityAn auto warranty provides the most value under these circumstances:
Hyeong-Tak Lee
Assistant professor, marketing, University of IowaAn auto warranty can be particularly valuable when the vehicle’s brand is relatively new to the market and there isn’t enough data available for consumers to accurately estimate the likelihood or frequency of repairs. For example, an imported carmaker introducing a new brand to the U.S. market may use extended warranties to address potential quality concerns that consumers might have about the unfamiliar brand. In such cases, the warranty not only reassures consumers by providing additional protection but also helps the automaker build trust and confidence in their new brand.
Read their bioGyan Pradhan
Professor, economics, Christopher Newport UniversityAn auto warranty offers more value if one intends to own the car for longer durations; if the brand is unreliable; if the cost of the warranty compares favorably to the cost of potential repairs; if one does not tend to keep up with regular maintenance; or if one expects to drive a lot. Finally, it may also offer more value if peace of mind is important to the insurer. To put it differently, the more risk averse a person is, the more value the warranty provides.
Read their bioDina El-Mahdy
Associate Professor, accounting, Morgan State UniversityWhen evaluating an auto warranty, consumers should look beyond the price and focus on the depth of coverage and expected quality of service after the sale. Comprehensive warranties that cover expensive components tend to offer better value over time. Checking for claim limits and understanding exclusions is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises. The reputation of the warranty provider is another critical consideration. Researching reviews and complaint histories can help assess their reliability and responsiveness. Vehicle history and usage also matter — warranties are often more beneficial for less reliable vehicles or those with higher expected use. Consumers should evaluate the claims process, including options for repair shops, payment methods, and customer service quality. High deductibles or service fees can diminish savings, so these costs should be factored into the decision. Finally, the terms and conditions of the warranty should align with how long the consumer plans to keep the vehicle. If consumers intend to sell their vehicles in the short term, investing in a long-term warranty may not be a viable decision and could result in wasted resources.
Read their bioOguzhan Batmaz
Assistant professor, economics, Lewis UniversityTo assess whether an auto warranty is cost-effective, consumers should evaluate the following:
Tin-Chun Lin
Professor, economics, Indiana University NorthwestBeyond price, the key indicators I would suggest for consumers to consider may include the covered parts and repairs, the deductible amount, the warranty provider’s reputation, the length of coverage, the claims process, the reliability of the vehicle, and whether the warranty is transferable to a new owner. Certainly, consumers need to evaluate their vehicle’s age, mileage, reliability, and their own driving habits. The above-mentioned key indicators may be used to judge whether consumers’ auto warranty will truly save them money in the long run.
Read their bioWooyang Kim
Professor, marketing, Minnesota State University MoorheadI would like to emphasize two primary considerations for this assessment: brand reputation for vehicle reliability and quality customer service in the functional dimension, and peace of mind against anxiety about uncertain future events in the psychological dimension. While several other factors should be evaluated before making a final decision in the cost-benefit analysis, these two considerations serve as critical baselines for estimating the potential cost savings offered by a vehicle warranty. Since purchasing an auto warranty is an investment in both the monetary and psychological assets of car owners, these two rationales can help ensure meaningful savings in their perceived value over the long term.
Read their bioInformation in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work.
Thanks for subscribing.
You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.
Company | Customer rating | About | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | 4.6
14,885 reviews
| Direct administrator and obligor for most types of plans. Covers vehicles up to 20 years old for unlimited miles. Waiting period is 30 days and 1,000 miles. Offers 30-day refund guarantee. MBI products available in California. | Get Pricing |
![]() | 4.2
1,102 reviews
| Offers auto warranties for new and used vehicles. Has three plans available, plus custom options. Network of 50,000+ ASE-certified mechanics. Most plans are transferable. No published pricing or sample contracts. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.9
123 reviews
| Accepts luxury, vintage and exotic vehicles. Cancel within 30 days for a full refund. Live customer support offered daily. Can go to any dealership or repair facility. Roadside assistance included. Offers locksmith policy. | Read reviews |
![]() | 3.1
567 reviews
| Accepts cars up to 10 years old with up to 140,000 miles. Offers three plans with flexible deductibles and fixed monthly pricing. No waiting period or yearly mileage restrictions up to 185,000 miles. Available nationwide. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.1
12 reviews
| Vehicle mechanical breakdown coverage with no required vehicle inspection and first-day coverage. No deductible for mechanical parts and labor. Includes 24/7 emergency roadside assistance. Two plans. Cancel any time. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.7
44 reviews
| Online marketplace with multiple plans from different third-party providers. Three tiers of coverage. Provides 30-day money-back guarantee. Customer support available 24/7. Cancel your plan anytime. Quotes in less than a minute. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.0
1,428 reviews
| Offers exclusionary, used stated and powertrain protection for cars with up to 250,000 miles and 15 years old. Waives deductible if you go to a RepairPal-certified shop. Member of the Vehicle Protection Association. | Read reviews |
![]() | 5.0
37 reviews
| Offers month-to-month vehicle service contracts. Four plan levels with optional tire and wheel protection. Covers vehicles of model year 2000 and newer with mileage up to 200,000. Costs start at $39/month. | Read reviews |
![]() | 5.0
View profile
| Offers three vehicle service contracts ranging from powertrain to exclusionary coverage. Transferable policies with varying deductibles. Limited information about plans and pricing. Coverage not widely available. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.8
751 reviews
| Offers vehicle service contracts for cars up to 20 years old and up to 250,000 miles in most states. Plans available with no down payment and three-year terms. Waiting period is 90 days and 1,000 miles. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.8
13 reviews
| Four coverage plans. Nationwide availability. Personalized pricing with varying deductibles and contract lengths. Starts at $79 per month. Towing, roadside assistance and car rental coverage benefits. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.5
169 reviews
| Offers vehicle service contracts with 30-day money-back guarantee. Includes 24-hour roadside assistance. Choose your own repair shop. 10% back for referrals. Preferred pricing for members of some organizations. | Get a Quote |
![]() | 4.4
874 reviews
| Provides coverage for cars, trucks, motorcycles and powersport vehicles. Perks include 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car coverage and trip interruption reimbursement. | Read reviews |
![]() | 4.0
4,280 reviews
| Plans available for cars with up to 250,000 miles. Multiple plan options from different providers. Terms up to 10 years. Finance over six, 12, 18 or 24 months. Comes with a 30-day return policy. | Read reviews |
![]() | 3.7
View profile
| Provides extended warranties for many types of vehicles. Plans range from powertrain to exclusionary coverage. All contracts include maintenance benefits. Only sold through dealerships at the time of vehicle purchase. | Read reviews |
![]() | 3.6
9,425 reviews
| Markets warranty plans for cars and motorcycles backed by American Auto Shield. Coverage, deductibles and payments vary by vehicle age and mileage. Contracts are transferable and come with a 30-day return policy. | Read reviews |
![]() | 3.5
703 reviews
| Offers a tier of four plans, with deductibles ranging from $50 to $100. Plans are only offered through select dealerships across the country instead of sold directly to consumers. | Read reviews |
![]() | 3.0
View profile
| Plans available for cars up to 20 model years of age. Covers vehicles with up to 225,000 miles. Multiple plans available. Optional coverage to choose from. No waiting period. Same-day processing for most claims. | Read reviews |
![]() | 2.8
9 reviews
| Offers three auto warranty plans with varying levels of coverage. $100 deductible per service. 24/7 roadside assistance and rental cars included in each plan. Pays mechanic directly for service. | Read reviews |
![]() | 2.6
7 reviews
| $0 deductibles at preferred repair facilities. $200 deductibles at other shops. Roadside assistance for all plans. Cancel your plan at any time. Three levels of coverage available. | Read reviews |
1.8
126 reviews
| Offers auto warranty coverage. Highlights include interest-free payment plans, roadside assistance and guaranteed part replacement. Over 90% of claims paid in an average of three hours or less. | Read reviews | |
![]() | 1.8
104 reviews
| Vehicle service plans and contracts. Accepted nationwide. Components, part and labor included in service plans. No inspection for coverage. No mileage or odometer restrictions. Transferrable. 24/7 roadside assistance included. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.8
10 reviews
| Offers vehicle service contracts. Three plan options: drivetrain, intermediate and exclusionary. No deductible. Available nationwide. Total loss refund. Transferable to a new owner. Only available through partner institutions. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.7
68 reviews
| Offers four tiers of extended warranty coverage. Powertrain Plus is available for up to five years and 100,000 miles. Coverage begins 30 days or 1,000 miles after the purchase date. Available in more than 30 states. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.6
1,212 reviews
| Direct provider of three tiers of coverage. Offers 0% interest payment programs and a 30-day refund policy. Available in all 50 states. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.6
128 reviews
| Offers extended warranties for cars, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles and RVs. Terms and conditions vary by state. Doesn’t sell directly to consumers. Contact an authorized dealership for pricing. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.6
13 reviews
| No limits to number of claims. No transfer fees, claims paperwork or waiting for reimbursements. Can use any ASE-certified mechanic. Accepts all makes and models. Must call for quote. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.5
View profile
| Three levels of coverage. Add-on products available for complete protection. Sample contracts readily available. Roadside assistance with all plans. Prices start as low as $19 a month. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.4
347 reviews
| Exclusionary coverage on cars with up to 150,000 miles and stated component coverage up to 200,000 miles. All plans are transferable. No waiting period. Available nationwide through dealerships. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.3
206 reviews
| Provides coverage for cars, motorcycles, powersport vehicles and RVs. Offerings include vehicle service contracts, warranties, asset protection, maintenance plans and theft deterrent products. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.3
163 reviews
| Extended service contract through CarMax. Optional for vehicles of any year, make, model or mileage. Only available at the time you purchase a vehicle. Choose from different plans and deductibles. Cancel anytime. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.2
9 reviews
| Transparent pricing. Monthly and annual plans available. Annual plans come with maintenance benefits. 24/7 roadside assistance included on all plans. Operates in every state. 30-day money-back guarantee. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.2
356 reviews
| Accepts cars of any year or mileage. Select from 14 service contracts with a range of terms and protections. Gap and ancillary coverage also available. No waiting period. Available nationwide through certified AUL dealerships. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.2
13 reviews
| Extended auto warranty. Covers cost of breakdowns and repairs. Three plan and coverage tiers. Customizable coverage. Free quotes. $100 deductible. Plan pays the mechanic directly for covered repairs. Money-back guarantee. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.1
102 reviews
| Partners with Nationwide to offer coverage for cars and RVs. Products and program options include gap, private label and theft protection. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.1
236 reviews
| Offers vehicle service contracts with coverage for road hazards, tires and wheels. Affiliate plans include total loss waiver and lease excess with wear and tear. Accepts high-mileage cars. Available in all states. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
484 reviews
| Does not sell vehicle service contracts directly. Partners with third-party providers to offer eight programs for cars up to 250,000 miles, plus coverage for motorcycles, ATVs and dirt bikes. Available nationwide. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
342 reviews
| Provides extended car warranties without long-term contracts. Customizable deductible options. No mileage limitations in most states. Customer service is available through phone, email and live chat. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
69 reviews
| Provides powertrain and bumper-to-bumper limited warranties, tire and wheel protection, GAP coverage and more. New vehicles are automatically enrolled in the manufacturers' protection program. Additional coverages available. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
57 reviews
| Serves dealerships and car-buying customers. Partners with more than 15,000 dealers across the country to offer vehicle service contracts. Contact a company representative or your dealership for more information. | Read reviews |
1.0
33 reviews
| Select from three tiers of coverage. Some vehicles qualify for up to 120,000 miles of additional protection. Coverage for rental car, fluids and towing included. More than 6,000 authorized service centers. | Read reviews | |
![]() | 1.0
28 reviews
| Offers home and auto protection plans, including coverage for commercial vehicles, in most states. Accepts most vehicles up to 20 model years and up to 500,000 miles. Features flexible payment plans and a 30-day refund period. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
28 reviews
| Offers three customizable warranty plans. Available in 50 states. Includes roadside assistance. Gap and ancillary coverage can be purchased separately. Claims can be submitted via app and are typically paid the same day. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
6 reviews
| Wide range of plans for new and used cars, plus EVs. Exclusionary coverage available. Different deductible options, including a disappearing deductible. Towing and rental benefits. Only sold through dealerships. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Offers a disappearing deductible option. Service agreements for leased vehicles. Options for recreational and power sports vehicles and tire and wheel add-ons. Theft prevention device and geofencing. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Sells auto warranties. Three warranty options to choose from. $100 deductible required for service. Free cancellation in 30 days. Plans start at $99 per month. 24/7 roadside assistance comes with all plans. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Offers extended warranty coverage for a variety of vehicles, including exotic cars. Customizable plans with add-on options available. Price quotes only available from partnering dealerships. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Offers extended auto warranties for new and used vehicles with multiple add-on plans. Also offers coverage for recreational and commercial vehicles. Only sells plans through select dealerships in 10 states. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Offers extended auto warranties. Works with licensed mechanics in the U.S. and Canada. Has plans for most cars up to 14 model-years old. 24-hour roadside assistance and trip interruption included. Must contact for a quote. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Offers plans backed by Black Diamond Administrative Company. All plans include roadside assistance. Seven plans available for new and used vehicles. Accepts cars with up to 500,000 miles. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Offers vehicle, debt and ancillary protection programs. Five customizable auto protection plans available. Waives GAP amounts up to $50,000. Fully transferable coverage. Money-back guarantee within 60 days of purchase. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
View profile
| Extended warranty company offering plans for vehicles, boats, RVs and ATVs. Plans range from $700-$5,000 per year depending on make, model and other factors. Deductible options range from $0-$1,000. No waiting periods for plans. | Read reviews |
![]() | No reviews | Offers three levels of protection. Covers vehicles up to 20 years old with up to 140,000 miles. Coverage is not available in Alabama, California, Florida, Missouri, Texas and Washington. | |
![]() | No reviews | Partners with United Car Care, Matrix Warranty Solutions, Royal Administration Service, DOWC and National Warranty Administration to offer coverage nationwide. Provides a "best price guarantee” and a money-back guarantee. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers basic, enhanced, exclusionary and stated coverage maintenance plans. New customers are entitled to a full refund within the first 30 days. | |
![]() | No reviews | Select from 12-month, 12,000-mile, or 24-month, 24,000-mile terms. Requires at least 10% of the total cost to initiate a payment plan. Includes roadside assistance and rental coverage for covered claims. Cancel anytime. | |
![]() | No reviews | Specializes in providing credit union members warranty products, including vehicle service agreements and mechanical breakdown insurance. Features include emergency roadside assistance and rental coverage. | |
![]() | No reviews | Select from warranty options with custom coverage, no network limits and no limits on repairs and roadside assistance. Provides free rapid-response quotes to estimate pricing. Available nationwide. | |
![]() | No reviews | Wide range of extended warranties for new and used vehicles. Customizable plans with optional coverages. Benefits include towing and rental reimbursement. Only sold through dealerships. Some coverage exceptions. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers a range of products and services, from roadside assistance to insurance. Extended auto warranties are available via AAA Northeast or Club Alliance. Operates several independent branches; coverage options vary by location. | |
![]() | No reviews | Sells several extended warranty plans. Technology, EV and maintenance plans available. Deductible amounts from $0 to $200. Can visit any licensed mechanic. Must purchase through dealership. No pricing information online. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers five vehicle protection plans with multiple deductible options available. Covers most vehicle repairs at any licensed repair facility. Provides roadside assistance and rental car and travel expense reimbursements. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers a range of benefits and reimbursement options for vehicle repairs. Provides up to 25% off car rentals. Covers every car in your household for $19.95 per month regardless of mileage or age (as of publishing). | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers several plans for powertrain and exclusionary coverage. Plans include roadside assistance, rental reimbursement and maintenance benefits. No rate increase after filing a claim. Down payment required. | |
![]() | No reviews | Warranties are available primarily through car dealers. Offers four levels of coverage, including EV components. Warranties come with a range of benefits and available add-on coverage. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers six coverage plans, including three extended auto warranties with optional add-ons and $0 deductibles. Claims are handled by in-house representatives. Only sells through dealerships. | |
![]() | No reviews | Extended warranty company offering comprehensive plans for new, used and leased vehicles. Customers can also add on additional coverage for wear-and-tear parts. Only available for Stellantis family makes. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers exclusionary, comprehensive, enhanced powertrain and powertrain protection. Choose your own ASE-certified repair shop. Includes towing and roadside assistance. $100 deductible for covered claims. No-fee payment plans. | |
![]() | No reviews | Extended auto warranty provider. Three available plans. Range of coverage options with each plan. Only available through dealerships. Partners with over 5,000 dealers to offer warranties nationwide. Can use any repair shop. | |
![]() | No reviews | Offers vehicle service contracts through two established providers. Exclusionary coverage available. Some plans come with roadside assistance and rental car benefits. Payment plans available. | |
![]() | 1.7
4,132 reviews
| Offers plans for newer and older vehicles up to 20 years old and with up to 299,999 miles. All services provided in-house by Protect My Car employees. Special offers for military personnel. Not available in California. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
155 reviews
| Offers three coverage options for used cars. Guarantees 100% payment of all covered repairs, less the deductible. Waiting period is 30 days and 1,000 miles. | Read reviews |
![]() | 1.0
129 reviews
| Offers three coverage plans with customization options. Covers parts, services and roadside assistance. 14+ years of experience. Available across the U.S. 30-day money-back guarantee. | Read reviews |