Last Updated: Feb 2026
The Top Car Warranty Companies of 2026
Extended warranties that'll help you save big
Did you know?
Annual car maintenance costs average $888/yr (AAA, 2025)
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FAQs about car warranties
Can I use any mechanic?
Yes, most top-rated providers give you the freedom to choose your preferred ASE-certified repair shop, so you can get trusted service from a mechanic you know and rely on.
Are these plans transferable?
Yes, many warranties can be transferred to a new owner if you sell your vehicle.
Is a car warranty the same as insurance?
No. Insurance covers accidents and damage. A warranty covers breakdowns due to mechanical failure.
Is an extended warranty really worth it?
A car warranty can provide valuable peace of mind and help control long-term costs. However, it depends on your vehicle’s age and how long you plan to keep it.
What is a car warranty?
A car warranty is a contract that covers the cost of certain repairs or defects in a vehicle for a specific period or mileage limit. It’s typically offered by the manufacturer and includes protection for parts and systems like the engine, transmission, and electronics. If a covered issue arises during the warranty period, the repair costs are paid by the warranty provider instead of the vehicle owner.
Who is a car warranty important for?
If you're driving a car past its factory warranty, an extended car warranty can be a smart way to avoid expensive repair bills. With vehicle technology getting more advanced, and costly to fix, drivers in 2025 are looking for protection plans that go beyond basic coverage.
How does a car warranty work?
A car warranty works as a promise from the manufacturer or warranty provider to pay for covered repairs during a set time or mileage period. When your vehicle experiences a mechanical issue that falls under the warranty, the provider pays the repair facility directly or reimburses you, depending on the contract. You usually only pay a deductible, if required, and the rest of the approved repair is handled by the warranty.
What does an extended car warranty cover?
An extended warranty, also known as a vehicle service contract, helps pay for mechanical repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty ends. Depending on the plan, coverage may include:
- Powertrain systems (engine, transmission)
- Electrical and air conditioning
- Suspension and drivetrain
- Infotainment and high-tech systems
- Roadside assistance, towing, and rental cars
- Some plans offer full bumper-to-bumper protection, while others focus on specific components.
Who needs an extended auto warranty in 2026?
- Owners of high-mileage vehicles past 60,000 miles
- Drivers with electric or hybrid cars, where repairs are costly
- People who want predictable repair costs
- Anyone planning to keep their car 3–5 more years
How much does an extended car warranty cost?
- Most extended warranties range from $40 - $250, depending on the following:
- Vehicle make, model, and mileage
- Level of coverage selected
- Length of term (months or miles)
- Deductible amount. Some providers offer 0% financing or monthly subscriptions.
How to shop for a car warranty
Start by considering your vehicle’s age, mileage, and how long you plan to keep it. Compare multiple providers and focus on those with strong reputations and BBB accreditation. Look closely at what’s covered, what’s excluded, and whether the warranty offers flexibility in repair shop choice. Avoid plans that require upfront payment without full terms, and check for perks like roadside assistance or rental coverage. Always read the fine print and customer reviews before committing.
What’s not covered under most extended warranties?
- Routine maintenance (oil, brakes, filters)
- Wear-and-tear parts (tires, batteries)
- Cosmetic issues and body damage
- Pre-existing mechanical problems
How to avoid extended warranty scams
- Ignore robocalls or unsolicited emails
- Only buy from BBB-accredited, verified companies
- Read all exclusions and fine print
- Avoid offers that require upfront payments without details
Key takeaways
Extended car warranties can be a smart investment for drivers looking to avoid unexpected repair costs after their factory coverage ends. In 2025, top providers offer flexible plans that cover everything from powertrain repairs to high-tech system breakdowns. These warranties are especially valuable for high-mileage vehicles or anyone planning to keep their car for several more years. When shopping for a plan, focus on coverage details, provider reputation, and added benefits like roadside assistance. Choosing the right warranty gives you peace of mind, protection against rising repair costs, and added resale value for your vehicle.
Our Top 3 Picks
- 1
Comprehensive warranty with maintenance coverage- Best for - Comprehensive coverage for older vehicles
- Annual premium - Variable
- Technicians - Any ASE-certified mechanic
Comprehensive warranty with maintenance coverageRead Endurance ReviewEndurance offers extended auto protection plans that cover you in case of a mechanical breakdown. With Endurance, you can bring your vehicle to any ASE-certified mechanic, and you don’t have to pay anything but your deductible out of pocket. All Endurance plans include 24/7 roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement.
Endurance is ideal for older vehicles since it covers cars up to 20 years old. You can sign up for policy terms up to 6 years or 100,000 miles, as well as set up a monthly payment plan to pay for your policy. All Endurance plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Endurance Pros & Cons
PROS
5 different plans availableTake your car to any ASE-certified mechanicCovers vehicles up to 20 years oldCONS
60-day waiting period for most plansLimited rental car reimbursement - 2
Customizable vehicle warranty solutions- Best for - Personalized coverage
- Annual premium - From $1200
- Technicians - Any ASE certified repairer
Customizable vehicle warranty solutionsRead CarShield ReviewCarShield offers a selection of vehicle warranty solutions. These include everything from basic drivetrain and engine protection to comprehensive coverage. There’s also an option for motorcycles and ATVs.
Standout features include CarShield’s roadside protection package and personalized policies. Its prices are quite competitive, and although it has a mixed reputation online, it seems that many of its bad reviews come down to people not understanding their policy. Overall, it’s a good option that’s certainly worth considering.
CarShield Pros & Cons
PROS
Motorcycle and ATV coveragePersonalized policiesCompetitive pricesCONS
Phone claims during business hours rather than 24/7Mixed reviews from past customers - 3
Choose from hundreds of different extended warra...- Best for - Wide range of policies
- Annual premium - $200-$750
- Technicians - Any licensed mechanic
Choose from hundreds of different extended warran...Read Carchex ReviewCARCHEX is a broker for extended auto warranty policies. The company offers hundreds of different policies from several insurance providers, all of which come with 24/7 roadside assistance and towing and car rental reimbursement. Coverage terms are available for up to 10 years, and you can pay for your plan in up to 24 monthly installments.
CARCHEX is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ rating with the agency. In addition, all plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can transfer your plan if you sell your vehicle or cancel anytime for a prorated refund.
Carchex Pros & Cons
PROS
A+ Rated and Accredited by the BBBCoverage available for vehicles with up to 250,000 milesWide selection of plans ranging from 12-84 monthsCONS
Fee for transferring your policyDoes not administer policies directly
