Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty - What do you get?

Warranties are generally a good idea for the average driver. Particularly people who drive regularly for work or enjoy a good road trip frequently. They offer drivers and car owners the opportunity to drive with peace of mind that they are covered in the event of a mechanical breakdown. However, not all plans are equal and they are offered on different tiers. Depending on what coverage level you are looking for, the systems or parts covered may vary. In this article, we are going to discuss what is covered under the so called bumper-to-bumper warranty plans and some equivalent options. Before we jump into what a bumper-to-bumper warranty covers, let's take a look at what they are, why they are called that colloquially, and then we will look at how they can benefit you.

What is a Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty?

Well, first off, the name that these plans carry is a bit of a misdirect. They are not truly called bumper-to-bumper warranties, that is simply a colloquial name given to them as they cover a large number of parts in the vehicle. They are sometimes referred to as exclusionary plans for the very same reason. They are in fact the comprehensive plans offered by the vehicle manufacturer. While an extended car warranty offered by a third-party is in fact a vehicle service contract and not a warranty. They simply offer a similar level of coverage and are often called a "warranty" in a more descriptive way rather than being its actual name. Both are plans that offer coverage for your vehicle in the event of a mechanical breakdown and are the most comprehensive coverage in their specific areas.

What does a "Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty" Cover?

Right, as we have mentioned, a bumper-to-bumper warranty refers to a plan that offers comprehensive mechanical breakdown coverage. Warranties themselves are offered by the vehicle manufacturer and can differ in terms of coverage of parts and the length of the coverage. For a warranty you will need to contact your vehicle manufacturer to get all you need on what options are available for your car model and year.

‍

Perhaps you are in the market for a coverage plan from a third-party provider. In that case you will be in the market for a vehicle service contract. There are a number of providers for these plans. The equivalent coverage would then be the most comprehensive plans. They typically range between 36,000 to 60,000 miles coverage or around 3 to 5 years. Though certain vehicles can get slightly longer running plans. The coverage takes care of a wide range of components, far more than the average powertrain coverage. The average most comprehensive plan covers all of the majority of systems in your car, including electrical components.

What is NOT covered:

• Windshield
• Wiper Blades
• Brake Pads
• Tires
• Body Panels
• Interior Trims
• Turn Signals
• Brake Lights
• Paint
• Regular Maintenance
• Accidental Damage

What does a "Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty" Cost?

Extended warranties as supplied by your vehicle manufacturer will differ in price. Factors like the model, year, and mileage will influence the price of the coverage. Again, you will need to contact your vehicle manufacturer to get a price on the plan or any other information you might need.

‍

A vehicle service contract has these considerations as well. The car make and model, the year, current odometer reading, and the expected yearly driving in miles. These factors influence which plan is best for you. It is difficult to narrow down what it could possible cost as an average for all vehicles. That said, we can take a look at three of the more popular vehicles in the US and have a look at the prices of those vehicle service contracts.

Ford F-150 2016 42,500 miles between $62 and $79 per month

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2016 42,500 miles between $58 and $69 per month

Ram 1500 2016 42,500 miles between $60 and $74 per month