Introduction
If you’re interested in purchasing a protection product for your vehicle and ready to do some research, where do you begin? What kind of protection is available that best suits your needs? We understand that it can be a little overwhelming – so use this quick guide as a foundation to learn about some protection products available in the market and find the right ones for you.
Mechanical breakdown protection
What is it and how can you benefit from it?
Vehicle breakdowns happen when you least expect them, often leaving you stranded and with a bill that hurts your wallet. Mechanical breakdown protection – also commonly referred to as extended warranty coverage – provides you with financial security if a mechanical component malfunctions or breaks down.
The purpose of this protection is to save you from having to pay unexpected repair costs that often have high price tags like an engine replacement, transmission or electrical repair.
Many plans offer additional benefits such as 24-hour roadside assistance and an allowance for a rental vehicle when yours is in the shop.
Some things to consider:
Consider how long you’re planning to own your vehicle.
The longer you plan to drive your vehicle for, the more likely you are to run into a mechanical issue in the future and may gain more value from this type of protection.
Consider the performance history of your vehicle
It’s important to research the performance history of the vehicle you’re planning to drive in order to help you understand the types of issues you’re more likely to face with your specific make and model.
Typical coverage includes:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Brakes
- Electrical
- Air conditioning
Appearance protection
What is it and how can you benefit from it?
Imagine children in the backseat of your car, putting tears in your upholstery, spilling coffee in your lap on your way to work, or pulling up too close to the curb and scuffing your wheel rim. These are just a few examples of many unexpected scenarios you can face which result in damage to your vehicle. Appearance protection covers the repair cost of interior and exterior damages. Aside from keeping your vehicle looking like new, appearance protection will also help retain the value of your vehicle if you ever decide to sell.
Some things to consider:
Exclusions and benefits vary
Make sure to be aware of the type of benefits and exclusions that apply to the plans you’re being offered. For example, some types of stains may not be covered, or benefits included in one plan may be offered as a separate plan with another provider.
Typical coverage includes:
- Paint
- Dents
- Rips, tears, burns
- Spills
- Windshield cracks
Excess wear and use
What is it and how can you benefit?
Leasing a vehicle can be a bit of a risk when it comes to damages and the unexpected costs you could potentially pay for at the end of your lease term. Excess wear type products waive costs from damages that go beyond everyday wear and tear.
Some things to consider:
Make sure you’re aware of your coverage details
Ask your dealer to provide you with the manufacturer’s guidelines that explain what type of damages fall beyond everyday wear and tear so that you’re not faced with any surprises during your lease-end inspection. You’ll also be able to make an informed decision on whether you’ll need the extra protection.
Typical coverage includes:
- Paint chips
- Glass cracks
- Worn tires
- Upholstery rips
- Missing key
Prepaid maintenance
What is it and how can you benefit?
Aside from keeping your vehicle running in its best condition, a prepaid maintenance plan provides you with even more of an incentive to keep your vehicle maintained. Your service costs are typically locked in on the day you purchase the plan, allowing you to avoid future inflation rates and save you money in the long run.
Some things to consider:
The service appointments are done at your dealership
While you can be sure to get the highest quality service and parts from branded OEM dealerships, in most cases, these are the only locations where you can get your vehicle serviced. This restriction could be inconvenient for those who don’t live or work near a dealership.
Typical coverage includes:
- Oil and filter change
- Multi-point inspection
- Tire rotation
- Brake inspection
Conclusion
If you’re debating purchasing a protection product, make sure you do your research and consider all the driving factors necessary to make an informed decision. Once you do, you’ll have a better understanding of what your needs are. These products won’t add value for everyone, but they do provide a wave of relief for those that have needed them.
