The decision to get an extended car warranty is like whether you should pack an umbrella for a rainy afternoon. It can be a real lifesaver… or it could just be another thing to carry. You can get hit with car repairs harder than by a surprise hailstorm. This is where warranties come into play. Are they the game changers they claim to have been? Find out more.
Imagine you’re driving around in your prized car when your annoying check engine light suddenly starts blinking. Ugh. That’s the headache of someone else if you have a warranty. But without it, that one light could drain your bank account faster than you can even say “car service!”
Let’s take a look at what is usually covered by these warranties. Major components like your transmission, engine and even some of the electrical systems are usually covered. However, wear-and tear items like tires and brakes are rarely covered. If you are expecting your insurance to cover every hiccup in your car, then you may be barking at the wrong tree.
Are we ready to talk about money now? Extended warranties can cost a lot. I’m talking about warranties that can cost the same as a junker vehicle! How can you justify paying so much for something they may never use? Do you feel like you’re buying swamp land in Texas when you do this?
What’s more, here is the clincher. An acquaintance of mine bought an extended warranty and grumbled all the way. Then, a year later, his automatic transmission decided to go on an unplanned trip. What is the warranty? Did it all. He went from skeptics into advocates faster than one could say “I said so.”
It’s not just the salespeople who are able to talk you into buying a car. They present pictures of catastrophic engines failures, conveniently coupled with horror tales of eye-watering reparation bills. They tell you stories, like fishermen brag about the one who got away. Not everyone has your best interests in mind. It’s their job sell you this guarantee.
What about reviews from customers? As you navigate the landscape, it’s like herding kittens. Others regret the day they signed on. It all comes down to coverage details, but also, more importantly, reputation of the company.
Also, before you purchase anything, make sure to do some research. To check for any red flags, the Better Business Bureau comes in handy. Also, do you read online reviews? Take it like a hunt for treasure. Look for patterns, whether people are raving or complaining about service.
Consider this scenario. Sally who lives down the street chose not to extend her warranty on her brand-new SUV. Sally’s engine blew up. Her repair bill? A staggering five grand. She’s so angry at herself. Jake also bought an extended service warranty. When his air-conditioning broke during peak summer, it’s likely that he danced a jig because he didn’t have to pay the repair bill.
You can enjoy peace ofmind with an extended car warranty. It’s like having a safety net in your wallet. These warranties don’t fit all, but they can be a good option for some. Some people will never pay the money. They prefer to play it safe. Some people feel safer knowing they have insurance for the car equivalent to a wet day.
When deciding on whether or to not sign an extended guarantee, you should weigh the pros against the cons. Your hard-earned money is at stake. Even if it’s never raining, do you always keep an umbrella nearby? Or would you rather take your chances no matter what happens? It doesn’t matter which option you pick, as long as it leaves you comfortable behind the steering wheel of your favorite vehicle, this is what matters.