Compare automotive extended warranties

You can find a discount extended car warranty or companies offering complete vehicle warranty services online (except in California).

I recommend: Make sure you have all the facts before signing with a discount extended car warranty service. If the salesperson tries to rush you or can't satisfactorily answer you questions, it's time to move on. Companies such as SmartAutoWarranty and AA Auto Warranty provide instant quotes for automotive extended warranties online, or you can speak with a service representative. AAA members also get discount warranty coverage.

Buy an automobile warranty from your dealer

Although this can be more expensive than purchasing an extended warranty directly from a warranty provider, you have the assurance that your vehicle model is covered.

I recommend: Check with your dealer to see if he offers extended warranties for your car. A few that do are GM, Ford, and Chrysler dealers. Unfortunately there are many car models that are hard to insure for repairs. These include automobiles with turbo-charged engines; 10- and 12-cylinder engines and vehicles that have a reputation for being expensive to repair such as Porches and BMWs.

Know your basic coverage vehicle warranty services

Almost every automobile sold today comes with some warranty coverage, but coverage differs from manufacturer to manufacturer.

I recommend: CarSmart.com and WarrantyHelper show you basic warranty coverage for all of the automobile manufacturers.

Cover used cars with extended vehicle warranties, too

There are several extended auto warranty providers that can cover you if you've purchased a used vehicle.

I recommend: Since used vehicles often come only with what's left on their warranties or nothing at all, it's a good idea to purchase coverage. A couple of the more reputable companies offering used car coverage include Warranty Direct and CarChex.