Best Extended Car Warranties in South Carolina

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

    • Best overall
      Premier Auto Protect
      4.3(239)
    • High-mileage vehicles
      Endurance Warranty
      4.6(17,418)
    • Value
      American Dream Auto Protect
      4.1(1,680)
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Jon Bortin

    Best Extended Car Warranties in South Carolina

    Based on coverage options, reviews from local drivers and overall value, Premier Auto Protect is the best extended car warranty company in South Carolina. Endurance Auto Warranty is a good choice if you want solid protection for older cars, and American Dream Auto Protect is the way to go if you want the most coverage for the money.

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    Our top picks for extended car warranties in South Carolina

    1. Best overall: Premier Auto Protect
    2. Best for high-mileage vehicles: Endurance
    3. Best value: American Dream

    Our research team reviewed dozens of extended car warranty companies in South Carolina. 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

    Premier Auto Protect

    Premier Auto Protect
    Levels of coverage
    4
    Maximum mileage
    200,000 miles
    Vehicle age limit
    -
    Waiting period
    30 days

    Premier Auto Protect earned our top spot thanks to its combination of price and unique offerings. The company delivers lower prices than most warranty companies we evaluated.

    It also offers unique coverage options for vehicles many competitors won’t touch, such as motorcycles, ATVs and electric cars. This flexibility is especially helpful in South Carolina, where specialty vehicles are popular for both recreation and daily driving.

    Additionally, the company’s willingness to pay repair shops directly and focus on clear communication gives drivers a more predictable repair experience.

    What to consider: While Premier has a good track record in South Carolina, reviewers in other states have said they found the claims handling process frustrating.

    Pros
    • Direct payment to repair shops
    • Specialized motorcycle and powersports coverage
    • Dedicated EV plan
    Cons
    • No online quotes
    • Low vehicle age restrictions

    Premier Auto Protect offers four tiers of coverage for most vehicles and a specialized plans for electric vehicles (EVs) and powersports:

    • Powertrain: Basic plan covering the engine, transmission, drive axle(s) and all-wheel/four-wheel drive systems, as well as seals and gaskets.
    • Essential: All coverage from the Powertrain plan plus protection for the cooling system, brakes, steering (manual and power), turbo/supercharger, AC, fuel system and electrical components.
    • Premium: All coverage from the Essential plan plus coverage for more advanced systems.
    • Exclusionary: The most comprehensive, bumper-to-bumper style plan. It covers almost all parts of your vehicle, except for a specific list of items detailed in the contract's exclusions section.
    • EV Exclusionary: Covers the unique components of an EV, such as the electric drive motor, transaxles, onboard charger and battery control module, in addition to many other systems.

    All plans include benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance, towing and rental car reimbursement.

    We got the following quotes from a secret shopper phone call with Premier.

    VehiclePlanAnnual cost
    2016 Toyota Camry (110,000 miles)Premier Basic$924
    2015 BMW 3 Series (125,000 miles)Premier Enhanced$1,733
    2014 Honda CR-V (135,000 miles)Premier Basic$985
    2013 Ford F-150 (150,000 miles)Premier Basic$996
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Best for high-mileage vehicles

    Endurance Warranty

    Endurance Warranty
    Levels of coverage
    12
    Maximum mileage
    Unlimited miles
    Vehicle age limit
    20 years
    Waiting period
    30 to 60 days and 1,000 miles

    Endurance Auto Warranty is our pick for drivers with older or high-mileage vehicles in South Carolina. Its plans cover cars up to 20 years old with no mileage limits.

    As a direct warranty provider, Endurance handles every step from start to finish, so you don’t have to deal with third-party administrators. We also like that a year of Elite Benefits, which include tire and key fob replacement, comes free with any coverage level.

    South Carolina reviewers say Endurance provides clear explanations, fair pricing and helpful, professional service.

    What to consider: Some of the best perks are only available for the first year of coverage, so don’t expect to keep your complimentary Elite Benefits long-term.

    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

    Endurance offers six main plans:

    • 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.

    You may be able to find additional plans by calling a company representative, depending on your vehicle. A year of Endurance Elite Benefits is included with the purchase of any Endurance vehicle protection plan. These benefits include 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
    American Dream Auto Protect
    Levels of coverage
    3
    Maximum mileage
    200,000 miles
    Vehicle age limit
    20 years
    Waiting period
    30 days

    American Dream Auto Protect stands out for drivers who want affordable protection and flexibility. Its plans are some of the lowest-priced options we found, and frequent promotional discounts make it even cheaper.

    Customizable coverage lets you pay only for the repairs you’re most concerned about, which is helpful if you want to avoid paying for unnecessary extras.

    South Carolina reviewers consistently praise the company’s knowledgeable, helpful reps and clear explanations of coverage.

    What to consider: American Dream has a lower maximum vehicle age and mileage than many competitors.

    Pros
    • Simple sign-up process
    • Multiple coverage options
    • Transferable contracts
    • Wide repair network
    • Frequent promotional offers
    Cons
    • No online quotes
    • Cancellation fees

    American Dream offers three levels of coverage:

    • 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.

    Plans also include helpful benefits like 24/7 customer service and roadside assistance, which includes services like 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

    Extended Car Warranties in South Carolina Buyers Guide

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    Compare plans tailored to your car & budget.

      Choosing the right car warranty in South Carolina starts with understanding your vehicle’s unique needs in the state’s unique climate — particularly on the coast. Research several providers, compare their coverage limits and pricing, and factor in the age and mileage of your car before making a decision.

      Key insights

      A typical extended auto warranty plan costs around $1,000 per year in South Carolina. The exact price depends on your vehicle, the coverage you select and the provider you choose.

      Jump to insight

      South Carolina drivers should compare multiple providers and read contracts carefully to avoid surprises with exclusions or limited service options.

      Jump to insight

      An extended warranty is worth it in South Carolina if you want protection from costly breakdowns and value perks like roadside assistance.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a car warranty in South Carolina

      The best extended car warranty companies have a few things in common: comprehensive coverage, good reputations and easy claims processes. Here’s what to look for when choosing a car warranty in South Carolina:

      1. Pick your coverage

      Start by deciding what parts of your car you want to protect. The most complete option is a bumper-to-bumper warranty, while a more basic powertrain warranty only covers the essential parts that make your car move. 

      Think about your budget and how much risk you're willing to take on for unexpected repairs. If you have savings to cover uncommon issues, you might be able to get away with something more basic. If not, bumper-to-bumper could be the way to go.

      2. Find a company that fits your needs

      Check if the company has limits on vehicle age or mileage, and ask about the waiting period before coverage begins — often 30 days and 1,000 miles.

      Confirm the provider works with ASE-certified shops in your area, not just Charleston, Columbia or Greenville. If you’re in the Lowcountry, Pee Dee or rural Upstate, ask about approved shops nearby and whether mobile diagnostics are allowed. For instance, Alan in Longs told us, “In my area, they don't show that many shops to take the vehicle to.”

      3. Read customer reviews

      Customer reviews can tell you a lot about a company's real-world performance. Ideally, find stories from people who have actually filed a claim. This will show you how the company handles the repair and payment process.

      Pay special attention to feedback from other drivers in South Carolina to see if there are any local issues with service or repair shop availability.

      4. Compare quotes

      Warranty prices are almost never listed online, so you'll need to get quotes. It’s a good idea to check out at least three different companies. Costs can vary by hundreds or even thousands of dollars for the same level of coverage on the same car.

      When you compare, make sure you're looking at similar plans with the same deductible. This is the only way to know if you're truly getting a good deal.

      5. Read the fine print

      Before signing, always ask for a sample contract and read it carefully. Many claim denials happen simply because the broken part wasn’t included in the plan. For instance, Laurene from Swansea was frustrated that her “claim was denied as I was told that they don’t cover gaskets.”

      Pay close attention to the “exclusions” section to see what isn't covered, such as preexisting conditions. It’s also important to check the cancellation policy.

      How do extended car warranties work?

      Extended car warranties — also known as vehicle service contracts — are designed to help with repair bills after your manufacturer’s warranty expires. While these plans cover unexpected breakdowns, they do not usually include routine maintenance or repairs caused by neglect or wear and tear.

      When you need a repair, you take your car to an approved shop. The warranty provider will review your claim, and if approved, will pay the shop directly or reimburse you after you pay the bill, minus your deductible. Often, the shop will handle filing the claim, but make sure to double-check.

      You can purchase these contracts from the vehicle manufacturer, a local dealership or a third-party provider. Coverage terms are set by years and mileage, such as 5 years/60,000 miles, and the cost varies depending on the age, mileage and make of your car as well as the plan you select.

      » GUIDE: Everything you should know about car warranties

      Types of car warranties

      Car warranties fall into two main categories: stated-component and exclusionary. Both are designed to cover parts that fail during normal driving.

      • A stated-component warranty covers only the parts listed in the contract. For example, a drivetrain warranty covers your car’s transmission, drive axle, drive shaft, differential and transfer case. A powertrain warranty covers those parts and also includes your engine.
      • An exclusionary warranty covers everything except the items listed as exclusions. A bumper-to-bumper warranty is a common type, protecting nearly all vehicle parts except those specifically named as not covered.

      » MORE: Do car warranties cover batteries?

      Extended car warranty costs

      The typical extended car warranty cost in South Carolina falls between $1,400 and $4,000 per year for bumper-to-bumper coverage. Several factors will affect your quote:

      • Vehicle make and model
      • Vehicle age and mileage
      • Type of coverage
      • Warranty provider

      A simple powertrain plan for a newer car could be under $1,000, but full exclusionary coverage for an older or luxury vehicle could top $3,500. 

      In many cases, you can choose your deductible. If you choose a higher deductible, you’ll pay less for the plan itself, but more each time you make a claim. There’s no right deductible — it’s about considering the cost balance that works for you.  

      Some providers let you pay for the entirety of the warranty in one lump sum, which often results in a lower total cost compared to monthly payments. This can be a great way to save money if you have the ability to pay it all at once. 

      Pro tip

      Be careful buying a warranty from a dealership. Dealers often bundle the cost into your car loan, which means you pay interest on the warranty for the life of your loan. This will be more expensive over time.

      Is an extended car warranty worth it?

      Having an extended car warranty is worth it if you drive a car that’s prone to expensive breakdowns, plan to keep it for several years or want to avoid large, unexpected repair bills. These plans can help you manage your budget and provide added perks like roadside assistance or rental car reimbursement.

      Peace of mind and long-term savings are the biggest benefits of a car warranty.

      However, many South Carolina drivers are better served by saving for repairs themselves, especially if their car is reliable, still under the factory warranty or they plan to sell it soon. Remember that most plans have exclusions, deductibles and may not be cost-effective for every driver. 

      Ultimately, you’ll have to weigh your vehicle’s needs against your finances to decide what gives you the most peace of mind.

      » GUIDE: What to ask an auto warranty company

      Common auto repair costs in South Carolina

      A typical South Carolina extended warranty might be around $1,150 per year plus two $100 deductibles ($1,350 total). One major fix — like a CR-V AC compressor or a Silverado radiator — can cost more than a full year of coverage, meaning a warranty would pay for itself. 

      Here’s what South Carolina drivers typically pay for common repairs on the state’s most popular vehicles.

      *Cost ranges from the RepairPal estimator tool for ZIP code 29072

      FAQ

      How can I avoid car warranty scams?

      To avoid car warranty scams, never give out personal information or make a purchase after receiving an unsolicited call. Always contact reputable providers directly through their official websites or phone numbers. This helps you avoid hidden fees and fraudulent offers. If you get a suspicious call, you can report it to the FCC to help reduce unwanted robocalls and scams for everyone.

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

      You do not need to purchase an extended warranty when buying a new car in South Carolina because all new vehicles are sold with a manufacturer’s warranty, covering repairs for at least three years or 36,000 miles (often longer for powertrain coverage). South Carolina’s lemon law also protects new car buyers if major issues can’t be fixed.

      » COMPARE: Best new car warranties

      Can I cancel my extended car warranty?

      Yes, most providers let you cancel your extended car warranty, though you may have to pay a cancellation fee. The amount of your refund will depend on how long the contract has been active and whether you’ve made any claims under the warranty.

      What laws and regulations govern South Carolina service contracts?

      South Carolina service contracts are regulated by the South Carolina Department of Insurance under Title 38, Chapter 78 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. All providers must be licensed and follow specific rules, including those for automatic renewals.

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

      No, South Carolina doesn’t require a statutory "free look" or "cooling-off" period for service contracts.

      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 South Carolina, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.

      What we evaluated

      We prioritized real customer experiences in South Carolina 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 South Carolina reviewers made our top picks list.

      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

      1. South Carolina Department of Insurance, “Service Contract Provider.” Accessed Sept. 5, 2025.

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