Top Questions to Ask Yourself before Buying a Used Car Warranty

We all want a reliable way to travel whether we are buying a new or used car. While new cars come with the advantage of zero mileage, there is no such guarantee in used cars. This is why you may need a used car warranty to cushion against future repairs.

When buying a used car, you have no guarantee where the previous owner maintained it. A used car warranty helps cushion against any repair expense that may arrive immediately after buying the car. Used cars come with a manufacturer warranty but it is valid within a short period. It is possible to extend this window period by purchasing an extended used car warranty.

Before you settle down for a used car warranty, there are a couple of questions to ask yourself.

Do you need a warranty?

The first question to ask yourself is how long you intend to keep the used car. Don’t get a warranty if you will have no use of the car within a year or two. This warranty is only helpful if you will be keeping the car for more than five years or a lifetime.

Who is issuing the warranty?

If the dealership offers a warranty for your used car, find out which company is behind it. A good warranty comes from a reputable company recognized by the car manufacturer. The warranty will be valid no matter where you take your car. If the car manufacturer does not acknowledge the warranty provider, then that warranty is only valid at the dealership.

Did you window shop first?

Car dealerships have a way of making you excited about buying a car from them. They will let you know that buying a used car warranty from them is a great deal as well. But is it? What if the same warranty cost a lot less from a different dealership? It is okay to shop around for different warranty offers before settling for one.

Ensure you do the research first before going to the dealership. This way, you are able to say no to their warranty because you have a better offer elsewhere.

What will the used car warranty cover?

It is good to read the fine details of what the warranty covers and does not cover. Most used car warranties will not cover car parts that are prone to damage or frequent replacement. Make sure you know all the repairs the warranty will cover. Are all expenses catered for or you have to chip in a little? Do you have to pay for the repairs and get reimbursed later? Ensure you understand the fine details.

Have you done car repairs before?

Before getting a used car warranty, check your history of car repairs. If you fixed tire issues while owning your previous car, get a warranty for such repairs. If you live near a coastline, your car issues are from the salinity of the environment. Get a warranty for engine checkups.

Add up the total cost of repairs you have been doing in the past. Is the warranty able to cover for such repairs? If yes, then sign up for the warranty.

Conclusion

A used car warranty can cater for part of the repair costs you incur on your secondhand car. It is cheaper to get the warranty before the manufacturer warranty expires. Getting it later can be costly.