Feb
Why should you get an extended warranty or vehicle service contract for your used car? There are many reasons, but we are going to present the three big ones for you here:
- The car isn’t new anymore – New cars are usually covered by a manufacturer warranty. Without that, you are unprotected. Also, newer cars generally have fewer problems. The older your car gets, the more likely a repair bill increases.
- You can bundle your contract with roadside assistance – Whether you are worried about a dead battery or a flat tire, roadside assistance is always a good idea. Plus, it protects you from user error such as running out of gas or locking your keys in the car.
- Peace of mind – Having a vehicle service contract can give you peace of mind in regard to your vehicle. You know that if you need repairs, they won’t sink you into debt. And you can add on any additional features that will increase your peace of mind including the roadside assistance we mentioned above as well as things like trip interruption insurance in case you have a breakdown while traveling.
Get the Best Coverage Options for Your Used Vehicle
Vehicle Service Center is proud to offer all of the best coverage options that give our clients real peace of mind about vehicle ownership. To discuss the options that are best for you, call 1-800-280-6708 and speak with a vehicle protection specialist. You can also request your free quote online.
Jan
Do you own or are in the process of buying a used car? Do you have an expiring warranty on a car you purchased new? You are a prime candidate to benefit from an extended auto care warranty. However, some wonder if it is really worth purchasing a continued warranty. We’re going to take a look at some important reasons to extend your auto warranty and how to make sure you get the maximum benefits. (more…)
Jan
Whether you are in your own driveway or 100 miles from home, you’re still going to get that same sinking feeling when you turn your car key and it doesn’t start up. Of course, it may be far easier to get help if you are home rather than traveling, unless you pair your extended auto warranty with roadside assistance. But it can also be helpful to identify the problem, so here are four possible reasons your car isn’t starting. (more…)
Jan
The majority of warranties do not cover normal maintenance. This is important to understand before you go in for major maintenance at the repair shop and expect a reimbursement that isn’t coming. But why do most forms of coverage exclude maintenance? (more…)
Jan
If you are looking to purchase a pre-owned vehicle, then you need to be considering an extended auto warranty as well. What are the primary reasons for getting a warranty when you purchase a used car? (more…)
Dec
One of the most expensive problems that you can have with your car is an issue with the suspension system. Of course, if you have an extended warranty that covers the suspension, it can give you real peace of mind. If not, here are some of the reasons you want to consider one. (more…)
Dec
When you are shopping for an extended auto warranty, one of the big things to consider is whether the A/C system is covered. This a component of a car that is about comfort and convenience rather than whether the car can function. And you see that reflected in how much garages charge to repair the A/C system. They know you want it, and that it is always going to break down at the most inconvenient time, so you get charged a premium. (more…)
Oct
If you are driving a car, you at least need to have the transmission covered by a service plan or extended warranty. Why? Primarily it is for peace of mind. The fact is that a transmission replacement is ridiculously expensive if you don’t have a warranty. Here are a few things you should know about transmissions. (more…)
Oct
Getting roadside assistance as an add-on for your extended auto warranty is a smart move that can provide you with genuine peace of mind. Here are three times that you don’t want to be caught without a roadside assistance package. (more…)
Sep
Are you trying to decide whether you need to extend the warranty on your vehicle? Here are a few statistics that show why paying for this service is a must: (more…)
Sep
An extended auto warranty can bring you great peace of mind knowing that a breakdown won’t be as big of a hit on your wallet or your savings. However, you have to choose the right extended auto warranty provider. Here are three questions to help you make a wise choice. (more…)
Sep
It is important to choose the right coverage options when getting a warranty for your car. It is just as important to select the right auto warranty provider. What are some of the advantages of going with an independent provider rather than purchasing a manufacturer warranty or a service contract from the dealer? (more…)
Sep
Choosing the right warranty company is just as important as selecting the right warranty options when you are looking to extend the warranty on your vehicle. We’re going to give you three tips for finding the right car warranty company the first time. (more…)
Aug
There is a lot of misinformation out there regarding extended auto warranties. Here are three of the biggest misconceptions. We’ll correct them so you can make an informed decision regarding the purchase of an extended service contract for your motor vehicle. (more…)
Aug
Chevy drivers love the craftsmanship and attention to detail in these “made in the USA” cars, trucks, and SUVs. Still, when you buy a used vehicle, there is always that doubt in the back of your mind as to whether the car will really last without giving you a lot of trouble. Here’s the solution. (more…)
Aug
If you are looking to extend the warranty on your car, you have many options. How can you decide which extended warranty is the right one for you? Here are three questions to ask about your extended warranty to make sure you are getting the best product available. (more…)
Jul
When a driver buys a car from a dealer, the vehicle typically includes a manufacturer’s warranty. The salesperson may even convince you to add on an extended warranty. But what happens when the coverage is up. You’ve probably either had or heard of a number of “Murphy’s Law” type experiences wherein a vehicle breaks down just after the coverage expires.
Here are the two things you need to do when the manufacturer’s warranty is about to expire to maintain your peace of mind. (more…)
Jul
It’s time for summer road trips, and while you may have an extended warranty, that doesn’t mean you want to have car trouble while you’re supposed to be enjoying fun in the sun. Here are three things you can do to reduce the potential for a breakdown. (more…)
Jun
Even if you have an extended warranty, you still want to drive as safe as possible and only use your policy for emergency repairs. Your car insurance is for accident repairs and using that can cost you more than it’s worth. With that in mind, here are three safety features you really want to have on your next vehicle. (more…)
Jun
When your manufacturer warranty is up, you need to be sure that you are still covered in order to maintain peace of mind. However, there are actually a few benefits from buying an extended warranty online that you don’t get with a manufacturer warranty. (more…)
May
If you are a Ford driver, you want to have the best extended warranty possible. What are some of the features you should be looking for so that you can have complete peace of mind while enjoying your American-made vehicle? Here are some of the extended warranty coverage options our customers enjoy the most: (more…)
May
Most cars nowadays come with a minimum of a 12-month 36,000-mile warranty, but that may not keep you from getting a bill next time you’re at the shop. Here are 4 things that your manufacturer auto warranty probably doesn’t cover. (more…)
May
If you are a car owner, you know that everything from auto repairs to gasoline increase the costs of being a driver exponentially. We’re going to give you 4 tips for cutting your road costs. This will help you minimize how much it costs you to maintain your independence and get around town. (more…)
Apr
Having something go wrong with a car can result in a huge bill. Even if you have a great vehicle service contract, it will still drain your time to have to deal with a car that’s in the shop. So how can you avoid the majority of major repairs? Here are three maintenance tips that will save you both money and time. (more…)
Apr
Are you thinking about trading in your vehicle for a new one, or is that completely out of the question? There was a time in US history when the average person owned 13 different vehicles over the course of his or her lifetime. Today, that statistic is down to 9.4.
How long are people keeping their vehicles? Why are they keeping cars longer and longer? What does hanging onto a car for a longer time mean for an owner when it comes to things like purchasing an extended auto warranty? (more…)
Apr
An extended auto warranty can give you the freedom to make repairs on an old vehicle rather than having to spring for a new one every few years. However, you need to do more than just get repairs performed in order to maximize your car’s life. Here are 5 tips for optimizing the life of your vehicle. (more…)
Mar
When searching for an extended warranty, you may have come across the term vehicle service contract? What is it and why is this an appealing option for vehicle owners? (more…)
Mar
There are a lot of different lights on the dashboard, and it can be unnerving when one lights up unexpectedly, especially if you don’t have an extended vehicle warranty. Here are some suggestions for what to do when common dashboard lights are illuminated. (more…)
Mar
Traffic jams are a common issue all across the US. In fact, one report showed that commuters lose 42 hours of their life each year sitting in traffic (and if you ask a commuter who lives in a major city, he or she will probably tell you that figure seems low).
But drivers are giving up more than just shy of two days of life each while sitting in traffic. It can also take a toll on your vehicle. Why is traffic hard on a car? What are the US cities with the worst traffic? How can you protect yourself? (more…)
Mar
Having an extended warranty is a great way to protect yourself from major repair bills, and it can provide peace of mind for car owners. However, there are some cars that are simply less reliable. If you own one of the cars on this list, it is even more important to have a vehicle service contract that can provide financial relief should a problem arise. (more…)
Feb
Car repairs can cost a driver thousands of dollars if you don’t have extended warranty coverage. Even if you are covered, being without your car is still inconvenient. Here are two ways you may be able to see a major repair coming and stop it while the bill is still affordable and the repairs can be performed quickly. (more…)
Feb
The extended warranty services industry has suffered a great deal at the hands of the truth behind the old saying, “A few bad apples spoil the whole bunch.” If you are wary of extended warranties because of a bad experience or something you’ve read online, we’d like the chance to respond to the three most common extended warranty myths.
Myth 1 – You’ll Never Use the Warranty
About half of people who buy extended warranty services end up using them. So unless you think 50/50 are good odds when it comes to thousands of dollars, this isn’t a valid reason to pass on a warranty. The fact is that some cars are far more likely to need repairs than others, so you may want to do some advance research if you are that worried about using the warranty. Remember that part of the reason for the warranty is peace of mind. You carry car insurance and health insurance even though you hope you never have to use them, right? Think of an extended warranty in a similar way.
Myth 2 – Your Coverage Will Cost More than the Repairs
First of all, labor is often over $100 per hour, and garages/dealers charge double what they pay for parts. Repair costs are skyrocketing, so you only need one major repair to have gotten a steal on your warranty. Remember too that you are also paying for the peace of mind that if your car doesn’t start one morning, you don’t have to decide between spending a few grand on repairs or using it as a down payment on something new.
Myth 3 – All Extended Warranties Are Scams
There are scammers in every industry. Most extended warranty companies are legit. But to be safe, make sure that your extended warranty provider is an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau like Vehicle Service Center. We have affordable coverage options that can bring you peace of mind without breaking the piggy bank. Call 1-800-280-6708 to get your free quote today.
Feb
If you are leasing your car, you are limited in the number of miles you can drive. That means you’re not going to go beyond the manufacturer warranty. So why spend extra money on an extended warranty? Here are three important reasons to get an extended warranty on your lease.
- Coverage for parts and repairs the factory warranty doesn’t cover – The factory warranty may cover a very limited number of repairs. An extended warranty allows you to know exactly what is covered and can easily save you money in the long run.
- Get repairs at any licensed garage – Some factory warranties require you bring the car to the dealer. Then you get hit with all sorts of stuff that isn’t covered and the bill ends up being huge anyway. A third-party warranty lets you pick where the work is done so you can find an affordable shop that you trust for repairs and maintenance.
- Trip interruption and roadside assistance – You can bundle your vehicle service contract with valuable extras like trip interruption insurance in case you break down in another town and need overnight accommodations. You can also get roadside assistance to protect you from a dead battery, lockouts, or running out of gas.
The Best Vehicle Service Contracts at Affordable Prices
Vehicle Service Center offers the best extended warranties at competitive rates. To get a free quote from one of our vehicle protection specialists, call us today at 1-800-280-6708, or fill out our online quote request form.
Feb
There’s nothing that gives a driver a bad feeling faster than seeing that check engine light come on. You may at first wonder how serious the problem is. Then you realize, no matter how serious or minor it is, you’re still going to be paying a lot of money out of pocket if you don’t have extended warranty coverage. Here’s a countdown of the 5 most common check engine light repairs and how much you can expect the bill to be (according to a study by CarMD).
- Oxygen Sensor Replacement – “Oh good, it’s only a sensor,” you think. Then you get a bill for $258.63. Between the rising cost of parts and the rising cost of labor, even simple fixes can be expensive.
- The Catalytic Converter – “Uh oh, that sounds expensive.” You’re right. The average repair cost was $1,190.18 in 2016.
- Ignition Coils and Spark Plugs – If you keep up with regular tune-ups, this shouldn’t be a problem. Otherwise, your average bill will be $401.22.
- Loose Fuel Cap – This one is more embarrassing than expensive, and it’s worth checking yourself when you see the light come on – especially if you were just at the pump. Some mechanics may feel bad for you and just charge a nominal fee for plugging your car into the computer. As a result, the average expense is a mere $16.88 plus your wounded pride.
- Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) – At this point, you know better than to think sensor repair will be cheap. MAF replacement is even more costly than the O2 sensor coming in at an average of $378.15.
Protect Yourself with a Vehicle Service Contract
The next time that check engine light comes on, you can play it cool and impress your passengers. After all, if you have a comprehensive service contract from Vehicle Service Center, you know what’s covered. Get a free quote from one of our vehicle protection specialists today by calling 1-800-280-6708, or request your quote using our online contact form.
Jan
Car owners may have been breathing a sigh of relief when 2014-2015 prices on auto repairs seemed to level off. However, a 2017 study by CarMD reveals that in 2016, repair costs spiked again. Let’s take a look at what you can expect next time you need to head to the dealer or local garage for repairs.
- Parts Costs Have Increased – The average price of replacement parts for vehicles went up by 1.4% in 2016.
- Labor Parts Increased More – The big difference, however, is in the price of labor. This increased by 4.7% in 2016. That’s a major increase when you consider the fact that many shops were already charging $100 per hour or more.
- Engine Replacement Is the Biggest Expense – The biggest repair cost in 2016 was a full engine replacement. The total bill came to $7,600.
Your Check Engine Light – The 5 Most Common Causes
The study also shed some light on why your check engine light may have just come on. The top 5 reasons for that sensor being tripped are:
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor – You’ll be happy to know that 8% of the time you only need a sensor replaced. On the downside, the average bill for this quick fix is $258.63.
- Catalytic Converter – Unfortunately, the second most common issue at 6.75% isn’t such a quick fix.
- Ignition Coil and Spark Plugs – 6.23%
- Loose Fuel Cap – 4.16% of the time this problem could have been fixed by tightening the gas cap. Whoops!
- Mass Air Flow Sensor – 3.84%
Protect Yourself with an Extended Warranty
Vehicle Service Center is helping vehicle owners protect themselves against exorbitant repair bills by offering a wide array of coverage options. To learn more and get your free quote, call us today at 1-800-280-6708 or fill our online request form.
Jan
An extended warranty can give you peace of mind whether you are the original owner of the car and your manufacturer warranty is running out or you are purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. But when you shop for an extended warranty, don’t forget to price add-ons that can increase the value of your contract. Here are the top 3 extended warranty add-ons, and why you should be interested in them.
#1 Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance can get you out of all sorts of jams. A good roadside assistance program includes features like:
- Towing – Get your car to the shop without paying a bundle.
- Lock-out assistance – Both sets of keys ended up locked in the car? Roadside assistance to the rescue!
- Fuel delivery – Never make that embarrassing call to a friend or family member again.
- Battery boost – A dead battery can happen at any time. Don’t rely on the car parked next to you being able to give you a jump start.
- Tire assistance – Sure you can fix a flat tire, but who wants to do it on the side of the Interstate in your dress clothes?
#2 Trip-Interruption Benefits
Airlines are always trying to sell travel insurance, but what about if you are driving to your vacation destination? If you break down more than 100 miles from home, trip-interruption benefits can help cover hotel costs in whatever city you get stranded in. Now instead of being ruined, your road trip just took a little detour.
#3 Rental Reimbursements
If you are getting warranty-covered work done by the dealer, you may get a loaner car just to drive around locally. For any other long-term repair situation, you’re going to need a rental. Knowing you’re going to be reimbursed for the extra expense can remove the sting of not having your own car for a few days while the repairs are being done.
Vehicle Service Contracts and the Add-Ons You Need
For the top extended warranties and add-ons, call Vehicle Service Center today at 1-800-280-6708 and speak to one of our vehicle protection specialists. Not a phone person? Request your free quote online by submitting the contact form.
Jan
Auto repairs can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars if the wrong thing breaks and you don’t have extended warranty coverage. There are, however, some general maintenance services that can help your car to continue running smoothly for as long as possible. We’re going to look at four of these services and how expensive the consequences can quickly become if these normal maintenance procedures are ignored.
- Oil Changes – First of all, you probably don’t need an oil change as often as you have been led to believe. Although the old standard was 3 months or 3,000 miles, many car manuals now say 4 or even 5 months and between 4,000 and 7,000 miles depending on the make and model. The consequences of failing to get regular oil changes can be a full engine replacement. That would run upwards of $4,000. A massive price to pay for skipping a $30-40 oil change.
- Tire Rotation – Not getting the tires rotated every 7,500 miles or so (some people just get it done every other oil change), can lead to early tire wear and the need for replacement. Since a new set of tires can cost upwards of $500, you want to put it off as long as you safely can, and tire rotation extends that safe period.
- Timing Belt – This can be a $1,000 expense in and of itself. The good news is that most cars only need it done every 90-100,000 miles. On the other hand, failure to keep the timing belt in good shape can result in it breaking. This often does a tremendous amount of damage to the engine. You’re talking $2,500 and up easily.
- Brake Pads – Replacing your brake pads can cost a couple of hundred dollars, but that’s a lot cheaper than the $600 it can cost if you need to replace your rotors too. Get your brakes checked at least once a year and sooner if you hear squealing when you brake or have to push the pedal down harder than usual.
Get the Protection You Need from Massive Repair Bills
Of course, taking care of your vehicle will only get you so far. The repair bills will eventually come. When they do, you will want an extended warranty from Vehicle Service Center to offset the costs. For a free quote, call us today at 1-800-280-6708 or submit the online request form.
Jan
The cost of auto repairs has reached ridiculous levels, and there’s no reason to believe your mechanic is going to drop his or her prices in 2018. So what can you do to save money on auto repairs when they spring up unexpectedly? Here are five tips to help you.
- Ask Questions – Never let a mechanic work on your car without having a conversation first. Read our post about 5 Things to Ask Your Mechanic to learn about some of the most important matters to discuss.
- Check Reviews – If the repair shop is not qualified to work on your vehicle or has a lot of bad reviews from angry customers, it’s time to find a new shop.
- Second Opinion – Don’t let a shady shop tell you that you need $1,000 in repair work on things that are unrelated to what you came in for. Is it possible all that other damage existed and you really need the repairs? Sure. Just don’t take one person’s word for it – especially when he or she stands to gain a lot of money from making something up.
- Get Estimates in Writing – Don’t let the shop repair anything until you approve it and you have a document in writing stating how much you will be charged for both parts and labor on any given service.
Protect Yourself – A vehicle service contract can protect you against covered expenses when the need for repairs suddenly arises. Vehicle Service Center offers a wide range of coverage options so you can get the extended warranty you need while staying in budget. To learn more and to have one of our vehicle protection specialists provide you with a free quote, call 1-800-2806708 today!
Dec
The winter brings with it additional driving hazards. That calls for drivers to be extra prepared for anything. Here’s a list of 9 items you should keep in the car if you are driving during the winter.
- Snow Shovel – You probably don’t have room for a full-size shovel in your trunk, but they do make compact shovels specifically for keeping in the car for emergencies.
- Ice Scraper – Even if you are only in a store for a few minutes, a quick change in weather can leave your car dusted in snow or your windshield icy. An ice scraper and snow brush combo is a must for winter driving.
- Jumper Cables – Winter drains batteries and having your own cables may make it easier to get a jump start in a pinch.
- Flashlight – You should always have a flashlight in your car regardless of the season, but winter makes it more important because it gets dark so early, so you probably spend more time on the road after dark.
- Spare Tire – If you get a flat that can’t be aired up, a spare tire will allow you to get to a repair shop without needing to be towed.
- Air Compressor – Portable air compressors are affordable and can often be used to air up a tire with a slow leak so you can make it to the shop to get a patch.
- First-Aid Kit – In case of an accident or injury, you can get started on caring for the wounded before the ambulance even arrives.
- Cat Litter – Litter absorbs moisture and can help your car to get traction on an icy road if you get stuck.
- Warm Blanket – If you are ever stranded and waiting for help on a cold winters day, a warm blanket will be your best friend.
Add Roadside Assistance to Your Extended Warranty
Don’t forget to add a roadside assistance plan to your extended warranty from Vehicle Service Center. Then, if you end up with a car issue this winter, you can make one phone call and then just wrap up in your blanket to wait for help to arrive. Call 1-800-280-6708 today to speak to one of our vehicle protection specialists and get a free quote.
Dec
Whether the manufacturer warranty is running out on your new vehicle or you are purchasing a used vehicle, why does it make sense to purchase an extended warranty (also known as a vehicle service contract)? We’re going to give you three good reasons to think about a service contract for your new or used car.
#1 What Happens When Your Manufacturer Warranty Runs Out?
We’ve all heard of Murphy’s Law. One of the perfect applications of that saying occurs when things start to go wrong on a vehicle right after the warranty is up. It’s almost as though the car knows and is punishing us for not getting a longer warranty. An extended warranty fixes the problem by picking up where the manufacturer warranty leaves off.
#2 You Can Bundle Your Extended Warranty with Additional Features Such as Roadside Assistance
Not only are you covered if you need major repairs done on your vehicle, but you can also have someone come jumpstart the car if you left the lights on while at the grocery store. Other features may include gas delivery if you run out on the road or assistance if you lock yourself out of the car. Plus, some extended warranties can even be bundled with trip interruption insurance in case your car breaks down more than 100 miles from home.
#3 You Can’t Put a Price Tag on Peace of Mind
Whether you get stuck home or away and whether the repairs are major or minor, you know that you have a vehicle service contract in place and roadside assistance to get you out of a tight spot. In a world where peace of mind is so hard to come by, you shouldn’t have to worry about your vehicle too.
Let Vehicle Service Center Help Give You Peace of Mind
To find the perfect extended warranty for your car, talk to one of our vehicle protection specialists today by calling 1-800-280-6708. You can also request your free quote online by using our contact form.
Dec
It’s that time of the year again, and your car needs you more than ever. The winter can be particularly rough on vehicles, so we’ve compiled this quick checklist to help you get ready for the coldest months of the year.
- Get your battery checked – One of the biggest problems people run into during winter is a dead battery. If you get yours checked and it is borderline, you may be better off replacing it a little early than having to worry about it when you get stuck somewhere.
- Buy a portable air compressor – Your tires will drop about a pound of pressure for every 10 degrees the temperature dips. So some mornings you make wake up to find that all of your tires are 5-10 pounds low. Rather than driving on low tires to the gas station, a compressor will allow you to air up the tires at home.
- Check your wiper blades – Most wiper blades are really only meant to last a year. And that lifespan can quickly be shortened if you try to turn the wipers on before you defrost the windshield. Change old wiper blades and always turn them off before shutting your car, so they don’t kick on automatically when you start your car on an icy morning.
- Replace or clean lights – Any head or tail lights that are out on the car need to be replaced. Also, you will want to consider cleaning the headlights if they have grown cloudy, which happens over time. It is dark during the evening commute in the winter, so clean and working headlights are most important during this season.
Add Roadside Assistance to Your Service Contract
Another thing you can do to prepare for winter is to add roadside assistance to your service contract. Vehicle Service Center offers coverage options that can protect you from a dead battery, a flat tire, or many other hazards you may run into in winter. Request your free warranty quote online, or call us today at 1-800-280-6708.
Nov
A vehicle is a huge investment. That means you don’t automatically toss it away and get a new one just because the manufacturer warranty is up. Unfortunately, that’s usually right around the time when things start to go horribly awry. How can you protect your investment? Here are three reasons to purchase an extended warranty or service contract for your car.
- Murphy’s Law – Murphy’s Law states that whatever can go wrong will go wrong. If you’ve ever kept a car past its warranty, you probably know how a saying like this came about. It’s almost like the car knows you aren’t covered anymore, and it seems like parts start to break immediately after the coverage expires.
- Peace of Mind – Stress and worry seem to be constant elements of modern life. An extended warranty is a simple way to get rid of one of those stressors because you know that if something goes wrong with your car, it is covered and won’t cost you a bundle.
- You Love Your Car – With some older cars, you may as well just use the money to make a down payment on something new rather than repair it when something big goes wrong. If you love your car and don’t want to have to think about giving it up, a service contract is a great way to protect it against repairs that would be too expensive to be cost-effective on an older vehicle.
The Best Extended Warranty and Service Contract Options
For the best extended warranty and service contract options, call 1-800-280-6708 and talk to the vehicle protection specialists at Vehicle Service Center today. You can also request your free quote online by submitting the contact form.
Oct
When it comes to buying a service contract from a third-party warranty service like Vehicle Service Center, you want to be sure that you are getting the most benefit for your dollar. Our vehicle protection specialists are the best at helping clients to determine which add-ons they will get the most benefit from. Let’s look at three of these add-ons now.
#1 Roadside Assistance
Getting stuck on the side of the road can be a nightmare without some type of roadside assistance. What are some of the things that roadside assistance can help you with? Here are some of the most popular features:
- Towing
- Lock-out assistance
- Battery boost/jump assistance
- Tire assistance
- Fuel delivery
#2 Trip Interruption Benefits
What’s worse than breaking down on the side of the road? Breaking down on the side of the road when you’re a hundred miles or more away from home. That’s what trip interruption benefits are for. If you get stranded overnight due to a breakdown, you may be eligible to have some of your expenses reimbursed, besides the repairs that are covered by your service contract.
#3 Rental Reimbursements
You can’t be stuck without a car. How will you get to work or even the grocery store? That’s why rental reimbursement exists. If you have to go without your car for a few days while repairs are being done, you can stay mobile without having to spend a fortune.
Call One of Our Auto Services Today
We offer free quotes on our service contracts and add-ons, so you know exactly what you are getting and how much it will cost before you commit to anything. To learn more, call Vehicle Service Center today at 1-800-280-6708, or you can request your free quote online.
Jul
The question many people find themselves asking after they get an extended warranty is, “Why doesn’t my warranty cover maintenance?” The fact is that most warranties do not cover normal work that needs to be done on a vehicle such as oil changes, replacing worn tires, or replacing a timing belt. Why are these services not usually covered? Is it still worth it to get a warranty? Are there options that do cover maintenance? Read on to learn more.
The Reason Maintenance Isn’t Covered
First of all, many people take extended service contracts with a deductible to save money. An oil change costs about $30-50 depending on where you go and what service you get. So the fact is that you would never hit your deductible anyway. Things like tires come with their own warranty. The shop that puts them on may offer a road hazard replacement package. As a result, tires are usually covered for their normal life cycle anyway. Things like a timing belt are not usually even bad or worn out when changed. This is simply done to prevent the damage that a snapped belt can cause, so the manufacturer sets a number of miles to make the change at.
Is It Still Worth Getting a Warranty?
Yes, even if maintenance is not covered, it’s worth it. Why do people still get healthcare despite deductibles and copayments? Because if an emergency occurs, it can save thousands of dollars. The same is true with an auto service contract. A $2,000 suspension problem or transmission problem can be a nightmare if a person doesn’t have coverage.
Can I Get My Maintenance Covered?
Yes! Some contracts cover everything from maintenance to roadside assistance. Speak to one of the vehicle protection specialists at Vehicle Service Center to learn more about plan options, and discover the plan that will meet your needs. You even get a free quote by calling 1-800-280-6708.
Jun
Are you getting ready to purchase a used vehicle? Then it is time to consider an extended warranty. We’re going to look at some important reasons to purchase a warranty any time you are getting a used vehicle, some circumstances that may make the purchase even more important, and some statistics that reveal the purchase is not the risk some sites may have led you to believe it is.
2 Important Reasons to Get a Warranty for Your Pre-Owned Vehicle
The further we get into the age of over-complicated electrical components of vehicles, the more important it is to protect your used vehicle. A car that is just a few years old may have complicated electrical components that could cost thousands of dollars to repair.
The other important element to consider is the rising cost of auto repair labor. When you start adding $85 to $125 per hour on top of expensive parts, you have the recipe for a nightmarish invoice. A warranty is the best way to avoid adding repairs bills to your monthly car payments.
2 Things to Keep in Mind When Considering Protective Coverage
You should definitely add coverage to your vehicle if either of the following things are true. First, check to see if the vehicle you are purchasing has a history of necessary repairs. You may love a particular make and model, or it may be the only thing that meets your budget, but if that year’s line is known for transmission troubles, you definitely want powertrain coverage.
The second thing to look for is exclusion coverage. This allows you to have greater peace of mind. Unless the exclusion is the specific thing that goes wrong with your car, it’s covered. There’s no guesswork. On the other hand, you also want affordable coverage, so if you are working with a limited budget, you may need to focus on the coverage features that are most important to you.
Statistics Show that an Extended Warranty Is a Good Purchase
The following two statistics show the benefits of extended warranties:
- 84% – Percent of persons who purchased a used car and had every filed claim accepted
- 82% – Percent of people who say they would consider purchasing an extended warranty again
Vehicle Service Center is proud to offer the type of coverage that can actually be of benefit to used car owners. To learn about the different coverage options we offer, and to have one of our vehicle protection specialists help you find a plan that meets your needs and your budget, call 1-800-280-6708.
Jun
Suspension problems are one of the more common and expensive issues that car arise in motor vehicle use. How do suspension issues occur? What are the most common problems? How much will the repairs cost? How can you protect yourself from this expense? We’ll tell you here.
How Do Suspension Issues Occur?
While in rare cases a suspension issue may be due to a manufacturer defect, it is far more common for these problems to arise from wear and tear on a vehicle. Potholes are one of the major causes of such damage. AAA reported that potholes result in about $3 billion in repairs in the US each year. To limit the damage, it is vital to try and avoid potholes, keep tires properly inflated, and to slow down as much as possible if a pothole cannot be avoided.
What Are the Most Common Suspension Problems?
The suspension system of a vehicle is complicated. With so much that can go wrong, you may wonder what the most common repairs are. Here are 5:
- Alignment
- Shocks
- Springs
- Ball joints
- Control arms
How Much Do Suspension Repairs Cost?
In part, this depends on what is wrong. The repairs, however, are unlikely to be cheap. According to one report, replacing ball joints can cost anywhere from $350 to $2,200. Stocks were estimated at $200 to $1,500, although they can cost much more on a luxury car. Replacing the entire suspension system can cost up to $5,000.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Suspension Repair Costs?
To ensure you don’t get stuck with a massive repair bill, be sure that your suspension system is under warranty. To assist you in this regard, Vehicle Service Center offers coverage options that can save you a bundle. To learn more, get a free quote from one of our vehicle protection specialists by calling 1-800-280-6708.
May
Unfortunately, a very small percentage of third-party warranty companies have given the industry a bad name. You know the ones we’re talking about. They give you the hard sell to buy way more coverage than you need and then when you actually have a claim, the company is nowhere to be found, or they come up with terrible excuses for not paying. We’re going to provide you with a few helpful tips to help you avoid scams and get your coverage through a legitimate third-party warranty provider.
Warning Signs When Purchasing a Warranty
Here are 5 things to be wary of when purchasing a warranty:
- The hard sell – A caller telling you that a special deal is only available during this call may just be the sales rep trying to hit a quota, but it could also be a warning sign of something shady. A warranty provider should have no problem with you wanting time to check out the company website and read reviews before making a final decision.
- No guarantee – Reputable companies should have a money back guarantee. If you get buyer’s remorse during the first 30 days, you should be entitled to a refund.
- Robot dialers – If you get a phone call from a robot instead of a human, that’s a bad sign. The fact is that a scam artist may have trouble finding humans willing to try and rip-off their fellow man. As a result, robot dialers are often used.
- Claim to be your manufacturer warranty – Your manufacturer warranty company isn’t going to call you to extend your warranty when the one you got with the car runs out. If the company won’t tell you they are a third-party service, you should be on guard.
- Lots of fine print – That fine print may be the company’s way of talking you out of getting your claim paid. If you can’t understand the fine print yourself, have someone help you go over it before signing anything.
Real Third-Party Extended Warranty Services for Every Budget
At Vehicle Service Center, we are proud to offer legitimate third-party warranty services to meet any budget. Our extended protection plans come with a 30-day money back guarantee to add to your peace of mind. And your quote is always free. To learn more, just call 1-800-280-6708, and get the coverage you need for your vehicle today.
May
One of our favorite compliments is when our vehicle protection specialists are praised for providing great customer service. The fact of the matter is, we believe that when you are dealing with a vehicle emergency – whether stuck on the side of the road with a flat or at a shop getting a new transmission put in – you simply don’t have time to deal with poor customer service.
Unfortunately, customer service is lacking in many businesses today, so we wanted to discuss some of the principles that put Vehicle Service Center ahead of the competition.
One of the Worst Customer Service Practices
If you haven’t noticed the inability of companies to provide good customer service, an indicator of the state of modern businesses is that the Australian government felt the need to put up an article about how to provide customer service on the national business website.
Recently, Forbes magazine commented on some of the worst customer service practices. The biggest culprit – hiring the wrong people for the job. You would think companies would want to put their friendliest and most patient people forward when it comes to dealing with the public. Sadly, some businesses just hire anyone who will work for low pay and make that person the customer’s lifeline during a crisis.
Customer Service – Why Our Customers Stay with Us
Providing you with good customer service is also a smart business move for us. It’s cheaper to hang onto existing customers than scour the globe for new ones. Treating people right creates loyal customers who recommend us to others. There’s no better form of advertising.
So next time you’re staring at an expensive repair bill or you’re stuck in a hotel overnight because of a breakdown on a road trip, we hope you’re covered by one of our comprehensive warranty or trip interruption plans. You can rest assured that your customer service experience will help soften the blow rather than making matters worse.
To get help in finding the right plan to meet your needs, call 1-800-280-6708. Our vehicle protection specialists are standing by to provide free quotes at any time.
Apr
We’ve all had it happen, and it’s always at the worst possible time. You get in your car on a blistering summer day with temps creeping toward 100 degrees. You flip on the car’s air conditioning and get a blast of hot air. You expect it to turn cold any second, but it never happens. Now you’re driving around with the windows down, sweating through your clothes on the way to work or the store. You don’t even want to think about how much the repairs would cost, but you don’t want driving to be miserable all summer long either. What do you do?
If your car’s A/C unit is cover by an extended warranty, all of those concerns instantly melt away! But what if you don’t have coverage? Consider the following stats about car A/C repair costs.
How Much Will It Cost to Fix My Car’s Air Conditioning?
Car air conditioning systems are complicated, and the problem can be anywhere in the unit. As a result, there’s no way to guess what repairs will cost until you see a mechanic. The price range of the repair bill can vary wildly from $150-$200 for a lead to as much as $2,000 for major repairs due to compressor failure or system contamination.
The main problem is that A/C issues often happen on older vehicles. If your car is only worth $2,000-$4,000, do you really want to spend $2,000 to repair the A/C? For many people, that kind of repair bill means making do without air conditioning. While that may only mean a few months of discomfort in some northern areas, in southern states, it can make driving a terrible experience most of the year.
Purchasing the Right Extended Warranty Gives Peace of Mind
If you purchase the right extended warranty that meets the needs of your vehicle and your budget, you can have real peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to deal with repair bills that cost more than your vehicle may be worth. Vehicle Service Center provides high-quality service plans that meet every sort of budget. Just request a free quote online or call 1-800-280-6708 to get started today.
Apr
Even a basic warranty package should cover transmission repair. Why is this so important? How much does it cost to repair the average transmission? How long should your transmission last? Read on to learn the facts about transmissions.
How Long Does a Transmission Last?
According to one transmission remanufacturer, even when a transmission receives the minimal care it should last 100,000 miles. There are a few factors that can affect this figure:
- Manufacturer Defect – If a defect exists in the transmission, it may last significantly less time.
- Proper Care – Minimal care of a transmission includes things such as transmission servicing, fluid flushing, and the like. The number of miles between services depends on the manufacturer and should be included in your car’s manual.
- Pre-Owned Vehicles – When you buy a pre-owned vehicle, you may not know how well the previous owner cared for the transmission. You may not even know if the transmission in the vehicle is the original or if it has been rebuilt. This can make the life of the transmission difficult to estimate.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair or Replace a Transmission?
The cost of transmission repair depends on many factors. If you have a manual transmission and you just have to do basic repairs to the clutch or solenoid, the price range could be as little as $500 to $1,500. However, if the entire transmission needs to be replaced, average costs range from $1,800 to $3,500. What accounts for such a wide range?
A transmission replacement costs between $2,500 and $3,500. Some may opt to save a little money by going with a rebuilt transmission. This can reduce costs to $1,500 to $2,500. While the primary advantage is about $1,000 in savings, there are also disadvantages to a rebuilt transmission.
Avoiding the Headache of Transmission Repair Costs
Rather than guessing how long your transmission will last and potentially ending up with a huge repair bill, protect yourself in advance with a warranty that covers your engine, transmission, drive axle, and differential assembly. Vehicle Service Center will be happy to help you select the extended warranty that meets your needs and budget. Call 1-800-280-6708 for a free quote.
Mar
Do you own or are in the process of buying a used car? Do you have an expiring warranty on a car you purchased new? You are a prime candidate to benefit from an extended auto care warranty. However, some wonder if it is really worth purchasing a continued warranty. We’re going to take a look at some important reasons to extend your auto warranty and how to make sure you get the maximum benefits.
Auto Repair Costs Are on the Rise Nationwide
If you’ve ever had to pay the bill for a major auto repair, you know just how big of an expense it can be, and those costs are continuing to rise. Between extreme markups in price on parts and labor costs that approach or even exceed $100 per hour, the bill can quickly surpass $1,000.
U.S. News & World Report revealed the results of a study that showed a 10% increase in the average repair costs. Add to that a report from WPRI Eyewitness News in Providence, RI about the average cost of car repairs, and the value of an extended warranty becomes even more clear. For example, the average repair cost of a car in California was reported at $2,289.11.
The fact is that most consumers who drive used vehicles don’t have the money for expensive repairs. If a person has thousands of dollars to spare, he or she would probably be driving something new and under warranty. By purchasing a vehicle service contract, you protect yourself from exorbitant repair bills. That can give you some real peace of mind. If your car just doesn’t start one morning, you won’t be out a month’s worth of salary just to be able to repair the vehicle that gets you back and forth to work.
Purchasing Your Extended Warranty from the Right Company Is a Must
Unfortunately, the whole reason the question about whether or not to purchase an extended warranty exists is because of a few bad apples out there who have given the industry a bad name. But Consumer Reports revealed that by and large, the extended warranty industry does exactly what it says. According to one recent report, 84% of extended warranty buyers who tried to make a claim received the requested money. Additionally, 82% of buyers said they would make the purchase again.
The key then is to find a reputable extended warranty seller who has experience in the business. Who can you turn to when you are in need of an extended warranty?
Vehicle Protection for Your Peace of Mind
When you purchase your extended warranty from Vehicle Protection, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that your car is covered and that coverage is backed up by a company with years of experience in the industry.
So instead of gambling with your savings by driving around without a warranty, it’s time to remove the risk. Call 1-800-881-0804 to get your free quote today!