Forum Discussion

tropical36's avatar
tropical36
Explorer
Jun 12, 2016

Extended Warranties

I know that this has been around the block many times and I have always advised against them. Especially since we always had a gas coach. They've seemed to cause a lot of pain and suffering with coverage denials, along with the initial and hefty monetary bite.
Now that we're planning on going with a DP, I'm beginning to wonder, cuz you sure aren't about to replace a CAT C9 for 3 grand or so.
Anyway your thoughts and testimony if you have some first hand experience with a reputable company. Seems that there are good and bad ones and not all created equal, so which are the top names in this field?

29 Replies

  • Thanks for all the replies, so far.
    First, let me say, it's not a matter of not being able to pay for a catastrophic failure and I consider being able to do that and affording it, in two different categories.
    Putting it mildly, I don't like parting with my money, but do like having some peace of mind and wouldn't even consider it, with a gas coach. Now, yes, buying a warranty is parting with your money and having to do so up front, in fact.
    Doing certain work, is something I've always done and would rather do so, than have the hassle of a claim and having to drive it somewhere for a hopefully good experience.
    As I said, I've always been against them, but in this instance, wanted some opinions, so keep them coming and especially with these company names, as I don't even know which one they will try selling me on, when we pick it up.
    By the way, how many of you have had serious diesel engine problems and if so, CAT, CUMMING'S or other?
  • The basic rule of thumb on ESC contracts. YOU USUALLY GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. So, if you look at a number of ESC companies and a few seem pretty low cost versus the others, THINK about why that is. Also, READ,READ, the contract about what is covered and what is NOT. THIS IS THE MOST COMMON COMPLAINT PURCHASERS HAVE. They THINK everything IS COVERED AND EVERYTHING IS not. ESC contracts are just like your Insurance company. They are betting you will not have to use it for the full amount and you are betting maybe you will. Some ESC's are exclusionary, they state what is NOT covered and everything else not listed is. Others are inclusionary, they state EXACTLY what is covered and everything else is NOT. There are NO GRAY areas in these contracts. If NOT specifically listed, then that item is not covered. The biggest pitfall is NOT getting or realizing they have upgraded clauses. Some, you have to pay extra for Slides/Jacks/WD/Steps and such. Not getting those optional coverages means you are not fully covered if you expected those extra items to be included. Doug
  • ROBERTSUNRUS wrote:
    :) Hi, Never, ever, ever buy an extended warranty unless it is from the manufacturer of the product.


    Why ? Just curious why you feel that way !

    I have one that is NOT thru the manufacturer and I've had very good service with it. In fact, I doubt you can get an extended service contract on a used unit thru the manufacturer.
  • :) Hi, Never, ever, ever buy an extended warranty unless it is from the manufacturer of the product.
  • I have always appreciated the peace of mind an extended warranty offers. I have had a few claims, and the size of the claims have helped balance the expense of the warranty. I have not really kept track of who is winning this race. Contact the folks at Wholesalewarranties.com. Steve and his crew will give you honest low pressure answers to you warranty questions, and the prices they offer are very competitive. JMHO on this. As for extended warranties as a class: You MUST follow all the rules in the contract. Claims must be made promptly, no work can be authorized or started prior to the claim approval. Many policies (mine) permit diagnosis naturally, and emergency repairs not to exceed $300 prior to approval. My experience is that approval, or rejection for additional information, is usually pretty prompt, on weekdays. During my two experiences with what I would consider major claims while with Wholesale Warranties went very smoothly. WW acted as my agent, I had to file the claim, but they helped me compile the required data, then they called me regularly to make sure the claim and repair were going smoothly. On the claim for my hydraulic jack failure the warranty company was not responding to the shops request to repair all 4 jacks because of damage when the one jack failed. WW spoke with the warranty company's CEO on my behalf and the claim was authorized. So there is my humble opinion. Happy Trails.
  • I think what nice polite people are saying is if you are living day by day and all your savings and money are gone at the end of the week you need a repair savings account especially if you own a DP. If you can afford to buy a MH and have money left in the bank you will be financially ahead not buying an extended policy. These extended policies have some purpose but at a cost for those living without back up savings caught in an emergency. Hope I said that without steping on too many toes. Bottom line. If you can't afford a major repair i.e. $20k without taking out a loan I would recommend an extended policy. Otherwise you will be money ahead without one. Don't pick on me. JMHO.
  • I have an extended service contract, and personally, I wouldn't be without one. Some people say take that money and put into some kind of account. I doubt many actually end up doing this. My contract covers 4 years of which I'm about 2 years into. I've had a lift pump replaced, ECM, and a plastic radiator tank. Considering the initial cost of the extended service contract, I'd be out about 1/2 of what I paid if I didn't have it. The main reason I have it, is in case of a major engine problem. I can't afford $20-30K out of pocket. Like any insurance, it basically boils down to a gamble. Me............I'm comfortable with having one, and wouldn't be comfortable without one...........cut and dry for me.
    By the way, if you decide get quotes, I'd highly recommend Wholesale Warranties, they've been very good.