Warranties: do you really need one?
When you buy a car, the dealership offers you a warranty on the vehicle. The question is, do you really need one? In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of car warranties available and whether or not they’re worth the investment.
What are my options when looking for a car warranty?
There are two main types of car warranties: bumper-to-bumper and powertrain. Bumper-to-bumper warranties cover almost everything on the car except for a few components like batteries, light bulbs, and brake pads. Powertrain warranties, on the other hand, only cover the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
How long do car warranties last?
Most new cars come with a bumper-to-bumper warranty that lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Powertrain warranties are usually longer, lasting for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties that last for up to 7 years or 100,000 miles.
What is usually included in a car warranty?
Most car warranties cover repair or replacement of components that fail due to manufacturer defects. However, CARCHEX reviews show that there is a lot of variation in what is actually included.
For example, some warranties may not cover routine maintenance such as oil changes, while others may cover the cost of towing if your car breaks down. It’s important to read the fine print of your warranty carefully so you know what is and isn’t covered.
Some extended warranties also require that you use specific repair shops, while others will allow you to choose your own. In general, it’s a good idea to purchase an extended warranty from a reputable company that offers coverage that meets your needs.
What are the pros and cons to having a car warranty?
The main benefit of having a car warranty is that it protects you from expensive repairs. If something goes wrong with your car, you can take it to the dealership and they will fix it for free. This can be a lifesaver if your engine blows up or your transmission fails.
Another benefit of car warranties is that they help to maintain your car’s value. If you have a warranty, dealerships will be more likely to accept your car as a trade-in when you’re ready to buy a new one.
The downside of car warranties is that they can be expensive. The cost of an extended warranty can add several thousand dollars to the price of a new car. And even though warranty companies like to advertise “free” extended warranties, nothing in life is truly free—these companies make their money by charging higher interest rates on loans for cars with warranties.
So, should you get a car warranty? It depends—if you’re worried about expensive repairs and want peace of mind, then it’s probably worth it. But if you’re looking to save money, you might want to skip it.
At the end of the day, whether or not you choose to get a car warranty is up to you. Weigh the pros and cons and decide what’s best for your situation. Whatever you decide, we hope this blog post has been helpful in making your decision!
