e-Gurukul.com

An extented auto warranty can give you piece of mind as your car gets older, but a common question is, how much additional coverage should I be looking for? The answer will depend primarily on three factors: the model of car you drive, how you drive it, and how long you want to keep it around.

Certain makes, models and years of vehicles will have different problems. While it might be easier to simply think of a certain type of car having a usual type of problem, that is not regularly the case. The wide variety of styles that an automaker offers usually means that the lines that are used to build them are completely separate, so any issues on one production line would not impact another.

Another thing to consider is the year. A car build one year might have certain issues that, once they become known, are fixed for the next year’s model. Knowing what problems are likely to arise in your particular type of car will tell you what sort of coverage you need. If your car is usually stable but sometimes exhibits transmission issues, you might be able to consider a cheaper powertrain-only coverage plan, rather than a more comprehensive - and expensive - bumper to bumper plan.

How you drive your car will also have an impact on what type of extended warranty you should get. A car that is driven often, but usually for short distances can get a plan that offers a long period of coverage, even with a restrictive amount of miles. In comparison, someone who drives long distances might find that a similar warranty expires long before they would like it to, due to the “whichever comes first” policy on mileage and years for coverage. Know what your driving style is going in, and choose a plan that will fit your requirements. Finding out later and trying to fit your driving into someone else’s mileage requirements will be a big hassle.

Don’t forget to consider how long you plan on keeping this car. An extented auto warranty is a wasted expense if you plan on trading in or selling your car within a year or two, unless you get a program that can be transferred to the new owner - that can actually be a selling point. Again, research is the key, and knowing what your future plans for the car are. Don’t buy something you will never use, or skimp on something you will require later.