Endurance
4.6
Reputation:8.8/10
Coverage:9.7/10
Cost:9.1/10
Transparency:9.5/10
Customer Experience:8.5/10
Memorial Day Special – Save $400 Off Any Plan
Quick Facts
- BestComprehensive Coverage
- Mileage Covered: Unlimited Mileage
- Longest Warranty Term: Up to 8 years
- Money-Back Guarantee: Up to 30 Days
- Coverage Options:6 different plans to choose from
- Discounts: $300 same-day signup discount, $250 shopping voucher, and others
Plan Coverage and Perks
Plan coverage includes | Endurance Elite perks™ |
---|---|
Exclusionary plan | One-year membership for free |
Powertrain plan | Tire repair and replacement |
Maintainance coverage with Endurance Advantage | Key fob replacement |
Roadside assistance | Total loss protection |
Towing | Collision discount |
Rental car | $250 rewards voucher |
Trip interruption coverage | Endurance Protect app |
Best Extended Car Warranties
In our study of the best extended car warranties, five providers stood out: Endurance, autopom!, Carchex, CarShield and Omega Auto Care. In the sections below, we’ll discuss the extended warranty coverage offerings from these providers in detail.
Comparing the Best Extended Car Warranty Providers
Based on these criteria, our researchers found that the following providers offer the best extended car warranties on the market. Each provider is graded on a 10-point scale:
Extended Warranty Provider | Overall Rating out of 10 | Coverage Rating | Number of Plans | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|
9.3 | 9.7 | 6 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 9.2 | 8.9 | 3 | Learn More |
Learn More | 9.1 | 9.6 | 5 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.9 | 9.6 | 8 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.7 | 9.8 | 3 | Learn More |
Extended Warranty Provider | Overall Rating out of 10 | Coverage Rating | Number of Plans | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|
9.3 | 9.7 | 6 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 9.2 | 8.9 | 3 | Learn More |
Learn More | 9.1 | 9.6 | 5 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.9 | 9.6 | 8 | Learn More |
Learn More | 8.7 | 9.8 | 3 | Learn More |
In our study of the best extended car warranties, five providers stood out: Endurance, autopom!, CarShield, Carchex and Omega Auto Care. In the sections below, we’ll discuss the extended warranty coverage offerings from these providers in detail.
1. Endurance: Most Comprehensive Coverage
Call Endurance at844-830-9923
Overview
9.3/10
Number of plans offered: Six
Highest mileage limit: Over 200,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and Endurance Elite Benefits
Read more: Endurance Warranty Reviews
Why We Picked Endurance
Endurance holds the No. 1 spot in our industry-wide best-extended car warranty review. The company offers flexible coverage options with term limits up to eight years or over 200,000 miles. Every Endurance warranty comes with extra perks like roadside assistance, trip interruption benefits and rental car reimbursem*nt for the duration of the contract.
Coverage
Endurance offers six coverage plans, starting with an exclusionary plan that covers all components except for those specifically listed as excluded in the contract. You can also choose from several stated-component plans, which list every covered component in the agreement, and a plan that combines warranty and maintenance coverage.
Here’s an overview of what each warranty covers:
Endurance Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
---|---|
Supreme | This is the most comprehensive plan, covering almost all mechanical and electrical components aside from a few exclusions. |
Superior | Superior is the highest level of stated-component coverage. |
Secure Plus | This plan covers the powertrain as well as the brakes, air conditioning, steering and some electrical components. |
Secure | Secure is the most budget-friendly car warranty plan, protecting the engine, transmission and water pump. |
Select Premier | This plan is tailored to high-mileage vehicles, and covers the powertrain, electrical, cooling, air conditioning, heating and fuel systems. |
EnduranceAdvantage™ | Advantage combines prepaid maintenance and stated-component warranty coverage. |
Along with standard benefits like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursem*nt, all plans also include a free year of Endurance Elite Benefits, which comes with the following perks:
- Up to $1,000 toward total loss replacement
- Collision discount of $500 per accident ($1,000 total limit)
- Up to $500 for key fob replacement
- Tire repair and replacement
Cost
During our research, we found that an Endurance warranty tends to cost around $546 to $612 per year of coverage. The total costs for Endurance plan options range from around $2,990 to $3,990, depending on the service plan you choose.
Reputation
Endurance is a direct provider, meaning it administers the contracts it sells. This allows the company to provide a solid claims experience. At the time of publication, the provider held a3.7 out of 5-star customer review score on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website and a3.7-star rating on Trustpilot.
Overview
Number of plans offered: Six
Highest mileage limit: Unlimited miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and Endurance Elite Benefits
Read more: Endurance Warranty Reviews
Why We Picked Endurance
Endurance holds the number one spot in our industry wide best-extended car warranty review. The company offers flexible coverage options with term limits up to eight years and not mile limitations. Every Endurance warranty comes with extra perks like roadside assistance, trip interruption benefits and rental car reimbursem*nt for the duration of the contract.
Coverage
Endurance is one of very few direct providers, meaning it administers the best extended car warranty plans without middlemen. That generally makes for a simpler, more straightforward and often more reliable warranty claims process.
The direct warranty provider offers six vehicle service contracts, ranging from basic powertrain to bumper-to-bumper and maintenance coverage. But what really makes Endurance stand out for coverage is its EnduranceAdvantage plan and its Highline add-on.
EnduranceAdvantage is a combination plan that provides mechanical breakdown protection plus coverage for routine maintenance like oil changes and brake pad replacements. On the other hand, the Highline add-on can be included with any Supreme plan to cover luxury models like Audi and Porsche.
Here’s an overview of what each warranty covers:
Endurance Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Supreme | This is the most comprehensive plan, covering almost all mechanical and electrical components aside from a few exclusions — it is comparable to a factory warranty. |
Superior | Superior is the highest level of stated-component coverage and includes hundreds of parts on all major systems. |
Secure Plus | This plan covers the powertrain as well as the brakes, air conditioning, steering and some electrical components, plus it has the shortest waiting period. |
Secure | Secure is the most budget-friendly car warranty plan, protecting the engine, transmission and water pump. |
Select Premier | This plan is tailored to high-mileage vehicles, and covers the powertrain, electrical, cooling, air conditioning, heating and fuel systems. |
EnduranceAdvantage™ | Advantage combines prepaid maintenance like oil changes and brake pad replacements along with and stated-component warranty coverage. |
Along with standard benefits like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursem*nt, all plans also include a free year of Endurance Elite Benefits, which comes with the following perks:
- Up to $1,000 toward total loss replacement
- Collision discount of $500 per accident ($1,000 total limit)
- Up to $500 for key fob replacement
- Tire repair and replacement
Cost
During our research, we found that an Endurance warranty tends to cost around $116 to $194 per month. The total costs for Endurance plan options range from around $3,700 to almost $7,000 for a four to five year plan.
Reputation
Endurance Customer Review Score
9.1/10
Endurance earned the second-highest combined customer review score in our study. A majority of online reviews reflect a positive experience with the company, with frequent mentions of helpful customer service and fast claims processing.
Endurance is a direct provider, meaning it administers the contracts it sells. This allows the company to provide a solid claims experience. At the time of publication, the provider held a3.6 out of 5-star customer review score on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website and a3.7-star rating on Trustpilot.
2. Autopom!: Excellent Customer Service
9.2/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: 3
Highest mileage limit: 150,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car coverage and trip interruption
Read more: Autopom! review
Why We Picked Autopom!
Autopom! stands out for having great customer service ratings across multiple platforms. While customers might have issues getting claims covered in some cases, the company is good at stepping in and doing what it can to make things right based on its responses to customers on the BBB website.
Coverage
Autopom! offers three plans that have the basics covered. It includes a factory-level bumper-to-bumper plan, a mid-level plan and a powertrain-plus plan. Note that autopom! doesn’t offer a strict powertrain plan — which covers the engine, transmission and drive axle — but it includes other systems with powertrain coverage.
Autopom! Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Exclusionary | This is autopom!’s comprehensive warranty that covers all components of your vehicle except for a list of exclusions. |
Mid-Level | With this plan, you get coverage for the engine, transmission, drive axle, electrical systems, air conditioning, braking and steering. |
Powertrain Plus | This plan gives you basic coverage for the engine, transmission, drive axle, air conditioning and some electrical components. |
Autopom! provides the following benefits on all plans:
- Roadside assistance: Covers things like towing, lockout assistance, spare tire installation and battery jump-start up to a limit
- Rental car coverage: Reimburses you for a rental car if you have a covered claim up to a limit
- Trip interruption: Reimburses you for food and lodging, up to a limit, if you have a covered repair far from home
There are a couple of things that set autopom!’s coverage apart from some other providers. For example, it provides tire protection on most plans. This covers repair or replacement if you encounter potholes, nails or other hazards that may damage your tires. Autopom! also provides 60-day money-back guarantees on some plans and at least 30 days on all plans. Most companies only offer 30-day money-back guarantees.
Cost
Our quote data shows autopom! plans range from $112 to $124 per month depending on the vehicle you own and type of plan you purchase. We found older vehicles with mileage of 90,000 cost more to cover through autopom!. Our autopom! quotes include a $100 deductible.
Reputation
autopom! Customer Review Score
9.8/10
autopom! earned the highest score of any provider in our warranty customer review analysis. Online reviews from customers are overwhelmingly positive across all platforms. Helpful, friendly customer service is a common topic, with many reviews mentioning representatives going above and beyond to help them.
This is where autopom! stands out. The company has an A+ rating on the BBB with accreditation plus a high customer rating of 4.7 stars. Similarly, autopom! has a 4.0-star rating on Trustpilot. No warranty is guaranteed to cover 100% of all repairs, but it’s nice to see that the company leadership cares about helping customers with claims.
3. Carchex: Great Industry Reputation
9.1/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: Five
Highest mileage limit: 250,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and trip interruption
Read more: Carchex Warranty Reviews
Why We Picked Carchex
With term limits up to 250,000 miles, Carchex offers some of the longest-lasting contracts on the market and is a great option for drivers who own older cars. As such, we recognize Carchex’s used vehicle coverageamong the best in the industry.
Coverage
Carchex distinguishes itself from some other companies on our list because its plans can cover high-mileage vehicles with up to 250,000 miles. You can also take your vehicle to any of the 30,000 repair shops certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE®), including your local dealership.
From powertrain coverage to comprehensive coverage, Carchex offers an extensive variety of plans:
Carchex Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Titanium | Titanium offers exclusionary coverage for most vehicle components and is similar to a manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. |
Platinum | This is the highest level of stated-component protection, covering hundreds of parts on all major systems of the vehicle. |
Powertrain Plus | Powertrain Plus offers robust powertrain coverage and more for your vehicle’s most essential parts like the air conditioning, electrical system and fuel system. |
Powertrain | This contract offers basic powertrain coverage, providing protection to components like the engine, transmission and drive axle. |
Extra Care | Extra Care protects components outside of the powertrain, such as parts of the electrical system, steering, suspension and braking system, and it can supplement an existing powertrain plan. |
Carchex offers these plans both as month-to-month contracts and fixed-term contracts. Carchex perks include roadside assistance, trip interruption coverage and rental car reimbursem*nt. If a customer wants to cancel their Carchex coverage, the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all warranties.
Cost
Carchex works with insured administrators like American Auto Shield to offer competitively priced contracts. The Carchex quotes we received are about $140 per month. The total cost varies depending on how long you continue your coverage.
Reputation
Carchex Customer Review Score
7.7/10
In our customer review analysis, Carchex earned a score of 7.7 out of 10, reflecting mixed but mostly positive reviews from customers online. Positive reviews typically cite a smooth and efficient claims process, while frustrations around communications were a common subject of negative comments.
As one of the industry’s best extended car warranty companies, Carchex has been endorsed by industry leaders including Carfax, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com and RepairPal. The company holds accreditation and an A+ rating from the BBB as well as a 2.2-star customer review score on Trustpilot.
4. CarShield: Affordable Monthly Payments
8.9/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: Eight
Highest mileage limit: 300,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and trip interruption
Read more: CarShield Warranty Reviews
Why We Picked Carshield
CarShield is our top choice for flexible contracts with affordable monthly payments. If you’re looking for budget-friendly coverage, CarShield offers month-to-month payment plans with reasonable rates. Additionally, coverage terms for CarShield warranties can last up to 300,000 miles, which is one of the longest coverage periods in the industry.
Coverage
In addition, the third-party extended warranty provider has some of the longest term lengths in the industry for its eight warranty plans. Going well above 100,000 mile warranty term lengths, plans from CarShield can last up to 300,000 miles depending on the vehicle service contract you choose. CarShield customers can choose from the following extended warranty plans:
CarShield Warranty Plan | Coverage Information |
Diamond | Diamond is a bumper-to-bumper plan that offers exclusionary coverage for almost all mechanical and electrical components. |
Platinum | Best suited for high-mileage vehicles, Platinum protects the engine, transmission, air conditioning, electrical system, starter, water pump, fuel pump and more. |
Gold | This plan protects the engine, transmission, water pump, alternator, starter, air conditioning and power windows. |
Gold Select | This plan is a high-mileage plan that caters specifically to vehicles with a lot of miles on the odometer and covers everything in the Gold plan except for the fuel pump and fuel injector. |
Silver | Silver is the most affordable contract, covering the engine, transmission and water pump. |
Aluminum | This protects electrical and high-tech components, including the engine control module, starter, alternator and navigation system. |
Motorcycle & ATV | This offers multiple coverage tiers for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and other non-standard vehicles. |
Electric Vehicle | This offers coverage specifically designed for fully electric vehicles and components like its electric drive unit, battery pack and electrical system. |
CarShield plans also come with roadside assistance, trip interruption and rental car coverage. The allowances may differ by plan.
Cost
Quotes we received from CarShield were $120per month. When comparing these quotes to pricing information we’ve received from several providers, CarShield coverage is cheaper than most competing warranties on the market. Because CarShield coverage plans are often the lowest-cost options, the company is our go-to choice for budget-conscious drivers.
Reputation
Carshield Customer Review Score
9.0/10
With a score of 9.0 out of 10, CarShield ranked in a tie for third place in our customer review analysis. The vast majority of online reviews for CarShield are positive. Customer reviews online frequently mention attentive, professional and friendly customer service representatives who help solve issues.
CarShield holds an A rating with accreditation from the BBB plus it has a 4.2-star rating from customers on Trustpilot. In the past three years, the company has fielded almost 3,400 customer complaints through the BBB.
5. Omega Auto Care: Easy Quote Process
8.7/10
Overview
Number of plans offered: Three
Highest mileage limit: 250,000 miles
Extra benefits: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt, trip interruption coverage, road hazard protection (for tires) and towing
Read more: Omega Auto Care
Why We Picked Omega Auto Care
Omega Auto Care stands out from the competition due to the maintenance benefits included with its warranty plans. The company offers three main coverage levels, two of which include optional upgrades.
Coverage
Protect My Car offers an extensive variety of plans, shown in further detail below:
Omega Auto Care | What It Covers |
---|---|
New Exclusionary | Designed for cars up to seven years old and with less than 100,000 miles, this plan is similar to a factory warranty. Nearly all vehicle components are covered, along with two hours’ worth of labor costs for emergency repairs. |
Used Stated | The engine, transmission, transfer case, drive axles, air conditioning, steering system and electrical system are among the covered parts of this stated-component plan. This coverage option is for cars up to 10 years old with less than 150,000 miles. |
Powertrain Enhanced | This is Omega’s most extensive powertrain plan upgrade, adding protection for the cooling and fuel systems to basic engine, transmission and drive axles coverage. |
Powertrain Plus | A step up from the basic powertrain plan, this option covers air conditioning, heating and various electrical system components along with the engine, transmission and drive axles. |
Powertrain | Omega’s basic powertrain protection plan covers the engine, forced induction transmission, transfer case and drive axles. |
Omega Auto Care warranty plans provide the following perks as well:
- 24-hour roadside assistance, including flat tire changes (with your spare), battery jump-starts, fluid delivery and lockout service up to $100 per occurrence
- Road hazard tire coverage of up to $100 for each tire per occurrence (up to $400 over life of vehicle service contract)
- Rental car reimbursem*nt up to $30 per day or $150 per occurrence
- Trip interruption coverage for covered breakdowns more than 100 miles from home (up to $75 per day for a maximum of three days)
- Maintenance benefits (vary by plan, but include oil changes, brake pad and shoe replacements, battery replacements, cooling system and lube maintenance and a free safety inspection)
Cost
According to our research, extended warranties from Omega Auto Care cost between $2,880 and $3,720 in total, depending on the coverage level you choose and the vehicle you’re protecting.
Reputation
Omega Auto Care Customer Review Score
9.0/10
Omega Auto Care earned an overall score of 9.0 out of 10 in our warranty customer review analysis, placing it third among all providers. Online reviews for the company are mostly positive, with many pointing to Omega’s communications with repair shops as a highlight.
Omega Auto Care holds a3.8 out of 5-star rating from over 1,200 customer reviews on Trustpilot. Many of these positive reviews mention friendly and helpful customer service and competitive pricing.
Read more:Best Car Warranty Companies
Best Auto Extended Warranty Coverage
Now that we’ve covered our top providers, let’s take a look at which ones offer the best coverage plans. Based specifically on the coverage rating from our editorial team, Omega Auto Care, Endurance, and CarShield offer the best extended warranty coverage plans overall. The table below provides our coverage rating for the top three providers, along with the number of plans and maximum mileage covered.
Extended Car Warranty Company | Extended Warranty Coverage Rating | Number of Plans | Maximum Mileage Covered |
---|---|---|---|
Omega Auto Care | 9.8 | 3 | 250,000 miles |
Endurance | 9.7 | 6 | Unlimited miles |
CarShield | 9.6 | 8 | 300,000 miles |
Best Extended Car Warranty Plans
The sections below will detail the best provider and plan for bumper-to-bumper warranties, stated component coverage and powertrain warranties.
Endurance Supreme: Best Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty
In our 2024 extended car warranty study, the Endurance Supreme plan received our highest score because of its comprehensive coverage, plan benefits and the fact that the company is a direct warranty provider. This plan provides bumper-to-bumper coverage for your vehicle, covering most parts, minus a short list of exclusions. Endurance vehicle warranty plans can last up to eight years and the company advertises unlimited mileage.
In addition to its strong coverage, Endurance also offers a free year of Endurance Elite with the Supreme plan. This package includes perks like key fob replacement, a tire allowance, collision discounts and up to $1,000 in total loss replacement. Other standard benefits that come with the plan include roadside assistance, towing services and rental car reimbursem*nt.
Read more: Endurance warranty reviews
CarShield Platinum: Best Stated-Component Extended Warranty
In our research, we found that the CarShield Platinum plan is one of the most comprehensive stated-component extended warranties in the industry. It covers 15 major systems of a vehicle, including air conditioning, power steering and cooling parts.
In addition, while there are some exclusions to the CarShield Platinum plan, the warranty covers most of a vehicle’s electrical system, including its power windows, GPS unit and infotainment system.
Read more: CarShield reviews
Omega Auto Care Powertrain: Best Powertrain Warranty
Omega Auto Care’s powertrain warranty coverage stands out for a couple of reasons. The fact that you can upgrade to either Powertrain Plus or Powertrain Enhanced is a bonus. Each option adds more covered components to the engine, transmission and drive axles.
The maintenance benefits Omega Auto Care offers also strengthen the provider’s powertrain coverage. Oil changes, brake pad and shoe replacements, battery replacements and free safety inspections are among the services that can be covered.
Read more: Omega Auto Care reviews
Read more: Best Extended Car Warranty Coverage Plans
Best Cheap Extended Car Warranties
Now that we’ve covered the providers with the best coverage option, our editorial team analyzed the best cheap extended car warranty companies, looking specifically at costs and plan offerings. For this category, we gave autopom!, American Dream Auto Protect and Endurance the highest cost ratings in our industry-wide study.
The table below provides a closer look into these companies, including the overall cost score given by our team, the cheapest plan and rate. The monthly rates are each based on quotes for a 2021 Toyota Tacoma.
Cheapest Extended Car Warranty Company | Cost Rating | Cheapest Extended Warranty Plan | Cheapest Monthly Rate |
---|---|---|---|
1. Autopom! | 9.7 | Powertrain Plus | $66 |
2. American Dream Auto Protect | 9.4 | Gold Plan | $109 |
3. Endurance | 9.1 | Secure Plus | $97 |
Autopom! offers affordable options at each coverage level which gave it the highest rating in the cost category. The company gives you deductible choices of $0, $50, $100 and $200. Combined with its reputation for excellent customer service and the affordable coverage autopom! offers, the company becomes even more appealing.
American Dream Auto Protect also features quality warranty coverage at below-average prices. The company features a wide range of deductible options that depend on your vehicle’s age and mileage. We also like the fact that American Dream offers a discount for protecting multiple vehicles.
Endurance is our top choice for many reasons, and cost is certainly on the list. With an unmatched assortment of coverage options and added benefits, the provider’s pricing is especially impressive. Endurance also offers a host of discounts, including same-day savings when you sign up for a plan.
Compare Extended Car Warranty Prices
To find the cheapest car warranty company that fits your needs, it’s best to compare free quotes from several providers. Here are a few extended warranty costs we received between summer 2023 and April 2024 from Endurance, Olive, Carchex, CarShield and Omega Auto Care:
Extended Warranty Provider | Vehicle Details | Mileage | Warranty Plan | Term Length | Monthly Cost | Deductible | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Supreme | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $101.94 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Superior | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $104.39 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Diamond | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Gold | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Nissan Rogue | 50,000 | Titanium | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Powertrain Plus | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Toyota Corolla | 30,000 | New Exclusionary | 5 years/75,000 miles | $120 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Chevrolet Equinox | 90,000 | Powertrain Enhanced | 5 years/100,000 miles | $155 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Extended Warranty Provider | Vehicle Details | Mileage | Warranty Plan | Term Length | Monthly Cost | Deductible | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Supreme | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $101.94 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Superior | 2.5 years/40,000 miles | $104.39 for 30 months | $100 | Explore Plans | |
Learn More | 2021 Toyota Corolla | 65,000 | Diamond | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Gold | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Nissan Rogue | 50,000 | Titanium | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $200 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Toyota Tacoma | 100,000 | Powertrain Plus | Unlimited; month-to-month | $149.99 | $250 | Learn More |
Learn More | 2020 Toyota Corolla | 30,000 | New Exclusionary | 5 years/75,000 miles | $120 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Learn More | 2016 Chevrolet Equinox | 90,000 | Powertrain Enhanced | 5 years/100,000 miles | $155 for 24 months | $100 (waived if using RepairPal mechanic) | Learn More |
Read more: Cheapest Extended Car Warranties
Best Extended Manufacturer Warranties
While there are many manufacturers in the car industry, Audi, Ford and Honda stood out for offering the best extended manufacturer warranties. Each brand offers extensive extended warranty plans that can be added on once the factory warranty expires.
The table below lists more information about each of the top three extended warranty manufacturers, along with the number of plans each offers and the term length.
Manufacturer | Extended Warranty Plan | Number of Plans | Term Length |
---|---|---|---|
Audi | Pure Protection Plan | 3 | 10 years/150,000 miles |
Ford | Ford Protect | 4 | 10 years/175,000 miles |
Honda | Honda Care | 1 | 8 years/120,000 miles |
1. Audi: Best Overall Manufacturer Extended Warranty
Audi stands out from other vehicle manufacturers because it offers protection up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. The manufacturer offers three warranty plans — Platinum, Gold and Powertrain — that range from comprehensive bumper-to-bumper protection to basic powertrain coverage.
Most of the extended warranties offered by Audi come with a $100 deductible and benefits like roadside assistance, towing, rental car coverage and trip interruption protection.
Read more: Audi extended warranty
2. Ford: Most Coverage Levels
Ford offers four different coverage levels for drivers who want to purchase an extended warranty from the manufacturer. Plans can last up to 10 years or 175,000 miles, with most plans coming with a $100 deductible. The highest-tiered plan, PremiumCARE, protects over 1,000 vehicle components, while the most basic plan, PowertrainCARE, covers 29 components including the engine and transmission.
Read more: Ford extended warranty
3. Honda: Robust Vehicle Protection
Honda’s Honda Care extended warranty is a single plan that can offer protection up to eight years or 120,000 miles. This plan is different from the others on this list because it can only be purchased when you buy your new Honda vehicle. Despite this, Honda Care offers robust protection for your vehicle, covering the powertrain, electronic systems, air conditioning, heating, suspension, brake and steering systems.
The Honda Care service plan also includes benefits like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and trip interruption coverage.
Read more: Honda extended warranty
Read more: Best Extended Manufacturer Warranties
What Is an Extended Car Warranty?
An extended car warranty— also called a vehicle protection plan or vehicle service contract— foots the bill for damage caused by defective materials and workmanship after your factory warranty expires. In doing so, it protects you from having to pay out of pocket for certain vehicle repairs or part replacements.
How Do Extended Warranties Work?
An extended warranty is a contractual agreement that says a company will cover specific repairs for a monthly or total plan cost. The contract is important to understand. All plans come with exclusions, so a warranty won’t cover every single breakdown.
Most extended warranty providers are actually brokers that sell plans by other administrators. This is the most common industry practice, so it’s important to look into a company’s administrators when you shop around. The administrator is the one you call to file a claim.
Extended Car Warranty Coverage
Extended warranties cover major mechanical repairs and replacements for parts that break down over time as a result of normal use. Examples include your air conditioning blowing warm air, an alternator failing or the fuel system not providing the right mix of fuel and air. Some aftermarket contracts include prepaid maintenance or tire protection as well, but these are less common.
Types of Extended Auto Warranty Plans
The specific parts and repairs covered in your extended warranty depend on what coverage level you choose. The three main types of extended warranty coverage plans are bumper-to-bumper, stated-component and powertrain.
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty
These top-tier contracts are also referred to as exclusionary coverage plans because they cover nearly all of a car’s components from the front bumper to the rear, with the exception of a few named exclusions. These exclusions will vary from company to company but typically include wear-and-tear items like brakes and tires. Bumper-to-bumper warranties are most similar to your original manufacturer’s warranty.
Bumper-to-bumper warranties are best for: Owners of newer used cars who want to keep coverage similar to their factory warranties, drivers who don’t mind paying more for a more worry-free car ownership experience
Stated-Component Warranty
Mid-tier plans are often referred to as stated or named-component coverage because they are inclusionary — meaning they cover only the specific components named in the contract. Coverage for these plans varies between providers and some providers have multiple levels of stated-component coverage.
Stated-component warranties are best for: Owners of cars that don’t qualify for bumper-to-bumper plans but want the maximum coverage available, drivers who want to have concerns about systems or components in their vehicles not covered by lower-tier plans
Powertrain Warranty
The lowest-tier plans offered by warranty providers are typically referred to as powertrain warranties. These plans only cover the components that allow a car to be driven, such as the engine, transmission and drive axles.
Powertrain warranties are best for: Owners of older high-mileage vehicles, drivers who only want to cover the most essential parts of their cars to keep them on the road
What an Extended Car Warranty Doesn’t Cover
While specific coverage varies from one provider to the next, there are certain parts that almost every extended warranty plan leaves out. For the most part, extended warranties won’t cover any routine maintenance or wear and tear items. A comprehensive list of the most common exclusions are:
- Wear and tear items: Brake pads, rotors, windshield wiper blades and inserts, tires, hoses, spark plugs, filters, bulbs, belts and other items that need regular replacement are rarely covered— even by the best extended car warranty plans.
- Routine maintenance: Most warranties don’t cover services that are part of your regular maintenance schedule such as oil changes, alignments and tire rotations.
- Collision damage: Damage that comes as a result of an auto accident falls under the responsibility of your car insurance company and is not typically covered by an extended auto warranty plan.
- Damage from neglect: Failing to follow your manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule could void your warranty coverage.
- Damage from misuse: If your car breaks down as a result of using it in reckless ways like street racing or towing over capacity, your coverage plan won’t pay for repairs.
- Damage from modifications: Most warranty plans won’t cover damages caused by unauthorized aftermarket parts or modifications you’ve made to the vehicle.
- Environmental damage: Corrosion and other damages caused by weather or other environmental factors are not typically covered by an extended car warranty.
- Incidental damage: Damages caused by theft, vandalism, fire or sources other than normal mechanical failure won’t usually be covered by an auto warranty provider. These repairs are instead typically covered under a comprehensive auto insurance policy.
What Repair Shops Take Extended Car Warranties?
If you experience a mechanical breakdown, like an air conditioning failure or transmission malfunction, you’ll need to take your vehicle to an in-network repair facility. Most warranty providers offer roadside assistance benefits. So if your vehicle is inoperable, it can be towed to the nearest authorized repair shop at no charge.
Reputable warranties let you go to any licensed mechanic for repairs. However, customers sometimes report that certain ASE-certified repair shops don’t want to work with certain warranty companies. This is why it’s important to research the reputations of different warranty companies.
Extended Car Warranty Claims Process
You’re required to follow your provider’s claims process in order to receive coverage. Before the repair shop can work on your vehicle, you’ll need to get approval from your contract administrator for a covered repair. In some cases, a vehicle inspection or teardown may be required.
After the repair is performed, you’ll pay a deductible to the facility. Based on your provider, either the rest of the repair bill will be paid directly to the shop or you’ll pay the balance and be sent a reimbursem*nt check.
How To Use Your Extended Warranty: From an Auto Shop Owner
An extended warranty can be a good way to avoid paying out of pocket for unexpected expensive repairs — but only if you actually get the coverage you think you’re paying for. Getting coverage is one thing, but actually using it when you need it comes with a few potential pitfalls.
Strut Daddy’s Complete Car Care in Roxboro, N.C. is one of the more than 1,500 ASE-Certified repair shops in the country that services cars under extended warranties. The shop’s owner and president Matt Lofton said that his experience with warranties and their providers has shown him many of the ways people can run into issues when trying to use their coverage.
Lofton told MarketWatch Guides that many of these issues could have been prevented. He offered a few tips based on his experience to help warranty holders have an easier and more fulfilling time using their coverage.
1. Always Read Your Contract Carefully, Especially the Exclusions
Lofton said one of the more common issues he sees is people believing a part is covered under their service contract when it isn’t. This can lead to situations where people are expecting their provider to pay for a claim that isn’t covered under their contract and having to pay out of pocket for a repair. That’s why he stresses that warranty holders should ensure they fully understand the terms of their agreements, including the fine print.
“As a policyholder of an extended car care warranty, your first step when encountering an issue you believe is covered is to carefully examine your contract. Pay close attention to the exclusions page, which outlines the items or systems not covered by your current plan.”
2. Be Aware of Your Waiting Period
Extended car warranty contracts typically come with a waiting period. This is usually measured in terms of days, mileage or both. During this time, any claims you submit to your provider will be rejected — even if the repair needed falls under the coverage outlined in your contract. Lofton said that car owners should consider the waiting period included in contracts when shopping for a policy and when attempting to use their coverage.
“Most policies have a waiting period, also known as a maturation date, which means you cannot submit a claim until that date has been satisfied. For instance, if your policy has a 30-day maturation date and you attempt to file a claim within those 30 days, your claim will be denied. The issue will also be considered a pre-existing condition, voiding coverage for future claims as well.”
3. Stick Closely To Your Manufacturer’s Service Schedule
Most extended car warranty contracts stipulate that you must adhere to the maintenance schedule recommended by your car’s manufacturer. As a result, a warranty provider can deny any claim if you fail to perform services like oil changes on time. Staying on top of your maintenance schedule not only keeps your coverage valid, it’s also good for your vehicle, said Lofton.
“To maintain your warranty claim status and keep your vehicle operating as intended, it’s vital to schedule regular preventative maintenance with your repair provider. This not only preserves your warranty coverage but also helps your vehicle perform optimally.”
4. Keep All Maintenance Records
Lofton suggests not only staying on top of your vehicle’s scheduled services, but also making sure you keep verifiable records of them. He said that claims related to the transmission or engine are especially likely to fall under the scrutiny of a warranty claims adjustor. Having records that prove that you have done all required maintenance can help ensure your provider pays your claim and minimizes delays.
“If your problem is related to the engine or transmission, it’s crucial to have your maintenance records organized. Claims adjusters often request to see the last three fluid services to ensure that you have been maintaining the vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Choosing a professional shop that saves your service records can greatly benefit you, as failure to provide these records may result in a claim denial.”
5. Secure Alternative Transportation Ahead of Time
Using a warranty to pay for a covered repair is a little more complex than just paying out of pocket. Your claim will have to go through a formal process in which your provider will verify that the repair is both necessary and covered under contract.
While that is often a smooth and efficient process, Lofton said that dealing with a warranty company can sometimes take more time than people expect if things get complicated. That’s why he suggests that warranty holders prepare for the possibility that they may be without their vehicle for an extended period of time by arranging other ways to get around.
“Before scheduling repairs with the repair facility, make sure you have an alternative mode of transportation secured. It’s important to note that your warranty company is not responsible for providing a rental vehicle until your claim has been submitted and approved. Since the approval process can take time — sometimes up to two weeks for larger claims — having a plan for alternative transportation during this period is essential.
6. Stay Patient
After you file a repair claim with your provider, the repair shop you choose will typically handle further communications with the warranty company. Sometimes the claims process can result in some back and forth between the shop and the claims adjuster, causing delays.
In addition to keeping cars in the shop longer, Lofton said that these hiccups in the process can be a source of anxiety and frustration for warranty holders. However, he stressed that it’s important for people to stay calm and allow the shop and provider to work through the issues.
“A repair facility will work directly with the claims adjuster who ultimately approves or denies the claim. When you contact the warranty company as a customer, you’ll typically speak to a customer service representative whose main goal is to keep you satisfied. They may have limited knowledge about the claim’s status since they don’t have access to the same system as the claims adjuster. Calling the customer service representative every day may not significantly impact the speed of completion or the likelihood of claim approval, so patience is key in these situations.”
Extended Car Warranty Cost
The average cost of an extended warranty is about $128 per month, based on quotes we received from the industry’s leading providers. Extended warranty costs also include deductibles, which you only have to pay when you need a covered repair.
Depending on which plan you choose, extended car warranty deductibles typically range from $0 to $200. When different levels of coverage, deductibles and other factors are taken into consideration, this means that the total cost of an extended warranty can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more.
Extended Auto Warranty Cost Factors
To ensure you get the best coverage at a price you can afford, it helps to understand how providers determine extended warranty pricing. Factors that are important in determining what you will pay for coverage include:
- Deductible: A low deductible usually leads to a higher contract cost, and vice versa.
- Coverage length: Longer-lasting contracts typically cost more.
- Coverage type: Exclusionary, bumper-to-bumper warranties often cost more than basic powertrain protection.
- Vehicle type: Older cars and higher-mileage used cars tend to break down more frequently, making coverage costs higher.
- Existing coverage: If your vehicle is still covered by the factory warranty when you reach out for a quote, you’ll likely pay less for added coverage.
- Provider: Increased competition between third-party providers drives contract costs down.
Extended Car Warranty Monthly Payments
Depending on the provider, drivers can pay for their extended warranty plans up front, through a monthly payment plan or roll it into their vehicle’s financing plan. In general, you can expect to pay less overall if you choose a payment structure that includes a larger upfront payment, higher deductible and isn’t included in your vehicle’s financing.
While lower payments and deductibles may sound easier in the short term, these options usually lead to higher extended warranty costs in the long run.
Can You Cancel an Extended Car Warranty?
For drivers who aren’t happy with their coverage, most providers offer 30-day money-back guarantees. After 30 days, prorated refunds are usually available. To cancel an extended warranty, you need to contact the contract administrator and submit a written cancellation request. You may also need to provide a notarized odometer statement.
Are Extended Car Warranties Worth It?
Purchasing an extended warranty can be a smart choice for some car owners, but it isn’t the right decision for everyone. For this reason, it’s best to consider your situation when shopping for a contract.
Since cars with higher repair costs benefit most from extended warranties, your expected vehicle repair expenses are the most important factor in determining whether or not an extended car warranty is worth it. Here are some average annual repair costs for popular automakers, according to RepairPal:
Car Brand | Average Annual Repair Cost |
Honda | $428 |
Acura | $501 |
Lexus | $551 |
Subaru | $617 |
Ford | $775 |
BMW | $968 |
Land Rover | $1,174 |
After considering your expected repair costs, you may determine that an extended warranty is worth it because you cannot afford to pay out of pocket for unexpected repairs. On the other hand, you may decide that purchasing an extended warranty isn’t worth it.
Should I Buy an Extended Car Warranty?
If you own a highly reliable vehicle with inexpensive repair costs or plan to sell your car before the factory warranty expires, a vehicle protection plan may not be worth the cost. This is also true for drivers with savings set aside for auto repairs.
An extended warranty is typically worth it for drivers who own unreliable vehicles that are expensive to maintain. Others who are likely to see the most benefits from extended warranty coverage include:
- Drivers who want peace of mind: Vehicle repairs can be costly to pay for out of pocket. Once your manufacturer’s warranty expires, you’re financially responsible for any mechanical or electrical breakdowns. Extended warranties foot the bill for covered repairs, easing anxiety over future issues.
- Drivers who want a predictable auto budget: By paying for a vehicle service contract up front, through a monthly payment plan or as part of your vehicle’s financing, you’re protected against paying for a surprise repair bill after an unexpected mechanical breakdown. Instead, just pay your monthly amount and your deductible in case of an accident.
- Drivers who plan on owning their vehicle for a long time: According to research from Statista, the average age of operable light vehicles in the U.S. was 12.5 years as of 2023. Since most manufacturers’ bumper-to-bumper warranties expire within 4 years/50,000 miles, you could be driving an unprotected vehicle for over half its life span.
Read more: Should You Get An Extended Warranty?
Buying an Extended Car Warranty
If you have decided an extended warranty is right for your situation, it’s important to do your research during the buying process. This starts with understanding the various types of providers that offer extended warranties.
Aftermarket Extended Warranty vs. Manufacturer Extended Warranty
In addition to buying an aftermarket extended warranty from a third-party car warranty provider, you can also purchase an extended warranty from the vehicle manufacturer. Here are a few things to consider when you’re deciding which type of extended warranty you want:
Manufacturer Plans | Third-Party Plans | |
Purchase Date | Typically when the vehicle is purchased or before the factory warranty expires | Anytime |
Repair Facility | Dealership or authorized auto repair center | Any licensed repair shop |
Cancellation | Varies by manufacturer | Varies by provider, but generally a fee of about $50 |
Transferability | Transferable | Transferable |
Third-Party vs. Manufacturer Warranties: Pros and Cons
There are pros and cons to any vehicle protection contract, and we’ll outline the main characteristics of third-party and manufacturer warranties below:
Manufacturer Warranties | Third-party Warranties | |
Pros | Reputable | Affordable contracts |
Guarantees factory-trained technicians and genuine parts | Up to five or six warranty options with some providers | |
Long-term limits with some providers | ||
Cons | Strict eligibility requirements | Some disreputable providers or potential scams |
Possibility of dealership markups | No guarantee for factory-trained technicians or genuine parts | |
Limited plan choices with some providers |
Vehicle Service Contracts: What To Look For
It’s also important to understand what is and isn’t covered in your contract. One of the top complaints from drivers who have purchased extended warranties is expensive repairs not being covered.
To avoid disappointment down the road, read the fine print on your contract thoroughly before buying the plan. Look for specifications on:
- Labor rate coverage limits
- What defines mechanical failure
- Maximum payout per contract
- Original equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts coverage
- Waiting periods or inspections required before coverage
- Required maintenance documentation
- Emergency repair procedures
- Cancellations (make sure there’s a money-back guarantee) and contract transfers
Our Extended Warranty Survey
In November 2023, our team surveyed 1,000 people who had purchased an extended car warranty. Coverage was the most important factor when choosing a provider for 53% of respondents. Cost was second, with 23% of those surveyed reporting that the price of the warranty was the most important consideration.
Compare Extended Car Warranty Quotes
Once you understand the coverage that’s available and have determined the level of protection you need, the best way to get the most bang for your buck when purchasing an extended warranty is to compare costs and coverage options from multiple providers. To get the best deal possible, we recommend getting at least three free car warranty quotes.
Best Extended Auto Warranty: The Bottom Line
To recap, our top picks for the best extended car warranties are Endurance, autopom!, Carchex, CarShield and Omega Auto Care. The best option for one driver isn’t necessarily the best for another, so we encourage you to get a few quotes from different companies and compare the plans side-by-side.
Endurance
4.6
Reputation:8.8/10
Coverage:9.7/10
Cost:9.1/10
Transparency:9.5/10
Customer Experience:8.5/10
Memorial Day Special – Save $400 Off Any Plan
Quick Facts
- BestComprehensive Coverage
- Mileage Covered: Unlimited Mileage
- Longest Warranty Term: Up to 8 years
- Money-Back Guarantee: Up to 30 Days
- Coverage Options:6 different plans to choose from
- Discounts: $300 same-day signup discount, $250 shopping voucher, and others
Plan Coverage and Perks
Plan coverage includes | Endurance Elite perks™ |
---|---|
Exclusionary plan | One-year membership for free |
Powertrain plan | Tire repair and replacement |
Maintainance coverage with Endurance Advantage | Key fob replacement |
Roadside assistance | Total loss protection |
Towing | Collision discount |
Rental car | $250 rewards voucher |
Trip interruption coverage | Endurance Protect app |
Our Warranty Experts
Matt LoftonOwner and President of Strut Daddy’s Complete Car Care
Extended Car Warranty: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about extended car warranties.
An extended warranty is an optional service agreement that covers mechanical breakdowns on a car. Technically, a manufacturer is the only entity that can truly extend a warranty. Vehicle service contracts offer similar coverage for repairs and are often called extended warranties, but they’re administered by third-party providers.
Extended warranties differ from standard auto insurance coverage. An extended auto warranty covers mechanical breakdowns caused by defective parts, meaning it won’t cover accidents or collisions. Some car insurance companies offer similar coverage through mechanical breakdown insurance, but this isn’t a standard option.
Extended car warranties can be worth it for drivers looking for peace of mind after their car’s factory warranty expires. It may also be a worthwhile investment for those with unreliable cars and drivers looking to establish predictable auto budgets.
A fair price for an extended car warranty is generally between $1,500 and $4,000. While this is a wide range, over 30% of the 1,000 respondents in our car warranty survey reported paying about $1,000 to $2,000 for their vehicle service contracts.
Our Methodology
Because consumers rely on us to provide objective and accurate information, we created a comprehensive rating system to formulate our rankings of the best extended car warranty companies. We collected data on dozens of auto warranty providers to grade the companies on a wide range of ranking factors. The end result was an overall rating for each provider, with the companies that scored the most points topping the list.
Here are the factors our ratings take into account:
- Coverage (30% of total score): Companies that offer a variety of choices for warranty coverage, long contract terms and added benefits are more likely to meet consumer needs.
- Cost (30% of total score): Auto warranty companies with affordable rates and multiple deductibles scored highest in this category.
- Transparency (20% of total score): This score is based on contract transparency and the availability of a money-back guarantee.
- Reputation (10% of total score): Our research team considers availability, ratings from industry experts and years in business when conferring this score.
- Customer experience (10% of total score): Based on customer satisfaction ratings and our extensive shopper analysis, we consider the responsiveness, friendliness and helpfulness of each warranty company’s customer service team.
Our credentials:
- 500+ hours researched
- 50 companies reviewed
2,000+ consumers surveyed
*Data accurate at time of publication.
View Plans For Our #1 Provider – Endurance
×
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team ateditors@marketwatchguides.com.