CONCEPT CARS

There are several vital questions that arise when one goes out to purchase a new car and though the dilemma of fuel consumption and leather interior is easily solved, potential buyers are usually stumped when the subject of extended warranty arises. The extended warranty will come up during the paperwork phase of any car purchase as the subject usually causes trepidation while still standing in the lot itself next to that ‘must-have’ car. The value of any extended warranty primarily depends upon the value the buyer puts into it. There are a few considerations to think about before agreeing to that extended warranty that will ultimately result in how much the extended warranty will really mean down the road.
An extended warranty can mean a lot, or very little depending upon what kind of car and how often the purchaser uses it. Research is the key in deciding if, at all, an extended warranty will be needed. Essentially, an extended warranty offers coverage after the initial manufacturers warranty expires. An extended warranty includes repair coverage for items such as the transmission and even smaller issues involving windows or doors. It is important to consider how long the car will remain in the ownership of the purchaser and for what use the car will be used for. It may not be a good idea to buy an extended warranty if the car will be traded in for a newer model in a few short years. However, if the purchaser is going to rely on the car for several years the peace of mind that an extended warranty will provide will be the way to go. Know what is covered with the extended warranty and understand what common mechanical issues the car may encounter. If the model of the car has been known to have trouble with the transmission, make sure the extended warranty covers any transmission problems. Some extended warranties dictate that the purchaser will be charged per visit or per issue a fixed rate and that only the original dealership or an outside mechanic can look at the car for the visit to be covered so be aware of this as well.
An extended warranty does not have to be bought at the dealership. Since this warranty goes into effect after the initial warranty expires, it can be bought afterwards at the same dealership that sold the car or at another dealership. One of the only benefits of buying an extended warranty at the dealership as the car is being purchased is that the dealership may include the extended warranty in the financing. Other than that, the extended warranty can be put off until a later date and depending upon the time frame or the mileage the surcharge may be waived depending upon the make, model and car dealership.
It is important to read and thoroughly understand all aspects of the extended warranty before purchasing one as this will determine its value when the time comes to use it. While the initial investment of such a warranty will not be gained, the use and value of one will become well appreciated when the time comes to take it into the shop well after the initial warranty has expired.