Wingin' It!, Episode 62: RV Extended Warranties
We've gotten quite a few questions about RV extended warranties, so in this episode of Wingin' It!, we talk a bit about our experience with extended warranties, some things to look out for, and tips for researching the right extended warranty for you.
Mentioned In This Video:
National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) (Tell Them RV Texas Y'all sent you!)
To see more about our experience at the National RV Training Academy, check out our video playlist on our experience at the NRVTA.
If you'd like to see more of our thoughts on our Tiffin Breeze, we have a video playlist all about our experiences with this RV.
The following information about RV extended warranties have been provided by our friends at Wholesale Warranties. They specialize in Motorhome Warranties, Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Warranties, Pop-Up Camper Warranties, and RV Tire and Wheel Protection...
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RV Warranty Protection 101
Let’s face it, RVers love travel and all the experiences that come with it! We all dream about the places we want to go to next, and plan diligently what our travel itineraries will be. It’s easy to think about the fun stuff! Unfortunately, there’s also the not-so-fun stuff, like preparing for costly RV repairs. The problem is, RV breakdowns will happen whether we are ready for them or not, so it’s worth devoting a bit of time to preparing your budget and lifestyle for these inevitable bumps in the road. One way to do that? Consider an extended RV warranty, which will allow you to get ahead of these pesky repair costs.
So, that begs the question: what is an RV Extended Warranty?
An RV warranty or RV extended warranty is a contract that offers protection against mechanical breakdowns. It’s important to note that these “warranties” are not affiliated with the RV manufacturer but instead are administered through third party companies who write the contracts and handle claims. As such, they are truly “extended service contracts”, rather than a true warranty. Most RVers know them as extended warranties, though, so we’ll stick with that terminology throughout.
These warranties are also separate from your insurance, which covers bad weather, physical damages, collision, and accidents. RV warranties are an added protection package that covers electrical and mechanical component failures that your insurance won’t cover, making it the ultimate companion piece to your required comp/collision coverage.
What Does an RV Warranty Cover?
Protection varies across RV warranty contracts, but will generally include coverage for working mechanical components in the powertrain and/or coach of your unit. These can include things like your engine, transmission, appliances, heating and cooling systems, and water systems. If you were looking for the most extensive coverage, other components like leveling jacks, slide-outs, solar panels, and luxury electronics can be covered as well! If and when your mechanical components fail, your warranty will cover both the parts and labor. Labor costs vary from mechanic to mechanic, and from location to location as well, and these rates are only going up. As RVs become more complex, the need for skilled technician work increases, driving up labor rates across the US. Having your warranty pay for both parts and labor is a key function of reliable coverage. With these costs skyrocketing, the best way to save on RV repairs is ultimately not to pay for them…let your RV warranty pick up the tab!
Everyone has different needs and wants for their rigs. Coverage that might matter to one traveler, may not be a priority for you and your rig. Being able to choose what type of coverage you will need is personalization at its best! The variety of coverage that is available makes it easy for anyone to get a warranty. To get more information on options and to get a free quote personalized to you and your RV lifestyle, click here!
What Does an RV Warranty NOT Cover?
While your warranty will cover many components, it’s important to understand not everything will be covered. Exclusions include items such as lamps, glass, metal, fabric, and upgrades due to preference. Anything considered an aesthetic item, like furniture, windows, and paint, would also not be covered. Maintenance items and tasks, including oil changes, batteries, fluids, and lights, will also be excluded. This isn’t a reason to ignore maintenance, however! Check out a useful roundup of RV maintenance you should know about, especially before hitting the road.
Where Can I Purchase an RV Extended Warranty?
If you are in the market for a warranty, we suggest going with an online broker. It’s important that you do your research and go with a highly accredited company. As you begin looking into providers, check out online reviews to see what other RVers are saying about coverage, Facebook groups for RVers, community organizations like the Escapees RV Club, and advocacy groups like the Better Business Bureau. Going with a reputable company will ensure the legitimacy of the business, customer satisfaction, and the well-being of your home-on-wheels. We recommend Wholesale Warranties and suggest you give them a call to explore your options!
If you are purchasing an RV from a dealership, they will more than likely try to sell you their warranty protection policy. It’s always a good idea to get a comparison quote from an online provider, and be sure you are comparing like coverage. If you are purchasing an RV from a private party, or have a used unit, a policy through an online broker is a great way to protect your investment.
Added Coverage
Having peace of mind for the road ahead is priceless. A great added protection for every RV traveler is a reliable, 24/7 Roadside Assistance program. RV Roadside Assistance is essential when traveling, whether you’re close to home or on an adventure far away. Roadside Assistance features coverage like unlimited towing, lockout services, fuel delivery, flat tires, and more!
Another coverage option to consider is tire and wheel protection. We all know how expensive tires can be, now double that and you get the cost of RV tires! Adding this protection to the inevitable life span of tires will save you money in the future. This will take care of the cost of the tire and rim repair or replacement in the event that you encounter a road hazard while traveling.
RV warranties can be overwhelming at times, but failing to explore your coverage options could cost you big down the road. Companies like Wholesale Warranties feature RV Warranty Specialists that will walk you through your policy step by step, educate you, and provide ongoing support for the adventures that lay ahead.
Article written by Wholesale Warranties, the leading provider of RV Extended Warranties direct to consumer. With a focus on education, customer service and reliable coverage, Wholesale Warranties has established themselves as the premier option for RVers looking to protect the road ahead. To work with a highly trained RV warranty specialist on an RV protection quote for your home-on-wheels, please call 800-939-2806 or visit wholesalewarranties.com.