Best Car Warranty Companies (2024)

By Kiah Treece

Car warranties help you protect your car in case key components wear out or break down over time. The best car warranty companies offer a variety of coverage options at reasonable rates to help you protect the value of your car long after manufacturer warranties expire. Read on to learn more about the best car warranty companies, how they work and what they offer.

Best Car Warranties of 2024

• Endurance — Best Overall
• Carchex — Best Claims Process
• CarShield — Best for Flexibility
• Concord Auto Protect — Best for 24/7 Live Support
• Complete Car Warranty — Best for Instant Quotes
• American Dream Auto Protect — Best for Discounts
• Olive — Best for No Waiting Period
• Premier Auto Protect — Best for Nontraditional Vehicles
• Autopom! — Best for Customer Advocacy
• Chaiz — Best Online Marketplace

Best Overall: Endurance

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Endurance offers a variety of coverage options and gives you the flexibility to choose your own mechanic.

Endurance was established in 2012 and has paid out over $300 million in customer claims. The company offers comprehensive auto protection plans and an efficient claims process that typically takes just 48 hours to get approval. Endurance warranties cover vehicles up to 20 years old, with options for unlimited mileage available, and allow for service at one of more than 3,500 repair shops and dealerships nationwide.

To provide a seamless customer experience, Endurance offers an online portal for easy access to coverage details and a mobile app for reviewing policy specifics, requesting roadside assistance and contacting customer service.

Endurance offers three coverage plans:

• Secure Plus: Designed for cost-conscious drivers, this plan provides coverage for older vehicles, including major components of cars or trucks.
• Superior: Superior offers high-level component coverage, including stated components and parts and your vehicle’s electrical system. You can also add coverage for high-tech features.
• Supreme: Endurance’s premium offering provides extensive coverage for nearly all your car’s parts and systems. It even includes seals and gaskets, offering coverage similar to that of the manufacturer.

For residents of California, Endurance also offers mechanical breakdown insurance plans to ensure comprehensive protection for their vehicles.

Read our full Endurance reviews.

Best Claims Process: Carchex

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Carchex is a well-known warranty company that simplifies vehicle repairs and makes it easy to file a claim through a large network of facilities.

Carchex, established in 2004, is a trusted provider of extended vehicle protection. Accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2009 and holding an A+ rating, Carchex has a relatively positive reputation online. Carchex strives to make coverage accessible and affordable, offering flexible payment plans and customizable warranty options. In addition to warranties, it provides convenient services like towing assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt and trip interruption benefits.

Carchex offers the following warranty plans:

• Powertrain: This plan provides affordable coverage for crucial systems, such as the engine and transmission.
• Powertrain Plus: Beyond powertrain components, the Powertrain Plus plan covers the major systems of your vehicle. Payments can be made monthly or upfront.
• Platinum: The Platinum plan offers stated component coverage for all major systems, providing extensive protection.
• Titanium: Carchex’s most comprehensive coverage, the Titanium plan, is similar to a manufacturer’s warranty.
• Extra Care: If you already have powertrain coverage through a manufacturer’s warranty, this plan protects key components beyond the powertrain, including steering, braking, electrical and suspension systems.

Read our full Carchex reviews.

Best for Flexibility: CarShield

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: CarShield offers seven different extended warranty options that are flexible and customizable, so you can design a plan that’s right for you.

Since 2005, CarShield has protected over 2 million vehicles, emphasizing exceptional service and processing over $1 billion in claims. In addition to its warranty plans, CarShield offers additional benefits like the ability to choose your own mechanic, courtesy towing services, 24/7 roadside assistance and rental car reimbursem*nt. Vehicles with under 225,000 miles are eligible for coverage.

CarShield offers the following protection plans:

• Aluminum: This specialty plan protects electrical components and computer-related issues.
• Silver: Silver covers vital components such as lubricated engine parts, water pumps and transmissions.
• Gold: The Gold plan is a powertrain plus option, offering coverage for both major and minor parts like the engine, transmission and power windows.
• Gold Select: Ideal for high-mileage vehicles, this option covers components like the engine, transmission, water pump, alternator, starter, air conditioning system and power window motors.
• Platinum: Geared toward higher-mileage vehicles, the Platinum plan provides comprehensive coverage, including the engine, starter, transmission, water pump, fuel pump and air conditioner.
• Diamond: The Diamond plan offers the highest level of coverage, comparable to a manufacturer’s warranty, and includes everything from the engine to the fuel pump, transmission failures and your starter.
• Motorcycle and ATV: Tailored for motorcycles and ATVs, this specialized plan ensures comprehensive coverage for specific parts and components of these vehicles.
• Electric Vehicle: Aimed at protecting fully electric vehicles, this plan covers specific components within the electric drive unit, electrical system, battery pack and other systems.

Read our full CarShield reviews.

Best for 24/7 Live Support: Concord Auto Protect

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Concord Auto Protect offers live customer support 24/7.

Concord Auto Protect provides three levels of auto extended warranty plans along with 24/7 customer support, roadside assistance and flexible payment programs. Roadside assistance includes support for dead batteries and lockouts. The company also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, and all warranties are transferable and administered directly by the company.

Concord Auto Protect offers the following plans:

• Powertrain: This plan covers the cooling system, engine, transmission and drive axles.
• Advanced: Positioned as a mid-tier option, the Advanced plan encompasses everything from the Powertrain plan and adds coverage for the manual or power steering system.
• Premium: In addition to parts covered in the Powertrain plan, this option includes coverage for the heating system, high-tech electronics, fuel system and more.

Read our full Concord Auto Protect reviews.

Best for Instant Quotes: Complete Car Warranty

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Complete Car Warranty is a car warranty broker that connects users with third-party service providers, making it easy to get quotes and save on coverage.

Another Texas-based car warranty company, Complete Car Warranty was founded in 2019. The company partners with car warranty providers and offers steep discounts by cutting out the middleman between consumers and plan administrators. Complete Car Warranty promises instant quotes and savings up to 60% off dealer costs.

Complete Car Warranty doesn’t publish information about available coverage on its website. Instead, partners include brands like CarShield and Carchex, and coverage options differ between plan administrators. According to the company’s website, Complete Car Warranty plans are accepted at all dealers and mechanics. If you’re interested in purchasing coverage through Complete Car, submit an online request for a quote based on your vehicle’s age and mileage.

Best for Discounts: American Dream Auto Protect

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: American Dream Auto Protect offers multi-car discounts and an additional month of free coverage when you sign up.

Established in 2021, American Dream Auto Protect offers three levels of extended warranty plans, complemented by 24/7 roadside assistance and customer service. Most plans are transferable if you sell your car, and a full refund is available if you cancel during the waiting period.

American Dream caters to specific needs with special plans if you use your car for a ride-share platform or on a farm. The company also advertises that claims are typically approved within 48 hours. For new customers, the four-step process includes consultation, plan selection, customization and agreement.

American Dream Auto Protect offers the following three plans:

• Silver Plan: This essential plan offers coverage for vital components like the engine, cooling system and transmission.
• Gold Plan: The Gold Plan provides extensive coverage for major powertrain systems, such as the engine, transmission and steering components.
• Platinum Plan: This comprehensive top-tier plan covers various components, including the engine, transmission, cooling system, brakes, suspension, fuel delivery, seals and gaskets and more.

If none of the existing plans meet your requirements, you can also call the company to receive a custom quote tailored to your specific needs.

Best for No Waiting Period: Olive

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Extended warranties from Olive begin coverage as soon as you buy them — unlike many companies, there’s no waiting period before coverage starts.

Olive began offering extended warranties in 2019 and offers a relatively comprehensive digital experience, allowing you to get a quote, buy a plan and file claims totally online. There’s also no vehicle inspection required or waiting period between when you buy a plan and coverage begins. Once you enroll and make payment for your chosen plan, it becomes effective immediately.
Coverage is provided for your vehicle in both the U.S. and Canada. Eligible vehicles must be 10 years old or less and have 140,000 miles or fewer. The coverage continues until the vehicle reaches 12 years old or accumulates 185,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Olive offers the following warranty plans, all of which offer monthly payment options:

Olive offers the following warranty plans, all of which offer monthly payment options:

• Complete Care: This popular and comprehensive plan covers a wide range of components, including the engine, suspension, electric system, air conditioning, timing belt and more.
• Powertrain Plus: Going beyond major car parts, this plan includes coverage for components such as the engine, transmission, oil pump and timing belt.
• Powertrain: This is the most affordable plan and covers critical and expensive parts like the engine, transmission and suspension.

Best for Nontraditional Vehicles: Premier Auto Protect

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Premier Auto Protect is ideal if you want to cover a nontraditional vehicle such as an ATV, motorcycle or personal watercraft.

Premier Auto Protect has garnered positive customer reviews and holds an A rating with the BBB. Accredited since 2022, the company offers extended warranties for vehicles as well as power-sports coverage. As a direct provider, it sells and administers its own plans. It also provides preferred pricing for members of select organizations like the United Services Automobile Association (USAA) and AAA.

Power-sports coverage is available for ATVs, motorcycles, personal watercraft and scooters, covering components including engines, primary drives, gauges and key replacements. It’s important to note that power-sports plans are separate and distinct from the plans for cars and trucks.

For cars and trucks, Premier Auto Protect offers the following plans:

• Premier Basic: The most affordable plan covering essential components like the engine, cooling system and brakes.
• Premier Value: This plan includes everything in the Premier Basic plan, along with electrical systems, air conditioning, steering and other items.
• Premier Complete: Building upon the Premier Value plan, this option provides coverage for high-tech electronics, hybrid components, and front and rear suspension.
• Exclusionary: Offering the most comprehensive coverage, this plan covers everything except for specifically excluded items.
• Premier Repair Assist: An additional plan offering comprehensive coverage, plus trip interruption coverage.
• Premier Powertrain Enhanced: This is another plan providing comprehensive coverage and customizable options. Contact Premier Auto Protect to determine whether the plan is a good fit for your needs.

Best for Customer Advocacy: Autopom!

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Autopom! has an entire division devoted to customer advocacy.

Autopom!, also known as Automotive Peace of Mind, was established in 2010 and boasts an A+ rating from the BBB in addition to positive customer reviews. The company offers warranty plans administered by third-party entities, such as Mercury Mechanical Protection and Enterprise Financial Group. In addition to the coverage, Autopom! provides additional features, including roadside assistance, tire service, rental car reimbursem*nts and trip interruption coverage.

Autopom! offers the following plans:

• Powertrain Plus: This plan focuses on the essential components, such as the A/C system, engine and transmission.
• Mid-Level: This plan provides coverage for most of the major systems in your vehicle, including the transmission, engine, steering and electrical components.
• Exclusionary: These plans offer coverage similar to new car warranties, encompassing almost all parts except for maintenance and consumable items like batteries and tires.

Read our full Autopom! Reviews

Best Online Marketplace: Chaiz

HIGHLIGHTS

Why we chose it: Chaiz is an Austin-based company that makes it easy to compare vehicle service contracts from third-party administrators without providing a phone number.

Founded in 2021, Chaiz simplifies the search for a vehicle service plan by aggregating options from several third-party administrators. By working directly with these providers, Chaiz can help you save up to 60% on dealership and call-center quotes. You won’t have to enter a phone number or email, and you’ll be able to see options within 30 seconds of providing your vehicle information.

The platform isn’t accredited by the BBB, but it has an A+ rating with the bureau and a 4.5-star Trustpilot rating based on 20 customer reviews. Plans and coverage vary by administrator, but Chaiz categorizes options based on coverage level — including from providers like Carguard, Endurance and Omega Autocare. All plans come with a $100 deductible.

Chaiz organizes third-party plans into three categories:

• Basic: While actual coverage varies by administrator, basic powertrain options generally include components like the engine, turbo charger, transfer case, suspension and transmission. Drive axles, electric and hybrid systems are also included.
• Basic Plus: Beyond the basic coverage options, powertrain plus plans include the vehicle’s air conditioning, brakes and steering systems.
• Best: By choosing from best-level plans, you can get additional coverage for the exhaust system, body and interior components and consumables like spark plugs.

Understanding Car Warranty Companies

A car warranty is an extended warranty you can purchase to protect the components of your vehicle. Like the original manufacturer’s warranty on a new car, vehicle warranties purchased through third parties help drivers cover the cost of repairs after purchase. Vehicle warranties cover specific parts and components of your car, with each plan varying in the specific types of damage and items covered.

If a covered component breaks down while your warranty is in effect, the warranty provider will provide a replacement or repair. Instead of paying the full price of the bill, you’ll instead cover only a small deductible.

When it comes to car warranties for used vehicles, you can choose between warranties offered by the vehicle manufacturer and the best aftermarket car warranty.

OEM warranties

An OEM warranty (sometimes referred to simply as a manufacturer’s warranty) is a type of warranty offered by vehicle manufacturers. OEM is short for original equipment manufacturer, which also references the use of original parts in vehicle rebuilds. These warranties are designed to provide coverage for specific makes and models of vehicles. OEM warranties offer comprehensive coverage and typically include two main types: bumper-to-bumper warranties and powertrain warranties.

• Bumper-to-bumper warranties cover most components of the vehicle, except for certain exclusions like regular wear-and-tear items.
• Powertrain warranties specifically focus on the major components that make the vehicle move, such as the engine, transmission and drivetrain.

OEM warranties are backed by the manufacturer, ensuring that repairs and replacements are performed using genuine manufacturer parts. The duration and terms of OEM warranties can vary between manufacturers, and they may be transferable to subsequent owners if the vehicle is sold during the warranty period.

However, some manufacturer warranties are nontransferable, meaning the vehicle sale becomes as-is after the first owner forfeits the car. You’ll only be protected under an OEM warranty for a short time after buying a new vehicle — but you may be able to extend your protection using a warranty from a third party.

Third-party warranties

After your original manufacturer’s warranty runs out, you can extend or replace it with a third-party car warranty. Third-party warranties are provided by independent companies that specialize in extended warranty services and are separate from the vehicle manufacturer. Some are offered by new and used car dealerships, while you can purchase others through an online application process at any time.

Third-party warranties for used vehicles usually include less coverage than a manufacturer’s warranty and may only cover specific parts of the car. It’s important to read through the details of any policy you’re considering buying from a third-party company and not assume that major vehicle components are covered. For example, while the electrical system is crucial to the functionality of any motor vehicle, powertrain warranties usually don’t cover damage to this system. Compare the best extended car warranty plans to find an option that meets your needs.

Is a Car Warranty Worth It?

In many cases, a vehicle warranty can be worth the cost because it protects you against the high costs of repairs shortly after buying a vehicle. Whether you’re buying a new or pre-owned car, a vehicle was a major expense in 2023, with average vehicle prices rising by 45% in the previous year due to silicon chip shortages. When you have a car warranty, you’ll have time to refill your household emergency fund — even if you run into a repair need shortly after purchase.

How Much Does a Car Warranty Cost?

The average cost of a vehicle warranty is between $110 and $180 per month. On a term of 18 months, most customers can expect to pay a total of about $2,000 to $3,500 for their vehicle warranty coverage. Most vehicle warranty buyers appreciate the flexible payment method warranties offer. However, if you have a robust emergency fund, you may prefer to keep the cash for premiums in a high-yield savings account to cover potential breakdowns.

How to Choose a Car Warranty Company

Selecting a car warranty company can feel overwhelming, especially when you compare third-party policies. Here’s how to choose a car warranty company:

1. Determine what coverage you need

Before anything else, you’ll need to decide which type of vehicle warranty is best for your needs. The following are some of the most common types of vehicle warranties:

• Bumper-to-bumper warranty: Also known as comprehensive warranty coverage, these policies provide extensive coverage for almost all vehicle components. A bumper-to-bumper warranty closely resembles the original manufacturer’s warranty and is typically the most expensive option available.
• Powertrain warranty: A powertrain warranty specifically covers the major components of the powertrain, including the engine, transmission and drivetrain. It focuses on the essential parts responsible for vehicle movement and doesn’t typically include additional components like the battery or electrical system. Powertrain warranties are generally more affordable than other warranty options because they cover only the most essential components of your vehicle.
• Drivetrain warranty: Similar to the powertrain warranty, the drivetrain warranty covers components involved in transmitting power to the wheels. This usually includes the transmission, driveshaft and axles. It may exclude coverage for the engine components, so reviewing the coverage details provided by the warranty is important.
• Wrap warranty: A wrap warranty extends coverage beyond the powertrain to include additional components listed in the warranty contract. These specified components can vary among companies but may consist of the air-conditioning system, electrical system, suspension and brakes. Read through your contract thoroughly before deciding where to buy coverage as wrap warranties can vary widely in their covered components.
• Corrosion warranty: A corrosion warranty helps cover the cost of rectifying damage caused by rust or corrosion on the vehicle’s body panels. These warranties often have longer durations than other types of warranties and provide coverage if the vehicle develops holes due to corrosion.

Keep in mind that what’s covered by an extended car warranty depends on the provider and service level. The specific situations when you can use your warranty coverage also vary by provider. For example, while you may be covered if a component requires replacement due to normal wear and tear, you won’t be covered if you need a new part after an accident.

Tip: If you have auto insurance beyond your state minimum, compare current coverage to warranty options. Comprehensive and collision policies may provide overlapping benefits that make a warranty less necessary. Having a copy of your insurance policy on hand when you shop can also make shopping easier.

2. Get quotes from multiple providers

After identifying a few warranty companies you might want to work with, collect a custom quote from the top extended warranty providers. While it can be tempting to opt for the first company you get a quote from, remember that every car warranty provider uses its own underwriting formula to decide how much you’ll pay for warranty coverage. This means it’s possible to find the same warranty coverage with multiple providers at different price points.

Some providers may require you to speak over the phone with a representative to get a quote. In these instances, ensure your representative connects with you over email following your initial meeting with a written pricing estimate. This ensures that pricing remains consistent between when you get your quotes and when you decide which company to work with.

3. Read reviews

After narrowing down options by pricing, check out third-party reviews of the companies you’re considering working with. Third-party resources like the BBB and Trustpilot allow users to post their unfiltered experiences with warranty providers, giving you a more honest understanding of standard company policies. These sites also limit companies’ abilities to filter or remove reviews — which is not the case for reviews featured on individual company sites. Consider both positive and negative themes you notice in user reviews.

4. Check for added benefits or discounts

Also compare added benefits and discounts between companies if these are important to your decision. For example, some car warranty companies include 24/7 roadside assistance with all plans, which might help you choose a provider. It can be helpful to create an organized list of benefits and discounts you qualify for through each company when you’re getting pricing.

5. Read the terms and conditions

Finally, don’t sign up for a car warranty before reading the terms and conditions. The best car warranty companies make their terms and conditions available online, making it easy to review them before signing up for coverage. Be very wary of companies with terms and conditions that are long and difficult for an average person to read and understand.

How to Avoid Scams

Vehicle warranty scams are quite common — and fraudsters may use creative tactics to lower your guard, leading you to sign onto a bogus warranty. Understanding the most common tactics that warranty scammers use to lure in new victims can help you avoid these fraudulent warranties. Keep your eyes out for these common signs that a company is not legitimate.

• Robocalls or unsolicited mail: Scammers may use automated robocalls or send unsolicited mail to trick you into purchasing extended warranties. These calls or mailings often claim that your existing warranty is about to expire and offer an immediate solution. However, they’re typically fraudulent attempts to collect personal and financial information. Ignore robocalls and any calls marked as “spam” by your phone. After the call ends, block the number to avoid future contact.
• Fake warranty companies: Some scammers create fictitious warranty companies or pose as representatives of legitimate companies to collect your personal information. They might use names that sound similar to well-known warranty providers to deceive you, and pricing will always be significantly lower than competitors. Be sure to verify any sales or “special offers” with a direct line to a company representative before offering any personal info.
• High-pressure sales tactics: Even legitimate warranty companies may use aggressive sales tactics to pressure car owners into buying extended warranties. They may claim that the offer is only available for a limited time or that immediate payment is required to secure the deal. Remember, legitimate companies will provide ample time to review and consider the warranty offers — and no legitimate warranty company will ever ask you to sign a contract you haven’t read.
• Upfront payment scams: Be cautious of warranty providers that demand full payment upfront before any coverage begins. Legitimate warranty providers typically offer flexible payment options and allow you to pay in installments. Scammers often vanish once they receive payment, leaving you with no coverage or recourse. Also be wary of companies that require that you make all payments in cash — scammers know that credit card chargebacks are not an option when you pay in cash.

An easy way to ensure you’re working with a reputable car warranty provider is to start with our list of recommended options. Get a quote from each of the 10 best car warranty companies before moving on to options with less robust offerings — and less established reputations.

If you believe you have been the victim of a vehicle warranty scam, connect with the Federal Trade Commission to file a report as soon as possible. A representative will reach out and work with you in getting your money back or securing your personal info.

How We Chose the Best Car Warranty Companies of 2024

When choosing the best car warranty companies, we considered three main factors: available service plans, the claims and repair process and customer service.

• Plans and service contracts: We evaluated each warranty company based on the plans and coverage they offer. We also compared options based on pricing, warranty transferability and additional perks. The best car warranty companies provide features like 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, tire replacement or repair, locked-out service and trip interruption coverage.
• Claims and repairs: Before committing to a contract, it’s essential to understand what’s included. For that reason, we looked at each provider’s claims process and the availability of in-network repair shops. Our list contains direct administrators and companies that process claims through third-party agencies.
• Customer satisfaction and financial backing: To compare car warranty companies, we considered providers certified by the Vehicle Protection Association (VPA) and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). We also read customer reviews on third-party sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot, as well as financial stability ratings.