OK…I am in the market for a used BWM, like a 325 series or something like that, do I need to be thinking about an extended auto warranty for this vehicle as well?

Josh, Houston TX

You really ought to think HARD about buying the extended auto warranty for a used BMW…if you can find a company that will extend warranty on them. those cars are EXPENSIVE to work on….and they tend to break down more often than Honda or Toyota etc. etc. if you get a used on…make sure it is not more than 4 years old and have a qualified BMW mechanic inspect it before you buy it. Start saving your money!

Donna,

Houston, TX

Dealerships act as the middleman between the consumer and the insurance company that backs the extended warranty, purchasing a policy from a warranty company and then turning around and selling the policy at a tremendous markup.

On average, dealerships markup the retail cost of warranties 25 – 80 percent. Dealers falsely refer to these Named Component car warranties as “bumper to bumper”, then name components covered. These auto warranties are ok, but leave out parts.

Glenn,

Denver CO

Roadside assistance often covers the cost of a tow truck and sometimes even the cost of a rental car to use while your vehicle is repaired. And anyone who has dealt with a breakdown while traveling can tell you that this is a very valuable service indeed! Roadside assistance is fairly common with all these warranty programs. Mechanical Breakdown warranties are what most auto dealers sell, but you want a “wear and tear” auto warranty that will cover much more.

Dan,

Atlanta, GA

Manufactures like Ford, GM, VW and many others are more established and they’re not going anywhere. However, extended manufacture warranties are more expensive, as much as 60% or higher, and the warranty plans are not that comprehensive.

Manufacturer-backed warranties score very highly when it comes to ease of use. However, after market warranties are often cheaper. Manufacturer-backed warranties score very highly when it comes to ease of use. However, aftermarket warranties are often cheaper.