Used Car Warranties: Are They Worth It

You’ve finally found the perfect used car, whether you’re buying a used Jeep for off-road adventures or a used Ford for running the family around, there’s one thing you need to consider. Should you invest in a used car warranty, and are they really worth it?

A used car warranty can offer you peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected from unexpected repair costs. Still, the decision isn’t always easy, especially considering the extra costs and various types of used car warranties available. There are both pros and cons and understanding what these are will help you in deciding if a used car warranty is right for your automobile purchase in Abilene, TX.

When browsing Abilene used cars, it’s important to compare warranty coverage options for long-term peace of mind.

What Is a Used Car Warranty?

New cars always come with a warranty that covers repairs, replacements, and manufacturer defects for a set period of time, or until a vehicle has reached a specified mileage. These warranties offer reassurance that your investment is protected. Quality used cars are also a significant financial investment, and you want to avoid hefty out-of-pocket expenses with your “new to you” vehicle. Used car warranties differ from the manufacturer warranties that are offered with new cars due to how they cater specifically to vehicles that have already seen some mileage and likely at least a couple of years’ worth of wear and tear. When shopping for used cars in Abilene, TX, it’s important to keep local driving conditions in mind, as they may impact the repair and maintenance of your vehicle. For example, drivers in Abilene, TX, aren’t strangers to long highway commutes, dust accumulation, and extreme temperatures – all of which can accelerate wear, tear, and aging of both mechanical and structural components.

Choosing the right used car warranty can ensure you’re covered for the first few years of your used vehicle ownership. When buying used trucks, it’s important to evaluate the added protection that a warranty can offer for high-use vehicles. Here are the main types of coverage provided by used car warranty providers.

Types of Used Car Warranties

When considering a used car warranty, there are three main types to look at.

Manufacturers CPO	Dealership Extended	Third Party
Some manufacturers will offer warranties for their certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. They are comfortable doing this because CPO vehicles have met strict maintenance and condition standards. Most often, manufacturer CPO warranties are offered with a bumper-to-bumper option and may also include roadside assistance.	Many dealerships, including Arrow Point Auto Mall, will offer extended warranties for the used vehicles in their inventory. Because used vehicle selection varies, these warranties are typically customizable, based on the vehicle’s age and mileage. Buyers may also have the option to customize the warranty to their specific needs in certain situations. When purchasing a used vehicle from a dealership, always make sure to ask about the warranty options, even if you’re not sure you want one. Many drivers search for car dealerships near me when seeking used cars with warranty options included.	These warranties are offered by parties outside of the manufacturer or dealership. For example, some lending agencies may offer or require a warranty for approved lending conditions. Third-party extended warranties offer a range of coverage, as well as flexibility and levels of affordability. Here, we suggest that you always read the fine print to know exactly what types of repairs and replacements are covered.

Pros of Getting a Used Car Warranty

Many buyers will choose a used car warranty, even if they are not automatically included and come at an extra cost. Here are a few of the main benefits of getting a used car warranty.

Peace of Mind: While buying used trucks or cars, it’s important to acquire as much background information as possible. This includes whether the vehicle has been involved in any accidents, major repairs, and records of regular maintenance. Choosing a certified pre-owned vehicle offers an additional layer of security, but used vehicles can still have slight mechanical problems that have gone unnoticed, and that can create bigger problems down the road. A used car warranty offers peace of mind that many major, costly repairs are covered.

If you're investing in used trucks for work or travel, warranty coverage offers extra protection against costly repairs.

Budget: Another major benefit of a used car warranty is how it helps you budget for repairs. Yes, a used car warranty will likely add to your monthly payment, but you can also think of this as an installment plan for future unpredictable repairs. It’s more budget-friendly to add a few dollars to your monthly payment now than it is to skip the warranty and pay hundreds or thousands out of pocket at once.

Transferable: Some used car warranties are transferable as long as the vehicle is sold within the time frame of the warranty. This can be a bonus to potential buyers and increase the overall value when selling your vehicle.

Here’s a real-life example of how a used car warranty can be beneficial. Say someone purchases a pre-owned truck for work in Sweetwater, TX. After about six months of daily use, the vehicle needs a new transmission. This is a hefty repair bill, and one that you don’t want to pay after just six months of owning a vehicle. This is a prime example of a repair that would be covered by a powertrain warranty, helping the truck owner save thousands in repairs.

From used trucks for sale in Abilene, TX to smaller pre-owned vehicles, knowing your warranty options can save money in the long run.

Cons and Limitations

While used car warranties do offer great protection, there are some drawbacks to consider.

What Repairs are Covered: It’s important to know what types of repairs are covered before signing on the dotted line. Some warranties will only cover certain parts, while others will exclude different types of repairs. For example, excluding wear and tear (tires, brake pads), and routine maintenance.

Deductible & Reading the Fine Print: Just because you have a warranty doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll pay nothing out of pocket. Some warranties require a deductible to be paid each time the warranty is used. Know what the deductible amount is and be prepared should you have to pay it. You also want to pay attention to all the fine print, requirements (like keeping a squeaky-clean maintenance record), and exclusions that place limits on the types of repairs that are covered.

Potential Redundancy Sometimes, a used vehicle warranty just isn’t required. Perhaps you have certain repairs or perks covered under a different plan, or your vehicle has such a solid maintenance history that the chances of actually needing it are so low, it doesn’t make good financial sense to purchase the warranty.

When Is a Used Car Warranty Worth It

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to whether a used car warranty is worth it. It is more beneficial for certain situations and may not be needed at all in others.

Are Used Car Warranties Really Worth It?

The decision to purchase a used car warranty depends on several factors, including the vehicle itself, driving conditions, driving habits, your budget, and how much you value the peace of mind that comes with it. If your vehicle has a reputation for needing expensive repairs, or you use it in rough terrain, an extended used car warranty could be a financial lifesaver.

Whether you're in Mt Pleasant, Potosi, San Angelo, or nearby Abilene, we offer used vehicle warranties worth considering.

If you’re looking for guidance on whether a used car warranty is worth it for you, we’re here to help. Arrow Point Auto Mall offers sales, service, and finance teams to help you decide on the best warranty option for your used vehicle. We invite you to explore our latest used inventory at Arrow Point Auto Mall today.