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Best Extended Car Warranties in Maryland

We compared 76 companies and chose the top extended auto warranty providers

    • Best overall
      Endurance Warranty
      4.5(17,373)
    • Value
      American Dream Auto Protect
      4.1(1,660)
    • Older vehicle coverage
      CarShield
      4.0(9,880)
    Author picture
    By: Matt Zane
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Jon Bortin

    Best Extended Car Warranties in Maryland

    Based on recent reviews, coverage and overall value, Endurance Auto Warranty is the best choice for Maryland drivers. For budget-friendly plans, consider American Dream Auto Protect, while CarShield is ideal for high-mileage vehicles.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
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    Our top picks for extended car warranties in Maryland

    1. Best overall: Endurance
    2. Best value: American Dream
    3. Best for older vehicles: CarShield

    Our research team reviewed dozens of extended car warranty companies in Maryland. We compared coverage options, vehicle eligibility, extra benefits, costs and real customer feedback on claims handling. See our full methodology for details on how we picked the best companies. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.

    Learn more about extended car warranties
    Best overall

    Endurance Warranty

    Endurance Warranty
    4.5
    17,373 reviews
    Levels of coverage
    12
    Maximum mileage
    Unlimited miles
    Vehicle age limit
    20 years
    Waiting period
    30 to 60 days and 1,000 miles
    Get Pricing Read Reviews

    Endurance earned our top spot for extended car warranties in Maryland largely because it acts as a direct provider. Endurance’s plans cover cars up to 20 years old with no mileage limits, making it a good choice for those with high-mileage vehicles.

    Each Endurance plan also comes with a complimentary year of Elite Benefits, which include services like key fob replacement and tire repair  — a feature Maryland drivers will appreciate, given the region’s harsh weather and congested roads.

    Most Maryland customers praised Endurance Auto Warranty for its smooth sign-up process, friendly representatives, strong coverage and reasonable pricing.

    Pros
    • Easy to sign up
    • One year of free Elite Benefits
    • No mileage limits
    • Covers older vehicles
    • Can cover maintenance
    Cons
    • Difficult to cancel
    • Can be pricey
    “One of the standout aspects of Endurance is the affordability of the coverage they offer. … The sign-up process impressed me, and I rated it highly. The representative involved was particularly insightful, making sure I understood all policies and procedures. I'm satisfied with how things are going with Endurance Auto Warranty.”
    Clarence Lothian, MD
    “What stood out was their customer service. The team consistently checked in to make sure I was comfortable and satisfied. I felt valued and at ease knowing I was being well cared for.”
    Ernell Brentwood, MD
    “The sign-up process at Endurance was smooth, and the salesperson was exceptional. I am quite satisfied with the plan and feel that it was a good choice.”
    John Suitland, MD

    Endurance offers a wide variety of coverage options. Plans are structured so that you can select the right level of protection and benefits for your vehicle’s age and your budget.

    • Select Premier: Covers older cars with up to 150,000 miles and includes basic coverage for engine components, transmission, drive axles, cooling, fuel, AC and electrical systems.
    • Secure: Affordable coverage for older vehicles.
    • Secure Plus: The basic plan covers 10 component groups across your car’s powertrain, AC, brakes, steering and electrical system.
    • Superior: Offers extensive coverage for a wide range of components. This midtier plan adds coverage for your suspension, fuel system and cooling system.
    • Supreme: This exclusionary plan covers almost everything. All parts are covered except for specific exceptions listed in your contract.
    • EnduranceAdvantage: Available in Preferred, Plus and Prime levels, this plan adds on routine maintenance benefits like oil changes and tire rotations.

    With every Endurance vehicle protection plan, you’ll receive a year of Elite Benefits at no extra cost, including 24/7 roadside assistance, tire coverage, key fob replacement, collision discounts and windshield repair.

    We were quoted the following annual costs from Endurance’s website:

    VehiclePlanAnnual cost
    2016 Toyota Camry (110,000 miles)Secure Plus$1,235
    2015 BMW 3 Series (125,000 miles)Premier Plus$2,573
    2014 Honda CR-V (135,000 miles)Secure Plus$1,834
    2013 Ford F-150 (150,000 miles)Premier$2,014
    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service, Best Coverage and Best Value
    Best value

    American Dream Auto Protect

    American Dream Auto Protect
    4.1
    1,660 reviews
    Levels of coverage
    3
    Maximum mileage
    200,000 miles
    Vehicle age limit
    20 years
    Waiting period
    30 days
    Get Pricing Read Reviews

    We recommend American Dream Auto Protect for Maryland drivers who want more coverage for their money. This company is among the most affordable options. It often runs special discounts and incentives to lower prices even more.

    American Dream’s flexibility is another key advantage, allowing drivers to avoid paying for extra protection they won’t use. This is especially helpful for drivers who want to protect specific items without the cost of a full bumper-to-bumper plan.

    Maryland reviewers generally find American Dream’s representatives knowledgeable, courteous and helpful during sign-up and routine inquiries. However, some customers report difficulties with cancelling their policies.

    Pros
    • Simple sign-up process
    • Multiple coverage options
    • Transferable contracts
    • Wide repair network
    • Frequent promotional offers
    Cons
    • No online quotes
    • Cancellation fees
    “The sign-up process was straightforward—I handled it over the phone—and felt it was smooth and satisfactory. My overall experience with their customer service during sign-up was positive, to the point I'd rate it 5 stars.”
    Henry Germantown, MD
    “The reps were knowledgeable and very respectful. … They helped me understand the car warranty. Any questions that I asked them, they had no issues with answering whatever problems I thought I would have with getting the car warranty.”
    Kia Germantown, MD

    American Dream Auto Protect gives drivers three distinct coverage levels to choose from, each tailored to different needs and budgets.

    • Silver: Covers the engine, transmission, drive axle, transfer case and water pump.
    • Gold: Includes everything in the Silver plan plus the AC, starter, alternator, power windows, fuel pump, radiator and fuel injector.
    • Platinum: Includes everything in the Gold plan plus steering, suspension, the electrical part of the ABS, navigation/backup camera, differential assembly, seals and gaskets.

    All plans include 24/7 customer service and roadside assistance, which covers services such as towing.

    We were quoted the following annual costs from a secret shopper phone call to American Dream.

    VehiclePlanAnnual cost
    2016 Toyota Camry (110,000 miles)Silver$933
    2015 BMW 3 Series (125,000 miles)Silver$1,069
    2014 Honda CR-V (130,000 miles)Silver$1,167
    2013 Ford F-150 (120,000 miles)Silver$1,428
    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service, Best Coverage and Best Value
    Best for older vehicles

    CarShield

    CarShield
    4.0
    9,880 reviews
    Levels of coverage
    6
    Maximum mileage
    300,000 miles
    Vehicle age limit
    25 years
    Waiting period
    30 days and 1,000 miles
    Get a Quote Read Reviews

    CarShield is our top pick for Maryland drivers seeking coverage for high-mileage or older vehicles. It offers a broad range of plans, including options designed specifically for cars with over 100,000 miles — a feature that sets it apart from many competitors. 

    CarShield offers a flexible month-to-month payment structure, which makes it a budget-friendly option. This structure is great for those who want protection but aren’t ready to commit to a long-term contract.

    Maryland reviewers generally find CarShield’s representatives helpful, informative and reassuring during sign-up, but some criticize the company for poor claims support.

    Pros
    • Wide variety of coverage options
    • Month-to-month, price-locked plans available
    • Covers vehicles with up to 300,000 miles
    • Covers older vehicles
    Cons
    • Rental reimbursement isn’t standard
    • Quote only available over the phone
    • Cancellation fees
    “Knowing that I have CarShield's protection gives me peace of mind while driving, as I feel more secure in case anything unexpected happens. … Their transparency and friendly approach contributed to my confidence in deciding to go with them for my car's warranty.”
    Kalvin Baltimore, MD
    “I would highlight their great customer service. The representative was above and beyond, ensuring everything was clear and well-handled. When considering my experience, the cost, the information provided, and the service I received, it's easy for me to confidently give CarShield a high rating for their service up to this point.”
    Dominick Baltimore, MD

    CarShield offers a versatile lineup of six protection plans suitable for both new and used vehicles, giving Maryland drivers the flexibility to match their needs.

    • Diamond: Bumper-to-bumper plan that covers nearly all mechanical and electrical components.
    • Platinum: Covers big-ticket items, including the engine, transmission, AC, electrical components, fuel system, starter and water pump.
    • Gold: Covers engine, transmission, AC, starter, alternator and power windows.
    • Silver: A basic powertrain plan that covers the engine, transmission, drive axles and any parts that send power to the wheels..
    • Aluminum: An electronics-focused plan that covers your GPS, instrument cluster and wiring harness.
    • EV/Motorcycle/ATV: Specialized coverage for electric vehicles, motorcycles and ATVs.

    Most CarShield contracts also provide 24/7 roadside assistance, courtesy towing and rental car reimbursement as optional add-ons.

    Extended Car Warranties in Maryland Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Endurance Warranty logo
    American Dream Auto Protect logo
    CarShield logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Compare plans tailored to your car & budget.

      Maryland’s bay air, traffic congestion and winter salt increase the risk of corrosion and accelerate brake and tire wear. Finding the right extended car warranty can safeguard you from costly surprises. But choosing the wrong provider could mean denied claims and frustrating service.

      Key insights

      Extended car warranty plans typically cost about $1,000 per year, though prices vary based on your vehicle, plan type and coverage provider.

      Jump to insight

      Many warranty companies use sales tactics that can be confusing or misleading. Always read reviews and plan details before signing up.

      Jump to insight

      If your plan has a long list of exclusions for parts you care about, an extended warranty may not be the best investment.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a car warranty in Maryland

      Choosing the right extended car warranty in Maryland means considering your driving habits, your car’s reliability and the types of repairs you want covered.

      We recommend comparing the coverage of a few companies to find the best value and protection for your unique needs. Here are the key steps to follow:

      1. Pick your coverage

      When looking for a car warranty, first decide how much protection you need. Bumper-to-bumper plans offer the most comprehensive vehicle protection, while powertrain plans cover only the most essential components. Both options have pros and cons. Factor in your budget and how much risk you’re willing to assume for repair bills should they come up.

      Stop-and-go traffic around Baltimore and Washington, D.C., can increase wear on brakes and transmissions. A more comprehensive plan may help cover these higher-risk parts.

      2. Find a company that fits your needs

      Ask about limits on vehicle age and mileage, and make sure you understand the waiting period before your plan becomes active. Confirm that the warranty is accepted by reputable repair shops near your home or workplace before signing up.

      You should also confirm whether a warranty is accepted at state inspection–licensed repair facilities, since inspections are required for certain vehicles. Most local car owners prefer shops that are familiar with Maryland regulations.

      3. Read customer reviews

      Look for feedback from other Maryland drivers who have filed claims with the companies you’re considering for your extended car warranty. These experiences can demonstrate how smoothly a company processes repairs and supports customers when issues come up.

      Reviews from places like Frederick, Silver Spring and Annapolis can reveal how smoothly a company processes repairs and whether approved repair shops are convenient statewide.

      4. Compare quotes

      Get estimates from at least three providers in your search. Since warranty costs can differ widely for the same car and coverage, compare plans with the same deductible to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

      For example, some Maryland drivers note that urban-based repair facilities in Baltimore may have higher labor rates than shops on the Eastern Shore, which can affect claims.

      5. Read the fine print

      Always review a sample contract before signing with a car warranty provider. Be sure you are clear on what is excluded from your plan and go over the cancellation terms as well as any specific claim requirements.

      Maryland’s humid summers and coastal climate can accelerate corrosion, so watch for exclusions around rust and water damage, which are often not covered.

      How do extended car warranties work?

      Extended car warranties, also called vehicle service contracts, help cover repair costs for your vehicle after the original manufacturer’s warranty expires. Most contracts will pay for repairs to covered items, but they won’t pay for routine maintenance, wear items or problems due to neglect.

      You can purchase coverage from the manufacturer, dealership or a third-party company and coverage typically lasts for a set number of years or miles. Specific pricing is based on your car’s age, mileage and coverage level.

      If you need a repair, take your vehicle to an approved mechanic. Once you file a claim, your warranty provider will authorize the repair and pay the shop directly or reimburse you, minus your deductible.

      » GUIDE: Everything to know about car warranties

      Types of car warranties

      There are two main types of extended car warranties — stated-component and exclusionary. Both help pay for repairs when parts fail under normal use.

      • A stated-component warranty covers only the listed parts. For example, a drivetrain warranty includes items like the transmission, drive axle and differential. A powertrain warranty adds coverage for the engine.
      • An exclusionary warranty protects everything except what’s specifically excluded in the contract. Bumper-to-bumper plans are exclusionary, meaning most parts are covered except those on the contract’s list of exclusions.
      “Bumper-to-bumper” usually means exclusionary coverage, but it still has a list of parts it won’t cover. Read that list carefully.

      Extended car warranty costs

      The cost of a bumper-to-bumper extended car warranty ranges from $1,400 to $4,000 per year of coverage. Your price will depend most on:

      • The make and model of your vehicle
      • How old your car is and how many miles it has
      • The coverage level you select
      • Which company you choose

      Powertrain plans for lower-mileage vehicles may be under $1,000 per year, while full bumper-to-bumper plans for older luxury cars are often significantly higher.

      Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium. Paying for the plan up front, instead of monthly, usually results in the lowest total cost.

      If you buy a warranty from a dealership and roll it into your auto loan, you’ll pay interest on the plan as well. This can make an already expensive warranty even costlier over time.

      Is an extended car warranty worth it?

      An extended car warranty may be worth it if you plan to keep your car for several years, have an unpredictable repair history or want to avoid surprise repair bills. These plans can help with budgeting and may also include helpful extras like roadside assistance.

      “This type of plan covers things I wouldn’t have thought about, which really saves me stress and money if something goes wrong,” noted James from Baltimore.

      Don’t finance a warranty if you can avoid it.

      However, if your car is reliable or you don’t plan to keep it for very long, setting aside funds for repairs might be more cost-effective. Extended warranties often come with exclusions, deductibles and other limitations that can lower their value.

      » GUIDE: What to ask an auto warranty company

      Common auto repair costs in Maryland

      Maryland drivers face a mix of hot, humid summers and cold winters that put extra stress on engines, radiators and AC systems. Stop-and-go traffic around Washington, D.C., and Baltimore adds even more wear, making costly breakdowns more likely.

      For common vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Ford F-150, big-ticket repairs such as radiator, AC compressor and head gasket replacements can run from under $1,000 to nearly $6,000. This makes warranty coverage an appealing safety net against repair bills.

      *Cost ranges from the RepairPal estimator tool for ZIP code 20906

      How one repair can justify coverage

      Let’s say you buy an extended auto warranty for $1,200 per year with a $100 deductible per claim. If you make two successful claims in a year, your total out-of-pocket cost is:

      • Annual premium: $1,200
      • Two deductibles: $200
      • Total yearly cost: $1,400

      Now compare that to a head gasket replacement on a 2019 Toyota RAV4, which RepairPal estimates at $4,313 to $5,958 if you live in Silver Spring.

      Even on the low end, this single repair is more than triple the cost of a year of coverage plus deductibles. One breakdown of this size can justify the entire cost of a warranty.

      FAQ

      How can I avoid car warranty scams?

      You can avoid car warranty scams by never sharing personal information with unsolicited callers or emails. Always work directly with reputable warranty providers and thoroughly research companies before purchasing. If you receive suspicious offers, report them to the Federal Communications Commission to help reduce scam activity.

      Should I get an extended warranty when I buy a new car in Maryland?

      You do not need to purchase an extended warranty when buying a new car in Maryland. New vehicles already include bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties from the manufacturer, and Maryland’s lemon law protects you if major problems arise.

      » COMPARE: Best new car warranties

      Can I cancel my extended car warranty?

      Yes, you can cancel your extended car warranty with most providers. There may be a cancellation fee, and your refund amount will depend on how long you’ve had the warranty and whether you’ve filed any claims.

      What laws and regulations govern Maryland service contracts?

      Maryland service contracts are governed by the Maryland Service Contracts and Consumer Products Guaranty Act, which is part of the Commercial Law Article. This law requires written contracts with clear disclosures for products and services intended for personal use.

      Does Maryland require a “free look” or cooling-off period for warranties?

      Yes, Maryland requires a 20-day “free look” period for service contracts. If you cancel within 20 days and have not made a claim, you receive a full refund.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a data-backed process informed by expert editorial judgment and verified customer reviews. We started with extended auto warranty companies available in Maryland, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.

      What we evaluated

      We prioritized real customer experiences in Maryland but also considered national reviews. We discarded companies with fewer than three in-state reviews. Our review evaluation focused on four satisfaction drivers:

      • Coverage
      • Customer service
      • Price
      • Claims handling

      In addition to reviews, we compared the companies on:

      • Tiers of coverage
      • Maximum vehicle mileage covered
      • Maximum vehicle age covered
      • Additional benefits
      • Cost

      Why verified reviews matter

      ConsumerAffairs collects in-depth, verified reviews to surface real customer stories. These reviews are the primary factor in our ratings because they highlight how real customers experience the product and service. Only the companies with the highest satisfaction rates among Maryland reviewers made our top picks list.

      Not sure how to choose?

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