The term “extended warranty” is commonly used by car buyers as a synonym for a vehicle service contract (VSC).
Most professionals in the auto industry prefer to use the term “vehicle service contract,” since the term “warranty” can be misleading. A warranty can only be issued by the manufacturer with the purchase of a vehicle.
A vehicle service contract serves as an extra protection that you can purchase for your car that offers protection beyond the manufacturer warranty (for a certain period of time or amount of miles).
A vehicle service contract is very similar to a health insurance policy that you can buy for your car. The coverage can be added into your financing as a small monthly amount so that you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket for repair expenses down the road.
Watch the video below to learn more about vehicle service contracts or keep reading as we answer some FAQs pertaining to warranties & other protections for your vehicle.
Want to know more about vehicle service contracts? The F&I team at Proctor Acura is here to help. Give us a call today at: (850) 574-6600 ext. 214.
Vehicle service contracts are an additional protection that are not required to purchase a new vehicle or to be eligible for financing.
If you’re curious to learn more about protecting your investment, we can provide information about how these packages work and what the benefits are to having one. Read more below and call our finance & insurance specialists to learn more about vehicle service contracts and other protection packages: (850) 574-6600 ext. 214
What is covered by the VSC? What isn’t covered?
Stated component coverage contracts will detail what repairs ARE covered. An exclusionary contract will list repairs that are NOT covered. Regardless of what type of contract, it is important to make sure the VSC meets your needs and provides ideal protection for your purchase.
Is there a deductible? Is it per visit, repair, or occurrence?
If several repairs need to be completed in one visit, will you pay for each repair or just the single visit? Would you prefer paying for a zero deductible plan?
What are the owner’s maintenance responsibilities?
Some service contracts require proof of routine service and vehicle maintenance visits to be eligible for coverage.
Are you likely to exceed the manufacturer warranty coverage quickly due to the amount of mileage put on your vehicle?
When the manufacturer warranty expires, will you be anxious about the possibility of costly repairs?
Do you have emergency savings for unforeseen auto repairs when the vehicle isn’t covered by the manufacturer warranty?
Do you intend to drive your new vehicle for a long time? Or are you likely to trade it in for a newer or different model in a few years?
Another added advantage to buying a vehicle service contract is that your contract will not be wasted if you decide to sell your vehicle before the service contract is over.
When selling a vehicle privately, a VSC can be transferred to a new owner and can add value to your vehicle. Transferring a vehicle service contract is quite easy and affordable, typically costing less than $35.
When selling or trading through a dealership, an ongoing VSC will be cancelled and reimbursed as a prorated amount. The reimbursement can either be given as cash or used as a down payment on a new car.
Did you know that you can shop for vehicle service contracts online? “Buypass” the showroom and shop our inventory directly from the Proctor Acura website. Once you find the perfect car, you can shop from additional protections, such as vehicle service contracts or Zurich Protection Packages.
You can even calculate your trade-in value on an existing vehicle and apply that value directly towards a new purchase or lease through our website!
How does it work? Learn more below: