Let’s explore the steps and look at strategies for incorporating an extended car warranty into the process for maximum effectiveness.

The Significance of Seasonal Maintenance

While car maintenance should be a year-round activity, it’s especially critical as the sweltering summer transitions to a moderate autumn. Weather changes can stress a car more, making the condition of components like batteries and tires vital. At the same time, getting a jump on your car’s maintenance can catch problems early, help keep costs in check, and avoid problems during road trips.

However, car maintenance during the fall isn’t just about keeping your vehicle running smoothly; it’s about keeping you and your passengers safe as the weather becomes less predictable. Being proactive reduces the risks of accidents AND breakdowns.

If that isn’t enough incentive to implement fall car care tips, consider this: a well-maintained vehicle performs better and has a higher resale value.

Key Areas of Fall Maintenance

Car maintenance tips for the autumn months involve several areas:

Battery Checks

Your car’s battery is put under strain as the temperature drops. According to the Electrochemical Society, a lead-acid battery loses about 20% of its capacity in typical freezing conditions. This degradation can drop to 50% in more extreme winter weather.

• Cold Weather Impact: Lower temperatures slow the chemical reactions inside the battery, reducing its ability to produce and store energy.
• Battery Corrosion: Look for corrosion on the battery terminals, which can make electrical connections less reliable.
• Maintenance Musts: Periodically clean the battery terminals, ensure the battery is securely mounted, and tighten the cable connections as needed. Have the battery professionally tested to determine its remaining life (many auto supply stores do this for free).

Keep in mind that car batteries last three to five years, sometimes less. So, even a well-maintained battery eventually needs replacing.

Fluid Top-offs

Maintaining proper fluid levels is critical to your car’s performance and longevity. Here are the essential fluids to keep an eye on:

• Oil: Ensure the engine oil is at the proper level and consider an oil change if it’s time.
• Coolant: Check the antifreeze level to ensure the cooling system remains at peak capacity during plunging temperatures.
• Brake Fluid: Verify the brake fluid is at the correct level to provide maximum stopping power in slippery conditions.
• Power Steering Fluid: Check the power steering fluid to keep this vital system in peak operating condition.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Fill up with a winter-grade washer fluid to prevent freezing and ensure good visibility.

Review the owner’s manual to learn how to check and top off these essential fluids safely. Only use the fluid types recommended by the manufacturer.

Tire Inspection

Rain, leaves, ice, and snow can make ordinary roads slippery during the fall, making good tire condition critically important. Here’s what to look for to avoid blowouts:

• Tread Depth: Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth for good gripping and stopping power. Most states mandate 2/32 of an inch for minimum tread depth, but performance becomes noticeably compromised at 4/32.
• Tire Pressure: Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so check and adjust as necessary.
• Rotation and Balance: Consumer Reports recommends rotating tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Rotate and balance the tires as needed to ensure even wear.

The tire inspection process should include looking for sidewall or tread damage or uneven tread wear—conditions that require tire replacement and may demand a look at the suspension for alignment issues. In addition, if you live in a more northern climate, this is the time to get your winter tires ready.

Additional Fall Maintenance Tasks

Beyond the key areas outlined above, there are other important vehicle maintenance duties to consider as part of an effective fall car care routine:

Brake System Inspection

Beyond checking the brake fluid, brake pads and rotors must be inspected. Have a professional mechanic check these components to ensure your car is ready for the road.

Heating System Check

As temperatures drop, a properly functioning heating system becomes essential for your comfort and safety. Don’t wait for the first cold morning to find out if there’s a problem. Take some time at night (when the temperature is lower) to start the car and crank up the heat as a test run.

Inspect the Windshield and Wipers

Clear visibility is crucial during fall and winter driving. Inspect your windshield for any chips or cracks and replace worn-out windshield wiper blades to ensure clear vision in rainy or snowy conditions. Importantly, don’t delay windshield repairs or replacement; this glass helps maintain the car’s structure during an accident or rollover.

Check the Lighting

Colder months mean less daylight, making a vehicle’s lighting vital. During this time of year, take a few minutes to ensure all the interior lights work properly, including instrument panel illumination. Next, ask a friend to stand outside the car as you activate the turn signals and brake lights and turn on the exterior lights to make sure you can see and be seen.

The Role of Extended Warranties in Fall Maintenance

Despite all your efforts at regular maintenance, unexpected repairs can occur. In addition, an inspection may have uncovered a previously undetected issue. In these situations, an extended warranty can play a significant role in your fall maintenance strategy.

An extended car warranty, also known as a vehicle service contract or an auto protection plan, can pay for repair costs if the issue is covered. Further, some plans include regular maintenance. For instance, Endurance’s Advantage plan helps pay for several services, including:

• Oil and filter changes (up to three)
• Engine diagnostic tests
• Alignment checks
• Tire rotations
• One-time services
  • Brake pad replacement
  • Cooling system maintenance
  • Wiper blade replacement (front or rear)
  • Battery replacement

The Advantage plan’s maintenance services are worth up to $3,500 and encourage a proactive approach to upkeep. Being attentive to potential problems and having the backing of an extended warranty can keep repair costs under control, reducing the stress that can accompany major work.

How Endurance Plans Support Fall Maintenance

Endurance offers comprehensive vehicle service contracts that reinforce your fall maintenance efforts. Here’s how we help cover your used car:

• Comprehensive Coverage Options: Endurance plans range from essential powertrain protection to Supreme coverage, which is similar to a new car bumper-to-bumper warranty. There are also in-between options for car owners looking to balance protection and costs.
• Benefits: All Endurance customers received numerous perks, including 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car coverage, trip interruption protection, and the freedom to choose any licensed shop for covered repairs. In addition, Endurance plan holders are eligible for a year of Elite Benefits worth up to $2,000. Just pay a small enrollment fee to access tire repair and replacement services, key fob replacement, collision repair discounts, and total loss protection.*
• Customizable Coverage: Endurance takes extended warranty protection to the next level with tailored options for commercial use, modified vehicles, advanced electronics, high mileage, and other unique situations.

Steps to Secure an Extended Warranty for the Fall Season

Whether you have a car with an expiring or expired warranty or are shopping for a vehicle without warranty protection, securing coverage the right way can put you on the best path for effective fall maintenance efforts. Here are the steps to follow:

Assess Your Vehicle’s Needs

Consider your car’s age, mileage, and overall condition. Think about which components most likely need attention as your car ages and heads into the colder months. Research typical problems for your make and model and what repair costs are for these issues. Take your financial situation into account and what an expensive repair could mean.

Research Warranty Providers

There’s no shortage of extended warranty companies, but they aren’t all alike. Check customer reviews, industry ratings, and the company’s financial stability to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable operation. Examine the customer’s payout history (Endurance has paid hundreds of millions in claims since 2012).

Understand the Terms and Conditions

Success with an extended warranty comes from knowing what’s covered and what’s not. Review sample contracts to learn any conditions or limitations and ask questions before buying. Fully understanding how your car is protected puts you on the right path for extended warranty peace of mind.

Purchase the Warranty

Once you’ve found an auto protection plan that meets your needs, it’s time to buy. Consider whether a single payment or monthly premium is your best option. Most extended car warranty companies can handle the transaction online or over the phone.

Ensure You’re Fall-Ready with Endurance

From battery and fluid checks to tire and brake inspections, there are many fall car maintenance tasks that shouldn’t be overlooked. Yet, keeping your vehicle in good working order when the seasons change will help ensure it’s ready for the colder months ahead.

At the same time, seasonal maintenance is only part of the picture. Endurance Warranty provides an extra layer of protection, especially the Advantage plan, which helps pay for regular upkeep.

Discover everything Endurance has to offer by requesting a FREE quote or visiting our online store for instant price and plan information. Plan advisors can also be reached for personalized help by calling (800) 253-8203.

Explore the Endurance blog to review hundreds of insightful articles that cover car care advice, DIY maintenance tips, extended car warranty guidance, auto reviews, and more.

Since 2000, September 22nd has been designated as World Car Free Day, where cities around the world are invited to leave their cars at home and choose sustainable, eco-friendly transportation options.

Benefits of World Car Free Day

Our society enjoys the freedom and convenience that come with car ownership. Having a car means we can travel or even relocate relatively easily without too much discomfort. However, there are many benefits to going car-free, even if it is just for a day.

Choosing to leave your vehicle at home can reduce your carbon footprint, improve your overall health, and give you insight into other alternative modes of transportation. A day of riding your bike or walking around town can help you have more empathy and understanding for the next cyclist or pedestrian you encounter when driving.

Plan Your Car-Free Day in Advance

If your daily routine depends heavily on the use of your vehicle, celebrating #CarFreeDay will take some pre-planning to make it successful and fun.

1. Assess Your Transportation Needs

It is important to plan your World Car Free Day in advance, especially if your daily routine revolves around the use of your car. Without proper planning, the day can shift from an enjoyable learning experience to a catastrophic inconvenience.

Plan the day by writing down a list of daily activities that must be accomplished. Do you have to go to work, school, and the grocery store? Think about your usual passengers, the distance, and any necessary storage requirements. This will help you decide on the best alternative transportation solutions for the day.

2. Map Out Your Route

If you have to go somewhere, like work or school, plan your route and sustainable transportation options with plenty of extra time for wait times, breaks, and any potential delays.

For example, if you’re relying on public transportation, like the bus, subway, or train, it operates on a timed schedule and route. Multiple vehicles often use the same stop but take a different route. Knowing which service takes you closest to your destination and at what time they expect to arrive at your next stop can set you up for a smooth, stress-free, car-free experience.

If, on the other hand, you plan to bike, skateboard, scooter, or walk to your destination, planning out the most pedestrian-friendly route can help ensure safety. Routes with sidewalks or bike lanes are preferred. Also, knowing how long it will take for you to get from point A to point B on foot can help with your planning. Apps like Google Maps or MapQuest enable you to plan your schedule and route by foot.

3. Consider the Alternative Transportation Options

The creative and fun options for car-free transportation possibilities are endless. Although you could potentially skateboard or skip to work, as some have suggested, there may be more practical solutions that you could feasibly integrate into your routine more than one day per year.

Use Public Transportation on #CarFreeDay

Public transportation services are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint by adopting a more car-free lifestyle while enjoying the convenience and comfort of an air-conditioned and heated motor vehicle.

Benefits of Using Public Transportation Services

With public transportation, you’ll still get some of the health benefits of being more active than when you drive yourself to work. Since most public transit options, like the bus, subway, or train, don’t come to your driveway, you’ll get extra steps in as you walk to and from the stops.

Not only that, but you’ll have plenty of time to take a nap, do your makeup, respond to emails, scroll social media, or read that book that has been sitting on your nightstand for too long. Letting someone else take the wheel gives you more time to accomplish your morning routine without putting other drivers in danger.

Other benefits of public transportation include a reduction in traffic congestion, less pollution, and elimination of a gas bill for the day. If you pursue public transportation long-term, you can reduce your household expenses by not paying for car payments, car insurance, and fuel costs.

Plus, taking the bus can cut your greenhouse gas emissions in half for the day. By eliminating your vehicle use more frequently, you can make an even greater positive impact on the world around you.

Mastering Your Commute Using Public Transportation

Unlike some of the other options, public transportation does require a bit of pre-planning and a potential learning curve. Buses, trains, and subways all operate on a fixed schedule rather than a will-call basis, like rideshare or taxi services.

Sometimes, if a route is particularly popular, multiple vehicles will operate within a half-hour of each other, reducing commute and wait times. However, if your route is less used, it may be an hour or more between stops at a location. You can optimize your route by utilizing local transit apps and websites to find the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

When planning, allow for plenty of time to get to the stop before its arrival time, the length of time it takes to get to your stop, and the travel time from the final stop to your destination. You can also purchase your tickets or passes in advance to save time.

Bike to Work on #CarFreeDay

Riding a bike is a fun and active transportation alternative for World Car Free Day. Not only is it fantastic for your health, but it also doesn’t require a significant amount of pre-planning. Plus, you’ll get an ample amount of fresh air and ditch the occasional body odors associated with public transportation. Depending on your fitness level, 10 to 20 miles is generally the distance cyclists will regularly commute to work.

Benefits of Cycling

Cost-saving advantages are some of the biggest benefits of riding a bike rather than driving a car. Bicycle operation and maintenance costs are significantly lower than that of a car. While there may be an upfront cost of purchasing a bicycle, buying a bike is significantly cheaper than buying a car. Plus, if you can’t afford to buy a bicycle, check for a bike-sharing program in your area.

Riding a bike also eliminates the expense of car oil changes, fuel costs, tire rotations, key fob replacements, and all the other overhead costs associated with maintenance. Plus, unlike a car, you won’t need to register or insure your bike either.

Another advantage of riding a bike is the virtual elimination of your carbon footprint for the day. If taking a bus can reduce your carbon emissions by half, bike riding reduces it even further. By choosing to ride a bike, you are contributing to healthier air quality for everyone today and future generations.

As you can imagine, riding a bike is also a great addition to any healthy lifestyle routine. Not only is it low-impact, but you can also control the intensity level of the ride. Even if you choose to use an e-bike, you’ll still be more active than when you’re driving a car. Cycling can help you achieve a healthy weight and can have dramatic mental benefits, such as decreasing anxiety and depression and boosting your energy levels, mood, and your immune system.

It’s also a great way to get to know your city. Often, traveling in our daily commute nearly becomes a mindless habit, and we miss many of the local hidden gems. Cycling helps you get to know your neighbors, admire landscaping, learn road names, and notice small local businesses that could otherwise go unnoticed. Plus, you’ll get to skip the traffic congestion and take a shortcut, potentially saving you time in the long run.

Preparing to Pedal to Work (Or School) Successfully

Although cycling requires minimal preparation, there are a few steps that should be taken in advance for a successful cycling experience. However, once you’ve done it once, you’ll be ready for a bike ride whenever you feel the urge.

• Plan Your Route: Just as you would when you travel to your destination for the first time in your car, you can use apps and websites like Google Maps and Mapquest to find out how long it takes to get to your destination by bicycle. Not only that, but these map services can also give you the best route to take on a bicycle.
• Invest in Safety Gear: On a bicycle, you don’t have the protection of your vehicle around you. Therefore, it is important to wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing to maximize your safety. Add a flashlight to the front of your bike and flashing lights to the back of your helmet or bike to improve visibility in low-light areas. Sunglasses or cycling glasses are also recommended to keep bugs, rain, sun, and debris out of your eyes. You’ll also want a good quality bike lock to keep your bike safe once you get to your destination.
• Learn Cycling Laws and Etiquette: Just as you need to learn to signal your turns and drive in the correct lane, there are laws and etiquette that should be followed while riding a bike. Learn hand signals, obey traffic laws, and use the appropriate bike lanes when available, as the sidewalk is reserved for pedestrians and it is illegal to ride on the sidewalk with a bike in some cities.
• Check Your Bike: Before going for a ride, it is important to look over your bike to ensure everything is in good mechanical order. Check the brakes, tire pressure, and chain before every ride to avoid mishaps along the way.

Lace Up Your Sneakers and Walk on #CarFreeDay

Walking offers many benefits to those lucky enough to live close to their destinations. Most people who choose to walk do so if they live within one or two miles of their destination. Typically, most people find that a half-mile walk takes about 10 minutes and makes for an enjoyable walk. Twenty minutes seems to be the maximum time pedestrians walk for their daily commutes. However, if you enjoy being outdoors, you could choose to walk further distances for World Car Free Day.

Benefits of Walking

Walking offers many of the same benefits as cycling with regards to the environmental impact. Other than the emissions put out by the factory that produces your walking shoes, your emissions are virtually nonexistent when you choose to walk for World Car Free Day.

Similar to cycling, walking has numerous health benefits. Not only can it improve your overall well-being and physical health by strengthening your cardiovascular and pulmonary systems and helping you achieve or maintain a healthy weight, but it also has mental health benefits. Walking releases chemicals in your brain that improve energy levels, boost your mood, and reduce stress.

Walking can also save money, even more so than cycling. When you ride a bike, you need to invest in a bike and safety gear. However, all you need to become a pedestrian is a pair of good walking shoes. This eliminates nearly every overhead transportation cost.

Walking Successfully on Your Car-Free Commute

Walking to your destination requires a little forethought to ensure a positive World Car Free Day experience. The most important thing you can do is to focus on your time management. Looking up your route in advance using a map service like Google Maps or Mapquest can help you determine how long it will take to get to your destination. Plus, they can help you find a pedestrian-friendly route.

You’ll also want to have a good pair of walking shoes. If you’ve ever been caught on a long day out in the wrong shoes, the residual discomfort and potential blisters should be enough of a reminder of the importance of a good pair of shoes. Quality walking shoes can make walking more comfortable while also protecting your muscles and joints from injury.

You may also want to invest in a small bag to help you carry things. Keep your hands-free and your belongings secured with a small backpack, like a rucksack. Be sure to pack a bottle of water and gear to protect you from the weather, such as a raincoat, umbrella, hat, or sunglasses. You’ll also want something to help you freshen up once you get to your destination, like a fresh shirt, hairbrush, deodorant, and makeup.

Carpool with Friends on #CarFreeDay

Carpooling or car-sharing are flexible alternatives that provide the comfort and convenience of your vehicle while still reducing environmental impacts, especially if you’re too far away to walk or bike to your destination. Plus, carpooling offers rewarding benefits, making it a good transportation alternative solution for your #CarFreeDay.

Benefits of Carpooling

Carpooling to your destination can help you save money by splitting the cost of your commute between all of the passengers in the vehicle. You can split maintenance costs as well as gas, tolls, and parking fees, making carpooling a budget-friendly transportation solution for everyone. Plus, it reduces stress when everyone shares duties equally and gives you time to network and improve relationships.

With multiple passengers in one vehicle going to the same destination, it reduces some of the traffic and parking congestion of the route. Less traffic also helps the environment by reducing air pollution.

Not only does car-sharing help reduce the impact on the environment, it also reduces the stress on your vehicle. Less stress can extend the lifetime of your vehicle.

Carpooling to Success

Like the other car-free alternatives, carpooling does require advanced planning, not the least of which is finding carpooling groups. Thankfully, there are apps and local community boards that are great carpooling resources. If you can’t find one, you can always start a carpooling group.

Once you find a group, it is important to coordinate the details. Work together to plan the schedule, route, pickup times, and pickup points. Consider creating rules that everyone can agree to, such as who drives, who pays, how long the driver should wait, and a backup plan in case of car troubles or illness.

Finally, having a reliable method for group communication can also build confidence and friendships. When there is regular communication between carpooling passengers and drivers, carpooling can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Tips for a Successful Car-Free Day

Living car-free can be a big change in your normal routine, even if it is just for a day. Any disruption of a habitual rhythm can cause anxiety. However, going car-free doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your car-free experience.

Prepare in Advance

Take a little time to get ready for #CarFreeDay before the day arrives. This includes picking out your transportation and planning your route, but also packing the essentials for success. Depending on your chosen temporary transit, you may want to consider packing water, snacks, and a map. You’ll also want to wear comfortable clothing and footwear if you’ve chosen active transportation methods.

You should also mentally plan to go car-free. Remind yourself that it is a fun experience, and it is only for one day. Build excitement with yourself, your family, your neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else who may want to join you on World Car Free Day. If you’re excited about it, you’re less likely to jump in the car and stick to your normal routine.

Stay Flexible

Having a car allows you the freedom to adjust the schedule as needed. However, when your schedule depends on environmental factors or other drivers, it is important to stay flexible and adaptable to the situation. You should always be ready to adjust your plans as needed. If necessary, plan to change to a different transportation option, if possible, depending on what works best that day.

Enjoy the Experience

Going car-free should be a fun and rewarding experience. Remember, it is just for one day and is a good chance to live a different lifestyle. Use the opportunity to explore new areas and take a scenic route. While you’re at it, make new connections along the way.

Extended Warranties: Peace of Mind for Car Owners

Going car-free for a day doesn’t necessarily mean forever. Having a car gives you the freedom to go where you want to go, no matter the distance or the weather. For those times that you do want your vehicle, extended car warranties (also called vehicle service contracts or auto protection plans) can give you peace of mind and cover the cost of mechanical breakdowns when they occur.

Extended warranties offer customizable coverage to fit your vehicle, needs, and budget. Choose from comprehensive coverage similar to that of the bumper-to-bumper factory warranty, or get just the basics through a stated-component contract where you pick the parts that are covered.

Endurance Warranty offers auto protection plans for a wide variety of makes, models, and lifestyles. Plans are available for high-mileage vehicles, older cars, Canadian Grey market vehicles, cars with salvage or rebuilt titles, hybrid or electric cars like Teslas, high-end luxury vehicles, and cars used for rideshare or delivery purposes.

With Endurance, you have the option to choose which parts are covered and which aren’t – meaning you can set your budget and pick the plan that best suits your needs. Plus, you get to choose any ASE Certified auto technician, repair shop, or car dealership you trust for your covered repairs.

We don’t just stop at customizable coverage options. Every Endurance Warranty plan comes with additional benefits free of charge, like 24/7 roadside assistance, lockout services, towing, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage. Plus, you have the option to activate a year’s worth of Endurance Elite Benefits to maximize your savings.* Get $2,000 in additional perks like tire repairs and replacements, key fob replacement, and more.

Explore Endurance Coverage for Your Vehicle

It can be fun to imagine living without a car for a day when you plan it in advance, but living car-free can be stressful when it happens unexpectedly due to a mechanical breakdown. Endurance Warranty offers the coverage options you need to help keep your vehicle running smoothly so you can maintain your daily life.

Call an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing now.

However, introduced in just the last decade, the Jeep Renegade has caught the attention of drivers worldwide. As more prospective used and new car buyers consider their next purchase, many have begun to wonder about the performance and reliability of this comparatively new Jeep model. Learn everything you need to know about the Jeep Renegade and its reliability here.

Maintenance Costs: An Overview

When shopping for a new vehicle, prospective buyers often forget that the sticker price is not the total price of the car in the long run. Maintenance costs can increase the “true” cost of a vehicle over a long-term horizon to something that is actually unaffordable for some, which is why identifying those costs is so important.

Maintenance costs are defined as those associated with routine maintenance services, as well as the costs associated with unexpected repairs. Oil changes, tire rotations, fluid top-offs, windshield wiper blade replacements, and even car washes are all examples of maintenance tasks on a vehicle. The costs associated with these tasks, as well as those with repair jobs, will vary from vehicle to vehicle, which is why evaluating these prices for every car you are considering is crucial.

Parts Prices: Breaking Down the Costs

Before diving into the specific costs associated with general maintenance of a Jeep Renegade, it’s worth first looking at the cost of parts that most commonly break down. While the list below can vary depending on your daily driving habits, the Jeep Renegade parts listed are the ones that you should keep an eye on the most. Each of the cost estimations will be derived from RepairPal estimates custom to the subcompact SUV itself:

• Brakes and Rotors: The brakes and rotors are naturally some of the most important parts of a vehicle. For the Jeep Renegade, the replacement cost of brake pads alone can be over $500 and up to $750 for the rotors.
• Tires: The tires on your Renegade will vary in cost depending on whether they are off-roading tires or road tires, but an average replacement cost of $150 per tire is a safe bet.
• Air Filters: An air filter is one of the few parts where you can breathe a sigh of relief as its average replacement cost is only around $60 for the Jeep Renegade.
• Suspension: For those who regularly take their Renegade off-roading, it’s important to remember your suspension. The replacement cost for a suspension on this vehicle can be $1,000, with labor costing as much as $400.
• Side Step Bars: To keep with the theme of off-roading, new side step bars will cost around $400.
• Headlights: Headlights are a mid-tier repair task on the Jeep Renegade, costing around $150-$215 for the total replacement.
• Lift Kits: Finally, if you plan on raising your Renegade off the ground for off-roading, you should expect to pay around $1,000, though it can go as high as $1,700, depending on the specifics of the job.

The cost of replacing parts on your Jeep Renegade is clearly higher than most would think, which is why it’s so important to spend the lower maintenance costs on a regular basis to ensure the parts under the hood stay in good shape.

Service Intervals: Regular Maintenance Needs

As alluded to, regular maintenance is the key to maintaining the longevity of a vehicle. The Jeep Renegade is no exception. To ensure you are driving your small SUV for years to come, consider the following maintenance advice:

Manufacturer’s Recommended Service Schedule

First and foremost, it’s important to listen to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. The dealership you choose to purchase your renegade at will likely tell you this schedule, but you should bring your vehicle in at 10,000 miles, 20,000 miles, 40,000 miles, 60,000 miles, and 100,000 to 150,000 miles.

Every maintenance checkpoint will include servicing tasks for the battery, brake system, cooling system, and exhaust system and, if necessary, replacing the engine air filter. Beyond this, the early checkups will mainly involve inspecting tire conditions and the specs of your vehicle, as well as topping off fluid levels.

As your vehicle’s mileage begins to go up, more important components will need to be inspected, such as the cylinder engine, cruise control features, safety features, electrical system, spark plug replacements, and more.

Additional Maintenance

Given that many Jeep Renegade owners take their vehicle off-road, there are some additional maintenance tasks you should ensure are taken care of. Rotating the tires on your Renegade every 6,000-8,000 miles is a great rule of thumb. Additionally, you should have the shocks and struts inspected on your suspension at least every 12,000 miles, but sooner if you frequently take it off-road.

Are Jeep Renegades Reliable?: A Look at Common Repairs

Unfortunately, the Renegade is not an anomaly and does have a history of reported issues. These common issues, along with their associated repair costs, include:

• Alternator replacement: $800 – $1,000
• Brake master cylinder replacement: $650 – $700
• Oxygen sensor replacement: $215
• Tire pressure monitor control module replacement: $315 – $330

Reliability: How Does the Renegade Hold Up?

Still, with all of the above costs taken into account, the actual question of how reliable the Jeep Renegade is has not been answered. After all, if the Renegade is known for never breaking down, then the costs above don’t matter. On the other hand, if a vehicle is prone to breaking down, then the repair costs must be taken more seriously. Let’s look at some of the reliability information available on the Renegade.

Reliability Ratings

The reliability ratings for the Jeep Renegade will vary from source to source; however, the consistency is that the scores are higher than average. RepairPal estimates the Renegade to have a reliability score of 4/5. Newer models of the Renegade have scored around 77 out of 100 from J.D. Power. Overall, the Renegade routinely receives above-average reliability scores as compared to other vehicles in the same class. Despite this, it is still considered to be unreliable due to the number of recalls that have occurred in recent history.

Owner Reviews

Building off of the reliability ratings above, the Renegade has received fairly solid reviews from owners throughout different model years. For example, customers from Carmax indicate that the vehicle has an impressive fuel economy (MPG), strong power, and is extremely comfortable. One of the most common complaints the vehicle receives on sites such as Edmunds, though, is the fact that the spare tire you are provided with is not full-sized, meaning if you are stranded somewhere, it can be difficult to get somewhere safe.

Final Thoughts

Given the evidence, the Renegade may be a reliable vehicle worth purchasing if you take care of it. Be aware, though, that no matter how reliable a car is, it’s still a machine. This means it can still break down, which is why having protection in place is important.

Extended Warranties: Mitigating Maintenance Costs

With Endurance Warranty, there are many auto protection plans to consider. The standout three, in particular, are the Supreme, Superior, and Secure Plus plans. Starting with the last, the Secure Plus plan is geared towards older vehicles. It offers targeted protection for only the most important parts under the hood, such as the engine, transmission, and air conditioning. It’s perfect for a well-used Jeep Renegade.

The Superior plan takes things up a notch and provides additional protection for the parts that most commonly break down. This plan is an excellent balance of value for money for those who are more budget-conscious. Those seeking total, near bumper-to-bumper protection should consider the Supreme plan, which offers coverage for parts as big as the engine and all the way down to parts such as gaskets and hoses.

Regardless, Endurance plans are fully customizable, which means you can design a plan to suit your specific needs based on how you drive your Renegade.

Financial Protection

The benefit of an extended warranty is that it pays for repair costs associated with covered repairs in the event of a mechanical breakdown. This means that if you have the engine covered under your warranty package and it fails randomly on you one day, you don’t need to worry about a multi-thousand dollar repair cost. The peace of mind offered by Endurance auto protection plans is unparalleled.

Tips for Reducing Maintenance Costs

While certain vehicle service contracts, such as Advantage, may come with limited maintenance cost benefits, they are few and far between. To save the most money on maintenance for your used car, follow these three tips:

1. Regular Maintenance: Whether your car is a Dodge, Fiat, Chrysler, Ford, Kia, Jeep, or some other brand, you need to take care of regular maintenance on it. This means following the indicated schedule from the dealership and performing general maintenance tasks such as car washes, replacing windshield wiper blades, and more.
2. Using High-Quality Parts: When you modify your Renegade, especially if they are geared towards off-roading, always ensure that the parts you use are of the utmost quality. It doesn’t matter if the parts are American or foreign; ensure they have solid reviews and a lengthy history.
3. Finding a Reliable Mechanic: Finally, if your car needs to be repaired, you want to have a reliable mechanic you can go to. Endurance partners with certified shops around the country that must meet many credentials, which is another benefit of partnering with us.

Owning a vehicle is not cheap, and the MSRP you see on the window is only the tip of the iceberg. Extended car warranty costs may seem unnecessary at the moment, but consider how many parts are under the hood and how likely they are to break down over time. Both your safety and your wallet should invest in an extended warranty contract that covers you effectively.

Protect Your Jeep Renegade With Endurance

No driver wants to realize that the vehicle they just purchased is unreliable. This can lead to both safety concerns and concerns regarding your wallet. While the Jeep Renegade may be a reliable vehicle based on consumer reviews and its history, taking things to the next level by protecting your car with a vehicle service contract is a great step.

Endurance Warranty offers a variety of auto protection plans for drivers to choose from, which means you can customize a plan to suit your specific needs. Whether you’re seeking maximum protection for your renegade with a comprehensive plan or a more part-specific plan, there’s something at Endurance for you.

In addition to the perks offered by each of our vehicle service contracts, each plan also comes with 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage. Activate a year of our additional Elite Benefits package – a $2,000 value – for more bonuses such as up to four tire repairs and replacements per year, key fob replacement, total loss protection up to $1,000, and more.

To see how Endurance can keep you protected on the road, contact one of our plan advisors at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote online. Alternatively, you can shop in our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing right away.

Visit the Endurance Warranty blog for more automotive FAQs and helpful articles on comparable Hondas, Nissans, and other vehicles.

To make looking for extended warranty coverage easier, we’re detailing how Endurance Warranty and Phoenix American Warranty compare. We’ll explore how each company handles customer service and claims processing and dive into plan options, customer benefits, and transparency. Having all the facts can streamline the decision process, ensuring you get the best coverage for your needs.

Understanding Extended Warranties

The term “extended warranty” is often used to refer to coverage that kicks in after your original manufacturer’s warranty expires. You might also hear it called a “vehicle service contract” (VSC) or “auto protection plan,” as these terms are frequently used interchangeably. However, the specific coverage offered will depend on the coverage you choose and the provider handling your plan.

A Look at Company Fundamentals

Endurance and Phoenix American are well-established players in the extended warranty industry. Endurance has been serving car owners since 2006, while Phoenix American has been around since the 1980s. Both firms have paid hundreds of millions in claims over the decades.

Endurance is widely recognized for its broad range of company operations. In 2024, the Illinois-based Endurance was named a “Top Workplace” by USA Today and the Chicago Tribune. Endurance also received a Globee Golden Bridge Award for “Customer Service Department of the Year.” And, in 2023, The Business Concept Magazine named Endurance the “Best Vehicle Service Contract Provider (USA).”

Endurance is also active on social media, regularly engaging with its thousands of followers and explaining to customers and others how extended warranty coverage helps keep budgets in check during breakdowns.

In contrast, Florida-headquartered Phoenix Warranty is more of a behind-the-scenes operation. It doesn’t market its services directly to consumers; Phoenix’s customers are the auto dealers who resell the company’s extended auto warranties to car buyers. Specifically, Phoenix Warranty targets the dealer finance department managers who finalize car-buying transactions and encourage customers to purchase an extended warranty, tire and wheel coverage options, paint protection, and similar plans. Phoenix offers a wide range of these services that are sold only through dealers.

In addition, Phoenix offers a private-label program where its services are rebranded under different names for different dealers. This is done to make the plans appear more exclusive and harder to compare with competing products. A car owner can have a Phoenix American warranty and not know it unless they read the fine print.

Working with a go-between, a car dealer, makes it more challenging to assess the quality of Phoenix American’s warranty programs. The dealer interaction defines the purchasing experience while measuring the claims process, which requires more detective work.

Further, Phoenix American doesn’t have much of a social media following. For instance, its last Instagram post was in 2021, and the company doesn’t appear to have a Facebook page. This lack of presence reinforces that Phoenix American’s consumer outreach may be lacking.

Comparing Coverage Options

Endurance and Phoenix American follow standard industry practice by offering two types of extended warranties or vehicle service contracts: stated component and exclusionary plans.

As the name implies, stated component coverage protects specific parts. If the item isn’t mentioned in the contract, coverage doesn’t apply. An exclusionary plan takes the opposite approach. All components are covered unless specifically noted as exempt. Most exclusionary plans have a small list of parts that fall outside coverage.

An exclusionary plan is similar to an automaker’s new-car bumper-to-bumper warranty, making it appealing to car owners who want comprehensive protection. Exclusionary protection costs more because more components are covered.

When considering Endurance auto protection, car owners can choose from a wide range of plans that offer state component or exclusionary coverage:

Similarly, Phoenix American packages its extended warranty programs under the stated component and exclusionary banners:

Not all Phoenix American dealers carry these plans, and private-label offerings may have different names or coverage levels. Some coverage may be sold under the Phoenix Extended Care brand.

Assessing Customer Service

An extended warranty is only as good as the company that stands behind it. A vehicle service contract may clearly define what is and isn’t covered, but top-notch customer service makes the process smooth and effortless, from sign-up to claims processing.

Buying an auto protection plan from Endurance means there’s only one task at hand: getting protection for your car. When you interact with a member of the Endurance customer service team, there’s no negotiating the price of the car or worrying about a trade-in—activities that are front and center at a car dealer also trying to sell Phoenix American coverage. It’s easy to get distracted by all this car-buying activity and not get the best extended warranty coverage for your needs and budget.

Try this exercise: visit the Endurance online store and request an instant quote for extended warranty coverage. Or, call (800) 253-8203 to speak with an Endurance Warranty plan advisor for pricing information. Either way, you’ll have the necessary details in a few minutes or less.

Now, try the same activities with Phoenix American, and you’ll be left with zero results for your efforts. Phoenix will direct you to a car dealer for pricing. In addition, most car dealers won’t be able to give you extended warranty pricing as quickly and easily as Endurance, and very few auto retailers will quote you a price over the phone (we’ll talk about this more later).

Understanding Claims Processing

The other half of the customer service equation involves how claims are handled. For the most part, the initial process is similar with both companies: bring your car to a licensed repair facility.

But things take a different turn at this point. With Endurance, the customer can find a local repair shop and have them submit the claim by phone. However, Phoenix American requires that a specified service center begin the claim, which can delay the authorization process if the shop is busy with other work.

The exclusive smartphone app truly streamlines the claims process for Endurance customers. Not only is help a button push away, but the app also provides status updates, so there’s no need to look for an email or wait for a phone call.

Endurance and Phoenix American share a common industry practice of allowing customers to use any licensed repair facility for covered repairs. However, Endurance offers the option of taking your car to any of the over 3,500 certified shops across the U.S. This resource is ideal if you don’t have a regular service center or are out of town when trouble hits. Every shop in the RepairPal Partner Network has to comply with strict customer service and skill requirements and warranty all work for at least 12 months or 12,000 miles. Endurance customer service can also help locate a RepairPal-certified shop.

Phoenix American takes a hands-off approach to repair shop referrals — the company doesn’t provide any resources, leaving customers to sort things out on their own. Perhaps the idea is that the customer will return to the dealer that sold them the extended warranty.

Examining Benefits

Many auto protection providers, Endurance and Phoenix American included, provide benefits that help customers during breakdowns. The towing, jump-starts, and other services that are part of 24/7 roadside assistance can make all the difference. Meanwhile, extras like rental car reimbursement and trip interruption protection lessen the burden of having a car in the shop. However, not every extended warranty provider delivers these benefits in the same way. Here’s a look at the difference between Endurance and Phoenix American.

*See your service contract for coverage terms and requirements.

In addition, all Endurance customers receive access to a year of Elite Benefits. A small activation fee opens up services worth as much as $2,000, like tire repairs and replacements (up to four tires per year due to road hazards), key fob replacement, collision repair discounts, and total loss protection.

Examining Reputations and Reviews

Trust is an essential element of the extended warranty purchasing process. One way to determine a provider’s reliability is to look at reviews. After all, who knows a company better than its customers?

On ConsumerAffairs, William from Statesboro, GA, gave Endurance a thumbs up for claims handling, stating, “They’re good people, and we get no hassle whenever I have a claim. I had a claim for the radio, and Endurance took care of it. They’re the real deal. I have already got four of my family members signed up with them.”

Angela from Waxahachie, TX, had a similarly good experience, remarking, “I had a policy with Endurance and signed up again. They explained the plan that I picked, and I was pleased. I’ve recommended them to several people.”

This feedback and thousands more give Endurance an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 on ConsumerAffairs (as of September 2024). Under the Phoenix Extended Care brand, Endurance’s competitor doesn’t fare so well. ConsumerAffairs users give Phoenix an average rating of 1.9.

Similar results are revealed through Google Reviews, which gives Endurance an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 across almost 14,000 individual reviews. One comment from Ken V shared, “Endurance has backed up all of my claims with payment and fast courteous service. In three (3) years I had in excess of $3,000 in claims and they paid all of them, I only paid my $100 deductible per claim. I highly recommend Endurance, and we will use them again.”

Another Endurance customer, Sandra H., summed up her experience by commenting, “I had a wonderful experience with the service department today. The service person was very professional and supportive of my stressful state of needing service for my car. Endurance ease of putting in a claim blew my car dealership manager away. He could not believe that in less than 15 minutes he had approval of my repair.”

In comparison, Phoenix American’s reputation on Google Reviews suffers, with an average rating of 1.4 across 140 reviews. Notably, the company received only three 5-star reviews during the past year. This contrasts sharply with the dozens of top reviews Endurance has received in recent weeks.

Consumer Disclosures, Resources, and Pricing

Knowing what you’re buying is fundamental to any satisfactory purchase. Endurance embraces this concept by making sample contracts available online for review. This way, you can start the buying process fully informed. You can review the information at your leisure and ask any questions before selecting Endurance Warranty. Meanwhile, Phoenix American only posts non-specific marketing materials, which are more likely to create questions than answer them. You’ll need to contact a participating dealer to review a Phoenix American extended warranty.

Endurance’s spirit of transparency continues with an extensive FAQ section on its website that addresses common concerns and areas of interest. Phoenix American doesn’t have a similar offering because its website targets the company’s actual customers (car dealers), not the end users of its products (consumers).

Further, the Endurance blog reinforces a consumer-friendly approach to providing information. Here, readers will find a vast library of hundreds of articles written by repair shop owners and expert mechanics that explore on-target subjects like extended warranty tips, DIY repair advice, car repair and maintenance tips, and more. Again, Phoenix American doesn’t provide any consumer-oriented resources.

Being upfront about extended warranties is especially vital regarding pricing. With Endurance, a car owner can learn their options and costs via instant online pricing. Enter a few basic details, and in no time, you’ll know exactly how much you’ll pay for extended warranty protection. Endurance plan advisors are available to review custom options and answer questions.

Pricing for a Phoenix American plan comes only from a car dealer. This requires in-person interaction or a lengthy phone call—nothing instantaneous. Also, keep in mind that buying an extended warranty through a dealer means paying a marked-up price for coverage. The dealer pays Phoenix American for the underlying coverage (the service contract) and then adds pure profit to the transaction.

Purchasing directly from Endurance eliminates the middleman, helping to keep your costs to a minimum. Compare Endurance’s upfront business model to Phoenix American or its car dealer agents’. Endurance makes all the details available in advance, ensuring an easy and clear-cut experience.

Drive Confidently With Endurance

Discover all the advantages of an Endurance Warranty and a no-surprises buying approach. Visit the Endurance online store for instant plan recommendations and pricing, or request a FREE quote. Receive personalized help by calling (800) 253-8203. Our plan advisors are ready to answer your questions and explore coverage options tailored to your needs!

Read more extended warranty comparisons with CarShield, CARCHEX, and other providers on the Endurance blog.

This is great while it lasts. However, once the factory warranty expires, you’re responsible for any future repair bills — unless you’ve invested in an extended car warranty.

Usually purchased through a dealership or third-party provider, extended car warranties protect drivers from the rising cost of car ownership. But they didn’t always exist. The coverage plans of today are the result of decades of evolution, with providers tweaking products in response to an ever-changing market.

This comprehensive guide to the history of extended car warranties (also known as vehicle service contracts) will take you from the humble beginnings of auto protection right up to present-day programs. Keep reading for everything you need to know.

The Early Days: The Birth of Automobile Warranties

To give you the full picture, we need to go all the way back to the beginning, starting with the origins of factory warranties and how they became standard practice.

The Origins of Car Warranties

Factory warranties have come as standard with new vehicles for such a long time now, and you’d be forgiven for thinking the first automobiles also included one. However, when the Ford Motor Company first introduced the game-changing Model T in 1908, your only protection was a personal promise from Henry Ford himself: “Twenty-five thousand successful cars bearing the Ford imprint are in use today and are just so many testimonials of Ford success. This is your guarantee when you buy a Ford car.”

A little later, the Maxwell Motor Company (an ancestor of the Chrysler Corporation) gave anyone who bought its Maxwell cars a legally binding 90-day warranty against defects, but tires, rims, magnetos, coils, batteries, or lamps were excluded. While this was a good start, it wasn’t particularly user-friendly, as customers also had to bring any broken components to the Maxwell factory at their own expense.

It took until the mid-1920s for Ford to take note and start offering a legally binding warranty of its own. They introduced a 90-day warranty for parts and a 30-day warranty for labor on all American-market vehicles, which became an industry standard over the next few decades.

The Expansion of Warranty Coverage

As time passed, the development of better car components meant better warranties for consumers. By the late 1950s, advancements in automotive technology meant that new vehicles took longer to experience their first breakdown and also broke down less frequently. By the 1960s, manufacturers began extending powertrain warranties well past 90 days, but the Ford Motor Company went one step further for its customers.

Buyers of the 1961 Lincoln Continental were the first to be given a much more reassuring one-year or 12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty (with a few exceptions, of course). Just one year later, new Continentals doubled that warranty to two years or 24,000 miles, with other Ford and Mercury models adding on identical coverage not long after. At this point, warranties became much more than a guarantee: they became a selling point. Buyers would consider whether a car came with a warranty, much in the same way they would consider a bigger engine or luxury upholstery. Naturally, other manufacturers began following suit.

The Rise of Extended Warranties: Meeting Consumer Demand

Having a factory warranty watching your back whenever you’re out on the road is great for driving with confidence. Should anything break down, you can rest easy knowing it will be repaired quickly and efficiently without impacting your wallet. But all good things must come to an end, and no one enjoys the risk of an expensive repair bill looming over them. As a result, there was a demand for an all-new product: the extended warranty/vehicle service contract.

Vehicle service contracts have existed in some form or other since the late 1950s, but they only really became popular around the 1970s. After spending years drumming up the importance of a 3-year/30,000-mile or 5-year/50,000-mile factory warranty, the increasing complexity of vehicle components led many manufacturers to reduce the length of their coverage or make it less comprehensive. Customers didn’t like the idea of driving without protection after the manufacturer’s warranty expired, leading to a rise in extended warranty purchases.

The Evolution of Coverage: From Basic to Comprehensive

The most important system under the hood is without doubt the powertrain, which works in synergy to power a vehicle forwards. It makes sense then that many extended warranty companies first introduced a basic plan that focused on the powertrain specifically, allowing consumers to protect the more crucial (and expensive) components if their budget was on the smaller side.

The beauty of factory warranties, though, is that they are so comprehensive, and it gives you enormous confidence to know that almost every component between your bumpers is protected while coverage is active. While extended warranty providers can’t usually match this like for like, they understand that customers want the most peace of mind possible and, therefore, introduced exclusionary plans that are as close to a factory warranty as you can expect.

Of course, some customers might want something more in the middle, which led to the introduction of stated component plans. Providers will often have varying levels of inclusionary coverage to choose from, ranging from a ‘powertrain plus’ option right up to something almost (but not quite) exclusionary.

As cars have developed over time, so have their components, which has led to new parts and systems being added to extended warranty plans. Electric vehicles (EVs), for example, have had a huge impact, with some providers introducing plans specifically for them. While some of the more high-tech components aren’t generally covered under standard programs, many providers will offer ‘add-on’ coverage at an extra cost. Ultimately, providers want to give customers the option to protect as much or as little as they desire, with the only exception being the ‘wear and tear’ parts that are designed to be replaced regularly (e.g., bulbs, windshield wipers, and batteries).

The Role of Third-Party Providers: Expanding the Market

As the extended warranty industry began to pick up speed in the 1970s, the vast majority of plans weren’t insured. When claims rolled in, many providers found themselves unable to pay out—leading to them going out of business. To cut a long story short, these tumultuous times resulted in a number of regulatory changes, and it became a legal requirement for providers to obtain insurance backing for any coverage offered. This forced a lot of bad actors out but set the stage for third-party providers to enter the scene and thrive.

The 1990s saw a boom in third-party options as customers sought a more cost-effective way to protect their automobiles. Efforts were made to standardize warranty terms across the country, making them easier to understand and, therefore, allowing drivers to compare providers and their benefits in an easy way. This combination of greater confidence and comprehension made third-party extended warranties, and vehicle service contracts much more accessible and much more popular than the pricier plans offered by dealerships.

The Digital Age: Innovations in Extended Warranty Services

The introduction of home computing, the internet, and smartphones was undeniably revolutionary, and it inevitably led to innovations in extended warranty services, too. Most providers now operate online, with a central hub where customers can log in, see plan details, and make claims. Some of the more forward-thinking providers even have smartphone apps, putting all the most important information right in the palm of your hand.

Big data has also allowed providers to develop better products. With real-time access to claims statistics at scale, they can see what customers require right now and predict what they might want in the near future. Rather than being reactionary, they can be proactive in their approach to programs and benefits, ensuring plan holders receive maximum value for money at all times.

Endurance: Leading the Way in Modern Extended Warranties

There are plenty of auto protection plan providers to choose from, but none have a reputation quite like Endurance. Serving American drivers for almost two decades, we’ve helped thousands of drivers save big on the cost of car ownership by protecting them from unexpected repair bills. Our market-leading, regulation-compliant coverage plans cater to a wide range of circumstances, whether you’d just like to protect your powertrain or want the driving confidence that only a more comprehensive plan can offer. Unlike dealerships, we’re also willing to be flexible with coverage, so whatever your needs and budget, our award-winning customer service team can tweak specifics to suit you better individually.

Choose Endurance, and not only do you get America’s most trusted coverage, but you also get the country’s best added benefits. All Endurance plans come with 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, and trip-interruption costs as standard. On top of that, every Endurance customer can activate a year of our Elite Benefits package, which adds on up to four tire repairs or replacements annually, key fob replacement, up to $500 in collision discounts, up to $1,000 in total loss protection, and more.*

We’re always ahead of the curve when it comes to technology, but we also appreciate that nothing beats a human touch. To give you the best of both worlds, our advisors are always on hand to respond to your queries via phone or email. We also developed the Endurance smartphone app to give you easy access to all the most important plan information at the touch of a button. Better yet, we’re one of the few third-party vehicle service contract providers to be the direct administrator of all our plans, meaning no layers of middlemen to deal with when you come to make a claim.

Protect Your Used Vehicle with America’s Best Coverage

It’s been decades since the dawn of extended auto warranties, with providers setting up shop all across America. So many choices can make the decision process overwhelming, but if you’re a used car owner, there’s only one name you need to know. Endurance’s wide range of coverage options offers an auto protection plan for every driver — even high-mileage vehicle owners and select luxury cars. We also include a selection of market-leading benefits as standard with every plan, giving you the added protection you need for total confidence out on the road.

For more information on how we can protect you from the cost of unexpected component failure, contact an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also shop our eStore for instant plan recommendations and pricing.

You can find plenty more reading material on our extended warranty blog, including a provider comparison series, advice on preventative maintenance, FAQs, and much more.

One factor that made this dynamic SUV so enjoyable behind the wheel was V8 power. Eight cylinders weren’t new for Porsche; the automaker’s first production V8 car, the 928, established the company’s credentials in this department. However, the V8-powered Porsche Cayenne reinforced the idea that performance and all-wheel-drive capability weren’t mutually exclusive. This mighty combination has made the Porsche Cayenne sought after, even as the company has offered six-cylinder and diesel variants.

Yet, a fast-changing auto industry and the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) may cause some industry watchers and auto enthusiasts to wonder if V8 engines are still relevant. Porsche’s entry into the EV fray with its Taycan sedan (on a shared platform with Audi) and all-electric Macan SUV appears to underscore the concerns. A Porsche Cayenne electric or Cayenne EV is in the works, too. Yet all it takes is a look at Porsche’s current lineup to see that Porsche Cayennes with V8s are alive and well. In short, the automaker has no problems keeping in both powertrain pools.

But what does this mean for the next decade? Keep reading as we explore how the Cayenne’s legacy will keep Porsche V8 power alive into the 2030s. We’ll also look at how Porsche’s engineering prowess makes its V8 engine so appealing, even in the face of more powerful electric powertrains. Also in the mix is how recent industry trends, including unexpected setbacks in the electric vehicle sector, are reshaping the landscape for gas-powered vehicles.

The Legacy of the Porsche Cayenne V-8 Engine

When Porsche first introduced the Cayenne over two decades ago, many purists scoffed at the idea of a Porsche crossover SUV. However, offering V8-powered editions quickly silenced critics and won over skeptics, thanks to engaging performance that wasn’t impacted by all-wheel drive and extra ground clearance.

By today’s standards, the first Cayenne had modest specifications. The 4.5-liter V8 in the Cayenne S produced 335 horsepower, giving this SUV a quick but not neck-snapping acceleration rate of zero to 60 mph top speed in under seven seconds. Subsequent Turbo and Turbo S editions added forced-air induction (turbocharging), making zero-to-60 mph runs possible in under six seconds. The closing years of the first-generation Porsche Cayenne saw the introduction of an updated Turbo edition with a larger 4.8-liter V8. The Turbo S variant offered 550 horsepower and a zero to 60 mph time of 4.7 seconds, delivering sports car-level performance in a more practical package.

The second generation brought more improvements to the Cayenne’s 4.8-liter V8. The Turbo S continued to be the top model, with output eventually increasing to 562 horsepower. V8 power returned to a 4.0-liter displacement for the current fourth-generation model. However, the addition of a twin-turbocharger overcame the smaller size. The top-tier Cayenne Turbo GT produces up to 650 horsepower, enabling this SUV to reach 60 mph in 3.1 seconds.

This steady march of progress hasn’t gone unnoticed. Over the years, V8-powered Porsche Cayennes have been awarded by the Robb Report, Kelley Blue Book, and others for a compelling combination of performance, capability, and other elements.

Engineering Advancements and Design Features

Three generations of Cayenne V8 improvements show Porsche doesn’t rest on its laurels. While some of this is undoubtedly due to competitive pressures from archrival Mercedes-Benz, it really comes to a relentless pursuit of engineering excellence. Developing the “latest and greatest” is part of Porsche’s approach to engineering.

A case in point is the current Cayenne V8 with a “hot-V” configuration, where the turbochargers are mounted between the cylinder banks (the V-shaped area). This layout reduces turbo lag and improves throttle response. Meanwhile, advanced materials, like a lightweight aluminum block and plasma-coated cylinder linings, improve engine efficiency and durability.

Other technologies are involved. The engine’s variable valve timing and lift system, coupled with direct fuel injection, allows for more precise control over the combustion process. This maximizes power output and helps the Cayenne meet increasingly stringent emissions standards.

Porsche also added cylinder deactivation to the Cayenne V8. When specific conditions are met, four cylinders turn off, giving the engine the efficiency of a powerplant half its size. This clever feature demonstrates that even gas-guzzling engines can be made more environmentally conscious.

In practical terms, the 2024 Porsche Cayenne S is EPA-rated for 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. These fuel economy estimates may appear underwhelming compared to a Toyota Prius. Still, a V8-powered, high-performance SUV with 469 horsepower that can deliver better than 20 miles per gallon is an achievement of modern engineering.

The Market for Gas-Powered Vehicles in the 2030s

Not too long ago, automotive industry analysts, backed by government mandates, predicted the demise of internal combustion engines (aka gas engines). However, the anticipated growth of EVs hasn’t caught up with projections. Consumers just aren’t buying electric cars as quickly as automakers had hoped.

As a result, automakers are scaling back or canceling once-aggressive V rollout plans. Honda had teamed with General Motors to develop sub-$30,000 EVs but axed the joint venture last year, citing a less-friendly business environment and other factors. More recently, General Motors slowed its EV plans by delaying the development of a second electric truck plant and postponing the launch of Buick’s first EV. This action followed Rivian pausing construction on a new factory in Georgia and Volkswagen indefinitely delaying the U.S. launch of the ID.7 electric sedan.

These moves suggest that the transition to electric mobility may be more gradual than initially thought, leaving room for advanced gas-powered vehicles like the Cayenne to thrive.

Market data supports this perspective. While EV sales continue to grow, they’re not accelerating at the pace many predicted. In some regions, concerns about charging infrastructure, range anxiety, and the environmental impact of battery production have tempered enthusiasm for electric vehicles.

Further, advancements in internal combustion technology, including plug-in hybrid systems, are expanding interest in gas-powered vehicles. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) sales increased by 53% in 2023 over the previous, marking record sales of 1.2 million HEVs. To date, Cayenne hybrid editions have evolved around V6 engines.

Porsche’s Commitment to Innovation and Performance

Porsche’s approach to the future of automotive technology is a delicate balance between innovation and tradition. While the company has embraced electrification with the Taycan, it continues to refine its gas-powered offerings, particularly the V-8 engine. Details about an electric Cayenne are just speculation at this point.

This dual-track strategy is evident in Porsche’s recent investments. Alongside developments in electric powertrains, the company continues to pour resources into enhancing its internal combustion engines. This includes research into synthetic fuels, potentially extending the life of gas-powered engines indefinitely by making them carbon-neutral. The company launched a pilot eFuels plant in Chile in 2022, opening the door to carbon-neutral fuel production.

Meanwhile, the company continues to rely on V-8 powered vehicles in various motorsport categories, using competition to drive innovation that eventually trickles down to road cars like the Cayenne.

The Endurance of the V-8 Engine Amidst Electric Alternatives

Gas-powered V-8 engines and their electric counterparts each have strengths. Electric vehicles offer instant torque and silent operation, but the V-8 provides an unmatched sensory experience.

The sound of a finely tuned V-8 engine, the way it builds power throughout the rev range, and the mechanical connection between driver and machine are aspects that electric powertrains struggle to replicate. Dodge’s recently debuted all-electric Charger will include an option for an artificial exhaust note, but it’s yet to be determined if this is a successful substitute for the real thing.

Regardless, it’s reasonable to assume that well-heeled Cayenne buyers appreciate intangible qualities as much as measurable performance.

Protect Your Porsche Cayenne with an Extended Warranty

One thing is for certain: buying a Porsche Cayenne involves making an investment. Even one with some years and miles costs more than a comparable mainstream model. The extra upfront expense can also translate into more expensive repair bills.

For instance, RepairPal estimates that replacing an exhaust manifold for a Porsche Cayenne costs $1,623 to $1,851. In contrast, the same work for a Ford Edge runs $1,050 and $1,118. That’s just one example of a relatively simple task. Costs for more complex repairs on a Porsche can skyrocket.

Knowing that peace of mind and financial stability are vital for all car owners, Endurance developed the Supreme for Highline Vehicles auto protection plan. This protection plan, also known as an extended warranty, provides coverage for select luxury models after the manufacturer’s warranty expires. Most Porsches, including the Cayenne, are eligible based on mileage, age, and condition requirements.

All Endurance vehicle protection plans include benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance with towing support, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption protection. Most importantly, Endurance customers can choose any licensed repair facility for covered repairs. This includes dealership service departments and specialty repair shops, which are vital resources for getting complex automobiles back on the road.

Learn how to protect your Porsche Cayenne with an auto protection plan from Endurance. Visit our online store for instant price and plan information, or request a FREE quote. You can also call (800) 253-8203 for customized coverage details.

Read the Endurance blog for an extensive library of expert-written articles about car maintenance and repair advice, DIY tips, warranty guidance, auto reviews, and more.

We depend on a reliable vehicle to get us to and from school, work, extracurricular activities, medical and dental appointments, grocery shopping, and even date nights out. When that vehicle unexpectedly breaks down, it’s disorienting and stressful, like the rug has been ripped right out from under us.

Thankfully, an extended auto warranty can reduce stress and get you back to your family routine sooner without burdening your wallet. But, with multiple extended car warranty companies, each with different vehicle service contracts, how do you choose the best auto protection plan for your family?

Ensuring Family Safety and Convenience

The weight of the importance of the family vehicle often goes unnoticed until it’s at the repair shop. Unfortunately, all cars eventually have mechanical breakdowns, even the most reliable ones, like Toyota or Honda. When you have a new car, your investment comes with the peace of mind of a bumper-to-bumper warranty from the dealership. However, if you have an older car or buy a used vehicle, eventually, the factory warranty expires.

Thankfully, a comprehensive extended car warranty from a third-party company, more accurately referred to as a vehicle service contract (VSC) or auto protection plan, can relieve some of the stress. These contracts reduce or eliminate car repair costs and ensure that your vehicle is always road-ready when you need it most — whether it’s a trip to a championship game or the emergency room.

Key Features of Family-Friendly Extended Warranties

When comparing extended warranty providers, it’s important to read the fine print to understand what is (or isn’t) included in the vehicle service contract. You can avoid scams and find the best extended warranty plan by looking for essential features, including:

Comprehensive Coverage Plans

The last thing you want is a surprise expense at the repair shop. By choosing a comprehensive level of coverage, you can prevent unexpected vehicle repair costs at checkout. Comprehensive coverage is closest to the bumper-to-bumper coverage you get with a new vehicle, with maximum covered repairs and minimal exclusions. Make sure your plan covers all the major systems and vehicle components you need.

Deductible and Warranty Costs

Family budget planning is necessary. Unexpected and often expensive repairs can wreak havoc on even the best budgets. While you shop for an extended car warranty, the overall price will certainly be a factor. Remember that when comparing costs of a vehicle warranty, include all factors, including the upfront price, deductible, and monthly payments.

An extended car warranty is more affordable for most families than paying for auto repairs out of pocket. Find one with flexible payment plans that match your budget.

Coverage for High Mileage Vehicles

Family vehicles often have higher mileage than other cars on the road, often well outside the manufacturer’s warranty. Families should pay close attention to the maximum eligible mileage when comparing extended warranty plans. Some providers, like Endurance Warranty, offer coverage for high-mileage vehicles.

Consider auto protection plans that fit your unique lifestyle and those of the other drivers in your home. Are you making money doing rideshare or delivery services? Do you have a hybrid or electric vehicle, like a Tesla? Do you have a high-end luxury vehicle, or a car with a salvage or rebuilt title? Be sure to look for the best car warranty for what makes your family unique.

Warranty Provider Provider Reputation

You don’t need to add another task to juggle. Vehicle warranties are meant to improve your life, not become another stress factor. Before signing your used car warranty plan, look at customer reviews to see what others say about their experience on sites like Better Business Bureau (BBB.com), Trustpilot, Consumer Affairs, and Google reviews.

Does the vehicle warranty provider have a positive reputation for responsiveness and an easy claims process? The best warranty options for families will reduce frustration when disaster strikes.

Additional Perks

Many third-party extended car warranty providers offer additional benefits to ensure you arrive at your destination safely. Many of these benefits can only be found with an independent car warranty provider and are not available with a manufacturer’s warranty or a powertrain warranty from the car dealership.

Families often find these additional benefits especially useful when they’re on the side of a busy road with their family:

• 24/7 roadside assistance and towing services
• Rental car coverage/rental car reimbursement
• Trip interruption coverage

CarShield: Gold Plan

CarShield is known for offering comprehensive coverage plans for all types of drivers, including families, with additional benefits and flexible payment terms.

CarShield strives to fit every budget and every vehicle, with six coverage plans to choose from. However, CarShield’s Gold Plan, or the “Powertrain Plus,”  is often an excellent option for families, as it offers coverage for vehicles with more than 100,000 miles, protecting major components like the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. These parts are essential to your vehicle’s functionality but are also pricey.

The Gold Plan also covers more family necessities, including:

• Water pump
• Starter
• Alternator
• Air conditioning
• Power window motors
• Cooling system
• Transfer unit
• Electrical system
• Fuel system

As with many vehicle protection plans, the Gold Plan does not include wear and tear items, like brake pads, wiper blades, air filters, etc.) However, their plans come with additional benefits, such as roadside protection, trip interruption coverage, breakdown coverage, and rental/alternative transportation coverage. A 30-day money-back guarantee also backs every plan.

CarShield’s vehicle service contracts are administered by American Auto Shield, a separate plan administrator. Unfortunately, CarShield is not available to residents of California.

CARCHEX: Titanium Plan

CARCHEX has a reputation for offering high levels of coverage with affordable pricing, making it another family-friendly option.

For families looking for the highest level of coverage available from CARCHEX, the Titanium Plan is another option to consider. The Titanium Plan provides factory-like coverage, offering maximum breakdown protection with a short list of exclusions. Exclusions include:

• Wear and tear items (oil changes, brake pads, etc.)
• Damage from a car accident, theft, or vandalism
• Aftermarket modifications
• Damage from natural causes
• Damage due to lack of maintenance
• Repairs made without authorization

CARCHEX plans are also transferable, which can improve the salability of your vehicle when it comes time to upgrade your vehicle. Plus, CARCHEX plans are available in all 50 states and come with perks like roadside assistance, trip interruption protection, and rental car reimbursement.

CARHEX plans are handled by several warranty plan administrators, including American Auto Shield, American Guardian Warranty Solutions, Enterprise Financial Group, and more. When it comes time to file your claim, contact the administrator listed on your vehicle service contract to prevent potential delays.

autopom!: Exclusionary Plan

Established in 2009, autopom!, or “automotive peace of mind,” is a newcomer to the extended car warranty industry and is still a relatively small company. However, with three auto protection plans, each with multiple coverage options per coverage level, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Many families prefer the autopom! Exclusionary Plan. This extended car warranty is similar to a bumper-to-bumper car warranty for a new car. It covers nearly every vehicle system and component, from the seals and gaskets to the navigational equipment, minus a few exclusions. However, every plan and provider differs, so reading your vehicle service contract to see what your warranty covers is important.

Customers have commended autopom! for their great customer service and affordable pricing. Families, in particular, also like that you can choose your dealership for repair work and that some plans even come with tire protection. Every plan includes:

• Complimentary rental car assistance.
• Nationwide breakdown coverage in the United States and Canada.
• 24/7 roadside assistance.
• Trip interruption reimbursements.

Plus, some autopom! plans are transferable to the next vehicle owner.

While they offer extended warranty coverage for every state, including mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) in California, not every plan is available. Like CarShield and CARCHEX, autopom! is not a direct administrator of its plans. autopom! plans are only available for cars in good working condition, and vehicles with pre-existing problems are ineligible.

Endurance: Supreme Plan

With over 15 years in the industry, Endurance Warranty has a positive reputation for offering customizable vehicle service contracts that cater to more budgets, vehicles, and lifestyles — including families – than the competitors.

Among these customizable auto protection plans, the Endurance Supreme plan was created with families in mind. The Supreme plan offers the most comprehensive vehicle protection against mechanical breakdowns, even as the car racks up higher mileage. It is most comparable to a bumper-to-bumper or new car warranty. The Endurance Supreme plan offers maximum powertrain coverage. It protects against all of the major components of the vehicle’s powertrain, as well as the rest of the things you love about your car.

Some important car parts included in the warranty coverage are:

• Car engine
• Power steering
• Vehicle transmission
• Drive axle
• Suspension
• Vehicle navigation
• Heating and air conditioning
• Electronics

No matter which plan you choose, Endurance includes a suite of additional perks, including 24/7 roadside assistance, jump starts, lockout services, and towing. Other benefits include rental car reimbursement, trip interruption coverage, and exclusive Endurance Mobile app access.

You can also maximize your savings by activating a year’s worth of Endurance Elite Benefits. You can also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with key fob replacement, tire repair or replacement, and collision discounts.*

Plus, Endurance plans are available nationwide, including mechanical breakdown insurance policies in California, and can be used at any mechanic or repair facility certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Then, once it’s time to sell your vehicle, Endurance auto protection plans are transferable to the next private owner.

Endurance stands out among many competitors as a direct administrator of its plans. That means the same team you speak to when you request your free quote is the same one that can help you file a claim — and answer any auto protection questions that may come up. This streamlined approach ensures that your claims process is fast, reliable, and hassle-free so you can get back to your daily routine.

Why Comprehensive Coverage Matters for Families

We all depend on our vehicles to get us from point A to point B whenever we need them. However, families can often rely more heavily on their vehicles since the family car is responsible for taking multiple family members to more destinations — school, work, errands, road trips, family vacations, and more.

Vehicle service contracts, like the Endurance Supreme plan, can help you drive confidently, knowing that you’re ready for whatever is on the road ahead. Having the most comprehensive extended car warranty available gives you peace of mind that your car’s most critical systems and components are protected and that you won’t unexpectedly be paying out of pocket for expensive car repairs.

Not only that, but having a vehicle service contract often helps car owners keep up with a routine maintenance schedule, which makes your commuter vehicle a safer and more reliable mode of transportation for the most important people in your life.

Extended Warranties: Providing Peace of Mind for Families

Since 2006, Endurance Warranty has been committed to offering high-quality vehicle protection with a customer-centered approach, a mission that is evident in our customer reviews. We partner with notable automotive industry leaders like RepairPal, former professional racecar driver Danica Patrick, and ASE Certified mechanics nationwide. With Endurance, you can be empowered to make informed decisions through transparent pricing, sample contracts, and educational automotive resources.

Call (800) 253-8203 to speak with an Endurance plan advisor or request a FREE quote! You can also shop our eStore to see instant plan recommendations and pricing.

This is doubly helpful with used vehicles, which tend to have higher mileage and a greater risk of mechanical breakdowns than new vehicles. For those whose manufacturer’s warranty expires in the next couple of months, read on to learn why you should consider extending your vehicle warranty.

Increased Vehicle Wear from Summer Travels

There’s a particular reason why summer is one of the best times of year to look at renewing your used car warranty. The various activities and travel that occur during the summer months place a heavy strain on a vehicle that can increase the amount of wear and tear that vehicle has overall. For perspective, long road trips can put a heavy strain on the parts under the hood; combine that with the warm temperatures of summer, and a real problem begins to develop.

High temperatures coupled with lengthy road trips can stunt engine performance and place greater strain on the battery, which can impact its length of life. As the vehicle tries to cool itself, parts such as the radiator and coolant system will also see more significant strain, which can be problematic with older vehicles.

In addition to all of this, the simple frequent use of your vehicle can accelerate the general wear and tear on your tires, brakes, and other various systems due to constant braking and micro-adjustments you make on the road.

Preparing for Fall and Winter Driving Conditions

Beyond the fact that the summer months will wear down your vehicle extensively, there’s another reason to take it as an opportunity to renew your extended warranty. The fall and winter driving conditions are substantially worse than summer, even in states with fewer changes in climate, which is why extending your warranty can even be considered a form of preventative maintenance.

As the seasons start to change, the temperature fluctuations can have an impact on your vehicle’s parts. Rainy conditions can place stress on your windshield wiper and brakes, dirt getting caught on the underside of your vehicle can lead to rusting, frequent braking in poor conditions places a strain on your brakes and tires, and much more. Given the poorer conditions of these months, it’s all the more important to take care of preventive maintenance tasks such as tire rotations, replacing windshield wiper fluid, oil changes, and more to avoid expensive repairs.

Even vehicles with top-tier maintenance can have issues over time, which is why it is important to ensure your vehicle service contract is still active through those bad months. Be aware of the exclusions on your factory warranty or extended car warranty so that you can focus even more maintenance tasks on the parts that are uncovered.

Benefits of Extending Your Used Car Warranty

Given all of the above, you may be wondering why you should extend your car warranty now rather than wait until the poor weather of the latter months of the year finally hits. First, many car owners overlook the fact and benefits of comprehensive coverage extended auto warranty packages, which tend to offer near bumper-to-bumper protection. This means that nearly all unexpected repairs stemming from summer, fall, winter, or even spring causes will be covered. Regardless of the time of year, by extending your warranty now, you will save money.

Speaking of saving money, the cost savings associated with used car warranty packages are substantial. In a used vehicle, the parts under the hood have already been put through significant wear and tear, which means repair jobs tend to be costlier than those of newer vehicles. By having an active warranty package, you can save money on these costs and put that money towards other things in your life.

Finally, by extending your car warranty now, you can have peace of mind while out on the road. Knowing your warranty coverage can cover costly repairs leaves you without worries in the event of a mechanical breakdown, but always be sure to read the fine print of your contract so that you know exactly what’s covered and what isn’t.

Extended Car Warranty Options for Used Cars

Renewing your extended warranty on your used car also serves as an excellent time to reevaluate the type of contract you currently have on your vehicle. If you are lacking protection in key areas where you have noticed your vehicle begin to falter, then perhaps seeking out a plan with a higher level of coverage is a good choice. Alternatively, if you’re paying for a more expensive plan but don’t believe you need the extensive level of protection, then opting for a more part-specific extended warranty plan could be wise.

Generally, there are three extended warranty contract archetypes to consider:

1. Powertrain Warranty: A powertrain warranty offers financial protection against only components which make up the powertrain of your vehicle. Most commonly these parts include the engine, transmission, drivetrain, differentials, transfer cases, and other various internal components which help directly propel your vehicle forward.
2. Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: Often seen as the most comprehensive type of warranty available, a bumper-to-bumper warranty offers coverage for, you guessed it, everything except the bumpers themselves.
3. Specialty Warranty: Finally, a special warranty such as the Secure Plus plan from Endurance Warranty, offers specialty coverage that only covers specific parts. The Secure Plus plan, as an example, offers coverage specifically for older vehicles and the parts that are most likely to break down.

When choosing the right used car warranty for your vehicle, evaluate your current and future needs and how you drive it. This will help you identify the parts most likely to fail in the future so that you can pick the right level of protection now.

Also, be sure to research factors such as an individual plan’s deductible, the monthly payment or annual payment, and more. Don’t forget the fact that car insurance is not the same as a car warranty, with the former only protecting in the event of accidents or collisions.

Endurance Warranty: Protecting Your Investment

At Endurance Warranty, we offer auto protection plans with varying levels of coverage. Beyond the Secure Plus plan mentioned above, two other standout plans offered by Endurance are the Superior and Supreme plans. The Superior plan offers protection for the parts under the hood that fail most commonly. In contrast, the Supreme plan offers the closest level of protection to a factory warranty on a new vehicle.

These plans are just the tip of the iceberg, though, as there are a multitude of different plan options and customizations available. Our unique Advantage plan offers both coverage options and coverage for routine maintenance, which makes a covered repair doubly sweeter. Many extended warranty providers don’t allow the level of customization to their plans that Endurance does, with Endurance auto protection plans being able to be tailored to your specific needs so that you can make the most out of your plan.

Another benefit of partnering with Endurance Warranty is the fact that additional perks such as rental car reimbursements, trip interruption coverage due to a breakdown, and roadside assistance with towing are standard with all plans, meaning the headache associated with major repairs will be taken away even quicker. Even the best car, new or used, can have issues on the road, which is why investing in an auto protection plan with Endurance, featuring many add-ons in regard to benefits, can be such a smart choice.

Stay Protected on the Road with Endurance

Finding yourself dealing with a mechanical breakdown while driving on the road can cause a headache and be dangerous for yourself and others. That’s why taking prompt action and getting your vehicle repaired so that it is road-ready is crucial. Unfortunately, the repair costs associated with some fixes tend to bar individuals from getting their vehicles fixed for a long time. By having a used car extended warranty active on your vehicle, you can take away this headache for yourself and get back on the road as soon as possible.

With Endurance Warranty, you have many different coverage options to consider. Depending on your needs, you can customize a vehicle service contract to have as little or as much protection as you desire. We offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you can choose your own certified repair shop.

On top of this, each Endurance contract comes with 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and trip interruption reimbursement. In addition, our Elite Benefits package offers bonus perks such as reimbursements for up to four tires per year due to road hazards, up to $1,000 in total loss protection, up to $500 in collision coverage, and more.*

To learn more, contact an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote online. You can also shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing right away.

Visit the Endurance blog for more automotive articles. Learn about vehicle maintenance schedules, expert DIY tips, and auto FAQs from consumers like you.

MBI is a special type of car insurance policy that covers repair costs if your vehicle experiences mechanical failure. This is distinctly different from liability car insurance coverage, which is legally required in most states and covers car repair costs due to accidents or natural disasters.

Your vehicle’s manufacturer may offer a mechanical breakdown insurance policy, but it’s also sometimes offered by insurance companies as an add-on (also known as a rider) to an existing policy. It’s also worth noting that MBI is currently solely offered in California — the only state in the US that has adopted regulations regarding this type of insurance.

Whether your car is new or used, MBI is an option you may want to consider. Let’s take a look at all the different factors at play so you can decide if MBI is right for you and your vehicle.

MBI for New Cars: Benefits and Considerations

Every brand new car rolls off the production line with what’s known as a factory warranty (or manufacturer’s warranty). This is the auto maker’s way of protecting their reputation by promising to repair or replace any components that fail due to fault within a predetermined number of years/miles traveled (whichever comes first). However long it lasts will depend on the generosity of your particular manufacturer, but the moment it expires, you, as the owner, will be financially responsible for any repair bills.

MBI is intended to plug that gap, covering the cost of repairs of component failure so you don’t have to pay for it. When your factory warranty has ended (or even when it’s still active), you can take out an MBI policy to ensure you’re protected for a longer period of time. This extended peace of mind is one of the main benefits of MBI because although newer vehicles are less likely to break down, there’s really no way of predicting when the worst might happen. And the more complex components found in modern cars can set you back hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars should they fail.

You may be surprised to hear mechanical breakdown coverage can also increase your vehicle’s resale value. Providers will stipulate that your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is followed to the letter for your policy to remain valid, keeping your vehicle in top running condition and making it more appealing to potential buyers. Any repairs that are carried out while your coverage is active will also be by certified mechanics using quality manufacturer-made parts, reassuring anyone who’s interested in your car.

Additional considerations for new car owners include:

• Factory warranty status: Your factory warranty will usually be split into parts, with some lasting longer than others. The bumper-to-bumper and powertrain elements are the most closely aligned with MBI, so it’s no use having both at the same time. Once one of these expires, however, it’s highly recommended that you take out some form of coverage to replace it — and MBI could be just the solution.
• Cost: MBI premiums can vary based on your car’s year, make, and mileage. Opt for a comprehensive plan, and what you receive in return should be well worth the coverage.

MBI for Used Cars: Benefits and Considerations

If you own a used car, it’s more than likely that it will no longer benefit from a factory warranty, so you should invest in some form of protection. The components in older vehicles will have seen their fair share of use, making them much closer to the point of failure. This, of course, increases the likelihood that they’ll break down.

Not only are these breakdowns a nuisance, causing you a lot of stress and wasting plenty of your time, but the financial implications are huge. With an MBI policy in place, there’s one major worry off your plate, as your provider will take care of any bills that you’re covered for. When the average cost of repairing a blown head gasket is between $1,937 and $2,245, that should be music to your ears.

Because used cars are all so different, there really isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to extended coverage, but better MBI providers will be flexible in their approach. Taking your specific vehicle into consideration (as well as your personal circumstances), they should put together a policy that perfectly suits your needs.

Additional considerations for used car owners include:

• Vehicle age and condition: Older vehicles or those with higher mileage may be more expensive to cover as they’re more likely to suffer significant component failure. Providers may also be less willing to cover repairs on notoriously unreliable vehicles for the same reason.
• Pre-existing conditions: Your vehicle may have existing issues when you choose to take out an MBI, which providers will not be willing to cover. As a result, it’s hugely important you carry out a thorough vehicle inspection before purchasing coverage so that there are no nasty surprises later down the line.

Endurance MBI Coverage for California Drivers

Unlike the vast majority of our competitors, Endurance offers California drivers the option of MBI. There’s a wide range of MBI coverage levels to choose between, from powertrain to comprehensive. Policies come with flexible payment plans, and our 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to take yours for a test drive before you commit entirely. Vehicle repairs can also be carried out at the certified repair shop or dealership of your choice. Plus, you gain access to a fantastic suite of benefits, including 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption costs.

Extended Warranties vs. Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

When it comes to protecting yourself from the rising cost of car ownership, your two main options are mechanical breakdown insurance or an extended warranty. The two are similar but most definitely different, with the majority of people ending up purchasing an extended car warranty based on the laws where they live. Let’s compare the two so you can decide which is best for your individual circumstances.

First, there are key differences in coverage and benefits. As technically an insurance policy, MBI provides coverage for certain mechanical components of your vehicle if they break down due to regular wear and tear. A deductible is usually required before coverage is activated, and only certain vehicle components will be protected. This coverage is exclusively available for California residents due to the state’s strict insurance regulations.

On the other hand, an extended warranty (also known as a vehicle service contract if purchased via a third-party provider) is an auto protection plan that covers repair bills related to mechanical breakdowns. Most U.S. states offer this type of coverage as an additional option on top of your auto insurance policy. The best extended warranty providers typically include additional benefits, whereas some MBI providers don’t – unless you choose Endurance for your MBI coverage.

Some MBI policies can be paired with your car insurance provider, and you may qualify for a bundle discount. However, quality third-party providers like Endurance offer flexible monthly or yearly payment plans with a choice of deductible options — ranging from $0 to $250. Prices will obviously vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, its mileage, the provider you opt for, and the level of coverage.

The cost of an extended auto warranty or mechanical breakdown insurance policy varies as there are several coverage levels, but that means you can start as low or as high as you like. At Endurance, we have the flexibility to customize a plan for your specific needs and budget.

Making the Right Choice for Your Vehicle

So, what’s right for your vehicle? Only you can decide, but think about the following before you do:

1. Assess your needs: What you need and want from a coverage plan will depend on your specific circumstances. If your vehicle is newer, you may feel that MBI will be enough for the moment, as breakdowns are less likely to happen. If you own a high-mileage vehicle or use your vehicle more regularly (e.g., you’re a rideshare driver), you may get greater peace of mind from an extended warranty.
2. Evaluate your coverage options: Compare your preferred MBI options side by side and thoroughly weigh up what each offers. Find out exactly what is included/excluded, as well as any additional benefits. You’ll want to aim for the greatest possible value for money.
3. Plan your finances: Speaking of money, make sure to plan your finances before you put pen to paper. By taking the time to figure out a long-term budget, you can be sure you can comfortably afford whichever service you’re signing up for.

Whatever You Decide, Endurance Has You Covered

Ultimately, if you want to purchase mechanical breakdown insurance, it will be to save on out-of-pocket costs and for that extra peace of mind. Like any contract you might sign, there are a number of important factors to consider before you put pen to paper, and it isn’t a decision that should be rushed. Do your research, compare providers, and only commit when you are sure you’re ready.

The good news is if you’re a car owner in California, Endurance is happy to help. Exclusively for drivers in the Golden State, we offer numerous mechanical breakdown insurance policies to choose from, with the flexibility to tweak and change coverage and costs to suit your individual circumstances. Better yet, all Endurance contracts come with an unbeatable suite of standard benefits, including 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, lockout services, rental car reimbursement, and more.

Get in touch with an Endurance advisor at (800) 253-8203 to find out more or request a FREE quote! We also recommend checking out our extended warranty blog for more reading materials. Whether you’re looking for DIY maintenance tips, recommendations on the most reliable vehicles, or news on emerging automotive technology, you’ll find it all right there.

Since its debut in the 1970s, the Honda Civic has been one of the best starter cars for teens and first-time car buyers. Let’s take a look at what Civic owners love most about their vehicles:

Reason #1: The Honda Civic is Reliable and Durable

Whether you’re a brand-new driver or have been behind the wheel for decades, we all want vehicle reliability. When buying a car, we expect to get from Point A to Point B with minimal obstructions or mishaps. We don’t want to buy a new or used car for a teen driver only to have it break down without warning, leaving them stranded on the side of the road.

The Honda Civic is notorious for reliability, which is likely one of the biggest reasons it nearly always finds its way onto the list of good cars for teen drivers. Our partners at RepairPal give the Honda Civic an excellent reliability rating, 4.5 out of 5.0 stars, ranking it as the 3rd most reliable compact car out of 36 competitors. When determining rankings, they consider important factors like repair costs, severity, and frequency.

• Average Annual Cost of Repairs: $368 compared to $526 annually for other compact cars and $652 for all vehicles.
• Frequency of Vehicle Repairs: Honda Civic owners only have to bring their vehicle to the car repair shop on average 0.2 times annually, compared to 0.3 times for other compact cars and 0.4 for other vehicles.
• Severity of Car Repairs: Unscheduled Honda Civic repairs tend to hover around 10% urgency, meaning they aren’t generally catastrophic. Compare this to 11% for other compact vehicles and 12% for others.

Honda Civics are also well known for their durability and longevity. If a driver keeps up with a routine maintenance schedule, a Honda Civic can easily last 15-20 years or 200,000 – 300,000 miles. By then, your Honda Civic will be considered high mileage, and your teen driver will be ready to trade it in, sell it, or transfer ownership.

Reason #2: The Honda Civic is Fuel Efficient

One thing that most teens don’t have is expendable income for high gas prices. Therefore, fuel efficiency should also be a priority when considering a good starter vehicle for teenage drivers or first-time car owners. Whether you’re looking for an eco-friendly car like a Civic hybrid, plug-in hybrid, electric vehicle like a Tesla, or a traditional gas-saving car with an internal combustion engine (ICE), your teen will appreciate going further between fuel-ups.

The Honda Civic is as gas-sipping as they come. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Honda Civic generally is on par with or even has better gas mileage than most of the competition. According to Fueleconomy.gov, newer models of the Honda Civic easily surpass more than 30 MPG, with some models getting as much as 42 MPG on the highway. With this kind of gas mileage, your teen can expect to pay around $1,500 per year in fuel, depending on the model year, trim option, and engine configuration.

Reason #3: Honda’s Safety Features Prioritize Driver Safety

Teen driving safety is the number one priority for many parents, and with good reason. As parents, we see that even the most dependable and well-behaved teens still have a certain level of immaturity, whether they realize it or not. At this age, they still don’t have much experience behind the wheel, which puts them at a significant disadvantage on the road.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), teen drivers are four times as likely as older drivers to have an accident. Motor vehicle accidents are the third leading cause of death among teens, resulting in approximately eight teens between the ages of 16 and 19 dying daily. More than 1,300 teen drivers between 15-20 die every year in motor vehicle accidents, taking 900 passengers with them.

Along with competitors like the Toyota Corolla and the Mazda 3, the Honda Civic consistently ranks highly in safety. The Honda Civic sedan and hatchback have won awards such as the IIHS 2023 Top Safety Pick and the 2024 Car and Driver’s 10 Best Cars. The Honda Civic also has excellent crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), earning a five-star safety rating for the 2025 model year.

The Honda Civic offers advanced safety features to keep your teen driver safe, such as:

Honda Sensing Suite

The exclusive Honda Sensing package is designed to help your teen driver be a better driver, even when you’re not in the car to remind them. This unique system uses sensors, cameras, and radar to monitor the road around them, giving your teen driver assistance capabilities.

Features included with Honda Sensing are:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System: Applies brake pressure when an accident is unavoidable
• Road Departure Mitigation System: Automatically adjusts steering if you forget to signal when shifting lanes
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Keeps the same speed with a set gap between you and the car in front.
• Lane Keeping Assist: Helps you stay in the center of the lane.
• Traffic Sign Recognition: Alerts drivers to traffic speed signs.

Standard and Optional Safety Technologies

In addition to Honda Sensing, the Honda Civic comes standard with additional safety features and has a few safety technology upgrade options.

• Blind Spot Information System (select models): If you turn on your turn signal and a vehicle is in the lane, it will beep until the lane is clear.
• Cross Traffic Monitor (select models): It will alert if a vehicle is approaching from the side while backing up.
• Auto High Beam Headlights (select models): If your vehicle is traveling over 25 mph, the headlights will adjust between high or low beams based on the surrounding conditions.
• Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Choose your preferred view to back up safely.

Reason #4: Honda Civic’s are Affordable

The Honda Civic is often an affordable option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly starter vehicle. Whether you’re looking for a brand new Honda Civic, a certified pre-owned vehicle, or even an older used Honda Civic, a Honda Civic can be an excellent investment as a starter vehicle. Its low price point makes it accessible for new drivers and their families, and its reliability and durability mean it is likely to hold its value over the years.

• 2025 Honda Civic Starting Price: $24,250
• 2015 Honda Civic Used Car Price: $9,616

Reason #5: Honda Civic Offers User-Friendly Technology

For most new drivers, the first thing they do when taking a car on a test drive is press all the buttons inside. User-friendly features matter and make the ride more enjoyable. Whether you buy a new or used vehicle, Honda offers a variety of user-friendly technology options.

Some options come standard and have been around for several model years, while some are optional upgrades to consider with your trim package choice, so it’s important to see what your particular model includes.

• Easy-to-Use Infotainment System: The intuitive touchscreen infotainment system often includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to connect with your smartphone for seamless navigation, music, or hands-free calling.
• Charging and Connectivity: Connect your device with Bluetooth connectivity options and charge it with wireless smartphone charging pads, USB ports, or USB-C ports.
• Keyless Entry and Push-Button Start: Some Honda Civic models have convenience options like keyless entry and push-button start.
• Climate Control: Dual climate control options allow drivers and passengers to select a temperature setting that is right for them.

Reason #6: Honda Civic Has Excellent Performance and Handling

The Honda Civic is remarkably easy to drive with its responsive performance and handling characteristics. The easy maneuverability in urban and highway settings helps build the confidence of new drivers. It is responsive and offers a smooth ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections to improve everyone’s comfort.

In select models, you can even choose the best driving mode for your driving style, such as Eco, Normal, or Sports car modes. You can reserve your fuel or amp up your horsepower, giving the Civic the ability to tailor to your needs for various driving conditions.

Extended Warranties for Honda Civics: Enhancing Peace of Mind

When drivers are starting out with their first car, they often don’t have significant savings to pay for unexpected car repairs. If they buy a new Honda Civic or a certified pre-owned Civic, the manufacturer’s warranty protects drivers from most major car repair bills. However, the bumper-to-bumper factory warranty eventually expires, leaving drivers with the option to pay out-of-pocket for vehicle repairs or invest in an extended car warranty.

Extended warranties for used cars, also known as vehicle service contracts (VSCs) or auto protection plans, are available from third-party warranty providers. These independent companies, like Endurance Warranty, offer customizable and comprehensive plans that fit a wide range of budgets. Plus, they often come with bonus benefits that aren’t available from the automaker or car dealership.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits vehicle protection plans offer for new drivers:

Comprehensive Coverage

Endurance Warranty covers all of your vehicle’s essential components. The best part is you get to decide which car parts need protection and which don’t. Whether you want a limited powertrain warranty covering the major parts that make your vehicle drive or comprehensive coverage similar to your original factory warranty,

Endurance Warranty has coverage plans that suit your lifestyle and needs. Mechanical breakdowns don’t have to mean costly repair bills. Endurance can protect nearly everything from the engine and the transmission to the high-tech advanced technology features, ensuring your Honda Civic stays on the road longer.

Financial Protection

Many new or teen drivers don’t have experience with routine maintenance and repair costs. Not only that, but many don’t have experience in performing their own vehicle maintenance. Often, new drivers overlook minor vehicle problems until they become major car repairs.

An extended car warranty for the Honda Civic can provide a financial safety net against high out-of-pocket repair expenses. An extended vehicle warranty can give new drivers peace of mind, knowing that their major repairs are covered in the event of a mechanical breakdown, ensuring their car gets the repairs it needs to last longer.

Budget Planning

It takes time for new drivers to learn how to manage their finances and expenses on their own. Having a new car is a huge financial responsibility. An expected monthly payment of an extended car warranty is often easier to budget for than unexpected repair bills with a great first car like a Civic.

Reliable Vehicle Repairs

When you experience your first vehicle breakdown or malfunction, knowing who to trust with the repairs can be difficult. An auto protection plan from Endurance Warranty ensures that your car will be repaired by an ASE Certified mechanic, repair shop, or dealership so that your repairs are done efficiently and correctly with quality replacement parts.

With Endurance, you can choose any ASE Certified automotive technician you trust. If you don’t have one, Endurance customers have access to the vast network of trusted mechanics through the RepairPal Partner Network, so you can locate a reliable mechanic nearby.

Transferability and Resale Value

Honda Civics are so durable that you’re likely to be ready to upgrade to another vehicle long before your Civic wears out. Endurance Warranty plans are transferable to the next owner when you’re ready to sell your car. An existing warranty helps potential buyers feel confident that the vehicle was well cared for and that they’re protected in case something unexpected happens. A transferable extended car warranty can increase the car’s sellability and boost the overall resale value.

Additional Benefits

Every Endurance Warranty plan comes with a suite of additional benefits, ensuring that your new driver won’t be stranded on the side of the road. Benefits include 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, and lockout services, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage, to name a few.

New drivers can add another layer of protection to their starter vehicle by activating a year’s worth of Endurance Elite Benefits, maximizing their savings. Add on protection for tire replacements or repairs, key fob replacements, collision discounts, and more to your umbrella of financial security.*

Protect Your New Driver and Investment with Endurance Warranty

The Honda Civic is one of the best first cars on the market. It’s a budget-friendly, safe, and reliable car, helping new drivers and Honda enthusiasts alike get to their destinations safely.

An extended car warranty for a Honda Civic is often an excellent investment to keep your vehicle running smoother and safer for new drivers. Before signing any vehicle service contract, though, new drivers need to review the terms and conditions, exclusions, deductibles, and fine print to ensure that they have the best extended car warranty for their lifestyle and budget.

Call an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 for your complimentary quote today. Our team is ready to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best option for your Honda Civic and your budget. Don’t wait until you’re stuck on the road to get protection — see your price now by shopping online!

Still looking around? The Endurance Warranty blog is an excellent resource for answering your frequently asked questions, definitions for common extended car warranty terminology, and informational automotive blogs like warranty plan comparisons, which vehicles to avoid, and how to identify necessary repairs.

When you buy a new vehicle (or even a certified used car), it will most likely come with a bumper-to-bumper factory warranty (or manufacturer’s warranty) that will be good for anywhere between three years/36,000 miles or five years/60,000 miles. This is there to protect you from problems with the design or issues at the factory, and once it is over, you will be responsible for any car repairs that need to be done, regardless of the cause. An extended warranty, which is more accurately called a vehicle service contract (VSC), may be worth it to continue that coverage and get some extra benefits in the process.

When the time comes to get a protection plan for your pickup, you want one that will serve you best. There are many different warranty companies and third-party warranty providers on the market, and they all have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Knowing how the best truck extended warranty can save you money and how to find it will help you make the right choice and keep your truck on the road for many years to come.

Coverage for Major Repairs: Avoiding High Out-of-Pocket Costs

If you rely on your truck for work as well as transportation, a serious breakdown can be disastrous. Not only will you have to wait to have it repaired and lose valuable time with your pickup, but the repair bills could also be astronomical. This is especially true if your truck has a notoriously expensive problem, such as a transmission failure or an issue within the engine block. A transmission replacement, for example, can cost anywhere between $5,472 and $5,675, and if you aren’t prepared for that kind of expense, you could find yourself without a truck for an extended period of time.

By having a protection plan in place from a third-party provider for your pickup, you can protect yourself from some of the most expensive unexpected repairs. Plus, if you are able to get auto repairs done as soon as they come up, you can prevent the more expensive ones further down the line. The sooner you get a smaller repair done, the less likely it will be to cost you more in the future. With an extended auto warranty, you don’t have to wait to service your vehicle.

Routine Maintenance Savings: Keeping Your Truck in Top Condition

As a vehicle owner, you know how important it is to stay on top of regular maintenance. The best way to prevent large, expensive repairs is to keep a responsible maintenance schedule. Things like oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations can go a long way toward keeping your truck running well for many years to come. Plus, they offer an opportunity for a technician to catch any issues and get them repaired before they become larger, more expensive fixes.

Some pickup truck extended warranty plans will include coverage for routine maintenance. While these services are certainly cheaper than large repairs, they can still add up over the years, and if you use your truck for work, this can eat into your profits. By having a vehicle protection plan that includes scheduled maintenance, you can save money on these expenses and ensure that your pickup doesn’t wear out or break down prematurely.

Protection Against Inflation: Locking in Current Rates

Inflation is one of the major variables that come into play with automotive repairs. Depending on where you are, what time of the year it is, and the way the automotive market is trending, the price of a certain repair can change without notice. In some areas, you might end up paying a lot more for your repairs than you would in another part of the country or even another part of town.

Plus, depending on the nature of a repair, you might be at the mercy of the auto parts market and have to pay much more to have a part shipped to the shop than you otherwise would. Variable costs like this can be a major problem, especially for business owners, and an extended warranty can protect you from them.

When you have warranty coverage or a vehicle service contract in place, you can lock in the price of repairs and stop worrying about rising costs. When you take your vehicle in for a covered repair, you will only pay your deductible, and your monthly payment will cover the rest.

This eliminates the possibility of unpredictable expenses, which is essential, especially if you use your truck for business purposes. While you can’t predict what the economy will do or how it might affect your work, you can lock in certain expenses like maintenance and repairs and do what you can to control the money going out every month.

Minimizing Downtime: Faster Repairs and Service

The last thing you want to be dealing with, whether you use your pickup for business or not, is time spent without it. Some repairs can take a long time to do, especially if you have to wait for parts to be ordered or if you end up taking your vehicle to a shop that has a less-than-stellar customer service ethic. Doing everything you can to minimize downtime with your pickup is important, and having a quality extended warranty in place is your best bet when it comes to streamlining the process.

When you have a protection plan from a reputable provider in place for your vehicle, you can reduce the amount of downtime that you have to deal with when your pickup breaks down. Many extended warranties will get you access to a network of certified repair shops or dealerships and may even provide priority service.

Knowing that you are working with a reputable shop that will consider your repair a matter of importance can give you the peace of mind you need. You won’t end up waiting to have your truck repaired and missing out on business or reliable transportation.

Additional Benefits: Roadside Assistance and More

Feeling confident behind the wheel is about more than just knowing that your vehicle is in good condition. While it is important to have a truck that is in good working order, some issues can’t be prevented by good maintenance and timely repairs. Flat tires, overheating, and dead batteries can happen anywhere, and you want to be sure that you can get the help you need when these problems arise. With an extended warranty, you may be able to get access to benefits like 24/7 roadside service and towing, trip interruption protection, and rental car reimbursement, all of which can be a big help when problems come up on the road.

Many extended warranty providers will include a suite of extra perks and benefits with their coverage plans that can be incredibly useful. Roadside assistance can help with things like flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts. Trip interruption coverage can help you pay for lodging if you get stranded on a trip and have to wait to have your car repaired. Rental car coverage can pay for a portion of a rental car, so you don’t have to be without transportation while your truck is in the shop. By looking for a vehicle service contract that includes these extra benefits, you can rest easy whenever you are behind the wheel and know that you are taken care of no matter what happens.

Extended Warranties: An Investment in Your Truck’s Future

Whether you are a business owner or not, you know how important it is to make solid investments that will save you money or make you money down the line. While most of the time, a vehicle is not a particularly sound investment, there are ways that you can mitigate losses and slow down depreciation. Keeping up with maintenance and getting fast, high-quality repairs can help you keep your truck in good condition for longer and will ensure that you can make the most money when the time comes to sell it.

A truck that is in great shape and has been well maintained will almost always be more desirable to potential buyers and fetch a higher price when you sell it. Plus, extended warranties can usually be transferred to a new car owner for a small fee. This is a great incentive that you can offer your buyers and give yourself the upper hand when it comes to making a sale.

By having a vehicle protection plan in place, you have access to all your maintenance records and the details of the repairs that have been done on the vehicle. These things can be incredibly valuable to someone who is thinking of buying your truck, and they will be willing to pay a little more for the same peace of mind you have enjoyed.

Endurance Warranty: Comprehensive Truck Protection

When the time comes to get an auto protection plan for your pickup, Endurance has your best coverage options. Endurance has contracts that are perfect for pickups of all kinds with a wide variety of uses. With plans for everything from high-mileage pickups to trucks that need bumper-to-bumper coverage, you can find something that will suit your needs perfectly.

One of the things that sets Endurance apart from other third-party providers is the comprehensive coverage available. Endurance offers levels of coverage from the most basic powertrain coverage for your engine and transmission to exclusionary plans with up to $3,500 in maintenance coverage. Plus, Endurance plans are customized to meet your exact needs, so you don’t end up paying for anything that you won’t end up using further down the line.

Endurance is also well-known for having an award-winning customer service team that takes care of any issues you might have when you are on the road. The claims process is also incredibly simple. All you have to do is go to the certified repair facility of your choice and bring your Endurance contract. The service manager will work with Endurance to take care of everything else. This kind of easy, customer-friendly service makes getting your truck repaired a pleasure instead of a hassle.

Every Endurance customer also gets a large collection of standard benefits, no matter what plan they have. These benefits include 24/7 roadside assistance, trip interruption protection, and rental car coverage. For a small activation fee, you can also get access to the Elite Benefits program. This comes with extra perks like tire repairs, key fob replacement, and up to $1,000 in total loss coverage. With that kind of coverage, you have all the assurance you need that you won’t end up stranded with your truck on the side of the road.

Protect Your Truck for the Long Haul With Endurance

When you want the best possible coverage for your pickup, look no further than Endurance. No matter what your needs are or what you use your truck for, Endurance has an auto protection plan that will be right for you. Endurance also covers vehicles that other providers won’t, such as Canadian Gray Market vehicles, cars with a salvage or rebuilt title, or vehicles used for commercial purposes like rideshare or delivery. This means that if you use your truck for work, you can rest easy knowing that you can get great coverage.

Take advantage of our 30-day money-back guarantee – call an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 to request a FREE quote. You can also visit our online store to get an instant price preview and see what plans will be best for you and your pickup.

If you want more expert advice and resources, be sure to check out the Endurance blog. There, you can find helpful FAQs, plan comparisons with CarShield and CARCHEX, information on mechanical breakdown insurance for California residents, and DIY tips and tricks.

The number one way you can keep those outgoings to a minimum is with an extended warranty watching your back, but there are so many providers to choose from, it can be a tough call. To save you hours of research, our ongoing comparison series does the hard work for you, putting two of the leading names in extended auto protection head to head to see who comes out on top.

This time, we’ll be taking a look at Endurance and Toyota, more specifically comparing Endurance’s Supreme protection with Toyota’s Platinum level extended warranty. Keep reading to find out which you should invest in.

What Is an Extended Warranty and Why Do You Need One?

If you’re here, you probably already have some idea of what an extended warranty plan is and why having one is a great way to protect yourself out on the road. But to make sure you have the complete picture, we should go all the way back to the beginning of a car’s life cycle.

Every new car rolls off the production line with what’s known as a factory warranty (which is the same as a manufacturer’s warranty). This is a coverage plan that effectively acts as the manufacturer’s promise to repair or replace any components that fail due to fault within a predetermined number of years or miles traveled after purchase (whichever of the two comes first). While it’s amazing while it lasts, all good things must come to an end. Once it expires, you, as the owner, are financially responsible for any future repair bills.

Thankfully, there are a couple of ways you can continue to enjoy the peace of mind you’ve become accustomed to. The first is what’s known as a more traditional extended warranty, which can be purchased via a dealership or sometimes directly from your manufacturer. This does exactly as the name implies, extending your factory warranty coverage beyond the expiration date. Hold on a moment before you rush to sign up, however — while this type of coverage sounds great in principle, it has some major downsides. For example, all work must be carried out at an authorized dealership (which isn’t ideal if you break down hundreds of miles from one). Even worse, you must have a valid factory warranty to qualify for an extension. Leave it just a moment too late, and you’re out on your own.

As a result, a vehicle service contract (VSC) from a third-party provider, like Endurance, is the universally preferred alternative. This is because third-party warranty providers have an incentive to offer almost like-for-like coverage at a much better price point, usually throwing in some helpful extra perks to give you maximum value for money. On top of that, work can be carried out by the certified mechanic of your choice, and it doesn’t matter whether you have an active factory warranty when it comes to signing up. As long as you meet your provider’s eligibility criteria, you’re all set.

While we’re on the topic, it’s worth pointing out that an extended warranty/vehicle service contract and auto insurance are two very different things. More specifically, an extended warranty or VSC is designed to protect you against the cost of repair bills incurred as a result of unexpected component failure, while auto insurance is designed to protect you against repair bills incurred as a result of a collision, extreme weather, or other such incident. The two work great together, however, so it’s always recommended you take out both for total money-saving potential.

The Companies

Now that you’re all clued up on what an extended warranty is, let’s take a brief look at the auto protection providers in question:

About Endurance Warranty

Since 2006, Endurance has made a name for itself as one of America’s leading vehicle service contract providers. Based out of Illinois, we’ve spent the last two decades helping thousands of U.S. drivers save serious money on the cost of car ownership. We pride ourselves on our unrivaled eligibility, offering a wide range of plans aimed to cater to an even wider range of car owners. From casual commuters to rideshare drivers, and even high-mileage vehicle owners, we have you covered. We’re always willing to be flexible, too, so if none of our base plans quite meet your individual needs and budget, our friendly team will customize a plan that checks all the right boxes.

Top-quality coverage is just the tip of the iceberg — we also offer some of the best benefits. All Endurance plans come with 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage as standard. Better yet, every Endurance customer also gets a year’s free access to our Elite Benefits package, adding on up to four tire repairs or replacements annually, key fob replacement, up to $500 in collision discounts, and up to $1,000 in total loss protection.*

Unlike the majority of extended warranty providers, we’re also the direct administrator of all our plans, meaning there are no pesky middlemen to deal with when you come to make a claim. Our award-winning customer service team is always on hand via phone or email if you have a query. Plus, the Endurance smartphone app puts all of the most important information right in your pocket. Endurance plans are also fully transferable, potentially increasing the value of your vehicle if you sell it.

About Toyota Extended Warranties

A brand that needs no introduction, Toyota is one of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers. It may come as a surprise, but the company’s origins actually lie in the Japanese weaving industry, when Sakichi Toyoda invented the world’s first automatic loom and set up the Toyoda Spinning and Weaving Company in 1918. Its success ultimately led to the development of automotive technology, resulting in the Model AA passenger car in 1936.

Like many vehicle manufacturers, Toyota offers extended warranty coverage to owners of its vehicles. The Toyota Vehicle Service Agreement is brought to you by Toyota Motor Insurance Services, and coverage can only be purchased via its own dealer network. There are three core levels of protection available from Toyota, ranging from basic Powertrain Protection all the way up to Platinum Protection. But it’s the latter level of coverage we’ll be focusing on in this comparison.

While there’s no BBB page with customer reviews attributed to Toyota Financial Services as an entity, they’re one of the most reliable car brands on the planet, so you would hope you can count on their warranties, too. What’s immediately apparent from reading their website, however, is that Toyota coverage is only available during or after financing a lease. New Toyota vehicles are eligible for the Platinum plan for up to 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.

The Auto Protection Plans

So, let’s compare Toyota’s Platinum Protection with Endurance’s closest equivalent, the Supreme plan, in an overall coverage option comparison.

Supreme Plan from Endurance

If you want completely comprehensive coverage that’s as close to a factory warranty as it gets, Supreme has your back. This incredible plan protects almost every part, component, and system in your vehicle, including seals, gaskets, and even some advanced components that other providers won’t go near. If you’ve found another provider with a Platinum or Titanium plan, you can be confident that Supreme is at least as good (but probably better).

Supreme For Highline Vehicles from Endurance

Everyone wants to own a luxury vehicle, but unfortunately they aren’t so reliable. Because repairs are more frequent (and expensive), we created Supreme for Highline Vehicles: a warranty designed for selected luxury cars that have less than 80,000 miles on the clock and are under 8 years of age.

Toyota Platinum Protection

The highest level of service agreement protection offered by Toyota is their Platinum plan, which sits above their Powertrain and Gold plans. As an exclusionary protection plan, it covers almost every component in your Toyota vehicle, with the exclusion of your tires, 12-volt battery, brake pads, and rotors, plus accessory drive belts. Coverage terms are flexible, ranging from 3 years/50,000 total vehicle miles to 10 years/125,000 total vehicle miles. However, your vehicle must still have an active factory warranty in order to purchase coverage, and any repairs can only be carried out at a Toyota dealership.

Other Auto Protection Benefits

Extended auto warranties or vehicle service contracts usually include at least some added benefits. But which of the two gives you the most for your money?

Endurance Standard Benefits

24/7 roadside assistance: Breakdowns are bad enough without being stranded at the roadside, so we’ve made 24/7 roadside assistance standard with every Endurance plan. This includes towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services.

Rental car coverage: Breakdowns have a nasty habit of happening when you’re far from home, putting a stop to whatever plans you had. We cover rental car reimbursement to minimize the inconvenience and get you back on the road.

Trip-interruption costs: Sometimes, a bigger repair can keep your car in the auto shop for longer than expected. We reimburse replacement travel costs to get you back on the road ASAP.

Endurance Elite Benefits: Our exclusive Elite Benefits package can be added to any of our plans, giving you access to up to four tire repairs or replacements annually, key fob replacement, up to $500 in collision discounts, and up to $1,000 in total loss protection if you total your vehicle.

Toyota Platinum Protection Benefits

24/7 roadside assistance: Similar to Endurance, Toyota gives you 24/7 roadside assistance for the duration of coverage. This includes towing (for covered breakdowns, to the nearest authorized servicing facility), flat tires, being locked out of your vehicle, dead battery jump starts, and fuel delivery services (up to 3 gallons, no more than two times per month; excludes fuel cell and electric vehicles).

Vehicle rental reimbursement: Toyota will reimburse you for the cost of a rental vehicle while yours is being worked on up to $50 per day for a maximum of 5 days per occurrence.

Trip-interruption costs: Trip-interruption coverage provides up to $100 per day for lodging and meals if you’re more than 150 miles from home.

Endurance Warranty vs. Toyota Platinum Protection: Pros and Cons

To finish up, let’s put the pros and cons of Endurance and Toyota side by side:

Endurance Warranty pros:

• The most trusted service contract provider in America
• Market-leading eligibility, flexibility, and affordability
• Award-winning customer service team
• Market-leading benefits
• Fully transferable coverage
• Direct administrator of all plans
• Handy mobile app

Endurance Warranty cons:

• Only available within the U.S.

Toyota Platinum Protection pros:

• Globally trusted name
• Comprehensive coverage available
• Some added benefits

Toyota Platinum Protection cons:

• Only three plans to choose from
• Only available within a small window after purchase or lease
• Only available for purchase via dealership
• Covered repairs must be carried out at a dealership

For the Very Best Protection, You Can’t Beat Endurance

The cost of car ownership is only ever on the rise, and modern vehicle components can set you back hundreds or thousands of dollars a year. With an extended car warranty or auto protection plan watching out for you, though, those unexpected repair bills will become a thing of the past. And Endurance is the most trusted provider of vehicle service contracts in America.

If you’d like to know more about how we can protect your vehicle and take advantage of our 30-day money-back guarantee, call an Endurance advisor at (800) 253-8203. You can also request a FREE quote (and we’ll get back to you) or shop online to see your price now.

Our extended warranty blog has plenty more automotive-related articles, including provider comparisons with CarShield, CARCHEX, and more.

Whether you already have an A8 in the driveway or are considering buying one of these flagship Audis, it’s vital to understand why this car comes with such high ownership costs. Keep reading as we explore the ins and outs of the A8’s upkeep price tag.

Complexity of Engineering: Advanced Technology and Systems

While the Audi A8 luxury car has been around for three decades, more recent generations have increasingly adopted a cutting-edge approach to technology. If you’ve ever received an eye-watering A8 repair bill, you’re likely to call this engineering philosophy bleeding edge.

Electronics and electro-mechanical components are commonplace throughout the A8. In effect, this Audi is a rolling computer with advanced systems like adaptive cruise control and night vision on some models. While these devices make driving safer and more convenient, they also involve multiple components. For instance, adaptive cruise control interacts with the brakes, throttle, transmission, and numerous sensors. When something goes wrong with this technology, all these areas usually have to be checked as part of the diagnostic process. These efforts take time, which increases labor costs.

Then there’s the adaptive air suspension, which uses specialized struts and springs, a compression system, and numerous electronic controls to deliver a smooth ride. It takes only one component to fail, and the entire suspension requires attention. With cars like the Audi A8, the days of simply replacing one bad (and inexpensive) part are long gone.

Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) is an Audi hallmark and standard equipment on the A8. This sophisticated system can distribute different amounts of torque to the front and rear axles for improved control, especially during poor weather. However, the fix is usually complex when the AWD system isn’t functioning correctly in an Audi A8 Quattro.

While these advanced systems make the Audi A8 a joy to drive, they also cause high maintenance and repair costs — service bills run into the thousands, not the hundreds. This unfortunate side effect of the A8 cost of ownership is due not only to the cost of specialized parts but also to the expertise required to tackle such complex problems.

Cost of Premium Parts: Quality Comes at a Price

Unlike some mainstream cars, such as a Toyota Camry, there are limited options for affordable parts. Aftermarket manufacturers find it more profitable to target models with widespread popularity. The Audi A8 doesn’t fall into this category.

In addition, the highly precise nature of the A8’s engineering means that replacement components require exact specifications, which usually means getting parts from Audi or a reputable supplier of remanufactured parts. In other words, nothing comes cheap with an A8.

Let’s compare the average cost of certain vital components for the Audi A8 and Toyota Camry in America. These are parts-only prices (no labor), according to RepairPal.

Admittedly, the A8 and Camry are very different cars with very different price points. But this comparison underscores how much more repairs are for an A8. The same part for a Camry often costs two to three times more for an A8. The contrast is no different with more complex work involving the engine or transmission.

Even something as basic as motor oil requires a greater outlay with the A8. This Audi requires up to eight quarts of full-synthetic oil, compared to the Camry’s five quarts of conventional oil. Add the numbers, and an Audi A8 oil change costs about $85 before other components and labor. That’s three times more than what a Camry owner would pay.

However, the disparity in parts prices only accounts for some of the expense. Labor is another matter.

Specialized Service: Expertise Required

All the Audi A8’s sophisticated systems require servicing by an expert technician, a talent that’s associated with higher hourly rates. You may trust your neighborhood mechanic to repair a Camry, but chances are they’ve never worked on an Audi A8 luxury car. And even if they have, it’s unlikely they have the training and equipment to handle an intricate fix like at a dealership. Let’s break this down.

To start, the A8 is a rare car. GoodCarBadCar reports that Audi sold about 38,000 units in the U.S. over the past decade. In comparison, Toyota sells that many Camrys in about a month and a half.

Substantially fewer A8 sales mean there are fewer skilled mechanics to repair this Audi. As a result, complex repairs require visiting a dealer or specialized service center. Due to high overhead, training costs, and other factors, these establishments charge substantially more than local garages.

According to Yelp, car repair rates range from $47 to $215 per hour. A typical small repair shop will charge $75 to $125, depending on the location, while a more extensive independent operation may have an hourly rate of up to $150 per hour. Meanwhile, Audi dealers and specialty repair shops will be on the upper end of that range.

Servicing an Audi A8 often requires specialized diagnostic equipment. These aren’t average OBD-II scanners but proprietary systems that require specific machinery and processes to pinpoint issues accurately. This equipment is expensive, and shops pass that cost on to customers through their rates.

Here’s how the numbers can add up for a substantial repair. In this case, it’s a task that requires six hours of labor.

Remember, because of the elaborate nature of many A8 systems, repairs are likely to require more time than the same work in a Camry or other more straightforward car. A six-hour repair job for a Camry could take seven or eight hours or more with an A8.

Frequency of Required Maintenance: Keeping Peak Performance

Buying an Audi A8 means signing up for a rigorous maintenance schedule — all the car’s elaborate systems require frequent attention. This is nothing new if you already have experience with high-end German cars. However, first-timers may be shocked by the level of detail that’s part of regularly servicing an A8.

Beyond the initial service, Audi recommends performing a major service every 20,000 miles or two years, whichever occurs first. In contrast, the Toyota Camry has a significant service interval of 30,000 miles. Yet, because of the A8’s complexity, its major service is more involved.

Here’s what’s involved, compared to the Toyota Camry. Both sets of maintenance steps are based on a 2018 model-year vehicle with 60,000 miles.

Recommended Maintenance Schedule 60,000 Miles

Review the manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for a 2018 Audi A8:

And the much shorter manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for a 2018 Toyota Camry:

As you can tell, this service interval isn’t just a quick oil change and tire rotation. The work involves comprehensive inspections of the brakes, suspension, steering, cooling, and other components. However, no matter how you look at it, there’s more to inspect on the Audi A8.

Keep in mind that these are just the routine items. As the car ages, you might face additional maintenance tasks like replacing the timing belt (on older A8s), repairing the suspension, or dealing with a troublesome emissions system.

The frequency and elaborateness of required A8 maintenance are significant factors in high ownership costs. But it’s vital to remember that ongoing care keeps the car performing at the level you expect from a luxury sedan. Skipping or delaying maintenance might save money in the short term, but it can lead to more expensive repairs down the road and reduce the car’s longevity.

Extended Warranties: Mitigating High Maintenance Costs

Given the high upkeep costs associated with an Audi A8, many used car owners look for ways to protect their wallets. For newer A8s, this comes in the form of a factory warranty. But this safeguard only lasts for four years or 50,000 miles. When this coverage ends, an extended car warranty (more accurately called a vehicle service contract or auto protection plan) can take over.

Endurance offers several protection plans designed to meet the unique requirements of Audi A8s and their owners, or you can customize your coverage. The budget-minded Secure Plus program provides essential protection for the engine, transmission, drive axles, turbochargers, air conditioning, core electrical components, and more. The Endurance Supreme coverage comes close to factory bumper-to-bumper warranty protection and has only a few exclusions.

Here’s why an Endurance vehicle service contract can be beneficial for Audi A8 owners:

• Predictable Costs: A set monthly or one-time premium makes budgeting for car maintenance easier.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Choose the Supreme plan to protect a wide range of sophisticated components that make the A8 so expensive to repair.
• Expert Repairs: Endurance customers can choose any licensed repair center through the RepairPal Partner Network, including dealers and specialty shops, for covered repairs. This ensures your A8 gets the focused care it needs.
• Additional Benefits: All Endurance plans include 24/7 roadside assistance with towing, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption protection. Customers also receive a year of Elite Benefits. Just pay a small activation fee for access to tire repair and replacement services, key fob replacement, total loss protection, and collision repair discounts (all worth up to $2,000).
• Confidence Behind the Wheel: An extended car warranty protects against breakdowns and surprise repair bills, reducing the stress of owning a high-maintenance vehicle like the A8.

Audi A8 Series FAQs

How often does an Audi A8 need servicing?

Audi recommends minor servicing for A8s every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. This is followed by a major service at 20,000 miles or 24 months. After that, the minor/major service should alternate every 10,000 miles or 12 months. (Minor at 30,000, 50,000, 70,000 miles, etc. Major at 40,000, 60,000, 80,000 miles, etc.)

Are Audi A8 parts more expensive than those for other cars?

Yes, Audi A8 parts are generally more expensive due to their high quality and the specialized nature of many components.

Can I take my Audi A8 to a regular mechanic?

While a regular mechanic can handle essential maintenance tasks, like oil changes and tire rotations, an Audi specialist is the go-to person for more elaborate upkeep and repairs.

How long does an Audi A8 typically last?

Vehicle longevity depends on driving habits, upkeep, and environmental factors. Assuming an Audi A8 is well maintained and avoids accidents and mishaps, it can last 150,000 miles, possibly more.

Are there any common problems with the Audi A8?

While no one problem affects all Audi A8s, some model years are more prone to specific troubles. For instance, CarComplaints.com reports that the 2014 and 2015 A8s have a history of engine troubles, especially involving the turbocharger. Meanwhile, some owners of the 2009 Audi A8 indicate transmission issues. There are also reports of newer A8s (from the last five years) having trouble with the electrical system.

How can I reduce maintenance and repair costs for my Audi A8?

Here are four steps to follow to keep costs in check:

1. Find a qualified mechanic who’s an expert with the Audi A8 and can provide trusted advice.
2. Perform regular maintenance according to factory recommendations.
3. Address any issues promptly to prevent little problems from turning into major ones.
4. Consider getting an extended warranty for protection against unforeseen repairs.

Endurance: Drive an Audi A8 with Confidence

It’s no secret that owning an Audi A8 comes with considerable maintenance and repair bills — it’s the trade-off for driving a sophisticated performance vehicle. While owning a Toyota Camry comes with less risk and expense, that car can’t compare the A8’s comfort, advanced features, and engaging driving characteristics. Having an Audi A8 and an Endurance auto protection plan brings together the best of both worlds: a premier automobile backed up by industry-leading protection.

Discover everything that Endurance Warranty offers! Visit the Endurance online store for instant price and plan recommendations, or request a FREE quote. Call (800) 253-8203 to speak with an Endurance advisor for personalized help.

Don’t miss the Endurance blog for more on-topic articles about car care, DIY maintenance, warranty advice, auto reviews, and more.

Thanks to her racing background, Danica knows a lot about cars and the open road. She began her racing career at ten, competing in karting. By 16, she moved to England to hone her skills before returning to the U.S. Danica’s early IndyCar accomplishments include becoming the first female driver to lead the legendary Indianapolis 500 race in 2005 and ultimately finishing fourth at this 89th running of the Indy 500 and later earning her Rookie of the Year honors. In 2008, she became the first woman to win the Indy Japan 300.

Danica transferred her pretty intense motorsports experience to NASCAR in 2012. The next year, she again made history as the first woman NASCAR driver to win a pole position in the Daytona 500. Her racetrack exploits included driving the #10 “GoDaddy” Chevrolet for Stewart-Haas Racing in the Sprint Cup Series. Although 2018 marked her last year in competitive racing, Danica remains a fixture in motorsports and an inspiration to aspiring female racers.

Danica Patrick also shares her wealth of knowledge with everyday drivers. In this case, it’s how to deal with one of the most stressful situations any motorist can face: a car breakdown. Keep reading as Danica offers insights on how to stay safe, assess the situation, get help, and leverage extended warranty coverage to get back on the road quickly. Afterward, you’ll be ready to handle a breakdown like a pro!

How to Handle a Vehicle Breakdown

[Download breakdown guide: Image or PDF]

Step 1: Get Off the Road Safely

While staying safe is intuitive for most drivers, Danica remarks that the stress of a breakdown can be distracting, often overwhelming the usual common sense instincts. Safety always has to be the top priority.

Follow these three initial steps at the first sign of a breakdown:

Turn on Your Hazard Lights

As soon as you realize you’re having car trouble, turn on your hazard lights. This alerts other drivers to your situation and minimizes the chance of being struck by a vehicle that’s operating at a normal speed. Do this before you start pulling over, as it gives other drivers more time to react and move away from your vehicle.

Pull Over Safely

Remain calm and immediately look for a safe place to pull over. Ideally, this is on the right shoulder of the road, as far away from traffic as possible. If you’re on a busy roadway, it’s better to exit if you can do so safely, even if it means driving a bit further. In urban areas, try to find a parking lot or a side street with less traffic (just stay close to the main road for personal safety and easier visibility to roadside assistance).

Stay Inside the Vehicle

Once you’ve pulled over safely, it’s important to stay inside your car, especially on a busy road or highway. Your vehicle provides a safety barrier between you and other traffic. Avoid the temptation to exit the car on a high-traffic route to make repairs or inspect for damage; you’re too vulnerable to being hit by a car. If you absolutely must exit the vehicle, do so from the passenger side to avoid oncoming traffic and get as far away from the road surface as possible. Also, keep your seatbelt on while you wait for help. In the unlikely event that another vehicle strikes your stopped car, wearing your seatbelt can prevent serious injury.

Step 2: Check Your Vehicle’s Condition

After ensuring your immediate safety, the next step is to assess what might be wrong with your car. From inside your vehicle, you can perform a quick assessment and note issues for your upcoming trip to the mechanic:

 Step 3: Call for Assistance

Once you’ve ensured everything is safe and performed an initial assessment of the situation, it’s time to call for help. It’s also important to have resources lined up before an incident happens. She adds that trying to find a towing service at midnight or in the middle of bad weather can increase the stress significantly. Instead, purchase a vehicle service contract (VSC), also known as an extended warranty, or sign up for an auto club. VSC providers, like Endurance Warranty, offer standard benefits like roadside assistance that include towing and rental car reimbursement.

Pro Tip: Unless the remedy for the breakdown involves something minor, like a tire change, jump start, or empty gas tank, you should expect your car to be towed. More elaborate fixes are left to mechanics.

Locate a Repair Shop

Before contacting anyone for help, you’ll want to have an idea of where to take your car for repairs if that proves necessary. If you’re local, then the logical place is a trusted mechanic or a familiar dealership. Otherwise, you’ll want to start researching your options. Endurance Warranty customers can choose any licensed repair shop and take advantage of our partnership with RepairPal to locate a repair facility nearest to their location.

Request Roadside Assistance

If you have roadside assistance through an extended warranty, insurance company, or a separate auto service like AAA, now is the time to use it. Keep the contact information and policy/membership number stored in your phone and written down in the glove box as a backup. When you call, be prepared to provide your location, a vehicle description, and details about the problem. The Endurance smartphone app includes a quick connect feature to request roadside assistance.

It’s also a good idea to review your owner’s manual for instructions for proper towing procedures. For instance, all-wheel-drive vehicles require a flatbed tow truck.

Contact a Tow Service

If you don’t have ready access to a roadside assistance service, you’ll need to call a towing company directly. Research reputable tow services and call to check the arrival time and cost for all services. Be sure to ask about all the fees you may be responsible for, including per-mile charges.

Get Emergency Help

In some situations, especially if you’re in a dangerous location or if there’s been an accident, don’t hesitate to call 911. Safety should always be your first concern.

Reach Out to Family or Friends

Call a trusted family member or friend to inform them about your situation. They can provide help or at least know your whereabouts if you’re delayed.

Step 4: Utilize Your Warranty Benefits

An extended warranty or vehicle service contract can make all the difference following a breakdown. But to truly maximize this protection, make sure you understand this coverage and use your auto protection plan — and its benefits — effectively.

Extended Warranty Benefits

Drivers who utilize Endurance for their vehicle protection have access to a wide range of benefits. Every Endurance contract comes with 24/7 roadside assistance that includes towing, lockout, and other services. Other standard perks include rental car reimbursement and trip interruption protection for qualified incidents. Customers can also choose to activate the Elite Benefits package, which offers up to $2,000 in services like tire repairs and replacements, key fob replacement, and other valuable extras.*

Documenting the Incident

Expand on any notetaking by thoroughly documenting the breakdown. Write down any more details that come to mind, take more photos, and keep records of any services you receive, including towing.

Contact the Warranty Company

Once you’re in a safe location, contact your VSC or warranty provider directly. They can guide you through the next steps, including finding an approved repair shop if necessary and starting the claims process.

Examine Your Coverage

Every extended warranty or vehicle service contract has conditions and limitations. Understanding what’s covered is the key to a successful experience. While waiting for assistance to arrive, review the contract to learn how your car is protected. Endurance customers can access this information from the app.

Temporary Solutions While Waiting for Help

Even with prompt assistance, you may find yourself waiting for help to arrive. Here are a few quick tips for keeping safe and comfortable during this time.

• Stay Hydrated: Always keep water in your car. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re stranded in hot weather.
• Maintain an Emergency Kit: A well-stocked emergency kit can make a big difference in your comfort and safety during a breakdown. Crucial items include a flashlight, jumper cables, emergency flashers/flares, gloves, first aid supplies, a phone charger/battery pack, and a fire extinguisher. A rain poncho, emergency blanket, and rags or towels can also be useful.
• Stay Visible: If you’re broken down at night, turn on the interior lights to make your car more visible to passing traffic and potential help.
• Conserve Fuel: If the engine is operable, only keep it running for 10 to 15 minutes per hour if you need to stay warm or charge a phone. Ensure the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked by snow or debris to prevent a carbon monoxide buildup.
• Stay Informed: Either through the car radio or your phone, stay updated on any weather or traffic conditions that might impact arriving help.

Step 5: Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Breakdowns

The best way to handle a breakdown is to take steps to minimize the chances of car trouble in the first place. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Regular Maintenance: Regular vehicle maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, can catch potential issues before they turn into roadside emergencies.
• Know Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with common issues and warning signs in your vehicle. Read the owner’s manual, pay attention to recall notices, and don’t ignore unusual noises or changes in its performance.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before any long trip, perform a quick inspection of your vehicle. Check the tire pressure, fluid levels, battery strength, and lights. Start the car and listen for any unusual noises.
• Keep Your Tank Full: Never let the gas tank get too low, especially on long trips. Not only does this prevent you from running out of gas, but it also gives you more options if you need to drive further to find a safe place to pull over.

Choose Endurance for Safety on the Road

Car breakdowns can’t always be prevented, but as Danica Patrick knows, being prepared can significantly reduce the stress and hassle when they occur. Being prepared for car trouble also means having the protection of a vehicle service contract from Endurance.

Learn how Endurance provides peace of mind for daily driving, long trips, and every on-the-road journey. Request a FREE quote or call (800) 253-8203 for personalized service from an Endurance advisor. Explore our online store for instant pricing and coverage information.

You can also visit the Endurance blog for helpful articles about maintenance tips, DIY advice, car reviews, warranty details, and other insightful topics.

When you buy a new vehicle, it will come with a factory warranty (or manufacturer’s warranty) that is provided by the automaker. This warranty is there to protect you from issues with production or problems with the design of the vehicle, and it will usually last anywhere between three years or 36,000 miles and five years or 60,000 miles. Once this factory warranty is over, though, you will be responsible for any repairs that need to be made on your vehicle. If you aren’t financially prepared for such an expense, you might find yourself with no car when you need it most.

If you want to continue your coverage after your factory warranty is up, an extended warranty is a great option. An extended warranty, which is more accurately called a vehicle service contract (VSC), can help you protect your car long after the manufacturer’s coverage is over. You have a lot of different coverage options when it comes to protection plan providers, and it is incredibly important that you find the right one for your particular vehicle and driving habits.

Knowing how to find the right third-party warranty will help you make the right choice and drive with confidence every time you get behind the wheel.

Assessing Your Vehicle Type

When searching for the right aftermarket warranty for your car, the type of vehicle you have should be your first consideration. Every car has different needs when it comes to coverage, and you want to be certain that your protection plan has features that will help you keep your vehicle running for many years to come. Some auto protection plans will be better suited for your vehicle than others, so it is important to shop around and know what to keep an eye out for so you can get coverage that will be specifically helpful for your situation.

If you have an older car with quite a few miles on the odometer, you should be certain that you are getting a VSC that has a large mileage limit so your vehicle can be covered for as long as possible. Not all extended warranty providers offer coverage for high-end luxury vehicles, so if you have a car made by a luxury brand, you need to find a plan that will give you the coverage you need to keep your vehicle in the great shape it deserves to be in. Looking for these particular features that are aimed at cars like yours is your best bet when looking for an extended warranty.

If you have a hybrid or electric vehicle, it is incredibly important that you find a VSC provider that offers robust coverage for your car’s battery and similar covered repairs. While many manufacturers offer battery warranties that are good for eight years or 100,000 miles, you may still want to have coverage for your vehicle after the factory warranty runs out.

Hybrids and EVs also have very unique motors with needs that might not fit into the mold of coverage for a traditional automobile engine. Before you decide that a provider is right for you, be sure that it can protect your car and its electric parts.

Understanding Your Driving Habits

One of the biggest factors that will determine the right extended warranty for you is your driving habits. The type of driving you do will play a major part in what kind of coverage you need and how you need to protect your car in the long run. This is especially true when it comes to picking the level of coverage you will need. Most VSC providers have different tiers of coverage that will protect different vehicle components. Depending on how often you use your car and what you use it for, one of these levels of coverage will be better for you than the others.

When choosing a level of coverage for your car, you should think about how many miles you plan to put on your used vehicle. If you are someone who piles a lot of miles onto the odometer every year, the odds that you will need an expensive repair within that year go up quite a bit. This means that you should have more coverage that protects more components of your car so you can always get the repairs you need.

If, on the other hand, you are only an occasional driver, you may only need to have coverage for the most important and expensive parts of your car, like the engine, transmission, and drive axle. Keeping track of how many miles you drive in a month will give you a good estimate for the rest of the year so you can make the right decision when the time comes.

It is also important to know what kind of terrain and conditions you usually drive in. If you are someone who regularly takes your vehicle off-road or out on the trail, you need to have a plan that covers things like your steering and suspension since they are more likely to need repairs over the years.

If you take a lot of family vacations or commute every day, you should look for a plan that covers safety equipment like the brakes, cooling system, and electronic safety features. By narrowing down your search based on what your needs are likely to be, you can save money and still get the protection your car has to have to give you peace of mind.

Evaluating Your Budget

Your budget is always going to be an essential factor when the time comes to pick out a vehicle protection plan. Most of the time, you will want to save as much money as possible. One thing to consider, though, is the savings over time. If your vehicle is likely to need a major repair in the near future, it could be well worth it to pay a little more in monthly payments and be sure that the repair will be covered. This way, you won’t be blindsided by a large repair bill that you don’t have coverage for.

It is almost always a better idea to have more coverage than less, and will end up being a lot cheaper in the long run. Keeping the total cost of ownership for your car down is a great way to maintain your budgetary needs throughout your life.

Before you decide that a VSC provider is right for you and your vehicle, you should know what is available on the market to pay for the cost of repairs. Get as many quotes as possible from different providers and see which ones are going to fit your budget while still giving you high-quality protection. There are many different providers, and some of them offer more value than others.

By getting different quotes for the make, model, and model year of your car, you can see how you can benefit from each plan and whether or not it will work with the amount of money you want to spend. Then, you can compare the numbers with what you might end up spending if you didn’t have coverage. Being as informed as you can will help you make a smart decision that will keep your spending low as your car ages.

If you want to make the most of the money you are spending on your extended warranty coverage, you should compare the extra perks and benefits that you get from each car warranty provider. Oftentimes, a vehicle coverage plan will come with benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, or trip interruption coverage, all of which can be incredibly valuable should the need for them ever come up.

When shopping for a used car warranty, be sure to find out what extra perks come with each plan and compare them with the perks offered by other providers. This way, you can see which providers offer the most for your money and keep yourself safe from unexpected repairs whenever you are out on the road.

Endurance Warranty: A Reliable Choice

When you want the best coverage on the market and a top-notch customer service team on your side, Endurance Warranty is an excellent option. Endurance offers a range of auto protection plans for nearly every type of vehicle and every type of driver. Whether you drive an older, high-mileage vehicle or a high-end luxury car, Endurance has a plan that will protect it.

Plus, Endurance covers used cars that other providers won’t. These include things like Canadian Gray Market cars, vehicles used for commercial purposes like delivery or rideshare, and cars that have a rebuilt or salvage title. Plans are also customized to ensure that you get the protection you need based on your specific car and the kind of driving you do every year.

One of the main things that sets Endurance apart from other providers on the market is the award-winning customer service team. When you need a repair done on your vehicle, you want to have a customer service team on your side that you can rely on to give you guidance and support when you need it most.

Endurance also offers a large collection of standard benefits that come with every plan. These include 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, rental car coverage, and trip interruption protection. For a small activation fee, Endurance customers can also get access to Elite Benefits, which include extra perks like tire repairs, key fob replacement, and up to $1,000 in total loss coverage. These benefits can help you feel confident when you are out on the road and ensure that you won’t get stranded or have to worry about how you will get your car repaired when an issue comes up.

When you have a protection plan from Endurance, you also have many different options when it comes to where you can go for vehicle repairs. Some VSC providers limit the number of repair shops you can go to when the time comes to get a repair. In some cases, you can only take your vehicle to the dealership, which may not be the most convenient option.

With Endurance, though, you can take your car to the certified repair facility of your choice. Once you get there, all you have to do is present your Endurance contract to the service manager, pay your deductible if you have one, and we will take care of the rest.

Get the Best Coverage Available With Endurance

Finding the right extended warranty plan is crucial if you want protection, quality service, and extra benefits that will keep you safe on the road. Endurance offers comprehensive coverage with plans ranging from the most basic powertrain warranty coverage all the way up to comprehensive exclusionary protection. No matter what your needs are or what you are looking for in a protection plan, Endurance is here to help.

Take advantage of our top-quality protection products by calling an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also use our online store to get an instant price preview to help you make the perfect choice for yourself and your vehicle.

Check out more auto expert resources on the Endurance blog. Find articles with FAQs, customer reviews, warranty reviews for CarShield and CARCHEX, mechanical breakdown insurance guides for California drivers, and much more.

Your car’s engine bay and other critical areas are welcoming surroundings that give pests like mice and chipmunks shelter and a place to satisfy their needs to chew constantly. This activity is not only an inconvenience and a health hazard, but the gnawing of wires and other essential components can lead to expensive repairs.

Keep reading as we examine why mice and other rodents find cars tempting targets. We’ll also cover how to prevent this activity, respond to unwelcome visitors, and uncover effective deterrents.

Understanding Why Rodents Target Vehicles

Dealing with rodents in cars starts with understanding why these tiny creatures are attracted to automobiles. Keep these factors in mind:

Warmth and Shelter

Like all animals, mice and other rodents instinctively need shelter, especially during colder months. A recently driven car with a warm engine bay can be very attractive on a chilly night, especially if there’s snow on the ground. Even though residual heat may only last an hour or so, that’s enough of an invitation.

Accessible Entry Points

While a locked car may look secure, underneath, it’s anything but. The numerous small openings and crevices are the equivalent of a welcome mat, made more accessible by easy-to-climb rubber tires.

Rodents only need as little as a quarter-inch of space to gain access, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  That means that gaps around cables and wires, drainage holes, ventilation systems, and spaces between body panels are the equivalent of doorways. Open engine compartments are even more inviting.

Chewing Habits

Rodents have a continuous need to chew. This activity is a byproduct of their teeth growing throughout their lives. The constant gnawing keeps this growth in check. Unfortunately, numerous parts are at risk if this occurs while they’re in your car. Electrical wiring, plastic components, hoses, belts, and upholstery are inviting opportunities. This chewing behavior can lead to short circuits, fluid leaks, and other mechanical issues that can be costly to repair and possibly dangerous if not corrected.

Busting a Myth about Soy-Based Wiring

The switch to more environmentally friendly materials like soy-based wire casings was rumored to be why rodents chewed at electric components. However, Terminix dispels this as a myth, saying, “All the chewing lies in rodent biology.”

4 Preventive Measures: Keeping Rodents at Bay

Taking a few preventative steps can reduce the likelihood of rodents making a home in your car.

1. Park Wisely

Where you park matters to make your car less attractive to these four-legged pests:

• Avoid parking near wooded areas, tall grass, or overgrown vegetation
• When possible, park in a garage that’s well-sealed against rodent entry versus outdoors
• If outdoor parking is a must, stay away from accumulated trash or water sources like leaky faucets or water bowls

2. Seal Entry Points

Periodically inspect your car for potential entry points and seal them off:

• Check for gaps around cables, wires, and other components entering the engine compartment.
• Inspect weather stripping around doors and windows to ensure a tight seal.
• Install barriers, like metal mesh or steel wool, to block small openings.

3. Keep It Clean

Rodents have a finely developed sense of smell, reports NewScientist. Not only can they hone in on food-based aromas, but they only need 50 milliseconds to find a pesky food wrapper. That last french fry you didn’t finish can be an open invitation to a hungry mouse. The same can be said for the piece of lettuce that fell between the seats.

Effective rodent deterrence begins with removing any potential food source, no matter how miniscule. Don’t leave food (or the remnants of a meal) in your car. Throw away any food wrappings (which can retain scents) and regularly vacuum the floor and seats to remove crumbs and other minute leftovers.

4. Regular Inspections

Just like you should be checking the oil and tire pressure, get in the habit of regularly checking for signs of rodent activity:

• Examine the engine bay for droppings, nests, or the remains of chewed materials
• Look for signs of gnawing on wires, hoses, belts, or plastic components.
• Inspect the cabin, especially under the seats and in the trunk, for indicators of a rodent presence.
• Catching rodent infestation early can limit the damage that can be expensive, like replacing sensitive electronics and wiring.

Effective Deterrents: Keeping Rodents Away

Keeping the rodent problem away is far better than dealing with the aftermath. Here are some effective measures that can help.

Natural Deterrents

Several natural substances are known to repel rodents due to their strong scents:

• Peppermint Oil: Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them strategically around your car. While this approach can be used under the hood, take care to prevent the cotton balls from contacting any moving parts.
• Cayenne Pepper: Carefully applied dashes of cayenne pepper can discourage rodents from taking up residence in your car.
• Dryer Sheets: Place fresh dryer sheets in your car, engine compartment, and trunk, replacing them regularly. Again, exercise caution inside the engine bay.

Light and Motion

Rodents prefer dark, quiet environments. Disrupting these conditions can help deter them:

• Keep the area around your vehicle well-lit, especially if parking outdoors.
• Consider using motion-activated lights in your garage or driveway.
• Moving your car regularly, as the vibration and change in location can discourage nesting or loosen nesting materials that may be in progress.

Electronic Devices

While pest control services and technology have advanced to include electronic rodent repellents, users report mixed results with these methods. That said, if you’re unsuccessful with the other repellent methods, then you may have nothing to lose with these devices:

• Ultrasonic Machines: These small units emit high-frequency sound waves that are unpleasant to rodents but inaudible to humans. Keep in mind that dogs may be able to hear these sounds.
• LED Strobe Lights: Some ultrasonic machines also have flashing lights to deter pests.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using these electronics to deter pests.

Dealing with an Infestation: 4 Steps to Take

If preliminary signs point to a rodent infestation, it’s time to act quickly to minimize the damage and return your car to a cleaner condition by putting these action steps in place.

1. Inspection

Rodent droppings can carry disease, so before fully tackling an infestation, wear protective gear, including gloves and a face mask. Look beyond the initial trouble spot. If you’ve found signs of rodent activity in the engine compartment, thoroughly examine the passenger compartment and the trunk or cargo area. Be sure to look in storage cubbies and hidden compartments. Likewise, rodents in the cabin can also mean they’ve found a home under the hood.

2. Cleaning

Once you’ve identified the affected areas, it’s time to clean (again, wearing protective equipment is essential):

• Remove any nests or debris carefully, disposing of them in sealed plastic bags. Use a shovel to minimize contact with the remnants.
• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter or similar air filter to clean up droppings and smaller particles.
• Disinfect all areas with an appropriate cleaning solution. Test a small area first to ensure the liquid won’t damage surfaces.

3. Repairs

Address any damage caused by the rodents:

• Inspect and replace any chewed wires or hoses, especially around your car battery.
• Check fluid levels, as rodents may have caused leaks in various systems.
• Repair or replace damaged upholstery or insulation.

4. Professional Help

For severe infestations or if you’re uncomfortable handling the situation yourself (particularly if live animals are present or you’re not into mouse traps), consider hiring a professional exterminator:

• Locate a pest or rodent control specialist with experience in automotive infestations.
• Have a mechanic inspect your car for hidden damage that may affect performance or safety.

Extended Warranties: Protecting Against Vehicle Damage

While being preventive about rodent infestation is crucial, sometimes the inevitable happens, and these critters can seriously damage your car. In these cases, an extended car warranty (also known as a vehicle service contract or auto protection plan) may be able to help, depending on the coverage.

Comprehensive Coverage

Endurance offers vehicle service contracts that include protection for:

• Electrical Systems: Coverage for repairs to car wiring and electrical components
• Car Engine Components: Protection for specific powertrain and mechanical parts

Financial Benefits

Endurance Warranty delivers peace of mind by helping manage the cost of unexpected repairs that may arise due to a rodent infestation. In addition, this coverage makes the cost of covered repairs more predictable, as you’re only responsible for any deductible. Further, monthly premium payments for an auto protection plan rather than a big hit of a large repair bill can make car ownership more predictable.

Additional Perks

Every Endurance customer receives extra perks that can make dealing with repairs more manageable:

• Roadside Assistance: Help is available 24/7 and includes towing, lock-out assistance, emergency fuel delivery, and other essential services.
• Trip Interruption Protection: Car trouble away from home doesn’t have to be overly stressful. Endurance provides a pre-defined trip interruption reimbursement for major breakdowns that occur more than 100 miles from home.
• Rental Car Reimbursement: Breakdowns don’t have to leave you stranded, thanks to a pre-set daily rental car allowance.
• Elite Benefits: Endurance customers can also activate a year of extra Elite Benefits, which include tire repair and replacement services, key fob replacement, collision repair discounts, and total loss protection. And these features are worth up to $2,000!

Be Ready for the Unexpected with Endurance

A vehicle service contract from Endurance can help you prepare for the unexpected, such as a breakdown or surprise repair bills. To learn all that America’s leading direct-to-consumer auto protection plan provider has to offer, request a FREE quote or visit our online store for instant plan and pricing details. For one-on-one help, call (800) 253-8203 to speak with an Endurance plan advisor who can answer your questions and suggest budget-friendly options.

Visit the Endurance blog for an extensive library of expert-written articles about car care, DIY maintenance and repairs, auto reviews, and more.

According to Statista, there are almost 240,000 auto repair and maintenance businesses in the U.S. — and that’s a lot to choose from. Nonetheless, finding a company that will meet your car repair needs is possible with the proper strategy and approach. Keep reading as we explore what to look for.

#1. Certified Technicians: Expertise You Can Trust

Locating a good auto mechanic starts with finding someone who knows their stuff. While some shops can tout years of experience or expert status, verification of these claims comes from ASE certification. It’s a voluntary program that tests and certifies the competence of automotive technicians in the U.S. Administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, it covers several specialties, like engine repair, brakes, and electrical systems.

To become certified, technicians must have relevant work experience and pass tests in each specific field. ASE certifications are valid for five years, after which technicians must recertify to maintain their credentials.

ASE certification is a mark of pride for automotive repair professionals. You’re likely to find the blue ASE symbol on uniforms and wall plaques. Look for these indicators, and ask about ASE certifications at any shop you’re considering. Importantly, individuals, not businesses, are ASE Certified.

#2. Excellent Customer Service: Putting Clients First

A repair shop can “talk the talk” about customer service, but their customer service skills are the true measure of a good business. These efforts start with the initial greeting, in person or on the phone. Is the staff person friendly, or are they acting like they’re doing you a favor just by acknowledging you?

Equally vital is a respectful attitude. A great mechanic doesn’t need to behave like a humble servant, but they should at least interact in a way that makes you feel appreciated. Conversations should also be friendly and convey a feeling that the shop is interested in your needs.

After a few initial interactions, ask yourself if these conversations make you want to return and continue doing business with this company. If not, it’s time to continue searching for a good auto repair shop.

#3 Transparency: Honest and Clear Communication

Upfront communication is directly related to top-notch customer service. You should be fully informed about the repairs and the work’s cost. A reputable shop will provide an estimate before repairs begin or request your authorization to begin diagnostics to determine the problem. Many states have regulations covering car repairs. Identify these details in advance to be sure a shop is being compliant.

You’ll also want to determine the shop’s policy if repairs exceed the estimate. Some may automatically proceed with the work if it’s within a certain threshold, while others will call for approval for any amount of the estimate. State law may cover the protocol.

Above all, proposed repairs should be explained clearly and concisely. If the details are confusing or too technical, any questions should be answered in layperson’s terms. Further, estimates should be provided in writing (an email or text is okay) to avoid misunderstandings. Be sure to get a detailed receipt once the work is complete.

Timeliness is another essential element of customer communication. If a shop promises to call with an estimate or repair status by the end of the day, be sure they live up to this commitment. If you’re constantly having to call to follow up, you’ll want to look for alternatives.

#4 Fair Pricing: Competitive and Honest Rates

A good auto body shop is reasonably priced, but this doesn’t mean being the cheapest. Businesses that focus solely on the lowest price often skimp elsewhere to compensate. In the case of an auto service center, this could mean hiring less-experienced service technicians, not using the latest diagnostic equipment, or having run-down facilities.

While Yelp reports hourly car repair rates range from $47 to $215 per hour, what you pay depends significantly on where you get your car serviced. Specialty centers and dealer service departments will be on the high end, while small shops with low overhead will be at the starting point of this range.

The typical neighborhood repair garage with a steady customer flow and several bays will be somewhere in the middle. These rates may seem high, but remember, mechanics need to be paid, replacement parts can be costly, and the shop has overhead (like rent, utilities, and insurance).

Once you know a shop’s hourly rate (most states require this information to be posted), it’s important to determine if there are any other charges. Costs like an “environmental fee” or “shop supplies” are standard these days. There isn’t anything wrong with these charges as long as they are disclosed in the estimate. A shop that discloses any costs in addition to the actual repair work helps build trust.

#5: Positive Reviews and Reputation: Word of Mouth Matters

Finding a good auto mechanic often involves seeking other people’s feedback on their experiences. Online sources like Google Reviews and Yelp are good starting points. Depending on where you live, you might find Reddit a good site for more detailed discussions.

However, don’t limit your research to online reviews. Talk with friends, neighbors, and relatives and ask their input about where they get their car serviced. Pay particular attention to someone who has an older car that’s more likely to need attention. Above all, look for car owners who’ve been going to the same repair shop for years. Nothing says endorsement like repeat business.

#6 Advanced Diagnostic Equipment: Keeping Up with Technology

Today’s cars are rolling computers, requiring sophisticated technology to diagnose repairs and perform ongoing maintenance. These advanced systems help automotive mechanics get to the root of any problem more quickly.

This means a significant investment in the latest equipment and ongoing subscriptions to technical databases. Shops unwilling to make this financial commitment put their customers at a disadvantage because repairs may not be performed correctly or require more time. All these factors add to larger repair bills, now or in the future.

Most car owners are unaware of what diagnostic systems a mechanic should have, but this doesn’t prevent anyone from asking questions. Inquire about what equipment is used for a specific repair and how often that device gets updated.

#7: Comprehensive Services: One-Stop Shop for All Needs

Ideally, you want one mechanic or shop to handle your car’s servicing needs. The more familiar a shop is with your vehicle, the more accurately the staff can make recommendations for future work and be alert for known trouble areas. Quick oil-change places are convenient, but they’re unlikely to be able to spot the signs of a potential problem. Instead, a professional mechanic will take a holistic approach to servicing your car, taking all systems and components into account.

That said, there are a couple of exceptions to a one-stop-shop approach. Many shops don’t handle transmission repairs. Or, if they do, the work may be sent to a specialist for completion. There’s nothing wrong with this arrangement as long as the original shop stands behind the work (see #8 below). Transmission servicing is highly complex, and some mechanics prefer to focus on many repair specialties.

In addition, the rise of electric vehicles creates a problem for most independent shops because of the newness of this technology. EV repair training and supporting diagnostic equipment haven’t reached many non-dealer repair centers. If a problem involves the high-voltage battery or the powertrain, you’ll likely have to go to an authorized dealer for repairs.

#8: Warranty on Repairs: Confidence in Workmanship

Every car owner wants to be able to drive away from the repair shop with the confidence that the problem has been resolved. Professional mechanics provide this peace of mind by offering a warranty covering workmanship and replacement parts. Terms may vary, but 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first) is typical. More expensive repairs may include longer coverage.

Your search for a good auto mechanic should include examining the warranty protection included with each repair. If the work is performed at a regional or national repair shop, ask if the coverage is valid at any location. Also, review all the warranty terms to check for conditions that might void the protection.

#9: Clean and Organized Facility: Professionalism and Care

How any business presents itself to the public reflects its professionalism. Diners want restaurants that are hygienic, and patients want doctors who are neat and tidy. A good auto repair shop has similar expectations to meet. While the customer waiting room and bathrooms don’t have to be sterile environments, general cleanliness means the company cares about the details. These finer points often translate to mechanics who care about the quality of their work and attention to detail.

In contrast, a service center that hasn’t seen a broom in a while or has piles of loose paperwork could signal a company in disarray. This is an undesirable trait for businesses that often need to provide highly technical and detailed services.

RepairPal Partner Network: Quality You Can Trust

The RepairPal Partner Network offers a reliable solution for those seeking a reliable car mechanic. This network features carefully vetted repair shops that meet RepairPal’s rigorous standards for quality, expertise, and customer service. By choosing a RepairPal-certified shop, customers can have confidence in receiving top-notch repairs from skilled technicians using the latest diagnostic equipment.

At the same time, these shops are committed to transparent pricing and honest communication, providing detailed estimates and clear explanations of necessary repairs. To ensure these high standards, RepairPal-certified shops undergo regular evaluations.

Extended Warranties: Protecting Your Investment

Finding a good auto mechanic is only one part of keeping your car on the road; paying for repairs is another. For many vehicle owners, an extended car warranty (also known as a vehicle service contract) is the answer. This coverage protects against breakdowns and surprise repair bills.

Endurance offers numerous auto protection plans for all types of drivers and vehicles. Those looking to protect key systems can choose a powertrain plan that protects the engine, transmission, and drive axle — often the most expensive components to repair. Supreme coverage is similar to a new car bumper-to-bumper warranty and safeguards most parts except for a few exclusions. There are also in-between options that balance protection and budget.

Every plan from Endurance Warranty includes 24/7 roadside assistance with towing, lockout, and other protections. Trip interruption protection and rental car reimbursement are also standard, providing crucial support during a breakdown.

There’s also no worry about where to go for covered repairs. Plan holders can choose any ASE Certified mechanic or licensed repair facility. In addition, Endurance has teamed with RepairPal Partner Network to provide convenient access to thousands of certified repair shops nationwide.

All Endurance customers are eligible for one year of Elite Benefits. Just pay a small enrollment fee for access to services worth up to $2,000 that include tire repairs and replacements, key fob replacement, total loss protection, and collision repair discounts.

Find out what makes Endurance Warranty indispensable. Get a FREE quote, or visit our online store for instant plan and pricing details. An Endurance plan advisor can answer your questions and review all the coverage options. Call (800) 253-8203 for personalized help today!

The Endurance blog features hundreds of essential articles for car owners who want to learn more about DIY maintenance tips, repair advice, vehicle reviews, and more.

However, older vehicles are ultimately more prone to component failure — and the more mileage they’ve seen, the more likely repairs will be necessary in the near future. If you own a Chevy Impala or are thinking of purchasing one in the near future, this will no doubt be somewhat of a concern. In particular, major powertrain repairs like your transmission can be an especially worrying prospect.

To give you an idea of what to expect if your Chevy Impala transmission dies on you in the near future, let’s take a look at the factors influencing transmission repair costs and how much you can expect to pay overall.

Common Transmission Problems with the Chevy Impala

Transmission problems are unfortunately common with the Chevy Impala. According to data from Car Complaints, early to mid-2000s models are the worst culprits, with the 2004, 2005, and 2006 variants receiving the most reported tranny issues. Taking a closer look at the 2005 model, for example, we can see that drivers experienced:

• Shifting rough: Owners reported that while the engine was cold, the transmission was smooth, but as things warmed up, switching between gears became rough and caused the car to shake. This was sometimes down to the transmission fluid level, but often, mechanics couldn’t diagnose the cause.
• Total transmission failure: Over time, the rough shifting and other issues experienced by drivers eventually resulted in a total transmission failure, which had to be replaced completely. Some quote that this happened around the 85,000-mile mark.
• Transmission slips or won’t shift into gear: Some users found that their transmission would start slipping or suddenly refuse to let them shift between gears. When moving from 1st to 2nd gear, one owner said that their car would act as if they’d shifted to neutral. Another said that the car would effectively shift into neutral when they hit 30mph or if they took their foot off the gas.

4 Factors Influencing Transmission Repair Costs

Not all repair bills will be the same. There are plenty of factors that can influence the cost of your transmission issues and repair, including:

1. The severity of the issue. Just like medical bills, the more severe the issue, the more you can expect to pay for automotive repair costs. This is because major problems usually involve more time, more parts, and more specialized knowledge to rectify. For example, a transmission fluid change will undoubtedly cost much less than having your tranny completely rebuilt.

2. Labor costs. Some repairs will be more labor-intensive than others, and the longer something takes to fix, the more your mechanic will want for their time. You’ll also find that labor costs are different between locations and repair shops.

3. Parts and materials. If the parts in question are complex or numerous, you can expect to pay a lot more for the bad transmission. Older vehicles may also require components that are trickier to find these days, driving up their price. Genuine parts will always cost more than aftermarket parts, but it’s always recommended that you don’t allow yourself to be tempted by the cheaper alternative because you often get what you pay for.

4. Your vehicle age and warranty status. – If your vehicle is relatively new (or at least one of the more recent Impala models), there’s a chance it may still be covered by Chevrolet’s factory warranty. If so, your transmission will most definitely be covered by this, and the manufacturer will repair the issue for you free of charge. Older vehicles will no longer be eligible, so the financial burden will be the owner’s.

Typical Repair Cost for an Impala Transmission

What kind of costs can you expect if you experience transmission problems with your Chevy Impala? For a 2010 Impala, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) estimates that replacing the entire transmission, including parts and labor, could range from $4,749 to $6,387. This estimate excludes taxes, state or shop fees, and does not account for regional variations in repair costs across the country.

Managing and Reducing Transmission Repair Costs

Transmission repairs can be some of the most expensive you’re likely to experience as a car owner, but while you can’t prevent them altogether, there are some ways you can manage and reduce them.

Regular maintenance is the first major recommendation. Every time you hit the road, your vehicle’s components are put under a lot of strain, and a part that isn’t working as well as it should will put additional strain on those around it. By keeping on top of things and making sure all components are well looked after, you drastically reduce the chances of breakdown.

Early detection prevents issues from getting worse (and ultimately more expensive to repair). If you stay on top of your Chevy Impala maintenance, you’ll be inspecting your vehicle’s components regularly and, therefore, more likely to find fluid leaks or transmission problems in their early stages. Rather than ignoring that clunking sound until you’re stranded at the roadside, take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible.

You’ll also want to make sure you choose the right auto repair shop. Like any industry, some bad actors are looking to take advantage of car owners, massively overcharging for sub-par work. It can be tempting to head to your nearest auto body or transmission shop whenever you need a hand, but make sure to do your research. Google reviews are a good start, but you’ll want to check whoever you go to is ASE Certified to ensure you’re getting the best possible quality of repair.

Lastly, if your vehicle requires a complete transmission replacement, you don’t necessarily need to pay for a brand new one. Speak with your mechanic, and they may be able to help you source a used transmission, rebuilt transmission, or remanufactured transmission that will most likely be a significantly cheaper alternative. While it may not last quite as long as a transmission that’s fresh off the production line, the savings will hopefully make up for that.

The Role of Extended Warranties in Transmission Repairs

If you own a vehicle that no longer has an active factory warranty, your manufacturer is no longer obliged to cover the cost of unexpected component failure. This means if your transmission were to fail, you would be financially responsible for the parts and labor needed to repair it.

Powertrain components, in particular, can be painfully expensive to replace, but what if there was a way to extend your factory warranty beyond the expiry date? So you can keep driving with confidence and stop worrying about your bank account.

Thankfully, there’s not one but two ways you can make this happen, with the first being a more traditional extended warranty. These are usually purchased via a dealer or directly from your manufacturer and quite literally extend your vehicle’s factory warranty for several years/miles traveled. This kind of coverage is riddled with issues, however, such as a high price point and restrictions on where work can be carried out. Worst of all, you can only qualify for a factory warranty extension while your factory warranty is active. This is especially problematic for used car owners, who are more or less ruled out completely.

Because of these pitfalls, people overwhelmingly opt for the alternative: a vehicle service contract from a third-party provider like Endurance. These auto protection plans offer almost as comprehensive coverage at a more affordable price point and throw in useful bonus perks to give you even more value for money. Work can be carried out at your favorite certified auto shop, and you can acquire coverage regardless of your factory warranty status. As long as you can find a provider with the appropriate eligibility criteria, you’re all set for financial security and total peace of mind.

Usually, providers will offer you a range of coverage levels, from basic powertrain protection to a comprehensive exclusionary plan. Where transmission repairs are concerned, the outlook is particularly good, as it’s classed as part of the powertrain and will, therefore, be covered on almost every extended warranty or vehicle service contract.

Say Goodbye to Unexpected Repair Bills with America’s Best Vehicle Service Contract

Repairs are an unfortunate inevitability of car ownership, but the bills don’t need to be. With an extended warranty watching out for you, your wallet can stay safely in your pocket, saving you hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars annually. With plenty of providers to choose from, however, landing on one can be a tough choice. However, only one name is trusted across America: Endurance.

From everyday commuters to high-mileage vehicles and even select luxury car owners, Endurance offers auto protection plans for every type of driver. And if our base plans aren’t quite right for your individual needs and budget, we can customize a vehicle service contract to suit your specific situation.

Along with top-tier protection, you’ll also get standard benefits, like 24/7 roadside assistance (with towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption costs. Better yet, for a nominal activation fee, all Endurance contract holders can access our Elite Benefits package, which adds on up to four tire repairs or replacements annually, key fob replacement, up to $500 in collision discounts, and up to $1,000 in total loss protection.

Whoever you are, whatever you drive, we’re waiting to hear from you! Call an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 to request a FREE quote, or shop online to see your price now.

If you’d like to read more about automobiles, our extended warranty blog has plenty of other useful repair articles on Ford, Honda, Buick, and more.

Learn everything you need to know about getting your vehicle and warranty ready for the new school year.

Increased Vehicle Usage: The Back-to-School Impact

There are a variety of reasons that back-to-school season serves as a great check-in point for your vehicle, but the primary one is that your vehicle usage will increase drastically. Whether it’s the daily commute of taking your kids to and from school, driving them off to extracurricular activities, or simply road trips as the holiday season begins to pick up, your vehicle will be driven far more than normal.

In fact, the AAA created an entire campaign entitled “Schools Open — Drive Carefully!” to help reduce pedestrian-related fatalities due to the combined increase in the number of drivers and people on the road. As the wear and tear of daily driving takes its toll on your vehicle over time, you may notice a variety of commonly seen issues.

4 Common Vehicle Issues During Back-to-School Season

As mentioned, daily use of your vehicle can quickly lead to some common issues that most vehicles face at one point or another. The most notable of these include:

1. Brake Wear: The back-to-school traffic you will face dropping your kids off is no joke, and it can quickly lead to added wear on your brakes. From the constant stop-and-go traffic in the parking lot to potentially needing to slam on your brakes due to frustrated parents driving poorly, there is no shortage of reasons why your brakes may age quicker, resulting in brake fluid top-offs or new brake pads.
2. Tire Wear: Naturally, the more you drive your vehicle, the quicker the tires will start to wear down. Tire rotations are recommended every 5,000 miles or six months, and they tend to fall around the same time. During the back-to-school months, though, you may notice that you hit 5,000 miles far quicker than the six-month average, which means you may need to get your tires rotated more frequently.
3. Battery Life: One of the most common automotive issues faced by new and used cars alike is battery life issues during back-to-school months. Parents often leave their vehicles idling for long amounts of time or, with the stress of dropping kids off, forget to turn off headlights or other similar items. This can lead to an intense drain on your battery that potentially kills it, requiring assistance from a tow company.
4. Engine and Transmission Stress: Finally, the added driving will simply take a toll on both your engine and transmission in the long run. While both these parts have lengthy lifespans, increased driving will naturally move that needle closer and closer by the day.

Driving your vehicle more frequently during the back-to-school months may cause many more issues, which is why staying on top of your maintenance is so important. Even vehicles from higher-end brands such as Audi and BMW can have issues, which is why adding a warranty to your vehicle if you don’t already have one is crucial.

The Importance of an Up-to-Date Warranty

No matter how good you are at taking care of maintenance on your trusty vehicle, something can always go awry. That’s why having an up-to-date vehicle warranty or vehicle service contract tied to your car is so crucial. For those unfamiliar with it, a warranty offers financial protection against mechanical breakdowns by covering the repair costs so long as the issue is covered under the warranty. This is not the same as insurance, though, which is an important distinction.

Car insurance offers financial protection in the event of accidents or collisions, which is not covered by a warranty. The main three benefits having an up-to-date vehicle warranty can provide you during these upcoming back-to-school months include:

• Financial Protection: The primary benefit of keeping your warranty up to date is the financial protection it offers. Depending on the scope of the job, repairs can cost thousands of dollars on a vehicle, and many people don’t have those funds available.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that you’re covered out on the road can offer much peace of mind and make you more comfortable behind the wheel. It can also help you feel more confident in your family’s safety.
• Pure Convenience: An often overlooked benefit of a warranty on your vehicle is the fact that you will gain access to a network of certified repair shops and quick repair work as a result, which can get you back on the road faster.

Checking Your Warranty Status

The last thing you want to discover during a mechanical breakdown is that your vehicle warranty is no longer active, as this will mean you are on the hook for repair costs. To avoid this, take the time to see if your factory warranty or extended warranty is still active. First, review any warranty documents you were provided at the time of signing to see if they list an expiration date or terms that may void the warranty.

Assuming you are either unable to find information or the information is not clear, it’s a best practice to simply call your warranty provider and give them your information so that they can check in the system on your status and any available updates that may be ready. Finally, you should schedule a warranty inspection for your vehicle to make sure that all parts are in good condition and that there’s nothing you need to address to keep your warranty active.

Extended Warranties: Enhanced Coverage for the School Year

For those who only have a factory warranty and have never heard of an extended warranty, the latter is offered by a third party rather than by the vehicle manufacturer (although manufacturers can also sell extended warranties). The primary benefit of an extended vehicle warranty lies in adding it to your vehicle once the factory warranty expires or overlaps with your factory warranty.

In some cases, extended warranty contracts may come with perks such as reimbursements for some maintenance tasks such as an engine oil change or tire rotations, though this is not standard. There is also a misconception that extended warranties are only for older vehicles, though this is not true.

While certain extended warranty contracts are geared toward older vehicles, these contracts can come in all shapes and sizes. For example, Endurance vehicle service contracts are often more comprehensive in nature and can offer coverage for things ranging from the coolant system, hoses, gaskets, general auto repair and major repairs, and more.

The terms powertrain and comprehensive coverage are often used with extended warranties, though they describe what is being covered under the contract. If you’re wondering what the cost of an extended warranty can look like, the answer is that it will vary. With that said, though, a study from USA Today determined an average cost of $108 per month, along with a deductible that will range from $0 to $250.

While this cost may appear steep for something you hope you never have to use, the benefits truly shine when your vehicle inevitably breaks down. No matter how well-built your vehicle may be, there is always the chance of failure in one or more parts. This is the exact reason why having an extended warranty contract for your vehicle, especially during the back-to-school season, is so important.

Back-to-School Safe Driving with Endurance

The last thing you need while driving your kids to school or on the way to pick them up is to experience a mechanical breakdown. From the hassle of arranging last-minute transportation for your kids to getting the bill associated with the needed vehicle repairs, there is nothing enjoyable about the experience. Fortunately, with extended warranty coverage, you can alleviate the concerns surrounding repair costs.

With Endurance Warranty, you have a variety of auto protection plans to choose from depending on your vehicle’s needs. For example, those with older vehicles that may only benefit from protecting the most crucial components, such as the engine, transmission, air conditioning, and similar parts, will likely see the most use out of our Secure Plus plan.

On the other hand, those with a newer vehicle that needs more substantial protection will likely enjoy our Supreme plan, which offers near bumper-to-bumper coverage. With a myriad of coverage options to choose from, you can truly customize your warranty experience to cover the vehicle repairs you need.

In addition to the above, Endurance customers receive a host of standard benefits, including 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage. You can also choose to activate additional Elite Benefits with your new contract. This offers bonus perks such as reimbursements for up to four tires per year due to road hazards, up to $1,000 in total loss protection, and more.*

To learn more, contact an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing right away.

When you buy a new car, it will usually come with a factory warranty that is provided by the manufacturer. This warranty is there to protect you from problems due to flaws in the vehicle’s design or problems with the production. Most of the time, these warranties will last anywhere between three years or 36,000 miles and five years or 60,000 miles. Once your factory bumper-to-bumper warranty is up, though, you will be responsible for any repairs, whether they are your fault or not. An auto protection plan from a third-party provider will help you extend this coverage and protect yourself from expensive breakdowns once the factory warranty is up.

When it comes to extended auto warranties or VSCs, there are many different providers to choose from, and they all have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are going to make the right choice for yourself and your driving needs, you need to compare providers and see which ones will deliver the service that suits you best.

Endurance and Fidelity are two major auto protection providers on the market. By knowing how they stack up against one another, you can make the right decision for yourself and your vehicle.

Side-by-Side Company Comparison

Endurance Warranty Services

Since 2006, Endurance has been offering a wide range of auto protection plans for drivers and vehicles of all kinds. Based in Illinois, Endurance provides coverage for everything from older, high-mileage cars to high-end luxury vehicles and even cars used for commercial purposes like ridesharing and delivery.

Endurance also sets itself apart by offering mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) for drivers in California who would not otherwise be able to get protection for their vehicles due to strict regulations in the state. This variety of protection plans opens up the possibility of coverage for many different drivers and can help you cover your car, even if other warranty providers won’t.

Fidelity Warranty Services, Inc.

Fidelity Warranty Services has been in business for over 40 years and offers different protection plans for different needs. It works with 3,800 dealerships across the United States and can be used at over 6,000 different repair centers.

Fidelity also offers coverage specifically designed to protect electric vehicles, making it a good choice if you are planning on making the switch to an EV at some point in the near future. The company is not a direct provider of coverage, though, which means that you can only purchase your VSC through a dealership that offers it. So, it’s important to know where it is available and how you can get the right coverage for your needs.

Available Coverage Options

Endurance Warranty Plans

Endurance offers an incredibly wide variety of coverage plans for drivers with many different needs. While Endurance service plans are customizable, there are some set plans that are a great place to start when deciding what kind of coverage is best for you. View our sample contracts or read more about our levels of coverage below:

• Supreme – The Supreme plan is Endurance’s exclusionary protection plan, designed to be as close as possible to your vehicle’s factory warranty. Covered components include the cooling system, electrical, and seals and gaskets, which are generally not covered in plans from other providers.
• Supreme for Highline Vehicles – If you have a high-end luxury car made by Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo, or another well-known brand, it can be difficult to find coverage. The Supreme for Highline Vehicles plan, though, covers luxury cars that are less than eight years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles on the odometer with a list of exclusions that makes it easy to decide if it is the right choice for your car.
• Superior – Some components on your vehicle are more likely to fail than others and they will also be the most expensive to fix. The Superior plan protects components like the engine, transmission, air conditioning (A/C), and more, so you can rest easy.
• Select Premier – It can be hard to get a protection plan for a high-mileage vehicle but Endurance’s Select Premier plan is designed to give you coverage when other providers won’t.
• Secure Plus – The Secure Plus plan offers affordable coverage for your vehicle’s most essential parts, such as the engine, transmission, and drive axle.
• Secure – Protection should not be limited to those with a large budget. The Secure plan covers the most basic components of your powertrain with a smaller premium so you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and reduce its total cost of ownership.
• Advantage – Maintenance is just as important as making repairs quickly. The Endurance Advantage plan offers comprehensive maintenance coverage and up to $3,500 in annual services. This includes things like oil changes and oil filter replacements.

Fidelity Warranty Coverage

Fidelity Warranty Services offers three different vehicle protection plans with varying degrees of coverage. Depending on your vehicle and what it might need in terms of protection, one of these plans may be better for you and your budget.

• Platinum Coverage – The Platinum Coverage plan is Fidelity’s exclusionary protection plan. It covers nearly every component of the vehicle with the exception of some specific parts like the brakes and wear-and-tear elements.
• Gold Coverage – Fidelity Warranty Services’ Gold Coverage plan covers many parts of your vehicle, including the most essential. Things like the steering, electrical, and A/C systems are all covered with this plan.
• Powertrain Coverage – If you are looking to cover the most basic components of your vehicle, the Powertrain Coverage plan could be the right one for you. It includes only the most essential and the most expensive components such as the engine, transmission, and drive axle.

Customer Service and Online Reputation Review

Endurance Customer Reviews

One of the things that sets Endurance apart from other VSC providers is the company’s dedication to customer service. Many customers in reviews have strongly commended Endurance’s award-winning customer service team for providing top-notch service and always being willing to find a solution when a problem comes up. Endurance currently holds a high star rating on Trustpilot, with over 7,000 reviews in total, many of them specifically mentioning how helpful and knowledgeable the team was. Endurance also maintains an A- consumer rating from on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, though not officially accredited. If you are looking for a VSC provider that will be with you every step of the way and has a good track record with customers, Endurance is an excellent option.

Fidelity Warranty Reviews

While Fidelity Warranty Services has been around for decades, it seems that the company’s clients have had several issues with customer service and getting the repairs they need. Fidelity Warranty Services currently holds a 2.2/5-star rating on Consumer Affairs, with many customers expressing frustration at not being able to have their repairs covered when they were assured that they would be.

Some customers have even said that they couldn’t get a repair covered, even after providing extensive documentation with the help of the service manager at the shop where the repairs were done. These problems with communication could be a result of Fidelity Warranty Services not being a direct provider of coverage, which might be a dealbreaker for some customers. If you want to be sure that your VSC provider will cover the repairs that are supposed to be included in your plan, Fidelity Warranty Services may not be right for you.

Navigating the Claims Process

Endurance Warranty Claims

Endurance’s claims process is meant to be as easy as possible, with no hoops to jump through in order to get your covered repairs completed. When an issue arises with your vehicle, all you have to do is take it to the certified shop of your choice. Then, you can present your Endurance contract to the service manager and pay any applicable deductible. We’ll take it from there and work with the repair shop directly. As long as your repair is covered under your plan, you can get your vehicle fixed and back on the road.

In addition, Endurance has partnered with RepairPal to help you find certified repair shops and mechanics near you. The Endurance Mobile app also allows you to keep track of all your claims, view any pending claims, and contact our customer service directly.

Fidelity Warranty Claims

For the most part, when you get a VSC through Fidelity Warranty Services, you will get it through a dealership. This means that taking your vehicle to the dealership’s service center will be your best bet if you want to be sure that your claim will be accepted.

While Fidelity Warranty Services deals with outside certified shops, many customers have experienced problems with getting their claims approved when they go this route. If you do, make sure that you keep all your documentation and work with the service manager at the shop when submitting the claim so you can avoid any unnecessary delays from the company when getting the claim approved.

Exploring Additional Benefits and Perks

Endurance Benefits

When you get a VSC from Endurance, you also get a wide range of standard perks that can help you feel safe whenever you are on the road. Every Endurance customer gets 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, lockout services, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption protection, so you can get the help you need wherever you might be.

For a small activation fee, you can also get access to the Endurance Elite Benefits program. This includes extra perks like tire repair or replacement, key fob replacement, $1,000 toward total loss protection, and more. These additional benefits are there to give you peace of mind and the knowledge that you won’t be stranded if something goes wrong with your vehicle.

Fidelity Warranty Benefits

Fidelity Warranty Services’ plans also come with a fairly wide range of extra perks and benefits. Every Fidelity plan comes with up to $100 in towing coverage, up to $100 per day of trip interruption protection, and 24/7 towing services.

Fidelity also offers fluid replacement with covered repairs, and since the plans are offered at dealerships, the cost of the plan can be included in your vehicle’s financing. While there are certain limitations when you get coverage through a company that isn’t a direct provider, being able to roll the cost of coverage in with the cost of your vehicle has some advantages.

Get the Best Extended Car Warranty

Ensuring your car has top coverage is the best way to feel safe and secure behind the wheel. With a high-quality auto protection plan, you can be sure that your vehicle is always in good working order and that you can get repairs as soon as they come up. While you have a lot of choices for your auto protection, Endurance has the right mix of customer service, wide-ranging plan options, and extra benefits that can give you the confidence you need when you hit the road.

Endurance offers a range of different plans with coverage for everything from high-mileage cars to high-end luxury vehicles and even cars that other providers won’t cover, like Canadian Gray Market vehicles, vehicles with a salvage or rebuilt title, or cars used for commercial purposes like rideshare or delivery. This means that no matter what kind of budget or needs you have, you can find the perfect plan for your car and your specific driving habits.

You can take advantage of Endurance’s 30-day money-back guarantee! Call our top-tier customer service at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also shop online to see your plan recommendations and price right away!

The Endurance Warranty blog is also your source for all things automotive, with more provider comparisons with CarShield and CARCHEX, repair facility reviews, how-tos, and information on mechanical breakdown insurance for California residents.

Certain sub-factors related to mileage and age, though, can help you determine whether they will negatively impact the used vehicle you are considering. Learn everything you need to know about these factors so that you can make an educated purchase decision.

Understanding Mileage: The Wear and Tear Factor

Between the two factors, age or mileage, the latter is truly a better indicator of the car’s condition. Mileage is just a direct indicator of the distance a car has been driven during its lifespan, but its importance can vary. For example, 100,000 miles on a car that is only three years old is one that was driven far harder than a vehicle with the same mileage at ten years old.

In regards to general wear and tear, though, it’s true that low mileage typically means that a vehicle has had fewer problems and will have fewer problems on an ongoing basis. Increased miles driven directly impact the quality of a vehicle’s major components, such as the transmission, engine, suspension, and more. However, a high mileage also means that assuming the prior owner was doing their job, the vehicle has been through many maintenance sessions with mechanics, which helps to increase its longevity.

The Role of Age: Time’s Impact on Vehicles

Many people are under the common misconception that if they simply store a vehicle in their garage for a long amount of time, then they can take it out again one day without missing a beat. Unfortunately, just because a car hasn’t been driven doesn’t mean that its parts won’t have degraded. Age impacts everything, and cars are no exception. Parts that contain material such as rubber, which includes crucial components such as hoses, will naturally begin to deteriorate over many years if not replaced.

For drivers who only take their vehicle out occasionally, car washes may have seemed pointless. However, accumulated dust, dirt, and debris can begin to rust underneath your vehicle, which can lead to the degradation of parts such as the oil tank, gaskets, or other metal parts. On top of everything else, an older car may have had historical problems that went unaddressed as they didn’t significantly impact the driving experience of the vehicle. On older cars, this can lead to more serious problems developing that aren’t worth fixing due to the book value of the vehicle.

Comparing Mileage and Age When Car Buying

To truly evaluate whether an older vehicle is worth the money you are considering investing in the purchase, you need to balance both the mileage and age with other considerations. After all, an older vehicle does not automatically mean a vehicle that has a low resale value. First and foremost, consider the vehicle’s average reliability score to gain an indication of how long you may reasonably expect that vehicle to last. If it’s knocking on the door of its final year on average, then it may be best not to invest your money into purchasing it.

Further, an older and high-mileage car should ideally have a robust maintenance history and correct odometer that shows the owner took care of it during its years. This maintenance history should also be used to look at the average cost of repairs and what specific repairs were handled. For example, a vehicle with thousands of dollars worth of maintenance taken care of over 15 years may actually bode better than a vehicle the same age with nearly no maintenance conducted.

In the same vein, you should also check to see if any major parts, such as the engine, transmission, radiator, and others, have already been replaced. Those are naturally more expensive repairs, and if the prior owner already handled these, then you may be getting a “newer vehicle” disguised as an older vehicle.

Evaluating Vehicle History: Beyond Mileage and Age

Sticking to the same topic as above, you should request a maintenance report for every vehicle you attempt to purchase from a private party, even if it’s a newer car. This report will outline all major repair and maintenance tasks taken care of on the vehicle, their frequency, and any history of accidents. This can be used to speak with the current owner of the vehicle to gain a feel for the true condition of the vehicle. If the owner of a vehicle doesn’t want to provide this information, it should be considered to be a red flag.

Situational Considerations: Matching Needs to Vehicle Condition

Weighing whether mileage or age matters more in your purchase is truly a case-by-case decision. After all, someone who is seeking long-term usage out of a vehicle may prioritize a low-mileage car with safety features. On the other hand, someone who is seeking reliability on a budget may opt for a new car that is also a high mileage vehicle simply due to the fact that newer cars may last longer.

To determine whether you should prioritize fewer miles or a lower vehicle age, consider your budget and what you are hoping to get out of the car. If you want to look back in a decade and have a 10-year-old car, purchasing a vehicle that is already seven years old with average mileage may not be a smart choice. Don’t forget to look at car brands as well. Companies such as Honda, Toyota, Ford, and Lexus are all known for making reliable vehicles with less wear over time. Consider the type of driving you will be doing, such as city driving vs. off-roading, as this will also have a direct impact on your vehicle’s condition.

Extended Warranties: Protecting Your Used Car Investment

Whether you are looking to buy a used car or a newer model, investing in an extended car warranty contract can help. Extended warranties, also known as vehicle service contracts, offer financial protection in the form of reimbursements for covered repairs stemming from manufacturer defects or breakdowns. An extended warranty will not cover repairs stemming from a car accident, as it’s not insurance, but it can be used if your transmission breaks down so long as that part is covered by your contract.

A vehicle service contract from providers like Endurance Warranty can save you thousands of dollars and prevent you from having frustrating headaches in the future. This benefit becomes all the more prominent when considering a pre-owned vehicle that may be more likely to have issues in the coming years.

Remember that a car’s age doesn’t always have a direct correlation with its likelihood of a breakdown, but that doesn’t mean that investing in protection is a bad idea. Lower mileage and higher mileage vehicles are still both just machines, and breakdowns can happen naturally, but having an extended warranty on your vehicle can stop a hole from burning in your wallet.

Safeguard Your New Purchase with Endurance

As indicated above, a car with a high mileage or high age is not necessarily a car that will need to be retired in just a couple of years. You can save money while still getting a reliable vehicle with a used car, though you must be certain that the sub-factors of its existing mileage and age are up to scratch. Beyond this, an old car is still an old car at the end of the day, which means it may have mechanical issues. This is why investing in an extended warranty, as outlined earlier, is so crucial.

At Endurance Warranty, we offer a myriad of auto protection plans. Those seeking basic, high-level stated protection for their older vehicle could enjoy the Secure Plus plan, which offers specific protection for only the most crucial components. Alternatively, those who have purchased a vehicle that the previous owner took good care of and one that likely has a long life span yet could consider the Supreme plan, which offers near bumper-to-bumper coverage.

Endurance’s wide range of contract options means you can truly design a plan tailored to your specific vehicle, lifestyle, and budget. Additionally, each Endurance plan comes with standard benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and trip interruption reimbursement. You can also choose to activate our Elite Benefits package, which includes bonus perks such as key fob replacement, reimbursements for up to four tires per year due to road hazards, up to $1,000 in total loss protection, and so much more.

To learn more about how Endurance can protect your older vehicle, contact our knowledgeable plan advisors at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also shop on our eStore to see your specific plan recommendations and pricing right now!

If there’s one comfort you can find in this inevitability, it is that car troubles happen to everyone, no matter how wealthy or famous they might be. In recent years, several stories have been in the news about some of the biggest American celebrities dealing with breakdowns and car trouble, even with their high-end, high-dollar automobiles.

While many celebrity car accidents can be taken care of with tow trucks and money for repairs on their expensive exotic and luxury vehicles, that doesn’t mean that they couldn’t use a little peace of mind. An extended warranty, which is more accurately called a vehicle service contract (VSC), can provide comfort and help during a breakdown, even to those who have the status and cash flow to make any kind of repair.

Knowing how an extended warranty could have helped some of the most notable Hollywood car breakdowns will help you decide if it is right for you and your vehicle.

Justin Bieber’s Lamborghini Aventador Breakdown

In September 2018, Justin Bieber’s Lamborghini Aventador broke down in the Hamptons, an upscale region of New York State. After the breakdown, Bieber was photographed by paparazzi looking frustrated with the situation and waiting to have the exotic vehicle towed away. Because of the high-end nature of the car, which could have a price tag of over $500,000, the event got quite a bit of media attention and showed just how susceptible a vehicle can be to a breakdown, even at that price point.

While it is unclear exactly what happened to Bieber’s Lamborghini, an extended warranty that covers highline luxury and exotic vehicles could have been a big help. This is especially true for the specific issues that are common with these vehicles, such as electrical problems and overheating, even in relatively mild conditions. Plus, if Bieber had an extended warranty that included 24/7 roadside service, he could have saved some money on what was sure to be an otherwise expensive repair.

Kim Kardashian’s Rolls-Royce Ghost Failure

Kim Kardashian is a celeb known for sharing the details of her personal life with humor and composure, and the breakdown of her Rolls-Royce Ghost in July 2021 was no exception. The star took to social media to detail the breakdown of her supercar, featuring a massive 6.75-liter V12 engine and an incredibly luxurious interior, which occurred in Calabasas, California, while she and her sister were out for a drive. The vehicle experienced a mechanical failure that left the two stranded and highlighted how everyone is susceptible to car trouble, even when they have such a high-performance, top-tier vehicle.

Since Kardashian’s Rolls-Royce experienced a mechanical failure, the odds are good that a part needed to be replaced in order to get it back up and running again. With a high-quality vehicle protection plan, she could have gotten her vehicle to a certified shop that had access to parts that a top-notch car like the Rolls-Royce Ghost needs and get them replaced so it could get back on the road. Plus, getting a tow would have been faster and easier, and she may not have even had time to post the videos and photos on social media, for better or worse.

Lady Gaga’s Mercedes-Benz Breakdown

Lady Gaga is one of the most well-known singers and actors in the world, but that doesn’t mean that she’s immune to car trouble. In 2018, Gaga’s Mercedes-Benz broke down on the highway in Los Angeles. Anyone who lives in or has visited the City of Angels knows how harrowing this experience can be with the city’s immense traffic congestion and high-speed driving on its snaking network of highways. Gaga shared the experience on social media with a specific emphasis on the inconvenience of waiting for roadside assistance while the other cars on the highway honked and sped by.

If Gaga had an extended warranty for her Mercedes-Benz, she would not have had to worry about the long wait for a tow truck with gawkers and fans equally upset and thrilled to see her. A quality extended warranty provider will make it as easy and fast as possible to get the roadside assistance you need, whether that is a tow, a battery charge, or locksmith services.

While this can be convenient if you are a star in a high-priced, high-performance luxury vehicle, it can be a lifesaver for anyone. Having a provider on your side with good customer service and prompt roadside assistance can ease the stress of a highway breakdown, no matter who you are.

Jay Leno’s Classic Car Issues

Jay Leno has been one of the most recognizable stand-up comedians and talk show hosts for over 40 years. While he is well-known for his work on television and on stage, he is equally well-known for his incredible collection of antique and classic cars, some of which would be more at home in a museum than on the highway. Over the years, he has had some public car troubles, including a notable incident in 2020 when his 1906 Stanley Steamer, which runs on steam power, had a mechanical issue in Los Angeles. He has also shared his experiences with having trouble getting the right service for his antique vehicles and finding a reliable shop to work on them.

Even as one of the most famous collectors of vintage cars, Jay Leno has trouble finding a reliable shop, but with a good extended warranty on his side, he could have avoided some of his car problems. With a protection plan that includes access to a network of vetted, highly regarded shops, you can protect your vintage vehicle and get it the best possible care. Plus, you can be sure that the new parts will be covered, even if they are relatively difficult to source and need specialized labor to be installed.

Katy Perry’s Tesla Model S Malfunction

While electric vehicles, and Teslas specifically, have become status symbols and are known for being high-end vehicles, they are just as susceptible to breakdowns as any other car. In January 2021, pop singer Katy Perry was driving her Tesla Model S in Beverly Hills when it experienced a mechanical failure and simply came to a stop. Perry posted videos and pictures on social media expressing her frustration with the situation and with being stranded on the side of the road with what was, at the time, an incredibly pricey EV.

If you have an electric vehicle, it is important to remember that even the world’s most famous pop stars have trouble with their EVs, and it can happen at any time. Having an extended warranty in place that covers electric vehicles will help ensure that you don’t end up stuck on the side of the road. If Katy Perry can get stuck with an immobile EV, you could find yourself in a similar situation and it is a good idea to have the protection you need. Plus, Perry could have gotten her rental car covered while the Tesla was being fixed if she had access to excellent coverage.

Extended Warranties: A Lifesaver for Everyone

An extended warranty or vehicle service contract is your best bet for keeping your car in good working order, whether or not you are involved in a celebrity car accident. With an auto protection plan in place that offers comprehensive coverage on a wide range of mechanical components, you can rest easy knowing that you are covered for all kinds of automotive issues. Many providers offer different tiers of coverage and you can choose between basic powertrain protection or bumper-to-bumper plans that cover nearly every component.

Having the financial safety net of a vehicle service contract will give you the peace of mind you need so that you won’t have to break the bank to keep your car running. While some of the world’s biggest celebrities might not have to worry about an expensive breakdown, the rest of us should do everything possible to prevent a large, expensive repair bill.

Everyone, from the richest, most high-profile stars to the everyday folks you see at the grocery store, loves convenience and confidence in their vehicles. With the right extended warranty coverage, you can be sure that you can get the help you need in all kinds of situations.

With the right protection plan, you can get great repair coverage as well as extra perks like roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and trip interruption protection in case of a mechanical breakdown or car crash. These factors make having an extended warranty a good option for everyone, regardless of their level of fame and fortune.

Great Coverage With Endurance, No Matter What

While you and the famous people you know and love are not immune to car problems, that doesn’t mean that either of you have to worry about breakdowns or high repair bills. By having a good extended warranty on your side, you can rest easy knowing that you can get your car fixed and get help when you need it most.

Endurance offers a wide range of auto protection plans for cars and drivers of all kinds. With everything from the most basic powertrain protection to exclusionary coverage, there is coverage for everyone, whether you have a high-mileage vehicle or a high-end luxury car. Plus, Endurance will cover vehicles that other providers won’t, such as Canadian Gray Market cars, cars with a rebuilt or salvage title, and vehicles used for commercial purposes like rideshare or delivery.

Endurance also offers a comprehensive suite of standard perks and benefits that come with every plan. These include things like 24/7 roadside service and towing, trip interruption coverage, and rental car reimbursement. For a small activation fee, you can also get access to the Elite Benefits program. This includes extra perks such as tire repairs, key fob replacement, and up to $1,000 in total loss coverage for the ultimate protection on the road.*

If you want to benefit from Endurance’s complete coverage, contact our award-winning customer service team at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also visit the online store for an instant price preview.

For even more resources and information, be sure to check out the Endurance blog. There, you will find FAQs, provider comparisons for other luxury cars like Porsche and Ferrari, mechanical breakdown insurance guides, DIY maintenance tips and tricks, and much, much more.

Whether you’re in the market for a new car or a used car, it helps to know which models are notoriously unreliable so that you can avoid them. Let’s look at the top ten least reliable cars of the last decade and figure out what went wrong.

2014 Ford Fiesta: Transmission Troubles

The Ford Fiesta is known as a pretty dependable ride, with a respectable 4 out of 5 for reliability from our partners over at  RepairPal. The 2014 model year, however, was unfortunately an exception to the rule, plagued with transmission issues that had plenty of owners in and out of the auto shop. On Car Complaints, the vast majority of them reported an intermittent shudder when taking off and strange noises when shifting.

Upon telling the Ford dealership what they were experiencing, they were told that this was a normal effect of the type of transmission the car uses, but it virtually made it undrivable. One owner’s problem went away after replacing an oil seal and realigning the clutch, but it reared its head again just 4,000 miles later.

2015 Jeep Renegade: Electrical Gremlins

Jeep is known for its rugged off-roaders, but the 2015 Jeep Renegade had plenty of electrical gremlins under the hood. Reports on Car Complaints show that the most significant of these caused the engine to not turn over.

One owner took their car to the dealership only for them to keep it for over a month because they couldn’t find a solution to the problem. The issue seems to be sporadic, with many Renegades starting up fine sometimes and not others. For some drivers, the car’s battery dies if it isn’t driven for just a couple of days, with no obvious reason as to what’s draining it.

2016 Dodge Dart: Engine and Transmission Woes

The 2013 and 2016 Dodge Dart models were subject to a whole slew of complaints from owners, with the 2016 model in particular experiencing significant engine and transmission issues. Reports on Car Complaints show that a number of 2016 Dart drivers experienced complete power loss while in motion — including on the freeway.

In some cases, this was due to low oil levels, with the second most common complaint being how quickly the car burns through oil. Some people claim their Dodge Dart can go from full oil to empty in just 30 days, which is a lot faster than the manufacturer’s recommended 6-12 month oil change cycle.

2017 Chevrolet Traverse: Steering and Suspension Failures

The Chevrolet brand is an American icon, but unfortunately, not everything it makes is up to par. The 2017 Chevrolet Traverse, for example, wasn’t particularly reliable, with a number of steering and suspension problems reported by owners.

According to s9me Traverse drivers, the power steering and coolant lines are in close proximity, allowing them to rub against each other and cause a leak that ultimately results in the loss of power steering. As for the suspension, one owner, in particular, reported the sudden failure of their steering rack and front suspension lower control arm mount bushing after just two years, which had both had to be replaced at a cost of $2,495.

2018 Land Rover Discovery: Air Suspension and Electrical Issues

In 2018, Land Rover missed the mark with its Discovery model, which suffered from a number of air suspension and electrical issues. This, of course, isn’t ideal for a brand so synonymous with luxury and reliability, with plenty of customers complaining about the frequency and cost of repairs. Electrical issues are wide-ranging, with some owners reporting that their key fob consistently fails to start their engine and others claiming that their engine shut off completely when out on the road.

2019 Nissan Altima: CVT Problems

The 2019 Nissan Altima’s CVT (continuously variable transmission) problems were so severe that a class action lawsuit was brought against the automaker in 2022. The lawsuit claimed that defective transmissions caused the cars to shake, jerk, lurch, judder, and stall, putting drivers at risk of incident.

This is all too similar to the issues experienced with the CVT in 2013-2016 models, which were ultimately recalled by the manufacturer due to a defect that could cause the car to lose power and potentially crash. Despite the lawsuit, the 2019 model wasn’t recalled for transmission issues, meaning anyone who experienced a CVT fault had to pay for it out of their own pocket.

2020 Tesla Model Y: Build Quality and Software Glitches

When it comes to electric vehicles, Tesla is undoubtedly leading the charge (pun intended). Still, the 2020 Model Y left a lot to be desired — especially where build quality and software were concerned. Owners reported a wide range of build issues, such as panel gaps and paint defects. On top of that, infotainment systems are also prone to malfunctioning. And if you can’t rely on an automaker to get such basic things right, can you really rely on the car itself?

2021 Kia Seltos: Engine Failures

In just a few years since its launch, the 2021 Kia Seltos has received many NHTSA complaints related to engine issues. Key problems faced by owners include faulty piston rings and excessive oil consumption. Piston rings failed as early as the 11,000-mile mark in some cases, and while a recall was issued, many customers say the problems persisted even after the work was completed. Kia appears reluctant to take responsibility for this, leaving owners to foot any subsequent repair bills.

2022 Ford Explorer: Drivetrain and Electrical Issues

Another Ford entry in our list of unreliable vehicles is the 2022 Explorer, with reports coming in of drivetrain and electrical issues, plus software glitches. When it comes to such an established automaker, you really would expect better, so it’s no real wonder owners are disappointed in their purchase. Not only is buying an unreliable car a huge inconvenience, but its resale value is also significantly reduced, meaning you’re most likely stuck with it for the foreseeable future.

2023 Hyundai Elantra: Steering and Brake System Problems

Lastly, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra is the most recent of unreliable vehicles. Released last year, some significant steering and brake system problems have come to light in that time, such as steering column noise and brake pedal failure. With a RepairPal reliability rating of 4.5/5 reliability score, it’s perhaps too soon for these issues to have had a wider impact, but they’re almost certain to eventually. It may be one to avoid if you’re a car buyer looking for a new vehicle.

Extended Warranties: Protecting Against Unreliable Vehicles

If you find your vehicle less reliable than you’d hoped, all is not lost: invest in a top-quality extended warranty, and you can drive with total peace of mind. With coverage in place when the inevitable breakdown occurs, your provider will pay for all repair bills, saving you hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars per year.

Every brand new vehicle is accompanied by a factory warranty or manufacturer’s warranty. This is a promise from the automaker that everything is built to last, and should anything fail due to manufacturer fault (within a predetermined number of years or miles traveled), it will be repaired or replaced free of charge. This is fantastic while it lasts, giving you complete confidence whenever you’re out on the road. But the moment it’s over, any repair bills are your responsibility.

Thankfully, you have a couple of options if you’d like to continue enjoying the coverage that you’re used to, with the first being a traditional extended warranty via a dealership. This effectively moves the expiry date on your factory warranty, giving you access to all of the same benefits for longer. This type of coverage is great in theory, but it’s expensive and restrictive. Worst of all, you aren’t eligible for a traditional extended warranty if your factory warranty has expired. Leave it just a moment too late and no longer available to you.

The alternative option is a vehicle service contract from a third-party provider like Endurance Warranty, which is universally preferred by car owners for a number of reasons. First, you get almost as comprehensive protection at an even better price point, usually with some added perks. Best of all, you can get a vehicle service contract regardless of whether you have an active factory warranty or not. All that matters is that you meet your provider’s eligibility criteria.

While they’re both designed to save you money on car repairs, an extended warranty is not the same as auto insurance. More specifically, an extended warranty or vehicle service contract is designed to protect you from repairs due to unexpected component failure. In contrast, car insurance is designed to protect you from repairs due to a collision or another such incident. The two work great together, however, so combine them and ensure you’re completely protected.

Rely On Endurance for Vehicle Protection

Even the most reliable vehicle will eventually break down. But while repairs are an inevitable part of car ownership, the bills don’t need to be. Purchasing a vehicle service contract or extended auto warranty is a good way to keep costs to a minimum, and Endurance is America’s most trusted provider.

Based in Illinois, we’ve been around for nearly two decades, helping drivers across the country save serious money. Our auto protection plans have almost everyone covered, whether you just drive to work and back, go on regular road trips, or even if you own a luxury car. We pride ourselves on our eligibility and flexibility, so if our base plans aren’t quite right for your individual needs and budget, we can customize a plan specifically for you.

With any Endurance contract, you’ll get access to useful standard benefits, including 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption costs. Choose to activate our additional Elite Benefits package, which includes up to four tire repairs or replacements annually, key fob replacement, up to $500 in collision discounts, and up to $1,000 in total loss protection.*

When you make a repair claim, many vehicle service contract providers expect you to go through layers of middlemen first. However, Endurance is a direct administrator, which means our team will handle your claims directly with the repair shop. Our goal is to get you back on the road with as little hassle as possible.

Whatever you drive, we’re ready to offer you vehicle protection. Call an Endurance plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 to request a FREE quote, or shop online to see your plan recommendations and pricing now.

Visit our extended warranty blog for more articles on the most reliable car brands, such as Toyota, Honda, BMW, and more.

Let’s take a look at the best minivans for gas mileage for 2024:

The Increased Need For Fuel-Efficient Minivans

A recent study of U.S. driving habits shows that Americans spend more time in their vehicles than ever before — even more than pre-pandemic records. This increase in time behind the wheel, mixed with volatile gas prices and increasing concern for the environment, is resulting in a higher number of consumers (more than 51% of car shoppers) looking for eco-friendly vehicles that can get them to their destinations. In fact, fuel efficiency consistently ranks as one of the top five features listed by new car shoppers today.

Families and Fuel Costs

Families, in particular, are keenly aware of fuel costs since they spend more time on the road than most other drivers, especially those with children under legal driving age. Between commuting to work, school, appointments, extracurriculars, family vacations, and errands, families spend a huge amount of their family time in the car together.

For families, having the best minivan with the best MPG saves on the budget and provides safe and reliable transportation for all of their daily activities.

The Top Fuel-Efficient Minivans of 2024

There are a few factors to consider when shopping for a fuel-efficient van that fits your family’s needs. In addition to the manufacturer’s reliability reputation, cost, and fuel efficiency ratings, you’ll also want to weigh the engine type, transmission, and any additional fuel-efficient features that may boost your average mile per gallon (MPG) rating. For example, a van with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) often gets better gas mileage than traditional automatic transmissions.

Comparing the specs of the leading makes and models will help you find the best minivan with the best fuel economy for your needs and lifestyle. Let’s take a look at the most fuel-efficient minivans of 2024:

2024 Toyota Sienna

When the Toyota Sienna was first released in 1998, it was known as the “Camry of Minivans” since it was designed to be a larger version of the automaker’s ever-popular Camry. Since then, the Sienna has only been redesigned a few times, and the 2024 version is a part of the fourth generation introduced in 2021 when the Toyota Sienna became solely available on a hybrid powertrain. Sienna owners still love the agile car-like handling and exceptional comfort features.

• Starting Cost: $37,685
• Gas Mileage (city/highway/combined): 36/36/36
• Range in Miles (city/highway): 648.0/648.0 miles
• Engine Specifications: Inline 4 2.5 L Hybrid
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
• Seating: 8 seats

Features: The Toyota Sienna is ideal for families thanks to its abundance of seating, sliding rear doors, and industry-leading fuel rating. The adjustable driver’s seat allows you to sit behind the wheel for extended periods of time. Plus, your passengers will enjoy creature comforts, such as ottoman-style footrests in the second-row seating and four different climate control zones, one more than most competitors.

The 2024 Sienna comes equipped with the latest technology and driver’s assistance features, including:

• Blind spot and lane departure warnings
• Lane keep assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert

2024 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica is the only minivan on the market with a plug-in hybrid option. For Pacifica hybrid owners who frequently charge up, it is a great way to boost fuel efficiency since it can drive up to 32 miles on battery power alone. The Pacifica will automatically switch to gas power once the battery power gets low. In addition to excellent fuel economy, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV is chock full of the latest technology, safety features, and ample passenger room and cargo space.

• Starting Cost: $50,765
• Gas Mileage: 29/30/30
• Range in Miles: 361.0/532.0 miles
• MPGe: 87/77/82
• Electric Range: 32 miles
• Engine Specifications: V6 3.6L Plug-in Hybrid
• Transmission: Electrically Variable Speed Automatic
• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
• Seating: 7

Features: If you plan to spend time in the driver’s seat, the 2024 Pacifica designed with you in mind. The standard leatherette front bucket seats are adjustable with heat options — even the steering wheel is heated. You can choose the optional cooling features upgrade if you live in warm climates. Plus the infotainment system is top-notch allowing for ease of use.

Although the helpful 360-degree camera system is an optional upgrade, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica does come standard with an impressive lineup of safety features. A few noteworthy features include:

• Forward collision warning
• Pedestrian detection
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keeping assistance

2024 Honda Odyssey

The 2024 Honda Odyssey is another popular family minivan with great gas mileage. As another minivan that has been around since the 90s, the Odyssey has a strong fan base thanks, at least in part, to Honda’s notable reliability rating. However, with excellent fuel economy ratings, perky acceleration, advanced engine technology, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a slew of safety features, the 2024 model is at its peak performance. After 30 years of sales in the United States, the Odyssey is still an impressive contender.

• Starting Cost: $38,240
• Gas Mileage: 19/28/22
• Range in Miles: 370.5/546.0 miles
• Engine Specifications: V6 3.5L Gas Engine
• Transmission: 10-speed shiftable automatic
• Fuel Type: Regular Unleaded Gasoline
• Seating: 8

Features: While the 2024 Odyssey gets less-than-stellar average gas mileage for minivans, it has more horsepower and an array of eye-catching features. One notable family-friendly minivan feature exclusive to the Odyssey is the Magic Slide seats, which allow for a multitude of seat configurations for the second row—a feature that genuinely matters to families. Another notable family feature is the optional cabin intercom upgrade, which broadcasts the user’s voice to the third row through the speakers, reducing the need for shouting and reducing road distractions.

For families trying to minimize their fuel consumption, the Odyssey comes standard with an engine stop-start system that turns the vehicle off at stoplights to reduce fuel usage, a feature that can also be disabled if you’d prefer. It also comes standard with advanced safety features, including:

• Blind spot and lane departure warnings
• Lane keep assistance
• Rear cross-traffic alerts
• Driver attention alerts

2024 Kia Carnival

The Kia Carnival is a relative newcomer to the minivan market. Still, it’s making a name for itself, especially with families that can appreciate a minivan’s family-friendly features but want an SUV’s sportier look. The 2024 Kia Carnival comes with a strong 290 hp V6 engine and a blocky, SUV-esque exterior to satisfy a mild longing for a fuel-efficient SUV, but the sliding doors and roomy interior satisfy the needs of any minivan-loving family.

• Starting Cost: $33,600
• Gas Mileage: 19/26/22
• Range in Miles: 361.0/494.0 miles
• Engine Specifications: V6 3.5L Gas Engine
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
• Seating: 7

Features: Although it isn’t the most fuel-efficient minivan, the 2024 Kia Carnival has much to offer and is still a van with great gas mileage. Its distinctively stylish exterior is paired with ample standard features, making it a worthy option. With the optional upgrades, the Carnival becomes one of the more luxurious options on our list. The Carnival features impressive storage space, fully adjustable front seats, nearly 2 USB ports for every passenger, impressive tech, and an array of standard safety features. Some noteworthy features include:

• Blind spot and lane departure warnings
• Lane keep assistance
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Driver attention alert

The Benefits of Fuel-Efficient Minivans

Choosing the most fuel-efficient minivan that fits your lifestyle can save you money on fuel costs and improve your traveling experiences while reducing your impact on the environment.

Lower Fuel Costs

A minivan with great gas mileage is an immediate money saver by reducing how often you need to stop by the gas station. Not only can you keep your money in your wallet a little longer, over time, the fuel savings can add up to hundreds of dollars per year. A more fuel efficient vehicle saves time and money, allowing you to spend it on other areas of your life.

For example, if you drive, on average, 10,000 miles per year (although the national average is actually higher, at 13,476 miles annually) with a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon, you’ll use approximately 334 gallons of fuel. If you buy 334 gallons over the year at $3.50 per gallon, you’ll spend $1,169 annually.

However, if your vehicle gets only 25 MPG, you’ll need approximately 400 gallons to go the same 10,000 miles. If you buy 400 gallons of gasoline annually at $3.50 per gallon, your gas bill will be $1,400, a cost difference of $231 in just one year with only a 5 MPG difference in fuel ratings. In five years, the length of a common car financing loan is already $1,155 extra, with less driving than the national average.

Fewer Refueling Stops

There’s nothing worse than having everyone resting peacefully on a long road trip only to glance down at the gas gauge to find out that you will have to stop soon. Every gas station pit stop on a road trip involves bathroom breaks, snack debates, and the struggle for everyone to get comfortable again.

A fuel-efficient minivan can do more than save money on long road trips. For families and frequent travelers, a higher MPG rating also means that you can let sleeping babies sleep longer while you squeeze in a few more miles and are that much closer to your destination. After all, you’re still trying to make better time than the GPS ETA, right?

Reduced Environmental Impacts

If you live in an area with strict environmental restrictions, fuel-efficient vehicles can help you meet emissions testing standards. Reduced fuel consumption typically means less emissions. In the bigger picture, using less gas lessens our overall dependency on fossil fuels, which reduces our carbon footprint.

Features that Enhance Fuel Efficiency

While the latest vehicle technologies are nice, which features should you look for that help you save money by contributing to better fuel efficiency?

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Technology

Hybrid minivans or plug-in hybrid vans can save you a significant amount of money. These vehicles maximize their fuel consumption and stretch out times between gas stops by using both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric one.

While it isn’t necessarily gas-related, it is also noteworthy that hybrid vehicles can save new vehicle buyers money in other areas. Hybrid cars and plug-in hybrid vehicles save money on gas costs and maintenance costs by requiring fewer oil changes and brake pad replacements, thanks to their regenerative braking features. Plus, new car buyers qualify for tax incentives if they buy a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle, like a Tesla.

Aerodynamic Design

There’s a reason why more vehicles today have softer, rounded edges and less blocky designs — they’re more fuel efficient. A car with sleek, smooth exterior edges allows the surrounding air to glide right over the vehicle while operating. The air can easily pass over the vehicle’s body, reducing drag and enhancing fuel efficiency.

You can also make your vehicle more aerodynamic by removing bulky obstructions, such as roof racks, cargo carriers, and bike racks. Even closing your car windows while driving at high speeds can help.

Advanced Engine Management Systems

Advanced Engine Management Systems (EMS) use a handful of different technologies to maximize your vehicle’s performance and minimize fuel consumption. These technologies optimize fuel delivery, reducing emissions and improving your vehicle’s performance. Some gas-saving technologies to consider are:

• Direct Fuel Injection (DFI)
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
• Turbocharging or Supercharging
• Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)
• Start-Stop Systems
• Electric Hybrid Systems
• Advanced Engine Control Units (ECU)

Tips to Save Gas and Increase Fuel Efficiency

Although buying a minivan with the best gas mileage is a good start, there are other things you can do to save gas and increase your fuel efficiency in a minivan or any vehicle you decide to purchase.

Use Cruise Control When Possible

Maintaining a constant driving speed is always best to get the most out of your gas mileage. Your vehicle uses more gas to accelerate, so keeping an average speed and driving without weaving will naturally stretch a tank of gas.

If you find a long stretch of straight road, the cruise control can help you maintain a constant speed. Just be sure not to use it at too slow a speed, as it may burn more gas than it saves. For most makes and models, the optimal speed for cruise control is between 55 and 70 MPH.

Avoid Heavy Traffic

Heavy traffic requires frequent stopping. Frequent stopping and starting use more fuel and lower your fuel efficiency. Avoid driving during peak travel times or take a different route to save gas and driving frustration.

Minimize Idle Times

Idling uses approximately ½ a gallon of fuel per hour, which may not seem like a lot, but it adds up over time. Idling at traffic lights, in the parking lot on lunch break, with your remote start, or even finishing up your phone call or favorite song before going into the house can unnecessarily use several gallons of gas throughout the week. Avoiding idling or using features like a start-stop system can help your fuel last longer.

Reduce Vehicle Weight

When a vehicle is heavy, it requires more energy to get moving – which means burning more fuel. While you can’t control the natural weight of your vehicle, you can avoid towing trailers unnecessarily and unpacking after long road trips. Reducing or even eliminating excess weight can boost your MPG.

Avoid Aggressive Driving

According to the Department of Energy, reckless driving can reduce your gas mileage by up to 40% in stop-and-go city driving and 30% on highways. Not only that, but aggressive drivers also account for approximately 30% of all traffic accidents. Aggressive driving doesn’t always look like road rage, either. Aggressive driving behaviors that can impact your gas mileage include:

• Speeding
• Following too closely
• Make sudden turns
• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Hard braking
• Accelerating too quickly

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

If you’re looking to maximize your fuel efficiency in a van, keeping up with your van’s maintenance is essential. Following a routine vehicle maintenance schedule for your van keeps it running smoothly and can improve your van’s MPG rating. Upkeep and preventative maintenance can reduce wear and tear, keeping your vehicle from working harder than it has to, which reduces the amount of gas it burns. Regular fuel-saving maintenance includes:

• Maintain proper tire pressure.
• Check wheel alignment
• Regular oil changes with the recommended motor oil
• Changing air filters
• Take care of necessary car repairs immediately

Protect Your Minivan with an Extended Warranty

If your check engine light is on, your vehicle is noticeably out of tune, or needs attention, it can put additional strain on your car, causing it to burn extra fuel unnecessarily and potentially cause long-term, irreparable, or catastrophic damage. Therefore, making any necessary vehicle repairs as soon as possible is essential. Unfortunately, budget constraints often are cost prohibitive of surprise car repair bills, resulting in delayed repairs.

Auto protection plans, also known as extended vehicle warranties, are a great way to get your used car repairs taken care of on a budget. An extended car warranty for minivans covers the costs of unexpected repairs, so you can keep your vehicle running at its best for years to come, ensuring you and your family don’t miss a beat of your daily routine.

With customizable coverage plans, drivers can choose the best vehicle coverage for their minivans. Choose from comprehensive coverage plans that rival bumper-to-bumper factory warranties, limited powertrain warranties that cover all of your van’s essential parts, or a plan that falls somewhere in between. You can decide which vehicle parts coverage matters most and which plan fits your budget.

The financial safety net of a vehicle service contract provides car owners with peace of mind that their vehicle will be taken care of when it matters most. Also, with third-party extended warranty providers like Endurance Warranty, you are protected by an umbrella of additional perks. Every Endurance Warranty plan includes 24/7 roadside assistance, lockout services, towing, trip interruption coverage, and rental car reimbursement. These ensure that you and your family are never stranded on the side of the road.

Endurance customers also have the option to maximize their savings by activating a year’s worth of Endurance Elite Benefits.* Perks like tire repair or replacement, collision discounts, and key fob replacements give you another layer of protection for you and your family on the road ahead.

Increase Your Fuel Efficiency with Endurance Warranty

A fuel-efficient minivan and a reliable extended car warranty can free up money for the things that matter most. Call (800) 253-8203 to speak to a friendly Endurance plan advisor or request a FREE quote. You can also shop our eStore to see your auto protection plan recommendations and get pricing now.

For more information on the best cars for your family, advice on shopping for an extended warranty, and automotive FAQs, visit the Endurance blog.