Coverage and costs

What extended warranty coverage can do for your car budget

A vehicle service contract, often called an extended warranty, is an optional agreement that may help pay for repairs covered by the contract. Coverage, price, deductibles, exclusions, and limits vary by plan, so the written contract matters more than any general description.

Last reviewed , by ZenAuto, LLC.

What does ZenAuto offer?

ZenAuto helps approved customers find optional vehicle service contracts, often called extended warranties. A contract may help with the cost of covered mechanical or electrical repairs after a breakdown. The specific provider, covered parts, exclusions, deductible, limits, and claim process appear in the written contract.

Primary sources: FTC guide to auto warranties and service contracts; Ohio Attorney General guidance on warranties and service contracts

Why do people buy an extended warranty?

Many drivers buy a vehicle service contract to make certain repair costs more predictable after the original warranty ends. A contract also provides a claims contact and a process to follow when something breaks. Its value depends on the vehicle, price, coverage, deductible, exclusions, and how long the driver plans to keep the car.

Primary source: FTC guide to auto warranties and service contracts

Is an extended warranty the same as the warranty that came with my car?

No. A manufacturer or seller warranty is included with the vehicle, while a vehicle service contract is optional and purchased separately. The service contract identifies the provider and explains its own coverage period, covered repairs, exclusions, limits, deductible, maintenance duties, and claim steps.

Primary sources: FTC guide to auto warranties and service contracts; Ohio Attorney General guidance on warranties and service contracts

Will every repair be covered?

No. Vehicle service contracts do not cover every repair. The written contract identifies covered components and benefits, along with exclusions, limits, deductibles, waiting periods, maintenance responsibilities, and claim rules. Compare those terms with any manufacturer, dealer, insurance, or other protection you already have.

Primary sources: FTC guide to auto warranties and service contracts; Ohio Attorney General guidance on warranties and service contracts

How much does a ZenAuto vehicle service contract cost?

The price depends on the vehicle and the contract offered, including its term, mileage limit, coverage level, deductible, and provider. Approved customers receive the available price and complete written contract before deciding. Applying is free and does not commit you to purchase coverage.

Primary source: FTC guide to auto warranties and service contracts

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