Extended Warranties

snakeweasel

Many times manufacturers give some leeway if there is only a short period after the end of the warranty for good will.

larryak

During this time I had 2-3 cars. On hot days I typically drove one of the other (older) cars because I didn't have a shady place to park them. To the best of my recollection, in summer of '05 there was a long period when it seemed to work properly which made it problematic as to whether a dealer visit was going to be worth the effort.

I had the Subaru extended warranty.

I believe that the main reason the dealer did initially replace some parts is because they charged me $200 for a recharge which didn't fix the problem.

larryak

Actually, I would think that the fact that the problem initially occurred 15 months earlier than first reported is kind of irrelevant, though I agree that waiting that long was probably foolish. I expected the problem to get worse so it made some sense to wait until it would be easier for the dealer to diagnose. What was most important is that it was reported within the terms of the warranty. After it was reported in Nov, 05 it was back at the dealer for the same problem in Feb, April and Sept. (After a period of calm (winter '05), the frequency of malfunctions started to increase. Each time they had difficulty or were unable to replicate the problem though in April they did replace some parts and recharge for the 2nd time. It was recharged again in Feb, 07. So it was low and recharged in Nov, 05, recharged in April as part of a repair, and again in Feb 07. Each time they said they did not find any leak.

snakeweasel

Actually, I would think that the fact that the problem initially occurred 15 months earlier than first reported is kind of irrelevant,

It is very relevant as the issue cannot have been much of a problem if you can't get the car in the shop for over a year. Either that or you have been called up to go to Iraq or in prison (I can't think of any other reason not to take it in much sooner).

larryak

Due to the infrequent nature of the problem at that time it was a nuisance more than anything else. Also, on hot days I tended to drive another car due to "parking issues" which made it even less of a day to day issue for me.
Now, after the most recent work they did on it, it's completely dead, so I'm more motivated to get it fixed right.

mitzij

I can get GM to pay for repairs for quite awhile after the warranty expires. There are many reasons-repeat repairs, common problems, even just 'customer satisfaction'. It's called a goodwill adjustment. If I tried it with GMPP, I'd get laughed halfway to Sanduskey.

Expecting a service contract to pay for repairs 15 months after the contract expires is akin to expecting a cat to volunteer to go to the vet.

mitzij

You have a hit or miss problem, the dealer (while plan in effect) says "I think this should fix it". It does not, shouldn't the plan cover the REAL repair for a problem that was reported prior to the contract expiration? I would think so, with some limits. Dec 2005 to April 2007? No way

Most contracts have language that puts repeat repairs into the repair shop's hands. They figure if the shop doesn't fix it right the first time, it's the shop's responsibility. (and it gets them off the hook)

zscottie

I've got an '05 VW Passat 1.8T 4motion wagon w/ 36K miles. I'm 2.5 years into my warranty. I plan to keep the car until year 10, 150K, or the wheels fall off (whichever comes first). Any advice on where to find an extd. warranty that's got great coverage? I called VW Credit...warranties are sold from 3rd party vendors by the lcoal dealer...I'd have to call my local dealer. I take my car to a former Audi/Porsche/BMW franchised dealer (awesome service) for maint/repair work.

PS - I live in VA.

Thanks a bunch!

strthusler

What was the quote for and what dealer?
Thanks,

joel0622

Anyone have a extended service plan through API (Automotive Proffesional's Inc)?

This may be old news here but I just read in a proffesional magazine I get each month that they are entering "assignment for benefit of creditors". That is fancy talk for they got more money going out then they do coming in and are fixing to tank.

mitzij

Thanks for the heads up, Joel0622! I found an article, here's a link:

API going under
Backed by a subsidiary of Allstate. Hmm, I wonder if the customers will be in good hands?
It looks like selling dealers are scrambling to figure out what to do.

API's website is still up. I love the message on their corporate page:
Stability, integrity and service! For 20 years these are the words that have described our company. Yeah. They're TOTALLY stable.

geo9

YEOW !!!!!!!!!! In business since 1984 eh?

I suppose that bogus AM Best rated them 4 stars plus
too along with Warranty Gold and a few of the other
now gone companies.........................

Wonder what they rate a long term still in business x-warranty company like GMPP, Ford, DC, toyota etc......

geo9

RUN FOREST !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Another scam company doing business from the Cayman Islands !!!!

AM Best...Phooey! :sick:

mitzij

AM Best rates the financial stability of insurance companies, not service contract companies. SCCs will say they're backed by XYZ Insurance, with an AM Best rating of A+. It sounds impressive, but it does nothing for the consumer. As evidenced by the Warranty Gold cut-and-run, the customer is the last one in a long line of creditors when a service contract company goes under.

mikefm58

Thx for the article, just more confirmation to only buy a manufacturer backed extended warranty, if at all.

gmwarranty

>>Wonder what they rate a long term still in business x-warranty company like GMPP, Ford, DC, toyota etc......

I know that GM Extended Warranties are backed by General Motors. Including manufacturers like GM in the "third party" extended warranty rating pool does not really apply.

Consumers purchase GMPP with the confidence that it HIGHLY unlikely for their service contract to vanish one day. Tieing a manufacturer to a service contract is the best assurance you can get. This is also why they cost a little more.

wsurf

What about Toyota extended warranty purchased from South East Toyota Distributorship?? If you go to the Toyota web sites for the extended warranties (http://www.toyotafinancial.com/pyv/find_vehicle_protection/recommendation.jsp),- you will see that these Ext warranties are not offered thru Toyota Financial Services in 10 SE states as well as HI and PR. In FL, we must buy thru SE Toyota where the plan is administered thru Fidelity Warranty. Anyone with experience in using these Toyota ext warranties thru them???

isabelalaval

We're thinking about buying the new Land Rover LR2. I have faith that because of the complete redesign, there won't be the quality issues that plagued the brand in years past. However, wanting to be a smart consumer, I want to make sure we have a great Extended Warranty. We live in VA.

1. How is Warranty Direct? Worthwhile or worthless? The website said they cover a lot of the computer gadgetry.
2. Land Rover owners: any recommendations?
3. Any idea on cost? Just want to get a budget straightened out.

Thanks... and stop that giggling!

isabelalaval

We're thinking about buying the new Land Rover LR2. I have faith that because of the complete redesign, there won't be the quality issues that plagued the brand in years past. However, wanting to be a smart consumer, I want to make sure we have a great Extended Warranty. We live in VA.

1. How is Warranty Direct? Worthwhile or worthless? The website said they cover a lot of the computer gadgetry.
2. Land Rover owners: any recommendations?
3. Any idea on cost? Just want to get a budget straightened out.

Thanks... and stop that giggling!

mikefm58

Hmmm, a warranty for an expensive vehicle like a Land Rover? They are expensive and the quality is not stellar. Just curious, what makes you think this new redesign will be any better? I'd expect anyone who can afford one, should have the funds to fix one.

You won't find anyone here that would recommend anything but an auto manufacturer backed warranty. Too many of us have been burned by things like the Warranty Gold debacle.

isabelalaval

I'd expect anyone who can afford one, should have the funds to fix one.

-Gee, I hope there was no hint of sarcasm or condescension with that comment... It'd be silly of me to make a blind purchase for an expensive vehicle and not be prepared for what comes with it, like maintenance and repairs or even premium gas, don't you think?

Just curious, what makes you think this new redesign will be any better?

-Well, I'm certainly no vehicle expert, so all this "based on the Volvo S80" is nonsense to me. Right now I'm just going by what the Europeans are saying about the Freelander 2, and what the present owners in North America have to say. Of course, time will tell, which is why we're waiting for more reviews and testing.

joel0622

I'd expect anyone who can afford one, should have the funds to fix one.

That's kind of like when I am working the desk and sales people make a comment like, "I can't believe this guy is beating me up over $200, he is rich."

The reason the guy is in a good financial position is because he is beating you up for the extra $200. People in a good financial position are not there by accident, it is because they are smart with there money and protect there investments.

Service contracts are not for everybody. I tell people in my office everyday that they are an insurance policy. You hate to spend the money on them but you are damn glad you did if you need them. Normally it only takes one major repair and the Contract has paid for its self

dwynne

We're thinking about buying the new Land Rover LR2. I have faith that because of the complete redesign, there won't be the quality issues that plagued the brand in years past

This is the first, and fatal flaw in your thinking. Just about EVERY first year design has more flaws in its first year than the second year, the third has fewer, etc. This is not just when the car is new, but remains true (for the most part) throughout the life of the car. Even reliable Honda owners find this to be the case.

Now, the current LR2 may be SO BAD that anything would be better - but I would still want to wait (let someone else take the chance) and see how things go - for at least one year.

Consumer Reports agrees:

The problem with new models
Think twice about buying a newly designed model in its first year

When a new model is introduced, the media buzz and marketing hoopla can tempt you to be the first on your block to drive one home. But this can cost you in dollars, time, and hassle.

Consumer Reports’ auto-reliability surveys show that most newly designed models have more problems during their first model year than in the model year before or in the model years that follow. First-year models continue to have more problems as they age (see First-year designs & reliability). Our advice: Wait one or even two years before buying a new design until the manufacturer has had a chance to work out the bugs.

So unless you HAVE to have a new ride, wait. If you have to have a new ride, get something else - that has a proven good track record.

Dennis

paisan

On a new car purchase, I always suggest a factory extended warranty, mostly because then there is less third party involvement, especially when questions come down to if it's covered or not.

With that, I have used Warranty Direct (I think they are out of LI, NY) and had good luck with them.

-mike

isabelalaval

Dennis,

I have faith in the LR2, but not blind faith! Ha! :shades:

You're right; it'd be most practical to wait at least a year to get the kinks out. At this point though, we're needing to get a new vehicle. Our Corolla just made it to 128k (still running so far!). I'm afraid that if we don't buy soon by choice, we'll end up buying by necessity. Plus, it happens to be my 30th birthday in November, so I was hoping to give myself a fancy birthday present.

I want to get a small SUV partly for future kiddies, and partly for our lifestyle (camping, road trips, etc.). We also looked at:
- the CRV (fugly! eww!)
- the RAV4 (okay, but why did they have to put the spare in the back??)
- the Murano (a cassette deck???)
- the X3 (ideal choice but a bit too pricey)
- the RX350 (too high maintenance; I'll scratch the wood on the steering wheel... guaranteed! a cassette deck too???)

The LR2 was the best choice for us, in terms of standard features, options, and cost. A lot of new vehicles are coming out in the fall though... the Nissan Rogue, maybe the Volve XC50, maybe a Mercedes Benz baby. But the same issue arises: first year out.

There's my dilemma. Thanks for your advice though.

Kirstie_H

Did you have a look at the Infiniti version of the Murano(FX35 or FX45)?

jimbres

If you're concerned about repair costs after the factory warranty expires - & you should be - why don't you start salting away money in an interest-bearing savings account? If you can set aside just $6.50 per day (the cost of a couple of designer coffee drinks), you'll have over $10,400 in the bank in 48 months. (That's based on 4% interest; several of the online savings accounts are paying over 5%, though.) Think of it as a do-it-yourself extended warranty.

I'll admit it -- I'm stingy. I hate the idea of spending money today for something that I can't use for many years & simply froth at the mouth when I think of someone else earning interest that I could earn myself. When people tell me that they buy service contracts for "peace of mind", my reply is, "That's fine -- but I want to pocket the interest, too."

The best "extended warranty" ("service contract" is a more accurate term) in the world doesn't come close to a fat bank account with your name on it.

jipster

I've looked into Warranty Direct for an extended warranty. They seem to have a good reputation, and have been in the business long enough to have faith that they will continue to be. Just go to warrantydirect.com and you can customize your warranty however you like.

isabelalaval

... nothing wrong with stingy! I'm the same way.

I love the idea of a do-it-yourself extended warranty! It's so easy to just get a set amount automatically moved into as savings account like ING. If I need it, it's there, if not, even better!

Anyone have a "cons" list with this concept?

joel0622

Anyone have a "cons" list with this concept?

There are really not any if you can afford it. Not every one has $195 disposable income each month. They might have $20 a month to finance it though. You would be amazed at the number of people out there scraping by month to month (this is where one of you say they should not buy a car then )

The only other prob I see is if the car has a $3500 repair prior to stashing away that much.

But in theory it is a great idea, as long as you have the funds and the discipline to do it, and to keep the money for its purpose, car repairs. Not big screens and riding mowers

jimbres

The only real drawback, as Joel points out, is the self-discipline requirement. Once you've got a few thousand in it, your account will test your willpower as much as a quart of Rocky Road in the back of your freezer. I don't have a hard time with this, but then again, I'm more of a saver than a spender.

Set up an automatic transfer from your checking account to your savings account & then try to forget about it.

dwynne

I would look at the offerings from Hyundai as well (Tucson, Santa Fe, Veracruz) - they may not say "I have bux" like a Land Rover but they will save you tons of money, are more reliable, and come with long factory warranties - 5yr/60k bumper to bumper plus 10/100k powertrain. The cons are lower than some MPG numbers and resale value - you have to keep it and drive the value out of it.

The Pilot is a nice, larger SUV with a solid track record but is a bit thirsty at the pump too - but Honda usually has some super lease or finance deals on these too. Ditto the Acura RDX, but it might be too spendy as well.

The X3 is pretty nice, but most BMWs are really sub-par in reliability and BMW offers no factory backed extended warranty. Once the warranty is out, ouch can the be expensive to repair. I have had 2, and that was enough for me

Also look at the two Mazda offerings, they don't look too bad but they are new and may not be at the top of the reliability charts (but better than the LR2).

Infiniti FX, Kia Sorento, the RX350 (really nice, I can't imagine you would not like that), the Suby Forester is nice, and the B9 is as well but has that ugly nose (I read in AutoWeek they are re-doing the nose for 2008).

Lots of choices and the LR2 would not even be on my list. Few dealers, bad reliability, high price - but appeals to a "certain few" I suppose. LR products DO have real off road abilities, which some competitors may lack - but face it, 99.99% of all the SUVs never go over road on purpose

Dennis

isabelalaval

Just like Ron Popeil and that darn oven...

Set it and forget it!

isabelalaval

Thanks for listing the possibilities. True, majority of SUVs don't make it past the tar, but ours will. We have gone off-roading and camping in New Jersey and New York. (You can't imagine how hard it is to drag a Corolla out of a mud pit!) If we get the LR2, I look forward to testing out the Terrain Response in "mud settings"!

The Infiniti and Lexus are way too pretty to get mud on them. Seriously, we'd end up buying a car cover to protect it. And we have an empty, covered garage!

The Kia, Subaru, Honda Pilot and Hyundai should be permanently covered in mud. Peronally, I think the exterior and interior are hideous. That's just my opinion though.

I haven't looked at the Mazda in detail, although at first glance, doesn't it look like a minivan? The Acura is another possibility. However, it seems geared more for the sports car / driving fanatic than an off-road / camping one. I really want to get a vehicle with the right mix of luxury and off-road capabilities. Another brand I was looking into was Jeep, but I don't know about domestic cars...

mikefm58

Gee, I hope there was no hint of sarcasm or condescension with that comment

No sarcasm or condescension at all khristina, actually I envy anyone who can afford a Land Rover. Sounds like you're looking for a true off road SUV. Have you looked at the Nissan Xterra? It might be too small considering what you've looked at already. Also, if you're turned off of the X3, for the reasons you stated, I'd expect you'd hate the Land Rover even more.

isabelalaval

Also, if you're turned off of the X3, for the reasons you stated, I'd expect you'd hate the Land Rover even more

I'm curious about your statement. Is it a price-related issue you were thinking of? If so, I went to both websites and priced both vehicles with the minimal desired options. Looking at invoice prices, I think the X3 was about $2000 more than Land Rover. Plus, I got some "part of the package" useless options like those Xenon headlights, which I think are a pain in the butt for the oncoming vehicle. Blue lights, makes me think I'm encountering a UFO!

I haven't checked out the new Xterra, although I was looking at it a few years ago when it first came out. Back then, I thought it was too expensive for a cheap, plastic Tonka truck. Maybe it's more "luxurious" now, but it looks awfully big. I don't think I mentioned it, but I'm 5'3", my bf is 6'2". So, he needs lots of room, I need to at least see over the steering wheel and be able to parallel park it!

We already test drove the RAV4, Murano, RX350, and LR2.

mikefm58

I've never priced out an X3 or Land Rover as both are over my head. I know they're on the high end of the market, but I don't know their price specifics.

You stated in one of your posts...."The X3 is pretty nice, but most BMWs are really sub-par in reliability and BMW offers no factory backed extended warranty. Once the warranty is out, ouch can the be expensive to repair. I have had 2, and that was enough for me "

Not sure about the factory backed ext. warranty, but the sub-par reliability and expensive repairs sound like what you'll get with the Land Rover. The ext. warranty for the LR would help, don't know about the cost though. Good luck.

151ranch

The extended warranties from South East Toyota are fine. They will be accepted everywhere. SET is a part of the Jim Moran group (which also owns Fidelity Warranty), which is not going out of business anytime soon. Think about it, a Toyota distributorship is a license to print money.

http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/snapshots/712.html

dwynne

I was thinking, while sitting in traffic this morning behind a Jeep Liberty, that a Jeep may be what you need. They are all off-road capable, have middle of the pack reliability (which is probably better than any LR), and would be a fraction of the cost of the LR2. Heck, Consumer Reports even recommends the Liberty (but none of its stable mates at this time).

Dennis

isabelalaval

My parents have a Liberty and they love it. They let me drive it when I visited them, and for short jaunts it's pretty good. My bf and I felt a little constricted inside though.

SIDE NOTE: I drove it straight from Portland, OR to Vancouver, Canada (6hrs), and it was uncomfortable as H*LL!

m1964

Just put a deposit on LR2 -old volvo did make it to 175K (after 2k in repairs) since last summer. I figured that 1/2 of LR2 (engine, tranny and front suspension) is already in production, hope Land Rover will not screw the other half.
It is not true that the first year models are not good -our Pilot was fine, and my friend's Murano was fine.

We have 2005 Volvo XC90 first year with v8 motor and new 6 speed tranny and all that is good so far (knock-knock on wood).

isabelalaval

Ooohh, how exciting for you! May I ask about the price? Thanks.

Jealous One.

dwynne

It is not true that the first year models are not good -our Pilot was fine, and my friend's Murano was fine.

Anecdotal "evidence" should not be counted. You could find folks that have had 0 problems with even the WORST cars and trucks on the road. The fact that one person had no trouble means nothing.

Of course, even the worst Honda made probably has a better track record that the BEST LR made. Ditto for Nissan.

LR reliability is really bad and no way would I trust them on a new design model. But it is your money and hassle, maybe you will have good luck with it! I hope so.

Dennis

akg

My good buddy is buying a new Lexus Hybrid SUV in Northern California. He is shopping for an extended warranty. When I bought my new Subaru last year, someone on Edmunds steered me to the right dealership (in another state) to buy my warranty. They gave me a fair deal. Any suggestions on dealerships that have good deal on extended warranties for his Lexus?

Also, what is a fair deal to pay for the perma-plating that usually gets offered when you buy a new car? Thank you!!

dwynne

How about for a Scion ?

Dennis

wendy_gorsch

What kinda warranty you looking for?

gasman1

Do yourself a BIG favor and do an on-line search for "lexus toyota extended warranty". Most people are very happy with the platinum factory extended warranty. There are several favorable posts about a VA dealer, the Greenfield, MA dealer, and the Iowa City, IA dealer prices. It's backed by Toyota so it's good in any state. Get their prices and plan details then compare to whatever Windy has to offer which BTW she's not supposed to be offering on this board.

mikefm58

I would expect your posts to be deleted as soliciting business on these fora is a violation of TOS.

zscottie

I forgotten that I posted to this site. Here's what the local dealer quoted me. It's the highest VW RealDriver warranty coverage:

6/72K $1505
6/100K $1908
7/70K $1556
7/100K $ 2031


Under Platinum coverage the following parts are excluded:

Brake linings, brake drums and rotors, disc brake pads, standard transmission clutch components, air bags, solar powered devices, hinges, glass, lenses, sealed beams, body parts and/or panels, trim, molding, door handles, lock cylinders, tires, wheels, batteries, light bulbs, upholstery paint, bright metal, freeze plugs, heater and radiator hoses, exhaust system, shock absorbers, audio, security or other systems not factory installed.

________________________________

That said...good buy or a bad buy?

bench

My husband and I are looking at the 2007 Toyota Sienna XLE Limited but would like to know what is a fair price to pay for Toyota's Extended Warranty, i.e. Service Contract. We expect to keep the vehicle beyond Toyota's standard 3 yrs./60,000 mile warranty.

Any information would be appreciated. Thanks.