Are Extended Warranties Worth It?

Shopping for a new or used vehicle can be a stressful process. After a few months of research and going on numerous test drives, you finally find the one for you. Then, just when you think you’ve made it through the process, you’re faced with the option of purchasing an extended warranty. This is yet another decision you need to make, and you probably don’t want to make a snap decision when the time comes. So, are extended warranties worth it? Like so many things in life, it depends! Some Paducah-area drivers will see a lot of value in an extended warranty, while others may not. Read ahead to learn more about extended warranties with your team at Country Chevrolet of Benton, so you know your answer when given the option. 

What is an Extended Warranty?

When you buy a new Chevrolet, it’s covered by a factory warranty that gives you 3 years/36,000 miles of limited bumper-to-bumper protection and 5 years/60,000 miles of limited powertrain protection. Once that warranty expires, you can extend the coverage with an extended warranty. Let’s say you’re driving in Murray in your vehicle that has 65,000 miles on it, and you experience a powertrain issue. With an extended powertrain warranty, you would still have the coverage to help with the cost of the repair. Without an extended warranty, you would be paying out of pocket because the original powertrain warranty had expired. 

There are varying levels of extended warranties available, so if you’re interested in one, you can get as limited or as comprehensive of coverage as you desire and avoid feeling like you’re paying for something you won’t use. 

Extended Warranties for New & Used Vehicles

Whether you’re buying a new or used vehicle, an extended warranty is an option you’ll be able to consider. Here are some factors to think about: 

New Vehicle Extended Warranties

• Do you intend to keep the vehicle for less than 10 years? In that case, you may not need an extended warranty because it’s not likely that the vehicle will have any major issues in that timeframe. 
• If you plan to drive the vehicle for 10+ years, then an extended warranty should be considered more seriously. Vehicles tend to start needing more intensive maintenance after about 10 years, and an extended warranty can help you plan ahead.
• What type of insurance coverage do you have? Your car insurance plan might already account for things that extended warranties can help with, like windshield replacement.

Used Vehicle Extended Warranties

• Did the vehicle inspection unveil any significant issues with the vehicle? You should get an estimate for what it would cost to repair any known issues or things that have the potential to become an issue in the future. There may be extended warranties that cover those specific issues, and it may be wise to invest now so you’re protected for the future, especially if you don’t think you could afford a sudden major repair. 
• How long do you want the vehicle to last? The longer you plan to keep it, the more useful an extended warranty can be.

Chevrolet Extended Warranty Coverage

Here’s a look at the extended warranty options that you can purchase from Chevrolet:

• Protection Plans – Get extended protection on top of the factory warranty
• Pre-Paid Maintenance – Pay ahead for scheduled maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations during the coverage period
• Tire and Wheel Protection – Offers coverage for tire/wheel replacements 

Should I Buy Extended Warranties? 

Most Mayfield drivers probably don’t like to think about the unexpected — we don’t blame you, but sometimes things happen, and if you don’t think you’d be able to afford an unanticipated repair to your vehicle, an extended warranty can be just the safety net you need. For some drivers, that peace of mind in itself is worth the cost of an extended warranty. 

Get More Car-Buying Advice at Country Chevrolet of Benton

At Country Chevrolet of Benton, we’re here to help our customers make decisions that will benefit them. We don’t want you to invest your money in anything you’re uncertain about, and our team will answer any of your questions. If you’re getting ready to start your car-buying journey with a new Chevrolet or a used vehicle, stop by our dealership in Benton to see how we can help.