Speed Reads:
- Endurance offers the widest selection of vehicle protection plans and tops our list of Best Extended Warranties in 2023.
- With its affordable payments and unlimited-mile contracts, ForeverCar was recognized for providing the best value and was the runner-up in our overall rankings.
- Olive, which has the best online warranty, is an innovative provider that delivers simplicity, transparency, and consistency to customers.
While the best extended auto warranty coverage plans can offer you peace of mind after the factory warranty on your car expires, finding the right one for your needs can be difficult. From used car dealers to robocalls, there’s a lot to navigate.
To shed some light on this issue, our team spent 1,475 hours researching the auto warranty industry. In this article, we’ll share our findings on the top extended car warranties in detail and discuss our rankings, which are based on key factors that we’ve found matter the most to customers.
Extended Car Warranty Ratings
Based on an extensive research study of the vehicle service contract industry, we assessed the available vehicle protection plans and rated them on a scale from 1.0 to 5.0 stars. This overall score is weighted based on factors most important to extended car warranty customers: coverage, cost, transparency, customer experience, and reputation.
What Are The Best Extended Car Warranties?
Our study found that the following providers, whose scores in each rating category are highlighted in the table below, offer the best-extended car warranties:
| Best Extended Car Warranty | Motor1 Award | Overall Rating | Cost Rating | Coverage Levels | Year Founded | Customer Service Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1: Endurance | Best Coverage | 4.6 | 4.5 | 6 | 2006 | 4.4 |
| #2: ForeverCar | Best Value | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4 | 2011 | 4.1 |
| #3: Olive | Best Online Warranty | 4.5 | 4.8 | 3 | 2000 | 4.3 |
| #4 CarShield | Best Monthly Payments | 4.5 | 4.6 | 6 | 2005 | 4.2 |
| #5: CARCHEX | Best for Used Cars | 4.4 | 4 | 5 | 1999 | 3 |
| #6: Protect My Car | Best Customer Experience | 4.4 | 4.2 | 3 | 2005 | 4.4 |
| #7: Omega Auto Care | 4.4 | 4.1 | 3 | 4.4 | ||
| #8: autopom! | Best Claims Process | 4.3 | 3.9 | 4 | 2009 | 4.6 |
Extended Warranty Reviews: Our Process
Each year, our research team collects hundreds of data points on extended car warranty plans to rank the best coverage on the market. We compare pricing from quotes obtained via secret shopping, analyze coverage quality and plan options, and evaluate contract transparency and customer satisfaction.
The extensive data we collect is used to create a score in each review category based on a systematic rating methodology. To keep our data current, we refresh our data points throughout the year. Below, you can learn more about how ratings are determined in each category:
Coverage
Focused on overall coverage quality, this rating is based on types of extended warranty plans available, coverage term length, and added benefits like roadside assistance. A provider scores high if it offers more than three plans and mileage limits over 150,000 miles. Because it is uncommon in the industry, coverage options for maintenance items like brake pads are also noted.
Cost
The overall cost of coverage is one of the most significant factors that impact customers’ decisions about buying an extended warranty. The review score for cost is determined by comparing the price per year of coverage from various providers, with higher scores being awarded for lower average rates.
To accurately estimate warranty pricing information, our research team reviews sample quotes for a variety of plans and vehicles. This data is compiled from over 140 individual quotes we received from different companies for a range of plans and payment options. We present example quotes in this article, but be aware that you may find different prices based on personal factors like vehicle type, provider, length and level of coverage, and more.
Contract Transparency
Transparency is an important quality to look for in extended warranty providers. Some companies make it easy to find sample contracts and read the fine print, while others make it difficult. Our transparency score takes into account sample contract accessibility as well as the presence of a money-back guarantee.
Customer Service
Great coverage options and prices don’t mean anything if the company doesn’t have good customer service. We comb through customer reviews and perform our own shopper analysis to get a sense of the responsiveness and helpfulness of each warranty company. When speaking to representatives, our researchers assess issues like whether agents are more likely to explain coverage or whether they are more focused on making a sale.
Industry Standing
Warranty providers with a history of strong business practices and endorsements from experts receive the highest scores in this category. We look at the longevity of a company, its availability by state, partnerships with industry leaders like RepairPal or CARFAX, Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, and more.
Extended Warranty Customer Reviews
How we weigh each of these categories to determine the overall score is influenced by a survey conducted by our research team. To complete the survey, we polled 1,000 consumers who have purchased or thought about purchasing an extended warranty.
Which factors are most important to consumers when purchasing an extended warranty? Most respondents answered that coverage was the most important factor.
Below are the top five things most important to extended warranty customers:
- Coverage (52%)
- Cost (19%)
- Customer service (13%)
- Transparency (10%)
- Industry standing (5%)
Of those who had extended warranties (whether they had used coverage or not), 65 percent of respondents were satisfied, and 13 percent of respondents were dissatisfied to some degree.
Best Extended Car Warranties
Endurance is our top pick overall for its wide selection of coverage options and reasonable prices. However, you may find another company on our list is a great fit for you depending on your situation.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there are a number of extended warranties that rise above the rest in the areas that matter most to customers. To present customers with a range of the top extended car warranties to compare, we review each of our top picks in detail below:
1. Endurance: Best Coverage
Why we chose it: Widest selection of standard warranties and maintenance plans
Number of plans: Six
Average cost: $646 per year
Highest mileage limit: 100,000 Miles
Endurance was the top-ranking provider in our review of the best extended car warranties, mainly because the company offers the widest selection of standard warranties and maintenance plans. Given the number of extensive coverage options and other features the company provides, you’ll likely be able to find Endurance coverage that fits your needs.
An Endurance warranty can be worth purchasing for several reasons:
- Collision discount: Endurance Elite Benefits include a reimbursement of $500 per covered collision to help with your car insurance deductible (up to $1,000 total).
- Highline add-on: The Supreme Highline add-on can cover performance luxury vehicles – for example, many of the Mercedes AMG vehicles and BMW M Series models.
Endurance Extended Warranty Coverage
Endurance offers plenty of options when it comes to warranty plans, providing six tiers of coverage that range from basic powertrain warranty coverage to factory-level coverage. While term lengths aren’t specified for each tier, we were able to find that coverage is offered up to 8 years/200,000+ miles.
Endurance Warranty Plans
With six tiers of protection, you can choose the coverage that best suits your needs and wallet. One plan in particular, EnduranceAdvantage, is unique in the industry because it offers both extended warranty coverage and vehicle maintenance.
Additionally, Endurance now offers a Highline add-on to its Supreme plan to cover a wide variety of luxury models, from BMW and Land Rover to Maserati and Porsche. Let’s take a look at the different tiers and what each car warranty plan covers:
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme | Exclusionary coverage | The most extensive plan with bumper-to-bumper protection |
| Superior | Most stated-component coverage | Covers hundreds of components |
| Secure Plus | Fast coverage | Covers steering, electrical, and brakes with a shorter waiting period (30 days and 1,000 miles) than the Select Premier plan |
| Secure | Most affordable coverage option | Covers the most vital car components |
| Select Premier | Older vehicles | Covers basic powertrain components |
| EnduranceAdvantage™ | Aftermarket auto warranty and maintenance coverage | Combines mechanical breakdown coverage with maintenance services like oil changes |
*There are three levels of coverage within the EnduranceAdvantage™ plan – Prime, Plus, and Preferred – all of which include high-level, stated-component coverage and many maintenance services.
Like all extended warranties, Endurance doesn’t cover everything. Plans exclude damage from the environment and lack of maintenance. They also exclude wear items like filters and brake pads, unless covered under the EnduranceAdvantage maintenance plan.
Endurance Benefits
Each Endurance plan comes with the following perks:
- Roadside assistance: Covers battery jump-starts, lockout assistance, spare tire installation, fuel delivery, and towing up to a maximum cost per occurrence
- Rental car reimbursement: Covers rental car costs while your car is in the shop after a covered repair, up to a limit
- Trip interruption: Covers food and lodging if your vehicle breaks down over 100 miles from home, up to a limit
Along with the basic benefits above, every Endurance plan also includes one free year of Endurance Elite Benefits, which include:
- Key fob replacement: Covers up to $500 to replace your key fob if its lost or stolen
- Tire replacement/repair: Covers up to two tires per year
- Collision discount: Covers up to $500 toward collision damage repairs per accident ($1,000 total limit)
- Total loss protection: Covers up to $1,000 for a replacement vehicle after a total loss
These unique benefits are some of the best you’ll find in the extended auto warranty industry. The downside is that you have to pay to get these Endurance Elite benefits for more than the first year.
Endurance Car Warranty Cost
Compared to other companies, Endurance offers relatively affordable coverage considering the number of years the plans cover.
Endurance plans can range from a total of $3,200 to $4,900, depending on the coverage and terms you select. Monthly payments range from $107 to $163 over 24 or 30 months.
Below are several quotes our team received for Endurance warranties:
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | Supreme | 5 years/100,000 miles | $114 for 30 months | $3,420 |
| Mid-level | Superior | 5 years/100,000 miles | $134 for 24 months | $3,224 |
| Powertrain | Secure | 5 years/54,000 miles | $133 for 24 months | $3,199 |
*These quotes have a $100 deductible and apply to a 2017 CR-V with 45,000 miles.
In addition to offering comprehensive coverage at affordable rates, Endurance leverages its 17 years of experience as a direct provider to provide a top-notch customer experience. As a direct provider, Endurance cuts out the middleman because it administers the contracts it sells.
This enables Endurance to deliver a smooth claims process for customers, who can easily connect with the provider online or by phone when they need a covered repair.
The solid customer experience that Endurance offers is reflected in positive online reviews. On Trustpilot, the company has a score of 3.8 out of 5.0 stars and a “Great” rating based on reviews from 6,558 customers.
Though it isn’t accredited and has no rating from the Better Business Bureau, Endurance has a 3.63 out of 5.0-star rating from customers on the platform, based on 2,346 reviews.
For more information on this extended car warranty provider, check out our complete Endurance warranty review.
2. ForeverCar: Best Value
Why we chose it: Simple three-year contracts with affordable payments
Number of plans: Four
Average cost: $700 per year
Highest mileage limit: Unlimited miles
ForeverCar extended warranties are a good option for those looking for affordable coverage for cars less than 10 years old. We found that the company overall had the following:
- Good coverage options: ForeverCar’s lowest plan offers more than a basic powertrain contract, and the plan with the highest coverage can cover wear-and-tear items like brake pads.
- Good value: ForeverCar is a great company to look into if you’re on a budget. Monthly payments and total plan costs are affordable compared to other options in the industry.
- Wear and tear coverage: ForeverCar’s highest level of coverage includes wear and tear items like brake pads, which is a rarity in the industry.
ForeverCar Extended Warranty Coverage
ForeverCar offers simple coverage plans. All plans last for three years and have unlimited miles. Although ForeverCar doesn’t list a maximum mileage limit, it doesn’t cover vehicles beyond 10 model years old.
Plans last three years regardless of mileage, and once the payment is over you can reapply for another contract if your vehicle is still eligible. The company’s plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and are available in all states except Washington and California.
ForeverCar Extended Warranty Plans
You can choose between four plans, which are highlighted below, depending on the condition of your vehicle.
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum Plus | Factory coverage for newer vehicles | Covers almost any breakdown except for a list of exclusions and also covers wearable parts like fuses, light bulbs, and brake pads |
| Platinum | Factory coverage for newer vehicles | Covers almost any breakdown except for a list of exclusions |
| Gold | Enhanced coverage for most major systems | Protects most major systems of the vehicle and adds enhanced coverage for a variety of electrical and mechanical components |
| Silver | Basic coverage for most major systems | Protects most major systems of the vehicle |
ForeverCar Perks
All ForeverCar contracts come with the following perks:
- Roadside assistance
- Rental car reimbursement
- Trip interruption
ForeverCar Extended Warranty Cost
The total cost of a ForeverCar warranty ranges from about $1,740 to $1,890, which is a great rate compared to much of the industry. All the ForeverCar quotes our team received included monthly payments of about $50 for a payment period of 36 months. ForeverCar offers plans with deductible options of $0, $100, $250, or $500.
All in all, the costs offered by ForeverCar are cheaper than those offered by most competitors. Yet be aware that plans may cost more for an older car or a vehicle with more miles.
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | Platinum | 3 years/unlimited miles | $53 for 36 months | $1,890 |
| Mid-level | Gold | 3 years/unlimited miles | $50 for 36 months | $1,798 |
| Powertrain | Silver | 3 years/unlimited miles | $48 for 36 months | $1,744 |
*These quotes have a $100 deductible and apply to a 2017 CR-V with 45,000 miles.
Our quote experience with ForeverCar was fast and easy. To get prices for multiple plans, all you need to do is fill out an online form answering a few basic questions about your vehicle.
ForeverCar has been in business since 2011 and has an A+ rating with accreditation from the BBB. The company also has a 4.8-star rating on Trustpilot from over 4,700 customer reviews.
For more information on this extended auto warranty provider, check out our ForeverCar warranty review.
3. Olive: Best Online Warranty
Why we chose it: Innovative online warranty company with easy-to-understand plans
Number of plans: Three
Average cost: $596 per year
Highest mileage limit: Unlimited miles
Olive is cheaper than many other top providers of vehicle service contracts. Our team reached out for quotes for different vehicles and received extended warranty rates consistently lower than other leading companies.
If you’re looking for a three-year warranty from a self-serve website, Olive could be a good option. Here are the reasons we like Olive:
- Affordability: Olive’s plans are typically more affordable than plans from its competitors.
- Transparency: The company’s website has a modern look, making comparing coverage levels easy. Olive provides an interactive table that shows coverage by vehicle system.
- Simplicity: Olive offers three plans that cover up to three years of the car’s life. You can make 36 monthly payments or three annual payments.
Olive Extended Warranty Coverage
With Olive, you have access to three plans with varying levels of coverage, ranging from bumper-to-bumper coverage to basic powertrain protection. Each of Olive’s plans, which have no waiting period before they take effect, are available in all 50 states.
Olive Extended Car Warranty Plans
The three different plans offered by Olive are depicted in further detail below.
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | The most comprehensive coverage | Protects virtually all mechanical and electrical components unless the component is specifically listed as not covered |
| Mid-Level | High-mileage vehicles | Protects the systems included in the lower-tier Powertrain-Plus plan, as well as named additional components within the steering, suspension, fuel delivery, cooling, and braking systems |
| Powertrain-Plus | Powertrain coverage with optional add-ons | Protects named components for the essential powertrain systems, with the option to add electrical, air conditioning, and fuel systems |
Olive Perks
Though all plans come with towing and rental car reimbursement, they don’t include roadside or trip interruption benefits. While this is somewhat unfortunate, not providing these services keeps prices low for customers.
Olive Extended Car Warranty Cost
Olive is another company that offers affordable coverage. The total cost quotes we received ranged from $1,310 to $2,382 for a 2017 Honda CR-V. Payments ranged from $36 to $66 per month for 36 months. Olive offers deductibles of $100, $250, or $500. As you click between deductibles on the quote screen, you’ll see that higher deductibles lower the overall cost.
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | Complete Care | 3 years/unlimited miles | $66 for 36 months | $2,382 |
| Mid-level | Powertrain Plus | 3 years/unlimited miles | $46 for 36 months | $1,668 |
| Powertrain | Powertrain | 3 years/unlimited miles | $36 for 36 months | $1,310 |
*These quotes have a $100 deductible and apply to a 2017 CR-V with 45,000 miles.
Olive was founded in 2000 but only recently began focusing efforts on selling its warranty products online. The company’s website, which includes a helpful chatbot feature, has the sleekest user experience of any site analyzed by our team.
This customer experience is reflected in online reviews. Olive has an A+ rating and accreditation from the BBB, where customers give the company a 3.4 out of 5.0-star rating.
For more information on Olive, check out our Olive warranty review.
4. CarShield: Best Monthly Payments
Why we chose it: Flexible monthly payment plans and the most popular provider
Number of plans: Six
Average cost: $1,580 per year
Highest mileage limit: Unlimited miles
CarShield can be a good idea for drivers who want maximum flexibility in a warranty contract. We like CarShield for its:
- Coverage options: CarShield offers a variety of standard plans plus a plan that covers high-tech components only.
- Month-to-month contracts: Carshield offers extra flexibility by letting you decide how long you want to keep a warranty plan.
- High mileage limit: CarShield’s 300,000-mile limit can cover a wider range of vehicles than most extended warranty companies.
CarShield Coverage
CarShield can cover vehicles up to 300,000 miles. That’s the highest mileage limit of any company on our best extended car warranty list. The maximum number of coverage years isn’t listed on the company website.
CarShield Protection Plans
CarShield has six levels of coverage for new and used cars. Though the company offers coverage for nearly any vehicle type, we especially like its specialty coverage for motorcycles, ATVs, and vehicles with high-tech systems and components.
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond | Owners looking to maintain factory-level coverage | Bumper-to-bumper coverage designed to be similar to a manufacturer’s warranty for new cars |
| Platinum | High-mileage vehicles | Comprehensive coverage |
| Gold | Coverage for both minor and major vehicle parts | Powertrain-plus coverage for the engine, transmission, water pump, air conditioning, starter, and more |
| Silver | The most basic coverage | Powertrain coverage for the most important parts of your vehicle |
| Aluminum | Vehicles with advanced electrical systems | Protects the engine control module, alternator, navigation/GPS, electrical system, starter, and more |
| Motorcycle & ATV | Motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles | Variety of coverage levels and contracts for specialty vehicles |
CarShield Perks
CarShield contracts come with the following perks:
- Roadside assistance
- Complimentary towing services
- Rental car reimbursement (included on most plans)
- Trip interruption
Like all extended warranties, CarShield plans come with numerous exclusions, so it’s important to ensure you fully understand what’s covered and what isn’t.
CarShield Cost
With low deductibles and month-to-month coverage, CarShield is also one of the most flexible options for cost and payments. All other companies on our list have contracts that start at three years, but you could get coverage for less than that with CarShield because you aren’t locked in.
Depending on the CarShield plan you choose, your payment may range from $110 to $200 per month. The table below shows cost estimates for different coverage tiers.
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | Diamond | Unlimited | $140 | Varies |
| Mid-level | Platinum | Unlimited | $120 | Varies |
| Powertrain | Silver | Unlimited | $110 | Varies |
*These quotes have a $100 deductible and apply to a 2017 CR-V with 45,000 miles.
Since your vehicle’s age and mileage help determine eligibility, the best way to determine how long you can cover your car is to contact CarShield.
CarShield started in 2005 and has protected over one million vehicles. The company has an average rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 stars across more than 34,000 Trustpilot reviews and gets 4.2 out of 5.0 stars from more than 12,000 Google reviews.
For more information on this vehicle service contract provider, check out our CarShield review.
5. CARCHEX: Best For Used Cars
Why we chose it: High mileage limits and strong industry reputation
Number of plans: Five
Average cost: $646 per year
Highest mileage limit: 125,000 miles
Based on our research, CARCHEX is one of our top choices for the best extended car warranty. The company has been in business for more than 20 years and offers five coverage levels with several plan options under each tier for a total of 16 warranty plans. We name it Best for Used Cars because it can cover up to 250,000 miles and offers affordable plans.
Here’s what makes the company stand out from others in the industry:
- Coverage selection: CARCHEX’s five plans range from factory-level coverage to basic protection. You can also upgrade different plans to cover luxury electronics or important emissions components.
- High mileage limit: CARCHEX’s limit of 250,000 miles gives you plenty of time to enjoy your vehicle while it’s covered for repairs.
- Benefits: As an added bonus, CARCHEX offers 24/7 roadside assistance as a perk with all its coverage plans. Most plans also come with rental car reimbursement and trip interruption coverage.
CARCHEX Extended Warranty Coverage
CARCHEX works with multiple contract administrators, including American Auto Shield and Royal Administration, so each contract has customization opportunities.
CARCHEX Coverage Plans
Let’s take a closer look at what a CARCHEX extended car warranty covers under each tier:
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Titanium | Owners looking for the most protection available | Exclusionary coverage, similar to a bumper-to-bumper warranty |
| Platinum | Long-term coverage of stated components | Hundreds of specific components covered |
| Silver | High-mileage vehicles | Provides essential coverage for many major systems |
| Bronze | Drivers looking for basic protection | Protects you against the most common and expensive repairs |
| Extra Care Coverage | Enhanced protection of non-powertrain parts | Provides protection for items outside of the powertrain, such as electrical system and suspension components |
CARCHEX Perks
All CARCHEX plans come with these three standard perks:
- Roadside assistance
- Rental car coverage
- Trip interruption
CARCHEX Extended Warranty Cost
According to quotes our team received from CARCHEX, five- and six-year plans range from $3,200 to $4,000, depending on the coverage and payment schedule you choose. Payments range from $177 to $222 per month. You can also pay for your entire plan up front and save a small amount of money. Additionally, you may find different prices based on your vehicle and the level of coverage you choose.
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | Titanium | 6 years/125,000 miles | $182 for 18 months | $3,281 |
| Mid-level | Platinum | 6 years/100,000 miles | $212 for 18 months | $3,824 |
| Powertrain | Bronze | 5 years/100,000 miles | $177 for 18 months | $3,191 |
*These quotes have a $100 deductible and apply to a 2017 CR-V with 45,000 miles.
For more information on this extended car warranty provider, check out our CARCHEX review.
6. Protect My Car: Best Customer Experience
Why we chose it: High customer satisfaction ratings on the BBB and Trustpilot
Number of plans: Three
Average cost: $1,365 per year
Highest mileage limit: 175,000 miles
Established in 2005 and based in St. Petersburg, Florida, Protect My car offers three warranty plans. We found that the provider offers solid coverage at an affordable price, making it worth considering if you want an extended car warranty.
The company provides several benefits for drivers, including:
- High coverage limit: Protect My Car can cover vehicles up to 200,000 miles.
- PMC Rewards: Protect My Car customers have access to PMC Rewards, a shopping and dining discounts reward program.
- Flexible payment terms: Protect My Car has flexible payment terms, with monthly payment plans that last between 36 and 48 months and allow you to finance your coverage over many years.
Protect My Car Coverage
Protect My Car offers three plans: Supreme, Select, and Driveline. The Supreme plan is similar to a factory warranty, while the Driveline plan covers the powertrain plus a few more systems. Protect My Car can cover up to 200,000 miles, which makes it another good option for high-mileage vehicles.
With Protect My Car’s two highest levels of protection, you will have a $100 deductible. Its lowest level of protection has a $200 deductible. A $0 deductible option isn’t available.
Protect My Car Plans
The table below explains each of the protection plans offered by Protect My Car in detail.
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme | Owners looking for something similar to the manufacturer's warranty | Designed for customers who need additional coverage because they plan to keep their new vehicles beyond the manufacturer’s factory warranty term |
| Select | Vehicles over 50,000 miles | Comprehensive extended warranty for cars that covers most systems of the vehicle |
| Driveline | Vehicles that are 4 to 10 years old with more than 80,000 miles | Covers many of the same components as the Supreme and Select plans, but excludes the front and rear suspension, turbocharger, and navigation system |
Protect My Car Perks
Protect My Car plans come with the following perks:
- Roadside assistance
- Rental car coverage
- Trip interruption
Customers also benefit from the PMC Rewards program. With this points program, you can get discounts at stores, restaurants, and hotels. You can also enter drawings for perks like free gift cards and products.
Protect My Car Extended Warranty Cost
Protect My Car offered relatively affordable monthly rates of around $100 on the quotes we received. Plans came with 36- or 48-month terms, so total costs ranged from $4,200 to $4,500.
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | Supreme | Up to 75,000 miles | $108 for 48 months | $5,184 |
| Mid-level | Select | Up to 75,000 miles | $98 for 48 months | $4,704 |
| Powertrain | Driveline | Up to 175,000 miles | $133 for 36 months | $4,788 |
*The Supreme and Select plans apply to a 2017 Honda CR-V with 45,000 miles and the Driveline plan applies to a 2013 Toyota Camry with 80,000 miles.
Protect My Car stands out because it has high customer satisfaction ratings, which is fairly unusual for the extended warranty industry. On the BBB, customers rate Protect My Car 4.1 out of 5.0, while Trustpilot customers rate it 4.4 out of 5.0.
For more information on this extended car warranty provider, check out our Protect My Car review.
7. Omega Auto Care
Why we chose it: High mileage limit with maintenance and tire protection
Number of plans: Three
Average Cost: $583 per year
Highest mileage limit: 106,000 miles
An Omega Auto Care warranty can be worth it if you have a high-mileage vehicle or want a warranty plan with some maintenance benefits. Here’s what we like about Omega Auto Care:
- High mileage limit: 250,000 miles can cover almost any vehicle you’d want to have a warranty on.
- Helpful benefits: Along with benefits like roadside assistance, all plans come with maintenance benefits for 12 months and tire hazard protection.
- Affordable plans: Quotes show plans cost about $583 per year of coverage, which is well below the average of $812 for the industry.
Omega Auto Care Extended Warranty Coverage
Omega Auto Care offers three main warranty plans – a factory-level plan, a mid-tier plan, and a powertrain plan that covers some additional systems. Plans can cover vehicles up to 250,000 miles, which puts Omega Auto Care in league with companies like CarShield, CARCHEX, and Endurance.
One unique thing about Omega Auto Care is that its powertrain plan has three levels of coverage itself: Powertrain, Powertrain Plus, and Powertrain Enhanced. So, if you count these three separately, drivers can pick between five plans in total.
Omega Auto Care Extended Warranty Plans
The table below provides further details into Omega Auto Care’s three warranty plans.
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| New Exclusionary | Cars up to 7 years old with less than 100,000 miles | Covers almost any breakdown except for a list of exclusions |
| Used Stated Coverage | Cars up to 10 years old with less than 150,000 miles | Covers a wide range of systems on the vehicle including electrical, air conditioning, steering, suspension, cooling, and more |
| Powertrain Protection | Cars up to 15 years old with less than 250,000 miles | Covers the engine, transmission, drive axle, and hybrid drive components (Powertrain Plus adds air conditioning and electrical, Powertrain Enhanced adds the fuel and cooling systems) |
Omega Auto Care Perks
Omega Auto Care plans come with the following perks:
- Roadside assistance
- Rental car coverage
- Trip interruption
In addition, the extended warranty provider also offers maintenance benefits plus tire hazard protection. Maintenance benefits include:
- Three oil changes
- $100 or $130 toward brake pads on select vehicles
- $100 toward one battery replacement
- $40 toward cooling system maintenance
- One safety inspection and wiper blade change
These maintenance benefits take effect during the second month of your contract and expire twelve months later. Tire hazard protection covers $20 toward tire repair per tire or $100 toward tire replacement with a maximum benefit of $400.
Omega Auto Care Extended Warranty Cost
Looking at the average cost per year of coverage, Omega Auto Care offers affordable plans for budget-conscious drivers. Monthly payments for the quotes we received were around $120, but you pay the plan off in two years instead of three or four. This results in below-average total costs that range from about $2,800 to $3,000. Considering plans last for five years, Omega Auto Care is a good deal.
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | New Exclusionary | 5 years/100,000 miles | $125 for 24 months | $3,000 |
| Mid-level | Used Stated Coverage | 5 years/106,000 miles | $121 for 24 months | $2,904 |
| Powertrain | Powertrain Enhanced Protection | 5 years/96,000 miles | $118 for 24 months | $2,832 |
*These quotes have a $100 deductible and apply to a 2017 CR-V with 45,000 miles. The deductible is $0 if the repair is performed by a RepairPal-certified mechanic.
Omega Auto Care has offered vehicle service contracts for over two decades and provides solid coverage options with good added benefits. Omega Auto Care also makes our list because it has an A+ rating from the BBB along with a 4.2-star customer rating on Trustpilot.
8. autopom!: Best Claims Process
Why we chose it: Strong customer service record for shopping and claims experience
Number of plans: Four
Average cost: $1,105 per year
Highest mileage limit: 75,000 miles
The name for autopom! comes from the company’s mission: to provide automotive peace of mind. The warranty company prides itself on its consultative approach to customer service and a low-pressure quotes process, which we like. Autopom!’s CEO is known for stepping in and helping out if a customer can’t get a claim approved when it should be.
An autopom! warranty can be worth it for drivers who want peace of mind when driving their vehicle. Here’s what we like about autopom!
- Customer service: Autopom! goes the extra mile to help customers get their claims approved and ensure they are satisfied.
- Added benefits: Along with roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and trip interruption, some autopom! plans come with tire repair coverage.
- Reputation: Autopom! has been in business since 2009, has an A+ rating from the BBB, and a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot.
Autopom! Coverage
Autopom! offers three extended warranties for cars: Exclusionary, Mid-Level, and Powertrain-Plus. The company can cover vehicles up to 150,000 miles. It’s a decent mileage limit, but it may not work for everyone.
Autopom! Car Warranty Plans
You can find further details on each of the plans offered by autopom! below.
| Warranty Plan | Recommended For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | The most comprehensive coverage | Protects virtually all mechanical and electrical components unless the component is specifically listed as not covered |
| Mid-Level | High-mileage vehicles | Protects the systems included in the lower-tier Powertrain-Plus plan, as well as named additional components within the steering, suspension, fuel delivery, cooling, and braking systems |
| Powertrain-Plus | Powertrain coverage with optional add-ons | Protects named components for the essential powertrain systems, with the option to add electrical, air conditioning, and fuel systems |
Autopom! Perks
Autopom! plans come with the following perks:
- Roadside assistance
- Rental car coverage
- Trip interruption
- Tire repair or replacement
Of these, tire repair is a benefit that only a few companies offer.
Autopom! Extended Warranty Cost
Based on our research, autopom! tends to cost between $130 to $160 per month, depending on the coverage level you choose. The total cost of an extended warranty from autopom! ranges from $4,700 to $5,800, which is slightly higher than the average range.
| Type | Plan Name | Term | Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusionary | Exclusionary | 5 years/75,000 miles | $155 for 36 months | $5,580 |
| Mid-level | Mid-Level | 5 years/75,000 miles | $145 for 36 months | $5,220 |
| Powertrain | Powertrain Plus | 4 years/48,000 miles | $130 for 36 months | $4,680 |
*These quotes have a $0 deductible and apply to a 2017 CR-V with 45,000 miles.
For more information on this extended vehicle warranty provider, check out our autopom! review.
Extended Car Warranties: What To Know
The sections below serve as a guide to help drivers who are looking for an extended car warranty find the best coverage to fit their needs and budget.
Extended Warranty Coverage
Extended car warranties cover repairs and replacements for breakdowns that come from normal use. Depending on your plan, it may cover your powertrain, electrical system, air conditioning, and other systems.
Most extended warranties don’t cover routine maintenance for your vehicle. Things such as oil changes, brake pads, and tires are usually the owner’s responsibility. The best extended car warranty providers have several coverage options, so you can select a plan that fits your vehicle’s needs.
Types Of Extended Car Warranties
Aftermarket car warranties generally fall under three main types: bumper-to-bumper, mid-tier, and powertrain. We’ve outlined some of the basics of each kind of warranty below:
- Bumper-to-bumper: Bumper-to-bumper warranties usually offer the most comprehensive coverage. Most include the car’s major mechanical systems, except for certain excluded items. The excluded components of a bumper-to-bumper extended warranty should be listed in the warranty details.
- Mid-tier: Mid-tier plans can cover up to a dozen systems on your vehicle. These include systems like the air conditioning, electrical, steering, suspension, and brake systems, along with the powertrain.
- Powertrain: Powertrain warranties cover the major parts that make your car go. This includes most of the internal parts of the engine, transmission, and drive axle. Extended powertrain warranties are usually recommended for high-mileage or older vehicles.
Read the fine print of your warranty or look at a sample contract to make sure you know what type of service contract your aftermarket car warranty falls under.
Extended Car Warranty Exclusions
Extended car warranties only cover components that break down as a result of normal use. Damage resulting from an accident, misuse, or improper maintenance won’t be covered. Certain items aren’t covered under any circumstance. These typically include non-mechanical parts such as bumpers, glass, trim, and upholstery. Wear and tear items such as tires, brake pads, wiper blades, and shock absorbers are also typically excluded from coverage.
Extended Auto Warranty Vs. Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
Some car insurance providers offer mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI). This is an add-on that covers mechanical issues similar to an extended auto warranty. However, MBI often requires you to visit a small network of dealerships, and it usually doesn’t last as long as plans from the best car warranty providers.
Extended Car Warranty Cost
Based on our research, extended warranties lasting between three and six years cost anywhere from $1,600 to $4,500 on average. Bumper-to-bumper warranties tend to be more expensive as they cover more components. Longer-lasting coverage also increases the contract price. Other factors that affect car warranty costs include:
- Deductible
- Vehicle age, make, model, and mileage
- Existing coverage
- Location
- Provider
What Is A Good Price For An Extended Car Warranty?
A good price for a comprehensive extended car warranty is between $2,000 and $3,500 in total. Prices vary depending on the coverage and limitations you select. Many companies offer monthly payments that range from $80 to $125.
Can You Buy An Extended Car Warranty After Purchase?
You can buy an extended warranty from a reputable third-party provider at almost any time after purchase. Manufacturers, on the other hand, usually require you to buy an extended warranty before the factory warranty expires. Some only allow you to buy one when you purchase the vehicle.
How Do Extended Warranties Work?
An extended warranty helps protect you by covering the cost of certain repairs if a mechanical or electrical component breaks down. Exactly which parts are covered depends on your contract. Typically, there are two types of coverage plan options: exclusionary coverage and named-component coverage.
- Exclusionary coverage: This type of car warranty plan covers all parts of your vehicle in the case of a mechanical breakdown, except for a short list of excluded parts and components.
- Stated-component coverage: This type of auto warranty, also known as inclusionary coverage, is essentially the opposite of exclusionary coverage. Your contract will specifically list the covered parts and systems. Any parts not listed aren’t covered.
Stated-Component Car Warranty Plans
Within stated-component coverage, you can find various plan levels, such as:
- High-stated coverage: Just one step below factory-level coverage, this level usually covers most of the main systems of the car and can cover thousands of components of the vehicle.
- Powertrain Plus: This covers the powertrain and a few important systems, like the air conditioning, steering, and electrical components.
- Basic powertrain: This is typically the lowest protection level an extended warranty company offers and is comparable to a powertrain warranty. It covers repair costs for the engine, drivetrain, and transmission. These can be costly repairs, so it’s a good idea to protect them on high-mileage cars.
Are Extended Warranties Worth It?
You may have never been in an accident, but you still need car insurance. The reasoning for an extended car warranty follows the same principle. You may not need it today, but if you ever do need it, you’ll be glad the protection was available.
The typical manufacturer offers bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage for 3 years/36,000 miles. While some manufacturer warranties, like the Hyundai warranty, cover you for longer, they still fall short of the more than 150,000 miles the average car owner can expect to put on their vehicle over the course of its lifetime.
For this reason, those who are planning to keep their vehicles for a long time should consider investing in an extended warranty. In fact, the opposite is also true. If you plan to sell your vehicle on the private market after a few years, a transferable service contract could make your car more appealing to potential buyers.
Just like with auto insurance, car owners should read the fine print of a vehicle service contract to see what’s excluded and what can potentially void a warranty. You should also make sure that you’re signing up for a monthly payment that fits within your finances. To be sure the extra coverage is a good decision for you, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of extended car warranties.
Benefit of Extended Warranty On Cars
Extended car warranties keep your car covered in the case of a mechanical or technological failure. Based on what type of car you have and how much it costs to own over its lifetime, this could save you money.
Besides protecting your vehicle after the manufacturer’s warranty expires, the best extended car warranties provide benefits such as:
- Convenience: If you have an issue covered by your service contract, you’ll know exactly who to call to get it fixed. Most warranty providers let you choose your own mechanic or repair facility. The best companies will even pay your repair shop directly.
- Risk mitigation: While some vehicles cost less than others to repair, recurring issues – or even just one costly repair – can quickly add up to a hefty repair bill. An aftermarket car warranty alleviates the cost of repairs as your vehicle ages.
- Added perks: Many of the best extended car warranty companies include benefits with their protection plans, such as roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, or towing services.
Remember, car insurance generally doesn’t cover repairs due to mechanical breakdowns. It covers damages caused by collisions and environmental factors, so don’t think that you’re in the clear just because you have auto insurance.
If you want full financial peace of mind, an extended warranty is worth looking into. Considering that car repairs become more likely and more frequent as cars age, it’s generally worthwhile to invest in an extended warranty that will cover your vehicle in its later years when the repair bills typically start to pile up.
Car Maintenance Cost
According to AAA, 64 million Americans don’t have the funds to cover unexpected car repair costs. Instead, they would go into debt to cover the bill. An average vehicle repair bill costs between $500 and $600, but when a major component breaks, you could be looking at far more.
Here are a few average prices for expensive car components according to data from RepairPal.
| Component | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Engine control unit | $925 to $1,002 |
| Turbocharger assembly replacement | $1,840 to $2,117 |
| Suspension assembly replacement | $852 to $928 |
| Catalytic converter | $1,695 to $1,733 |
Best Extended Auto Warranty Plans: Bottom Line
While there are many providers in the industry, we think Endurance has the best extended car warranty overall. The company offers a wide range of coverage options that last for several years and many miles. Plus, Endurance is a direct warranty provider, so you’ll never need to worry about dealing with any other company.
- #1 Endurance: Best Coverage
- #2 ForeverCar: Best Value
- #3 Olive: Best Online Warranty
- #4 CarShield: Best Monthly Payments
- #5 CARCHEX: Best for Used Cars
- #6 Protect My Car: Best Customer Experience
- #7 Omega Auto Care
- #8 autopom!: Best Claims Process
Getting a free quote online and comparing prices from several extended warranty providers can help you find the best fit for your car and budget.
Extended Car Warranty: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about extended car warranty coverage plans:
*Data accurate at time of publication.