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A common misconception is that by waiting to purchase extended warranty coverage, you will get coverage for a longer time. Much like life insurance costs rise as we age, the cost for a car extended warranty will rise as the vehicle ages and accrues mileage. You will be offered the longest terms and the lowest rates for newer vehicles with lower mileage.
We understand that you may have a warranty from the manufacturer. Our coverage is simply an extension of that, not double coverage. The manufacturer's warranty has been factored into your price quote. The more factory warranty you have remaining, the lower the cost and greater the length of the warranty extension. In other words, you are paying for tomorrow's coverage at today's rates. In addition, our Roadside Assistance benefit may prove to be invaluable during the Manufacturer's Warranty period.
FACT: The newer your vehicle, the lower the rates for extended coverage.
What risks do I have if I delay purchasing coverage?
- Coverage costs rise annually as parts and labor costs rise. Labor rates have risen by $15- $20 per hour in the past several years.
- As the vehicle ages and more repair data becomes available, many vehicles are placed into higher rate classes. Once you buy coverage, your rate class can not change.
- As the vehicle accrues mileage, it moves into higher rate classes.
The chart below illustrates how this works. Rates are based on a typical American sedan driven 14,000 miles per year.
Buy coverage on
or about this date |
Mileage |
Longest term offered |
Coverage expires...
(from coverage purchase date) |
Cost |
Cost of waiting |
New |
100 |
7 years |
7 years or 100,000 miles |
$1,100 |
none |
1 year old |
14,000 |
6 years |
6 years or 100,000 miles |
$1,400+ |
$300+ |
2 years old |
28,000 |
5 years |
5 years or 100,000 miles |
$1,650+ |
$550+ |
Just before factory warranty expires |
35,000 |
4 years |
4 years or 100,000 miles |
$1,775+ |
$675+ |
Vehicle out of warranty |
36,000+ |
4 years |
4 years or 100,000 miles |
$1,950 |
$850+ |