Buying and owning a car isn’t as easy as it appears. You have to choose a model, compare prices, arrange the money, maintain the vehicle, and most importantly, protect it with a warranty. Unlike insurance that covers damages due to accidents, auto warranties are from the manufacturer and cover only faulty parts. While a new car may already have a warranty, you can opt for an additional plan for extra protection.

Types of auto warranties
Different types of auto warranties are available in the market. Below, we’ve listed the ones you’ll come across frequently:

Bumper-to-bumper warranty
This is the most basic yet most comprehensive auto warranty. Typically, bumper-to-bumper covers manufacturing errors and wear and tear of all the parts that fall between the vehicle’s front and rear bumpers. The warranty comes with all new cars and is typically transferable when sold to a new owner. The damage, however, cannot be due to misuse, and batteries and tires are not covered.

Dealership warranty
You get this warranty from the dealership you purchase the vehicle from. Dealership auto warranties cover different parts for a particular period. If you face any issues during that time, you can contact the dealer. The dealer will then put their mechanics on the job without charging you.

Extended warranty
Extended warranties, or aftermarket warranties, are auto warranties you purchase after the car enters the market. Typically, you buy them after your dealership or manufacturer warranty expires or if your vehicle has no manufacturer coverage. While an extended auto warranty seems like a saving grace, they generally cover fewer parts.

Powertrain warranty
It covers the engine, transmission, and related automobile components. Powertrain parts require a separate warranty because manufacturers expect them to last longer: five years or 60,000 miles, whichever is first. Look for insurance companies that offer a higher mileage limit for these parts.

Emissions warranty
Emissions warranty covers the car’s emission system—the catalytic converter, engine control switches, sensors, exhaust manifold, and the fuel injection system. It may also cover hardware changes and software malfunctions and updates. Most emission auto warranties are for two years or 24,000 miles, but they could be extended to five and eight years for trucks.

Rust and corrosion coverage
Typically, this warranty covers the repair costs if your car’s metal decays due to rust. Basic auto warranties that come with a new vehicle usually do not cover rust and corrosion. However, some manufacturers offer them. So, check your basic warranty coverage before signing up.

Accessory warranty
Apart from essential automobile systems, a car has several accessories that could be defective or get damaged. These include things like airbags, GPS, seat covers, and other add-on equipment. Wile your original dealership or manufacturing warranty may cover these, it is best to confirm this before buying an accessory warranty.

Best auto warranty companies
The following auto warranty firms have a solid reputation, high customer satisfaction rates, transparent business practices, and, above all, an easy application process.

Endurance
Endurance is one of the fastest-growing warranty companies with services in almost every state. It works as a direct provider, meaning they sell auto warranties, approve claims, and process the payment after your car is fixed. Auto warranties from Endurance range between $90 and $105 per month. The other benefits to look out for include roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement.

Carchex
With a mileage limit of 250,000 and a long-standing industry reputation, Carchex is perfect for additional auto warranties. They offer services in all 50 states and hold an A+ rating from the BBB (Better Business Bureau). Unlike Endurance, however, external administrators are involved. Total warranty costs average at $3,000, though monthly cost and payment schedule are variable.

CarShield
CarShield offers some of the most affordable auto warranties to customers in almost every state with a mileage limit of 300,000 miles. The other benefits include roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption. Most customers have had positive experiences with CarShield. The best part: quotes range from $89 to $130 per month, virtually a steal!