CARCHEX vs Concord

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You might be asking, how can an auto warranty help me? Does it make that much of a difference? Imagine this: you're cruising down the highway, windows down, enjoying the breeze through your hair, when suddenly, your engine sputters to a halt, or the electrical system goes haywire, or your steering locks up. What seemed like a normal daily drive is now a massive problem.

Aside from your personal safety, your second-most concern will be the looming costs of repairing whatever just went wrong. It's a horrible feeling, we know. Regardless of whether your vehicle is fresh off the assembly line or a seasoned classic with 100,000+ miles on it, mechanical problems or accidents can happen any time.

That's where auto warranties come in. Basically an auto safety net, these warranties allow you to pay a pre-determined and relatively modest fee, either in monthly installments or a lump sum, and offer you assurance that if one of the problems in the scenario above were to occur to you, you'll be protected from most (if not all) of the financial burden.

Auto warranties encompass a broad spectrum of potential malfunctions, including but not limited to those concerning the transmission (ouch!), engine, powertrain, heating/cooling systems, and various other vital components of your vehicle. Repairing (and/or replacing) any of these items can be extremely expensive, not to mention the frustration and anxiety that come when you have to deal with auto repairs.

For example, replacing a transmission costs thousands of dollars just for the parts. Then you need to worry about the mechanic's fees, which usually cos t at least as much as the parts. An auto warranty can make the difference between breaking the bank (or even looking for a new car), and keeping your trusty vehicle in top condition.

But with so many options out there it can be hard to know what auto warranty plans might work best for you. Don't worry, as your friendly (online) neighborhood car enthusiasts, we've checked out the best options for you. Here are a few factors that might help you make your decision:

• Price. The cost of an auto warranty plan is a huge part of making your decision. Make sure you check out and compare the pricing structures of multiple warranty plans. Is the plan's cost justifiable, especially if you're hoping not to need it for years to come? Make sure you get the maximum value for your money, and that the pricing schedule (one-time payment vs. monthly payments) is something you're comfortable committing to.
• Coverage. The type of coverage can also help you make your decision. Which components and potential issues are covered by the warranties? Is there a particular part of your vehicle you want covered? What is the coverage timeline? The last thing you want is to encounter a common problem with your car only to discover that it falls outside of the warranty you've been paying for.
• Reputation. Don't forget to evaluate a warranty provider's reputation. How seamless and supportive is the process for submitting a claim when the need arises? Can you rely on the warranty provider to stand behind you when you need their help? Checking out the company's reputation and reviews from past customers can give you a clear idea on who to trust to protect you and your vehicle.

To help you find the best warranty plan for your specific needs, Top Consumer Reviews reviewed and ranked the best auto warranty options online today. We want you to feel confident in the safety of your vehicle and know that should the need arise; your auto warranty will protect you and your car. We hope this helps take the stress out of auto ownership and get you back to enjoying the drive, whether you're commuting to work or taking a weekend beach trip with your windows down!