extended warranty coverage for cars: value guide

Extended plans step in after the factory warranty, aiming to limit surprise repair bills as the car ages. Some mimic factory coverage; others protect only the powertrain. Price depends on mileage, vehicle complexity, and deductible.

What it can cover vs. what it skips

• Covers: engine, transmission, HVAC, steering, infotainment, sensors, and other electronics.
• Often excludes: wear items (brakes, tires), glass, trim, and routine maintenance.
• Key terms: deductible per visit, labor caps, roadside, rental, and consequential-damage rules.

A real-world moment

On a 6-year-old crossover, an infotainment module died; retail repair quoted $1,350. With a mid-tier plan, the owner paid a $100 deductible after a tow and got a loaner - useful, though not glamorous.

Compare

1. Coverage depth: named-component vs exclusionary.
2. Term and transferability; verify prior-authorization steps.
3. Provider network and claims speed - who pays the shop.
4. Price versus likely failures; skip add-ons you won't use.

(If you hear "bumper-to-bumper," pause - there's always fine print.)