Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty: Do You Need It? (2024 Guide)
A bumper-to-bumper warranty plan provides you with the most comprehensive coverage available for your vehicle for a set period of time and mileage limit.
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The Gist:
- Bumper-to-bumper warranties cover nearly all vehicle components if there’s damage caused by defective parts or faulty workmanship.
- New cars come with a bumper-to-bumper warranty but extended coverage can be purchased.
- Endurance, Olive, CarShield, and Carchex offer some of the best extended bumper-to-bumper warranties on the market.
Every new vehicle comes with a bumper-to-bumper warranty, but what exactly does this warranty coverage entail? In this article, we’ll closely examine what’s included in a bumper-to-bumper warranty, how coverage works, and what can void this protection.
Our team of experts has combed through the aftermarket auto industry to find the best extended car warranty companies. Our recommendations can help if you’re considering getting a bumper-to-bumper extended warranty when your initial factory coverage expires.
What Is A Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty?
A bumper-to-bumper warranty is a manufacturer-backed plan that comes with a new car and covers the repair and replacement of the vast majority of your vehicle’s parts. However, the new vehicle limited warranty usually only pays for repairs caused by defective parts or workmanship errors. This means that bumper-to-bumper warranties provide protection in the case of mechanical breakdowns under regular use of a vehicle.
New Car Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty
Bumper-to-bumper new car warranty plans expire at certain mileage or time limits and are typically included in a factory warranty as part of a new car purchase.
Coverage generally lasts for three years or 36,000 miles with many well-known automakers, though some offer longer terms.
Manufacturers have many names for the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Ford and Hyundai offer new vehicle limited warranty plans, whereas Lexus calls its coverage a basic warranty. The details of your plan, including the length of coverage, vary by car manufacturer.
Bumper-To-Bumper Extended Warranty
Once your factory warranty ends, you’ve got two options if you want to extend your vehicle’s coverage. You can buy an extended car warranty through the automaker or a third-party provider.
Purchasing extended warranty coverage from the dealership is something a salesperson will likely bring up when you’re buying a new car. That’s because you can generally only purchase an extended warranty from the manufacturer before your original factory warranty expires.
Third-party companies offer vehicle service contracts similar to a manufacturer’s extended warranty but tend to provide greater flexibility at lower costs. In addition, a third-party extended warranty can be bought at any point in your car’s life – even if your new car warranty has expired.
Bumper-To-Bumper Warranties
A bumper-to-bumper warranty provides coverage for major vehicle systems. While bumper-to-bumper warranties usually offer full coverage of car components, exclusions vary by the automaker. The best way to check what’s covered is by carefully reviewing your warranty contract.
Since bumper-to-bumper warranties cover hundreds of parts, many manufacturers write exclusionary terms into car warranty coverage. This means that your warranty contract will specifically list any parts that are ineligible for repairs.
Alternatively, a warranty can offer stated-component coverage, where the manufacturer only lists parts covered for repair or replacement. You’ll often find various levels of stated-component coverage from both manufacturer and third-party extended warranty plans.
What Does A Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Cover?
Here are some components usually covered by a bumper-to-bumper warranty:
- Air conditioning and heating
- Engine cooling system
- Steering
- Electrical systems
- Suspension
- Entertainment, audio, and high-tech systems
- Powertrain components (for the duration of the powertrain warranty)
While a bumper-to-bumper warranty offers protection for most major components of your car, it has its limits. For example, coverage is only for problems caused by defective parts or workmanship errors. Issues caused by neglecting regular maintenance are not covered.
What Does A Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Not Cover?
While a bumper-to-bumper warranty takes care of repair costs for a number of components, not everything is backed in this coverage. Here are a few common exclusions:
- Normal wear and tear items: This includes components like brake pads and drums, tires, rotors, interior trim and upholstery, seat belts, paint, and windshield wiper blades.
- Routine maintenance: This includes oil changes, tire rotations, wheel alignment, and any scheduled services.
- Automotive glass: Common exclusions include windshield glass, headlights, brake lights, windows, and turn signals.
- Damage: This includes damage from a car accident, environmental hazards, or problems stemming from owner neglect or abuse.
What Voids A Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty?
Bumper-to-bumper coverage can be voided for many reasons including:
- Vehicle misuse: Racing, off-road driving, and going over the weight limit of the car can result in voided coverage. The warranty provider will decide coverage based on the vehicle’s condition or problems.
- Tampering with the odometer: If you disconnect, damage, or replace your odometer and your mileage can’t be read, then your warranty coverage may be removed.
- Salvaged titles: If your car was declared a total loss or has a salvage title at any time in its history your warranty coverage will be voided. This is especially important to keep in mind when purchasing a used car, so we recommend getting a vehicle history report to ensure it can be covered under a warranty.
What Is Powertrain Warranty Coverage?
Another common car warranty is powertrain coverage. A powertrain warranty backs the most essential components that make your vehicle run.
Common items found in a powertrain warranty include:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Fuel pump
- Drivetrain
- Transfer case
- Seals and gaskets
- Drive axles
You’ll need to contact your manufacturer or extended warranty provider to find out exactly what your powertrain warranty covers. Generally, powertrain coverage outlasts your bumper-to-bumper warranty due to the importance of the parts it covers. Many automakers offer five years or 60,000 miles of factory powertrain coverage, but others offer longer terms and higher mileage limits.
Best Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty
The average factory bumper-to-bumper warranty lasts for around three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. After that, you’ll be on your own when dealing with unexpected repair costs unless you opt for an extended warranty coverage plan.
It’s good to note that the length of a bumper-to-bumper warranty will vary depending on your car’s manufacturer. See the table below for a closer look at bumper-to-bumper warranty term lengths for major automakers:
| Car Manufacturer | Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty | Powertrain Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Buick | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Chevrolet | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Chrysler | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Dodge | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Ford | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| GMC | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Honda | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Jeep | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Mazda | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Nissan | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Ram | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Subaru | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Toyota | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Acura | 4 years/50,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
| Alfa Romeo | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Audi | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| BMW | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Cadillac | 4 years/50,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
| Fiat | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Land Rover | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Lexus | 4 years/50,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
| Lincoln | 4 years/50,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
| Lucid | 4 years/50,000 miles | 8 years/100,000 miles |
| Mercedes-Benz | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Mini | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Polestar | 4 years/50,000 miles | 8 years/100,000 miles |
| Porsche | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Tesla | 4 years/50,000 miles | 8 years/100,000-plus miles |
| Volkswagen | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Volvo | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Infiniti | 4 years/60,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
| Genesis | 5 years/60,000 miles | 10 years/100,000 miles |
| Hyundai | 5 years/60,000 miles | 10 years/100,000 miles |
| Jaguar | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Kia | 5 years/60,000 miles | 10 years/100,000 miles |
| Mitsubishi | 5 years/60,000 miles | 10 years/100,000 miles |
| Rivian | 5 years/60,000 miles | 8 years/175,000 miles |
As can be seen, coverage lengths are fairly standard across the auto industry. The longest bumper-to-bumper warranty plans last for five years or 60,000 miles and are provided by Hyundai, Genesis, Jaguar, Mitsubishi, Rivian, and Kia.
Extended Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Costs
Our research on the aftermarket warranty industry found that the average cost of a third-party bumper-to-bumper extended warranty is $3,124 in total. If you don’t pay upfront for coverage, there are payment plans that average about $120 per month.
Bumper-To-Bumper Extended Warranty Prices
Bumper-to-bumper warranty plans are included as part of the manufacturer’s warranty, which is in turn folded into the price of a new car. Compared to a third-party protection plan, buying a manufacturer’s extended warranty usually comes with a higher price tag, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find costs online. Instead, you’ll need to contact a dealership to receive quotes for a manufacturer's extended warranty.
To get a better sense of how much a bumper-to-bumper extended car warranty costs, we reached out to leading third-party warranty companies for free quotes on a 2018 Honda Civic with 30,000 miles. Our warranty experts were given quotes with the following prices:
| Warranty Company | Protection
Plan | Warranty
Length | Cost
Per Month | Down
Payment | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Endurance | Supreme | 6 years/
71,000 miles | $98
for 24 months | $20 | $2,352 |
| CarShield | Diamond | 5 years/
70,000 miles | $110
monthly | First month’s
payment | Varies |
| Protect My Car | Ultimate | 4 years/
unlimited miles | $100
for 36 months | $100 | $3,600 |
| Carchex | Titanium | 7 years/
125,000 miles | $167
for 18 months | First month’s
payment | $3,001 |
All of the bumper-to-bumper warranty plans we obtained quotes for include deductibles of $100. While Endurance was easily the cheapest option, its coverage length is eclipsed by that of Carchex.
Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Deductible
If you end up needing a covered repair during the lifespan of your car’s factory warranty, check your warranty contract to see if you’ve got a deductible. The deductible is the amount of money you must pay upfront at the repair shop before a warranty covers the rest.
Deductibles usually range from $0 to as high as $250 depending on the automaker. However, some plans include vanishing deductibles, which means your upfront payment is waived if you get service done at a specific dealership.
Factors That Affect Extended Warranty Costs
Extended warranty costs will vary from vehicle to vehicle depending on a few key factors. See the infographic below for some factors that can affect your total price.
Is An Extended Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Worth It?
Getting an extended warranty can provide peace of mind on the road and be a smart way to budget for unexpected auto repair costs. Many warranties include additional coverage such as roadside assistance and towing services, which can make mechanical breakdowns less stressful to deal with.
Even so, deciding whether to buy an extended bumper-to-bumper warranty hinges on factors such as the reliability of your car, the overall cost of the warranty, and the company that will be providing repair services. For example, foregoing coverage and paying for repairs out of pocket may save you money in the long run if you’ve got a reliable car since it’s less likely to break down. However, if your car isn’t as reliable and a bumper-to-bumper plan is affordable, it may be the best choice for you.
Where Can I Buy A Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty?
You can purchase a bumper-to-bumper extended warranty from a third-party provider or your vehicle’s manufacturer. There are advantages and disadvantages to each. If you decide to purchase an extended warranty from a manufacturer, it typically must be done before your limited factory warranty expires.
Factory warranty extensions can give you perks like specialized technicians and access to genuine manufacturer parts, but these service plans are pricey. If purchased along with a new car, you may pay interest as part of your vehicle financing for potentially unneeded repairs.
By contrast, third-party bumper-to-bumper warranty providers tend to offer greater flexibility. You won’t be limited to repair services from your local dealership, there are far more plans to choose from, and you can even get an extended warranty for cars over 100,000 miles. Third-party vehicle service contracts typically offer similar coverage for lower costs overall and can be bought at any time.
It should be noted that if you choose a third-party option, consider the reputation of the company. Look at reviews from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot to search for recurring issues and learn how customer complaints are handled.
Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Benefits
Most major third-party warranty providers and manufacturers offer bumper-to-bumper extended car warranties that come with perks like:
- Courtesy towing: This provides coverage for towing to the nearest dealership or the certified repair facility of your choice if you have a third-party warranty.
- Roadside assistance: This covers services like lockouts, battery jump-starts, and emergency fuel deliveries.
- Rental car reimbursement: This coverage pays for alternative transportation while your vehicle is in the repair shop for a covered service.
- Trip interruption coverage: This reimburses you for meals and lodging if your vehicle breaks down far from home and you have to stay overnight while it’s being repaired.
Reasons To Avoid A Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty
If your car has a solid factory warranty that will last a long time, buying an extended warranty may not be right for you. You might be better off saving the money for potential auto repairs, especially if you’re only planning to keep the car for as long as the factory warranty lasts.
Bumper-To-Bumper Warranties: Our Take
If you’re looking for most parts on your vehicle to be covered, an extended bumper-to-bumper warranty could be a smart buy. However, the value of an extended warranty depends on your particular situation and the provider you choose. We recommend that you compare quotes for bumper-to-bumper warranties from multiple providers to make sure you find the best deal.
Best Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Providers
Our team selected Endurance and Carchex as two of the best extended bumper-to-bumper warranty providers thanks to their extensive coverage offerings and strong customer reviews.
Endurance: Best Plan Offerings
Endurance offers some of the most comprehensive warranty plans in the business. The company is a direct provider of warranties, meaning it manages claims and coverage rather than contracting services to a third-party.
Endurance has six plan types that range from bumper-to-bumper coverage to plans that pay for repairs for only the essential powertrain components. All customers get one free year of Endurance Elite Benefits, which includes perks such as tire repair and replacement. Endurance warranty plans are available in all 50 states, including California, where it offers mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI).
Learn more: Endurance Warranty Review
Carchex: High Mileage Limits
If you have an older car that you want to keep on the road, Carchex may suit your needs. It’s our top choice for a used car warranty since it offers coverage for up to 250,000 miles and has consistently low pricing.
What makes Carchex truly stand out is its solid reputation after more than 20 years in the industry. The company is accredited by the BBB and holds a stellar A+ rating on the site.
Learn more: Carchex Warranty Review
Bumper-To-Bumper Warranty Coverage: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about bumper-to-bumper warranties:
Is a bumper-to-bumper warranty worth it?
A bumper-to-bumper warranty can add peace of mind if you’re worried about paying for expensive repairs. Third-party providers also tend to include perks such as rental car reimbursement and 24/7 roadside assistance in their plans.
What does a bumper-to-bumper warranty not cover?
Most bumper-to-bumper warranty offerings have a short list of exclusions. Common items not backed by a bumper-to-bumper warranty include damage from a collision or the environment, wear and tear items, and routine maintenance needs.
Does a bumper-to-bumper warranty cover body damage?
Body panels are usually excluded from a bumper-to-bumper warranty, although they may be covered in the event of rust if a vehicle’s factory warranty includes corrosion protection.
Does a bumper-to-bumper warranty cover struts and shocks?
Parts such as struts and shocks are considered wear and tear items and are not typically covered under a bumper-to-bumper warranty. But as part of the suspension system, there may be coverage if struts or shocks break down earlier than expected.
How many miles is a bumper-to-bumper warranty?
The most common coverage period for a limited bumper-to-bumper warranty is three years or 36,000 miles, but some carmakers offer coverage for five years or 60,000 miles. The length and mileage limits of a new car bumper-to-bumper warranty differs by automaker.
What does a bumper-to-bumper warranty cover?
A bumper-to-bumper warranty covers the most parts of your vehicle after a mechanical breakdown. Components that are typically covered include your engine, transmission, fuel system, steering system, braking system, electrical parts, and safety equipment such as airbags.
What vehicle has the best bumper-to-bumper warranty?
We found that Hyundai, Genesis, Jaguar, Mitsubishi, Rivian, and Kia offer the best bumper-to-bumper warranties for new cars. Each covers new vehicles for five years or 60,000 miles under the new vehicle factory warranty.
Does bumper-to-bumper cover maintenance?
No, a bumper-to-bumper warranty does not cover routine maintenance. You will need to keep your car running in good condition or your warranty may be voided.
Where do I get my car repaired with an extended warranty?
With a manufacturer’s extended warranty, you can usually get repairs done at one of the brand’s dealerships. On the other hand, if you choose a third-party extended warranty, you’ll be able to choose from repair shops certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE®).
Does a bumper-to-bumper extended warranty cover bumpers?
Front and rear bumpers are not usually covered under a factory warranty or aftermarket warranty because plans don’t cover dents or scratches. If your bumper is damaged, consult with your car insurance agent to see if it’s covered under your policy.
How We Rate Warranty Providers
Our review process aims to deliver consistent and unbiased assessments of extended auto warranty providers. While there are multiple qualities that make a warranty company successful, our review team focuses on those we believe are the most important for consumers:
- Reputation: It’s important that an extended car warranty company is able to meet its claims obligations. Companies with a strong rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) score well in this category. Established providers with a long history of reliable service also receive positive marks.
- Coverage: Our team of experts looks at the number of extended warranty plans available, as well as term limits, exclusions, and added benefits like roadside assistance. Ratings also take into account the availability of maintenance coverage.
- Price: Cost can be difficult to compare between providers because so many factors impact vehicle service contract pricing. To determine our cost score, we perform a secret shopper analysis for a variety of vehicles and plans and consider available deductibles.
- Transparency: Our team evaluates the availability and transparency of each company’s contracts, as well as whether each provider offers a money-back guarantee.
- Customer Experience: We listen to real customer sales calls and comb through reviews on sites like the BBB to learn about customer experiences. Warranty companies with a low volume of complaints score well in this area. We also consider the availability of mobile apps and chat features.
*Data accurate at time of publication.
