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GuardTree vs CarShield

Sunday, November 10th

2024 Canadian Car Warranty Reviews

GuardTree Review 3 Star Rating

GuardTree

3 Star Rating
  • Only available in Ontario
  • Monthly premiums instead of a large one-time payment
  • Premiums range from $49.95 to $85.95 per month
  • Cars have to be within 13 model years and within 200,000km at the time of purchase
  • Part of the monthly fees offsets your carbon monoxide emissions
  • Can use any licensed mechanic
  • Deductibles of $100, $250, or $500 per claim
  • Claim limits of $2,500 or $5,000 per repair
  • Roadside assistance, car rental, and trip interruption benefits
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB

GuardTree takes a slightly different approach to car warranties, with a focus on monthly subscription plans and the eco-friendly benefit of applying part of your premiums to offset your vehicle's CO2 emissions. Monthly premiums range from $49.95 to $85.95, with deductibles of $100, $250, or $500 per claim, and claim limits of $2,500 or $5,000 per repair. The coverage includes roadside assistance, car rental benefits, and trip interruption benefits. Despite these positive aspects, GuardTree's service is limited to Ontario, with eligibility criteria for cars within 13 model years and under 200,000km, and some luxury brands not qualifying.

CarShield Review 2 Star Rating

CarShield

2 Star Rating
  • 2 warranty plans to choose from
  • Customized options offered during phone call
  • All plans have a cancellation option, monthly payment plan, towing and rental benefits, and money-back guarantee
  • Can have your vehicle serviced anywhere
  • In business since 2005

With over a million vehicles covered between Canada and the US since 2005, CarShield offers two main warranty plans: the New Car Diamond and the Gold. While promising customized options and a money-back guarantee, the process involves waiting for a representative to contact you with a quote. Customer reviews raise concerns about mechanics refusing to work with CarShield, and the BBB gives it a concerning "D" rating, citing issues with denied claims, extended repair times, and subpar customer service. CarShield's overall rating remains at a disappointing score (and we'd say even that's generous).

Where is the Best Place to Get a Car Warranty Plan in Canada?

Whether you're buying a brand new car or a gently used resale, the prospect of an extended warranty plan may be on your radar. An extended warranty could be a shrewd financial decision, to help you have a cushion against the inevitable costs of future repairs.

Are extended warranties worth the investment? From a reputable company, absolutely. We've all experienced the frustration of a major malfunction just as the manufacturer's coverage runs out - or, even worse, a mere few days after driving that "as-is" car off the used car lot.

The Best Canadian Car Warranties Compare Canadian Car Warranties Compare Canadian Car Warranty Reviews What are the best Canadian Car Warranties Best Canadian Car Warranty Reviews

Canadian Car Warranty FAQ

There are lots of companies offering warranty coverage for your car. They work very similarly to health insurance: you'll pay more for higher coverage, some things are covered and some aren't, and your policy will have a time limit. You can shop around for auto warranty plans just like insurance, too: you don't have to go with the plans offered at the dealership.
That depends on your car and your coverage. On a new vehicle, you might pay $25/month for bumper-to-bumper coverage, but an older vehicle's premium could be three times that. You can usually pay in full or monthly, with no difference in total cost.
The cost of your auto warranty will never be cheaper than when your car is new. But, you'll want to read the terms of your plan very carefully. While warranty plans at the dealership usually start from the time the manufacturer's warranty runs out, third-party plans often start from the date you purchase them. That could mean you're paying twice for the same coverage.
Probably. Each provider sets the limit for coverage, but there are options for cars with up to 150,000 miles! Most auto warranty plans are available for cars that are 20 years old or newer.
YES! The most important part of choosing an auto warranty plan is knowing what's covered and what isn't! Even comprehensive plans don't cover items with normal wear-and-tear, like brake pads and tires. The most user-friendly plans usually give you a list of what isn't covered - and if it's not on that list, it's covered!
Sometimes, but it's usually limited to the first 30 days after the purchase date. Again, be sure to read the terms of your auto warranty plan very carefully, to avoid any unpleasant surprises when you go to use your policy for the first time.
Almost all plans let you use the mechanic of your choice. Some providers will reduce your deductible if you go to one of their network partners.
Despite all of the annoying spam phone calls you've gotten, desperately trying to contact you about the expiring warranty on your car, auto warranty plans are a real thing. And, when you choose a plan from a reputable provider, you can save thousands of dollars on car repairs.
Compare the Best Reviews

Continued from above...

But here's a nugget of wisdom: buying the extended warranty directly from the dealer might not be your savviest move. Dealers often slap on hefty mark-ups, and their coverage might not be as comprehensive or flexible as you'd like. Fortunately, Canada boasts several reputable auto warranty companies, providing stellar coverage at competitive prices.

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what these extended warranty plans entail. Similar to car insurance, these plans range from covering just the major systems, like the powertrain, to offering comprehensive bumper-to-bumper protection, excluding only normal wear and tear. So, while they'll handle your in-dash electronics going haywire, don't expect them to foot the bill for your fresh set of brakes or wiper blades.

As you embark on the quest to find the ideal car warranty plan in Canada, keep these essential factors top of mind to guide your decision-making:

  • Coverage. Make sure you're crystal clear on what's covered and what's not. Opt for a plan that offers you the most coverage within your budget.
  • Service. Be aware of what you'll have to do to get repairs done. Is it required that you use an in-network mechanic, or is the repair shop of your choice fair game? Will you front the repair costs and turn in the receipts for reimbursement, or does the warranty company settle the bill directly with the mechanic?
  • Reputation. What's the word on the street as you look into customer experiences? Are claims processed smoothly? Does the provider enjoy a solid rapport with both customers and mechanics?
  • Price. How much will you pay for your auto warranty coverage? Is it a one-time lump sum or a monthly commitment? And, most importantly, how long before it kicks in - especially if your new vehicle still has a manufacturer's warranty lasting a year or more?

For a comprehensive rundown of your options in the Canadian car warranty marketplace, check out the reviews here at Top Consumer Reviews. Our experts have meticulously reviewed and ranked the best choices, arming you with the knowledge to pick the perfect plan for your vehicle. We're confident that your chosen warranty plan will provide the peace of mind that accompanies knowing you're covered when the unexpected road bumps appear!

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