I keep receiving things in the mail about an extended warranty. What is an extended warranty and should I buy one?
Answers from the Automotive Experts
Dear Lia,
Usually the extended warranties that come in the mail are not very good. An extended warranty is a good idea as long as the coverage is good. You need an inclusive warranty that is much like a bumper to bumper. If it is stated coverage only the parts that are listed are covered so read the fine print!
Patti
The definition of an "extended warranty" is a policy to cover you for certain expenses if you should have mechanical failures on your vehicle. When the car was new it carried a Factory Warranty and when that expires the "extended warranty" takes over.
You need to be very very careful in purchasing a warranty over the internet. I would suggest you contact your local dealership of the type of car you have and ask them about FACTORY Extended Service Plans that might be available for your vehicle.
If you plan on keeping your car for a very long time or a lot of miles it might be beneficial to have the extended plan. But you must be very sure it is accepted where your car is serviced and read the fine print very carefully as it only covers specific parts of your vehicle, i.e. the engine, transmission, powertrain and possible the electrical components and not every piece of the vehicle.