Generally, when people buy "certified, pre-owned vehicles," they are offered the remainder of the original warranty, with extended warranty service tacked on for an extra fee as well. Before shoppers visit their local car dealerships, it's a good idea to check for an extended warranty quote online because it can be used as a good bargaining chip and a gauge of how much the extra coverage should cost. Some people feel comfortable with the word "certified" affixed to their purchase, but this term isn't a fail-safe guarantee, especially if the vehicle has a history of longstanding manufacturer defects, such as with a Jeep or Land Rover.

First, consumers should check to find out who is backing the extended warranty service. Is it an independent company or the vehicle manufacturer? Generally, manufacturer-based used car warranties are ideal, known for the easy-to-use guarantee. With an after-market extended car warranty, the owner will need to read the stipulations to ensure that everything is covered. For example, some companies require that owners call before the work is done. Some companies require regular oil changes and fluid top-ups for work to be covered. Depending on the arrangement, sometimes the company pays the auto mechanic directly, whereas other times the warranty company pays the car owner back later. Reading and understanding the agreement is crucial in preventing unpaid claims.

As a secondary step, find out if there are any limits on where you can take your vehicle. Some extended warranty service plans mandate that consumers return to the dealer or to a web of company-certified mechanics for service. This may or may not be a big deal. If the consumer has no loyalty to a particular mechanic, then this might not matter. Although, it's good to know these kinds of things before getting the work done! Additionally, some extended warranty plans ask for the consumer to pay the bill and send the receipt in for reimbursement, which can take months in some cases.

Lastly, some extended warranty service covers bonus travel expenses, which is a good perk for heavy drivers or those who frequently use their car for out-of-town or out-of-state trips. If customers pop a tire, lock their keys in the car or have a dead battery, then a mechanic will come out and fix the problem at no extra cost. In some cases, hotel rooms, meal expenses, towing fees and rental cars may also be covered. AAA-style trip routing is also available under some extended warranty plans. While it may not "make or break" the deal, per say, it's still a good feature to be aware of, if the need ever arises. After all, peace of mind is what drives most people to purchase extended warranty service in the first place.

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