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Best Used Car Warranty Companies

Affiliate Disclosure: Automoblog and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase coverage from the extended warranty providers outlined here. These commissions come to us at no additional cost to you. Our research team has carefully vetted dozens of extended warranty providers. See our Privacy Policy to learn more. 

According to our research, Endurance, CARCHEX, Olive, CarShield, and Protect My Car are the best used car warranty companies overall in 2024.

Crash Course:

  • Third-party warranty providers tend to offer more options and flexibility than manufacturer used car warranties.
  • The average cost of used car coverage in 2024 is between $1,600 and $3,200, based on results from our most recent warranty survey.
  • When shopping for used car warranties, look for added benefits, excluded parts, and the repair shop network where it is accepted.

Featured Extended Warranty Companies

We reviewed the best extended auto warranty providers, and here are our top picks.

Best Overall Warranty Provider

4.6

  • Coverage:: 6 plan options, from routine maintenance to full coverage
  • Cost:: Several discounts available
  • Reputation:: Smooth claims experience as a direct provider
Affordable Monthly Payment

4.5

  • Coverage:: 6 plan options, some that last up to 300,000 miles
  • Cost:: Flexible month-to-month contracts
  • Reputation:: Most popular warranty provider
Best Warranty Provider for Used Cars

4.4

  • Coverage:: 6 plan options, the highest similar to a manufacturer’s warranty
  • Cost:: No down payment required
  • Reputation:: Strong BBB (Better Business Bureau) rating

A used car warranty can help protect owners of older vehicles from surprise bills and expensive repairs. But purchasing one isn’t the right decision for everyone, and some providers are more reputable than others.

Our research experts put together this guide to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about buying an extended warranty for your used vehicle. We’ll go over the ins and outs of vehicle service plans and take a look at the best extended auto warranty companies from our 2024 industrywide study.

Top Used Car Warranty Companies

After conducting thorough research, our team picked the providers listed below as the best used car warranty companies for 2024.

Top Rated Used Car Warranty Companies

Best Used Car Warranty CompaniesOverall RatingAwardCoverage LevelsHighest Mileage Limit
Endurance4.6Best Used Car Warranty Provider Overall6 coverage levels200,000+ miles
CARCHEX4.4Best Used Car Warranty for High-Mileage Vehicles5 coverage levels250,000
Olive4.5Best Used Car Warranty Subscription Model3 coverage levelsUnlimited
CarShield4.5Best Used Car Warranty for Specialty Coverage6 coverage levels300,000
Protect My Car4.4Best Used Car Warranty Included Benefits3 coverage levels200,000+
Omega Auto Care4.45 Coverage Levels250,000

In the following section, we go into further detail about each of these providers. Expand the section to learn more about these companies, the plans they offer, and their advantages and disadvantages.

#1 Endurance: Best Used Car Warranty Provider Overall

Endurance earned the top spot in our general auto warranty study, but it also makes a great option for used car warranties. As one of the only direct providers in the industry, Endurance offers high-quality coverage at affordable rates with a simple, straightforward claims process.

Endurance: Quick Facts

Year founded: 2006
BBB rating: Not rated
Number of plans: Six coverage levels
Highest mileage limit: 200,000 miles
Affordability: Endurance claims to save you up to 60% more than brokers
Featured plan: The EnduranceAdvantage plan covers cars up to 200,000 miles and is best for used vehicles and high-mileage vehicles

Endurance Pros and Cons

Endurance ProsEndurance Cons
Your choice of licensed repair facilityLack of customizable plan options
Endurance takes care of all claims itselfEndurance Elite Benefits are only free for one year
Covers up to 200,000 miles

Endurance Warranty Plans

Endurance currently offers six car warranty plans for drivers, which can cover 200,000 miles or more:

  • Supreme: This exclusionary bumper-to-bumper warranty provides maximum protection for your vehicle with only a short list of exclusions.
  • Superior: This vehicle protection plan offers the highest level of stated-component coverage.
  • Secure Plus: This plan offers drivers premium powertrain-plus protection and a short waiting period.
  • Select Premier: This option is designed specifically for high-mileage vehicles and protects the most essential components of your car.
  • Secure: The most affordable vehicle service contract offers basic powertrain coverage.
  • EnduranceAdvantage: This plan offers extensive component and maintenance coverage.

Endurance Warranty Benefits

Every Endurance auto warranty comes with roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage. Drivers also receive one free year of Endurance Elite Benefits. Some of this program’s perks include:

  • Tire repair or replacement
  • Key fob repair or replacement
  • Total loss protection
  • Collision discount

Read more: Endurance warranty review

Best Overall Warranty Provider

Our Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0

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(866) 990-3410

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#2 CARCHEX: Best Used Car Warranty for High-Mileage Vehicles

CARCHEX is one of the oldest and most respected warranty providers in the industry. And when it comes to used car warranties, it’s also the best, according to our 2024 auto warranty study. CARCHEX offers multiple coverage options for vehicles up to 250,000 miles at affordable prices and includes benefits like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement.

CARCHEX: Quick Facts

Year founded: 1999
Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating: A+
Number of plans: Five levels (21 available contracts from suppliers)
Highest mileage limit: 250,000 miles
Affordability: Monthly payment plans and $0 deductibles available
Featured plan: Platinum and Powertrain Plus plans are best for high-mileage cars

CARCHEX Pros and Cons

CARCHEX ProsCARCHEX Cons
Coverage can last as long as 10 yearsMultiple supplier contract options can be confusing
Affordability with small or no down payments and $0 deductiblesCoverage for hybrid vehicles costs extra
Strong customer reputation

CARCHEX Warranty Plans

Here’s an overview of the plans CARCHEX offers:

  • Titanium: This exclusionary plan is similar to a manufacturer’s warranty and covers all systems and components of your vehicle except for a few parts.
  • Platinum: This vehicle service contract offers the highest level of stated-component coverage.
  • Powertrain Plus: This vehicle protection plan offers essential coverage to major systems of your car.
  • Powertrain: This vehicle service contract provides basic powertrain coverage for your car’s engine and transmission.
  • Extra Care: This plan takes care of items like your car’s electrical system, steering, suspension, and brakes that aren’t part of the powertrain.

CARCHEX Warranty Benefits

All CARCHEX plans come with 24/7 roadside assistance, towing services, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage.

Read more: CARCHEX review

Best Warranty Provider for Used Cars

Our Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0

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On Our Partner’s Website

(866) 950-7122

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#3 Olive: Best Used Car Warranty Subscription Model

Rather than a multiyear plan, Olive allows users to sign up for month-to-month coverage that works on a subscription model, similar to Netflix or other streaming services. This allows drivers to initiate and cancel plans easily using the company’s convenient online platform. That makes Olive a great option for people who are unsure of whether or not they want extended coverage for their used car.

Olive: Quick Facts

Year founded: 2020
BBB rating: A+
Number of plans: Three coverage levels
Highest mileage limit: Unlimited
Affordability: Affordable, based on a subscription model that allows you to easily start and cancel coverage
Featured plan: Complete Care offers the most comprehensive coverage, with exclusionary coverage that rivals many factory warranties

Olive Pros and Cons

Olive ProsOlive Cons
Easy-to-use online platformDoesn’t cover rideshare vehicles
No waiting periodCoverage only available for up to three years at a time
Subscription model coverage is easy to start and cancel

Olive Warranty Plans

Here are the three levels of coverage you can get with Olive:

  • Complete Care: Exclusionary coverage for your vehicle. With very few exceptions, Olive’s top-shelf extended warranty plan compares to many factory warranties.
  • Powertrain Plus: Comprehensive stated-component coverage. This plan protects the same major systems as the powertrain plan along with many additional stated parts such as the fuel pump.
  • Powertrain: Powertrain-only coverage. Olive’s least expensive plan still takes care of the most vital parts of your engine and drivetrain.

Read more: Olive warranty review

Best Online Process

Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0

View Plans

On Our Partner’s Website

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#4 CarShield: Best Used Car Warranty for Specialty Coverage

CarShield is one of the few providers to offer coverage specifically designed for electronic components like GPS navigation systems, sensors, and entertainment systems. This makes the provider a strong option for owners of used luxury vehicles especially. With options for vehicles with up to 300,000 miles, CarShield is also worth considering for high-mileage used cars.

CarShield: Quick Facts

Year founded: 2005
BBB rating: D
Number of plans: Six coverage levels and 19 plans, including coverage for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
Highest mileage limit: 300,000 miles
Affordability: Month-to-month plans and $0 deductibles available
Featured plan: The Diamond plan is the company’s most popular because it’s comparable to a manufacturer’s warranty

CarShield Pros and Cons

CarShield ProsCarShield Cons
Competitive monthly ratesCatalytic converters aren’t covered
Offers specific coverage for high-tech and electrical componentsLower-than-average rental reimbursements

CarShield stands out from many competitors for its low prices and comprehensive coverage. The company has covered more than 1 million vehicles and its administrators have paid out over $1 billion in claims.

CarShield Warranty Plans

CarShield offers six coverage plans that can be paid in month-to-month installments. Here’s an overview of each plan:

  • Diamond: This vehicle service contract covers everything from engine and transmission failure to starter and fuel pump breakdowns.
  • Platinum: This plan is designed for high-mileage vehicles and protects your car’s engine, transmission, air conditioning, electrical system, starter, water pump, and fuel pump.
  • Gold: This vehicle protection plan covers major and minor vehicle parts, including your engine, transmission, water pump, alternator, and starter.
  • Silver: An affordable warranty option that provides powertrain coverage to your vehicle.
  • Aluminum: This vehicle service contract is geared toward covering most electrical and computer-related problems.
  • Motorcycle & ATV: This plan is designed to provide protection for specialty vehicles.

CarShield Warranty Benefits

CarShield plans come with 24-hour roadside assistance, courtesy towing after mechanical breakdowns, and rental car reimbursement.

Read more: CarShield review

Affordable Monthly Payment

Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0

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On Our Partner’s Website

(877) 265-5123

Or Call Our Partner Directly

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#5 Protect My Car: Best Used Car Warranty Included Benefits

Protect My Car offers some of the most flexible payment terms in the industry on highly rated coverage. But it’s the free tire rotations and oil changes that come with each plan that truly set Protect My Car apart. These services are not usually covered by extended warranty plans but can help extend the life of your used vehicle when performed regularly.

Protect My Car: Quick Facts

Year founded: 2005
BBB rating: C
Number of plans: Three plans
Highest mileage limit: 200,000
Affordability: Flexible terms make monthly payments affordable, and with options for $100 or $200 deductibles
Featured plan: The Ultimate vehicle service contract is the most comprehensive, offering optional coverage for navigation systems

Protect My Car Pros and Cons

Protect My Car ProsProtect My Car Cons
Oil changes and tire rotations are includedNot found in every state
Warranty and maintenance plans are available
Long payment terms available

Protect My Car Warranty Plans

Protect My Car offers three vehicle service contracts that can protect your vehicle for up to 200,000 miles. Here’s a breakdown of the plans:

  • Ultimate: This vehicle protection plan is similar to a manufacturer’s warranty and covers most major components of the vehicle.
  • Deluxe: This policy was designed specifically for cars with under 150,000 miles and covers many systems including the suspension, steering, and brakes.
  • Essential: This plan provides basic protection for vehicles that are up to 20 years old.

Protect My Car Warranty Benefits

All Protect My Car plans come with free oil changes and tire rotations that last for the duration of the contract.

Read more: Protect My Car review

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#6 Omega Auto Care

Omega Auto Care wraps up our list of the best used car warranty companies. This company stands out because it offers both maintenance coverage and tire hazard protection on all plans. These benefits can help you keep your car in good shape. Aside from that, Omega Auto Care offers five plans that run the gamut from factory coverage to basic powertrain protection.

Omega Auto Care: Quick Facts

Year founded: 1968
BBB rating: A+ with accreditation
Number of plans: Five plans
Affordability: Monthly payments are slightly higher with 24-month payment terms instead of 36. $100 deductible is cut to $0 if you use a RepairPal-certified mechanic.
Featured plan: The three Powertrain plan options can cover up to 250,000 miles, which is a long coverage limit for the industry.

Omega Auto Care Pros and Cons

Omega Auto Care ProsOmega Auto Care Cons
Plans include maintenance and tire protectionNot the cheapest monthly payments
Can cover up to 250,000 miles
Good customer service ratings

Omega Auto Care Warranty Plans

Omega Auto Care offers five plan options in total. The powertrain plans can cover up to 250,000 miles, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy your used vehicle without worrying about repairs. The Used Stated plan covers up to 150,000 miles, and the Exclusionary plan covers up to 100,000 miles. Here’s a breakdown of the plans:

  • Exclusionary: This plan covers almost any breakdown except for a list of exclusions.
  • Used Stated: This plan covers hundreds of components on many major systems like high tech, brakes, and suspension.
  • Powertrain Enhanced: This plan is good for high-mileage vehicles and covers the powertrain along with many other important parts like the A/C, fuel, and electrical systems.
  • Powertrain Plus: This mid-level powertrain plan covers the electrical system and some A/C components in addition to the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
  • Powertrain Protection: This affordable plan covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.

Omega Auto Care Warranty Benefits

All Omega Auto Care plans come with 24/7 roadside assistance, trip interruption, rental car coverage, maintenance coverage, and road hazard tire protection. This is more than what many companies offer.

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What Is a Used Car Warranty?

A car warranty covers the cost of repairing mechanical failures that happen within a certain coverage period. New cars come with factory warranties that average three years or 36,000 miles of coverage, though some last longer. An extended car warranty – also known as a vehicle protection plan or a vehicle service contract – is a plan you can purchase to maintain coverage after your factory warranty expires.

Do Used Cars Have Warranties?

Some used cars come with warranties from the dealership. In many cases, these are packaged with certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. These cars have been inspected by the dealership and are typically only a few years removed from their original warranty coverage.

In addition, some extended coverage plans transfer over to the new owner when a vehicle is sold. That means you may find used cars other than CPO vehicles that come with warranty coverage.

Can You Get a Warranty for a Used Car?

You can get a warranty for most used cars. Manufacturer extended warranties often have relatively tight mileage and model year restrictions. However, many aftermarket warranty providers offer plans for much older vehicles with hundreds of thousands of miles.

Should I Buy an Extended Warranty for a Used Car?

A used car warranty is well worth it for many drivers. But whether or not it’s worth it in your case depends on the vehicle and personal preferences.

Used Car Warranties: What To Consider

Here are a few points to consider when deciding whether or not a vehicle protection plan is worth it for you:

  • Financial value: Some cars are more likely to need repairs than others, and fixes are more expensive for certain models. The more likely your used vehicle is to suffer a mechanical breakdown, the more likely it is that you’ll use enough of your warranty coverage to make it worth the cost financially.
  • Expense management: For many people, making regular monthly payments is easier than setting aside thousands of dollars for auto repairs. If you prefer regularity with your expenses or have trouble saving, extended car warranties offer additional value.
  • Peace of mind: Covering your used vehicle with an extended warranty means not having to worry about whether you’ll be able to afford surprise repair bills. Protection plans for used cars can help make owning one a little more worry-free.

Used Car Warranty Costs

The cost of a used car warranty varies greatly based on your vehicle, the type of coverage you choose, and other factors. In our most recent auto warranty survey, around half of extended warranty customers said they paid between $1,600 and $3,200 in total for their coverage. The survey was part of our annual auto warranty study and collected answers from over 1,000 warranty customers around the U.S.

In the following sections, we’ll go over the main factors that affect the cost of used car coverage. We also provide sample quotes from our secret shopper study to compare.

Used Vehicle Warranty Cost Factors

A graphic using icons to show the most important cost factors for car warranties: type of vehicle, deductible, coverage, warranty provider, vehicle age, and mileage

Some of the key variables that affect the cost of a used vehicle service contract include:

  • Type of used car: Generally speaking, pricier and larger cars will cost more to protect.
  • Coverage deductible: When you can choose your deductible, setting it lower will increase the price of your plan.
  • Coverage plan: Coverage for more components will typically cost more than plans that only offer limited protection.
  • Warranty company: Coverage costs vary between providers, even for similar plans on the same vehicle.
  • Used car mileage: Higher-mileage vehicles are more likely to have mechanical issues. As a result, it usually costs more to cover them.
  • Vehicle age: Older cars are more likely to suffer from mechanical breakdowns than new ones, making warranties for aging models more expensive.

Used Vehicle Warranty Cost Estimates

Our research team obtained quotes from each warranty company for a 2018 Toyota Camry with 30,000 miles. Here are the prices we received from the top used car warranty companies:

Car Warranty ProviderPlan NameTerm LengthExtended Car Warranty Cost
EnduranceSupreme5 years/100,000 miles$4,500
CARCHEXTitanium5 years/100,000 miles$2,610
Protect My CarSupreme4 years/100,000 miles$4,572
CarShieldDiamond5 years/100,000 miles$99.99/month
OliveComplete Care3 years/185,000 miles$2,340*

*This quote for Olive is based on a 2013 Toyota Camry with 92,000 miles on it, so the actual warranty cost is probably slightly lower than the price you see here.

All of the warranties we obtained quotes for had deductibles of $100.

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How Does a Used Car Warranty Work?

An extended warranty works by covering car repair costs for items that fall under the coverage terms listed in the contract. Which components are covered depends on the type of warranty plan you purchase. These contracts also come with exclusions that dictate parts and sources of damage that the warranty won’t cover.

Types of Used Car Warranties

Extended car warranty companies offer a variety of coverage plans. However, the majority of these plans fall into three main categories. Expand the section below to learn more about each of these coverage levels.

Powertrain Warranty

This warranty type, also known as a drivetrain warranty, covers the engine, drive axle, transmission, and related components. Powertrain warranties are normally the least expensive since they don’t include electrical systems, brake parts, or heating and cooling systems.

Powertrain Plus Warranty

This common type of plan includes powertrain coverage and additional components such as air conditioning, electrical components, and the fuel delivery system. These stated-component plans offer broad protection for many listed parts but don’t have the same level of coverage as exclusionary warranties.

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty

Sometimes called exclusionary plans, a bumper-to-bumper warranty comes with a short list of components that are not covered, rather than a list of items that are. Bumper-to-bumper coverage is closest to the factory warranty plans offered by many manufacturers. Though more expensive, this vehicle protection plan can be the difference between a small deductible and a costly repair.

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Used Car Warranty Exclusions

Used car service contracts can cover a lot, but there are some things they almost never protect. Some of the most common used vehicle warranty exclusions include:

  • Wear and tear components such as windshield wiper blades, brake pads, and tires
  • Routine maintenance services like oil changes and wheel alignments
  • Damage from misuse
  • Damage caused by aftermarket parts and modifications
  • Preexisting damages
  • Damage caused by a collision

Some providers do include coverage for many of these items, but that’s an exception to the rule. Providing coverage for things like maintenance services and wear and tear parts is uncommon but a major benefit when part of a plan.

How To Shop for a Used Car Warranty

A vehicle service plan is a big financial decision. Like any other major purchase, it pays to be a smart shopper. Learning how to shop strategically for a used car warranty can help you find the best car coverage at a reasonable price.

Where To Buy a Used Car Warranty

If you want to purchase coverage for your pre-owned vehicle, you have a few choices. Which option is best for you depends on both your vehicle and personal preferences.

Used Car Dealership

Many used car dealerships offer warranty plans through partner providers. You may be offered one when you buy your vehicle.

In general, these plans are often marked up to make room for the dealer to make a profit. That doesn’t mean you should always ignore them, however. Many used vehicle dealerships will still sell you a plan at a later time, so you can compare their offers with those from other options before deciding.

Vehicle Manufacturers

Some used vehicles are eligible for an extended warranty from their manufacturer. Depending on the automaker, they can sometimes provide a strong value for the cost.

However, these plans also often come with key limitations. Most automakers require you to purchase a manufacturer’s extended warranty within a certain time frame – typically within the new vehicle factory warranty period. In addition, many of these coverage plans require you to have your car serviced at dealership shops, limiting your options for repair facilities.

Third-Party Used Car Warranty Providers

You can also purchase an extended warranty for a used vehicle from one of many independent coverage providers. These companies offer a few distinct advantages over your other options.

Advantages of Third-Party Used Car Warranties

Some of the biggest advantages of extended car warranties from independent providers include:

  • More choices: Most independent warranty providers offer greater plan options than what automakers typically offer.
  • Larger repair network: Aftermarket warranty providers allow you to get vehicle repair work done at any shop authorized by National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE®), including at your local neighborhood mechanic.
  • Purchase flexibility: While you typically have to buy an extended warranty from an automaker before your factory warranty expires, most third-party providers allow you to purchase coverage at almost any time. You can also purchase your coverage online or over the phone.
  • Free quotes: You can request free car warranty quotes from independent providers to let you compare rates and coverage options.

What To Look For in a Used Vehicle Warranty

Not all warranty providers and plans offer the same quality of service and value as one another. Many of the coverage plans you find online may look similar. But as always, the differences are often in the details.

There are a few things you should expect from an extended warranty provider and contract. These include:

  • Useful benefits: Roadside assistance and related services are included in most extended warranty plans. Make sure these perks are parts of your contract.
  • Direct pay policy: Find a service contract that pays for auto repair bills upfront rather than reimbursing you later. Reimbursement could take months in the worst cases.
  • Large repair shop network: Some extended car warranty companies don’t allow you to choose your own repair facility. A good third-party warranty will let you have your covered repairs done by any ASE-certified mechanic.
  • Reasonable deductibles: If a deductible is required, your car repairs should always cost more than the deductible.
  • Strong industry reviews: Search a company’s BBB rating to gauge trustworthiness and find common customer reviews and complaints.
  • Few and reasonable limitations: Is there a mileage limit or waiting period on the contract? Some companies don’t actually provide coverage for high-mileage vehicles.
  • Reliable underwriters: Service contracts underwritten by car insurance companies are more reliable, so stick to these. Insurance regulations require companies to maintain enough financial reserves to pay for claims.

These are all important factors to consider during your research. Don’t allow price to be your only driving factor as you buy an extended auto warranty.

What To Avoid When Buying Used Car Coverage

Just as there are many features to look out for in a service contract, there are also red flags to avoid. Poor-quality providers can be frustrating to work with and may not even deliver the services you agreed to.

Expand the section below to see some of the most important warning signs to watch out for.

Used Car Warranty Red Flags

If you notice any of the following signs, you can probably find a better plan or provider:

  • Pressure to buy coverage immediately over the phone
  • Contracts that don’t explicitly explain the claim process
  • Nontransferable warranties
  • Lack of roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, trip interruption service, or towing services
  • Contracts that don’t allow cancellations or have a 30-day money-back guarantee
  • No choice of repair facility or extreme limits when away from home
  • Sample contracts that aren’t readily available
  • Providers that seem like a scam and don’t have online reviews
  • Deceitful coverage

Before you agree to any contract, make sure to read it in its entirety – including the fine print. You may find details that make a used car warranty less useful or comprehensive than it seems at first glance.

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Best Used Car Warranties: Conclusion

A used car warranty can be worth the cost even if you don’t use all of the coverage you pay for. It can be a valuable tool for managing the expenses of owning an older vehicle and avoiding the stress and hassle of worrying about unexpected repair bills.

You have several options for where to get an extended warranty for your used vehicle, but third-party providers tend to offer the most flexibility and options. Our editors named CARCHEX and Endurance as the best warranty providers for used cars, but any company that made our top six is worth looking into.

Which provider offers the best price and plan for you depends on your vehicle and preferences. Comparing multiple offers can help you make the right choice for a used car warranty.

Pre-Owned Car Warranties: Additional Reading

To help car owners make an informed decision about warranty providers, our researchers conducted several head-to-head reviews of top companies in the industry. These include:

If your used vehicle has a lot of miles on it, our team also took an in-depth look at the best extended warranties for cars over 100k miles. You’ll find reviews of the best coverage plans for high-mileage cars to help you make the right choice.

Used Car Warranty Companies: FAQ

Here are a few frequently asked questions about buying used car warranties.

What are the top-rated extended auto warranty companies?

Our research team named Endurance, CARCHEX, Olive, and CarShield as some of the best auto warranty providers. These companies earned that distinction based on their services, reputations, and cost.

Is it worth getting an extended warranty on a used car?

Cars become more prone to mechanical breakdowns as they age, which means more time spent in the repair shop. An extended warranty on an older vehicle can help offset these out-of-pocket costs, but there’s no guarantee that a protection plan will cover every repair. It may be less worth it to buy an extended warranty for used vehicles with a strong reputation for reliability, such as models made by Honda and Toyota.

How much is an extended warranty on a used car?

An extended warranty on a used car can cost as little as a few hundred dollars to as much as several thousand. It depends on the car, plan provider, length and amount of coverage, and deductible.

Will my extended warranty coverage start right away?

Most extended warranties don’t start until after 30 days or a certain number of miles, usually either 1,000 or 3,000.

What is an aftermarket warranty?

An aftermarket warranty is coverage from a third-party company. These warranties don’t always use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. This shouldn’t have serious effects, but it’s often better to have parts that are specifically made for your car model.

Can you buy an extended warranty on a used car?

You can buy an extended warranty on a used car from a wide variety of sources. Some car manufacturers offer their own extended warranties, but you can also purchase coverage from one of many reputable used car warranty companies on almost any vehicle.

Is there a 30-day warranty on used cars?

Some states, such as California, have laws that require a certain category of car dealerships to have a 30-day warranty on used cars that they sell. However, the vast majority of states and used car dealers don’t fall under these laws.

Can you take a car under warranty to any dealership for repairs?

If you have a manufacturer’s warranty, you’ll most likely need to take your car to the dealership for repairs. However, with most third-party used car warranty companies, you can take your vehicle to the certified repair facility of your choice.

Do car warranties transfer?

In most cases, car warranties transfer when the vehicle changes ownership. A used car warranty is attached to the vehicle identification number (VIN) and will cover repairs for the duration of the warranty period, as long as its premiums are paid for.

Is a used car warranty the same as mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI)?

Used car warranties and MBI policies serve the same purpose in that they cover the cost of unexpected car repairs due to mechanical failure. However, MBI policies are typically add-ons sold by car insurance companies, whereas used car warranties are sold by auto manufacturers and independent providers.

Who has the cheapest used car warranty?

Olive was the cheapest option overall for used car coverage in our 2024 warranty study. You’ll also likely find affordable rates from CarShield and Concord Auto Protect. Remember that because prices are individualized, these providers may not be the cheapest for you and your vehicle.

Our Methodology

Our expert review team takes satisfaction in providing accurate and unbiased information. We identified the following rating categories based on consumer survey data and conducted extensive research to formulate rankings of the best extended auto warranty providers.

  • Industry standing: Our team considers Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, availability, and years in business when giving this score.
  • Coverage: Because each consumer has unique needs, it’s essential that a car warranty company offers an array of coverage options. We take into account the number of plans offered by each provider, term limits, exclusions, and additional benefits.
  • Affordability: A variety of factors influence cost, so it can be difficult to compare quotes between providers. Our team performs ongoing secret shopper analyses for different vehicles, mileages, warranty plans, and locations to give this rating.
  • Transparency: We consider the transparency of each company’s contracts and the availability of a money-back guarantee when determining this score.
  • Customer service: Reputable extended car warranty companies operate with a certain degree of care for consumers. We take into account customer reviews, BBB complaints, and the responsiveness of the customer service team.

*Data accurate at time of publication.