Powertrain Warranty - What do you get?

Car ownership has its moments of stress as maintenance and repairs can be costly along with unexpected issues resulting in a mechanical breakdown. Even something as simple as a flat tire can really bring you down. Not knowing when these issues might occur is really the biggest frustration of all. That doesn’t mean you cannot be prepared for an unfortunate failure. Powertrain warranties, extended car warranties, and vehicle service contracts are different coverage options to ensure that when that breakdown happens, you are covered for repair costs. 

What’s Covered?

The exact parts covered will vary between the different plans. A powertrain warranty is offered with the original purchase of the vehicle while an extended car warranty is offered by the vehicle manufacturer as an extension of the original coverage. All manufacturers have their own terms when it comes to what is offered. Vehicle service contracts (VSC) are offered by third-party providers and tend to have much more flexible terms. This is an ideal option for people who drive older cars or a newly purchased used car.

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VSCs that covers the car’s powertrain typically range between 50,000 to 120,000 miles or around 3 to 10 years, whichever comes first. Lasting longer than most comprehensive plans but only covers the basics. This coverage will ensure that repairs or replacements are taken care of for the parts of your vehicle that supply power to the car. The average powertrain plan covers the following:

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• Engine
• Transmission
• Transfer case
• Driveshafts
• Axles
• Differentials
• Drive box

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All of these parts are essential to keep your car working properly and provide for a safe drive. Having an extended car warranty or vehicle service contract in place can save you much time and hassle. Plus you will likely be able to save on having to pay hefty repair bills out of pocket. 

Should You Get Powertrain coverage?

This really depends on what your needs are, as a driver or car owner. Older cars and used cars are more likely to suffer a mechanical failure of some kind as wear and tear sets into the vehicle. For this reason, having the most important parts providing power to your car are important to have covered. Transmission repairs can be $2,000 or more dollars while engine repairs can reach up to $8,000 for major repairs. 

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If you have the opportunity to have these funds available in your savings prepared for a potential mechanical breakdown then a powertrain coverage might not be necessary for you. However, if you, like many Americans, do not have the funds to wait for those days that a car repair is needed then I would urge you to consider at least looking at your powertrain coverage options. Speak to the vehicle manufacturer about what they have available and use the search tool here on Chaiz to see if there is a plan that suits your driving needs as well as your budget.

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