True Auto Protection Extended Vehicle Warranty

Auto Warranty and Maintenance Blog

Minimizing Repairs on Used Vehicles

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Having a True Auto extended warranty for used cars is the best protection you can have against costly repairs. With that being said, there is more that you can do to avoid repairs, extend your vehicle’s life, and potentially raise its value. In addition to having an extended warranty, regular maintenance is essential to the vehicle’s longevity and keeping it out of the repair shop. The following are steps you can take to keep a car, truck, or SUV running its best:

· Avoid aggressive driving like slamming down on the gas to accelerate and hard braking. This will extend the life of the brakes, suspension, tires, transmission, and engine.

· Avoid driving in city traffic and for very short distances as much as possible. This extends the life of the brakes, transmission, and the engine.

· Keep the vehicles exterior and paint clean by regularly washing and waxing the vehicle. Removing pollution, sludge, and road salt will prevent rust and the corrosion of metal parts.

· Use seat covers and floor mats, condition leather seats, and keep your interior clean. Doing so prevents wear and tear and extends the life of the vehicle’s interior.

· Add thousands of miles to the life of the vehicle’s tires by keeping them properly inflated and rotating them regularly.

· Change the oil and filter in the vehicle according to the vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. This can add years and thousands of miles to the life of the vehicle’s engine, and this is possible the most important maintenance task.  

· Replace the vehicle’s thermostat and change the engine’s coolant based on the vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Doing this improves the vehicle’s performance, prevents overheating, and extends the life of the cooling system and engine.

· Change the vehicle’s transmission fluid and filter regularly based on the recommended service intervals. This extends the life of the transmission.

· Regularly replace the air filter, drive belts, and the spark plugs to improve the vehicle’s gas mileage and extend the life of the exhaust system and the engine.

· Replace the water pump and the timing belt based on the vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. This helps prevent damage to the engine’s internal components and prevents overheating while improving engine performance.

Even the most rigorous preventative maintenance schedule cannot prevent all repairs. Vehicle owners should have an extended warranty for used cars to help mitigate the cost of unexpected repairs. Here at True Auto, we offer a variety of coverage options so we can find one to best suit you! Call 877-397-1021 to learn more about how we can protect your vehicle!

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Topics: Warranty, Best Extended Car Warranties, Auto Warranties, auto extended warranty, extended auto warranty, True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection, Vehicle

Why November is a Great Time to Purchase an Auto Warranty

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why November is a great time to purchase a vehicle warranty


November is an excellent time to purchase an auto warranty, as we continue to draw closer to the colder winter months. Problems with your vehicle can occur at any time, and it is important always to be well-prepared and avoid any costly expenses. Choosing to purchase an auto warranty is an excellent investment for anyone that owns a vehicle, as winter is a common time to experience various issues with your car.

Here are just a few reasons why you should consider purchasing an auto warranty if you are still undecided:

#1 Engine Problems
The winter season is never easy on your vehicle and can cause you to experience a wide range of engine problems that can lead to expensive repairs. Often times the fluids will thicken due to the cold weather, which can cause potential damage to seals and hoses in your vehicle. Warming up your car for five minutes is an effective way to avoid this problem and ensure that your vehicle operates efficiently. Of course, sometimes you cannot prevent engine problems and purchasing a warranty can help you give you additional protection and ensure that you receive the best repair services available.

#2 Electrical Issues
Electrical issues with your car is another common problem with many vehicles during the cold winter months, as you can experience an electrical outage in a variety of different areas. For example, the power windows may begin not to work, or you may have issues with the automatic locks on your door. Fortunately, you can contact a repair service to fix any of these electrical issues without having to worry about any extra costs if you have a warranty.

#3 Dead Battery
A dead battery is a common problem that many vehicle owners face during the winter time, and it is always a good idea to keep your car in a garage if possible. Most manufacturer warranties will cover the battery, but it is important to have your battery checked any time you have routine service on your vehicle to ensure that you are well-prepared for the winter months.

#4 Malfunctioning Safety Features
Safety is always a top priority for anyone that owns a vehicle and malfunctioning safety features can lead to a wide range of problems. However, purchasing an auto warranty will keep you safe and protected, as you will receive immediate assistance without any delay, whether the backup camera system isn't working or if you have defected seat belts.

Understanding these common issues with your car during the winter months can help you avoid many problems and purchasing an auto warranty is an excellent choice for any vehicle owners. Instead of worrying about any surprise expenses, a warranty will ensure that you receive the best protection available from a wide range of problems, whether it is due to engine difficulties, electrical issues, malfunctioning safety features, or even a dead battery. An auto warranty will give you much-needed peace of mind and is a perfect choice during the month of November.

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Topics: car extended warranty, extended warranty, car warranty, auto warranty, Warranty, Best Extended Car Warranties, Auto Warranties, auto extended warranty, extended auto warranty, Engine and Transmission, Vehicle

Buying an Extended Warranty from a Dealership or Online?

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True Auto Vehicle Breadown Protection Car DashboardWhen shopping for an extended car warranty, you should expect to do a lot of research.

 
Any third party dealer is out to make a few dollars, so you should always know what your policy covers, as well as the year and mileage limit. With the exception of a manufacturing warranty, the two places to buy are either online or a dealership. While some online providers are going to have better reputations and motives than others, overall they're going to offer better deals than the average dealership.

The problem with going through a dealership for the extended warranty is that the salesperson or financial manager is trying to make a profit. Dealers make their profits on commission, and a hefty portion of that comes from extended warranties. Naturally, they want you to buy and they want you to pay as much as possible. Some dealerships will charge between 50 and 90 percent more for a policy than they paid for it. Disreputable dealers may tell you that they can't provide informative paperwork, can't make a customizable policy, and will get you a copy of the contract "after it's signed."

The upside to using a dealer is that they incorporate the extended warranty cost into your monthly vehicle payments. While that certainly is convenient, it may not be worth it for the added expense. You could buy through a dealership effectively if you did a lot of research, knew what deals you could get elsewhere, and were able to haggle with the salesperson efficiently. The process can be confusing and exhausting, though, so make sure you do your homework first.

Online extended warranties are easier to understand. Your options are laid out before you and you pick and choose accordingly. Choose a year or mileage policy and view it online before you sign. Make sure you know where your car can be fixed, whether it's paid for up front or reimbursed, and whether your policy specifies "damage" or "wear and tear." It's easy to compare these specifics from website to website, making it simple to research. It also keeps the sellers themselves more honest. Since commissions aren't involved, these third-party sites can offer warranties 40 percent less expensive than dealerships.

While passively accepting the policy offered by a dealership might seem easier, in the long run a little research can save a lot of money. Third-party websites offer cheaper deals with better overall coverage.
An Extended Vehicle Warranty Coverage Plan can cover the cost of repairs on certain parts, which means drivers won’t have to pay out of pocket, and they’ll save money at the auto shop.
 
Be sure to check out True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+ for more valuable vehicle information.
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Topics: car extended warranty, extended warranty, Warranty, auto extended warranty

Increase Your Car's Worth With These 5 Tricks

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Boost the overall value of your vehicle

As soon as a vehicle is purchased and drives off the dealer's lot, it drops in value. That is just part of the nature of vehicles. Very few vehicles end up more valuable than the original purchase price, and it typically takes decades for this to happen. For anyone who is looking to sell their vehicle and wants to do everything in their power to increase the car's value before selling, there are ways to boost the overall value of the vehicle. Small issues when selling a used car can drastically bring down the potential asking price. 

Put money back in your pocket 

  1. Vehicle TuneupTaking the vehicle in for a tuneup is a must. Buyers at a used car lot can spot common problems and knock all sorts of cash off of the price, while private buyers will want to have it inspected and likely not even buy the vehicle if there are substantial problems. A vehicle tuneup costs money up front, but it makes it much more valuable when selling (like selling a house, sometimes an owner needs to spend a little bit of money to receive a much better return). 

  2. New TiresNew tires can be an instant selling point, especially when selling a vehicle in colder climates where snow and ice are a problem. It is possible to keep an eye out for sales on new tires which instantly increase the value of the vehicle.

  3. DetailedDetailing the vehicle brings out the inner shine and gives it the roof to fender cleaning, inside and out. It increases its marketability and really catches the eyes of interested buyers. it is amazing how a little bit of cleaning can go a long way in boosting the asking price. 

  4. Print Out the Car FaxPrinting out the Car Fax can help when selling a vehicle privately. The main holdup private buyers have is not knowing the history of the vehicle. By having it readily available, car buyers now what to expect and are willing to part with more money when they know the vehicle has an excellent history. 

  5. Avoid the Extreme Add-OnsAdd-Ons can actually reduce the value of a vehicle as it alienates buyers away from the vehicle. Oversized rear fins, bright undercarriage LED lighting and other add-ons drop the value when selling the vehicle. 

Click HERE to request a FREE QUOTE from True Auto and find out how we can make you and your vehicle a priority. If your current warranty is about to expire, please consider True Auto for your future automobile extended warranty. 

If you read this and thought to yourself, "I want more of my money in my pocket" contact us today! Visit www.trueautoprotection.com or call 877-397-1022

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Topics: extended warranty, Warranty, Auto Warranties, auto extended warranty, vehicle warranty, used car, automobile warranty

Lemon Law: What You Need To Know from an extended warranty company

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Toyota Truck

 

 

When life gives you lemons, the common advice people give is to make lemonade. However, when it comes to automobiles and other consumer items that turn out to be lemons, the result may not be so sweet. If you have purchased a defective car or other product that is not functioning properly, you may have heard of the “lemon law” and wondered if you could get an explanation about it might protect you as a consumer.

 

Lemon laws are federal and state statutes that fall under the category of consumer protection laws. Each state sets up its own lemon laws, which vary in the ways that they are set up to protect people. In order to qualify, the car typically must have a major defect while still under warranty coverage and that cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts. For example, your car might be considered a lemon if it failed within the first two years or 24,000 miles and has been in the repair shop for 30 days out of a year. Consumers with cars that qualify are subject to getting a refund or a replacement vehicle.

 

Basically, the lemon law covers three aspects of consumer protection. First, the law will specify what types of vehicles are covered, such as motorcycles, mobile homes or cars. Second it will note the period of coverage, such as a certain number of years or the number of miles on the vehicle’s odometer. Third, the lemon law specifies how many times you have tried to get the car repaired and how long it was out of service during these repairs.

 

If you think that your car is a lemon, contact the attorney general’s office for your state to see if your particular situation is covered under the law. If your state’s lemon laws do not apply to your vehicle, you may be afforded protection under the national lemon law, also known as the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.

 

You will need to make detailed records of the types of repairs you attempted to make, and how long the vehicle was unavailable for you to operate. Contact the manufacturer or your dealer and mention that you are thinking of using the lemon law to make a claim on the car. If you cannot get satisfaction from the dealer or manufacturer, it’s prudent to contact a lemon law lawyer to assist you.

 

It can be frustrating trying to deal with a lemon car, with the time and effort you make to try to get it fixed as well as having to arrange for alternative transportation while the car is in the shop. Fortunately, the lemon law is designed to minimize the hassle and get you back on the road with a replacement car or a refund to buy another vehicle yourself.

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Topics: Best Extended Car Warranties, Auto Warranties, auto extended warranty, extended auto warranty, vehicle warranty, automobile warranty, car warranty quote, used car warranty

The Truth About Auto Extended Warranties

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Warranty guy

For more and more car and truck owners, stretching more time and miles from older vehicles has become a necessity.This trend is plainly visible to attentive drivers on most any highway.  One consequence of owning an older car or truck is the ongoing necessity of repair, particularly when these vehicles age out of their manufacturer warranties.  For any vehicle greater than five years old, the manufacturer's warranty is probably fading in their rearview mirror.  


However, the technology powering, driving and maintaining cars or trucks even a decade old remains complex.  The cost of repairs on older vehicles can climb quickly into a stratosphere most owners do not wish to reach paying completely out-of-pocket.  Whether it's an engine, drivetrain, electrical or structural issue, the prospect of a costly major repair forces many owners to consider choices for an auto extended warranty.  How can an owner know the truth about the auto extended warranty they are considering?  Certain principles, outlined as follows, can guide their decision. 

Learn the Truth About Auto Extended Warranties

First, know that an extended warranty is not an extension or duplicate of the manufacturer's warranty.  Instead, it is a separate service contract established between the purchaser and an administrator.  When purchased with a new vehicle, the cost is typically calculated at a fraction of the retail price paid and rolled into the total purchase.  The administrator may be the manufacturer, or a third party can be engaged.  Long term, this kind of extended warranty is least expensive relative to coverage, as the risk of repair within the first years of ownership is quite low.  A warranty purchased after the manufacturer's has expired is an "aftermarket" warranty.

Coverage within auto extended warranties is typically commensurate to the cost of the contract - in other words, very often "you get what you pay for."  Extremely low-cost contracts, just like bargain-basement insurance coverage, will be rife with exclusions or a high deductible that can lead to much greater out of pocket costs, or even total non-coverage of many parts or systems.  In addition, there is always the hazard of a low-cost administrator underpricing itself right out of business in the middle of many purchasers' warranty period, leaving no way for them to seek reimbursement of monies paid.

Variation in types of coverage are important to recognize.  Some administrators make fine distinctions between "mechanical breakdown" and "wear-and-tear" - purchasers should very carefully examine the language in these sections.  In this vein, "bumper-to-bumper" warranties are more properly called "exclusionary" warranties; that is, the coverage is for parts NOT listed, and the cost for the warranty climbs as fewer parts get excluded. 

"Named component" coverage is the opposite: it lists parts that ARE covered, a number that ranges from 50 to over 700, with the cost of the warranty climbing as more parts get named.  "Wrap" warranties are specialized, optional products that "wrap" coverage around new components or parts not covered by the vehicle's manufacturer warranty, as is often the case when powertrain warranties outpace the rest of the vehicle by years or thousands of miles.

In the end, purchasers should pay careful attention to the exact language of any contract they are presented, and they should know that no auto extended warranty will cover everything that can possibly happen - warranties rarely cover glass, bodywork or suspension, for example.  However, keep in mind that even minor systems in an older vehicle - antenna motors, an inboard DVD system - can require hundreds or thousands of dollars in parts and labor.  For these possibilities, sometimes eventualities, an auto extended warranty can be truly useful in savings of time, money and peace of mind.

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Topics: auto extended warranty

5 Extended Warranty Tips

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 Auto Warranty

The average new car costs over $25,600. With that cost, owner expect trouble free operation and longer vehicle life. So why are many turning to extended warranty plans? The answer is simple:they want to protect their investment. Here are a few simple tips you should keep in mind when considering an extended warranty.

1. Decide Whether You Really Need It

Most Manufactuers offer at least 3-year/36,00 mile bumper-to-bumper protection on their new products. In addition, many offer extended warranty coverage on engine and powertrain components and limited warranties on certified used cars. In most cases, these plans offer consumers excellent protection. However, if you drive more than 12,000 miles per year or plan to keep your vehicle for a long time, then an extended service plan might offer the kind of security you are looking for. 

Keep in mind it is less expensive to purchase the plan while the vehicle is still covered by the manufactuer's warranty. 

2. Choose a Provider

There are three basic organizations that offer extended warranties; automobile manufacturers, new and used car dealerships, and independent companies or third parties. As usual, it is up to the consumer to decide which is best for their circumstances, but here are a few of the pros and cons of each:

Manufacturer

  • Pros: Factory-backed dealer repair network nationwide. No haggling about repair,price, or components.
  • Cons: Highest upfrnt costs, and dealer network might be limited in your area.
Dealer
  • Pros: Lower up-front cost:but plan and service car at same place.
  • Cons:Usually only one service point. If they can't fix it, who do you call?
Independent
  • Pros: Lowest cost (usually between 30-50 percent less than manufacturer plan), most coverage choices, dealers, or local repair shops. Third-party warranty programs are usually their only business.
  • Cons: shop coverage might not be as promised. Some are 'here today, gone tomorrow" companies.
3. Know What to Watch Out For
Signs of a good plan:
  • Corporate credit card to pay for services
  • ability to choose dealership or independent repair shop
  • Warranty is transferable
  • Trip-interruption coverage
  • Free loaner car
  • BBB certified
Signs of a bad plan:
  • Out of pocket to cover repairs
  • Specific caps on repair costs
  • Large number of exclusions
  • Dealership pressure to purchase plan
  • Non-transferable
  • Company lacking strong track record of customer satisfaction
4. Select the Right Plan

Do you want bumper to bumper coverage? This is the most expensive up front option, but it offers the most coverage.
Selecting higher per-repair deductibles can decreases the initial cost of the plan, but if your vehicle ends up being trouble-prone, it can be more expensive  in the long run.
Read the fine print of the plan. What is covered and what isn't? Where can you have the repairs performed? Do you have to pay cash up front for the repair? Each plan/provider is different. Make sure the plan you select is right for your needs.
Some plans offer perks like roadside assistance, car rental reinbursment, and travel expenses, such as food and lodging, if your vehicle becomes disabled while you are on a trip. These services can come in handy if you travel for business or commute long distances to work.
Finally, call the customer service number. See how long the wait time is before you talk to a claims adjuster. Note their demeanor and willingness to discuss the plan.
5. Know the Bottom Line
Like all services, you get what you pay for in extended warranties. If you look for the most inexpensive plan out there, you probably aren't getting the coverage you need. But paying more isn't necessarily better. You have to read the fine print, make sure your needs are met, and feel confident that the plan will be there to protect you when repairs arise.
Click me
Bilek, Mark. "5 Extended Warranty Tips" 21 October 2005. HowStuffWorks.com. <http://auto.howstuffworks.com/buying-selling/cg-extended-warranty-tips.htm> 11 September 2012.
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Topics: extended car warranty companies, Warranty, Best Extended Car Warranties, Auto Warranties, auto extended warranty, auto car warranty, extended auto warranty, vehicle warranty, extended car warranty

Toyota recalls inspire regulations to standardize push-button ignition

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describe the imageLast year, Toyota had to recall 2.3 million vehicles for an issue that caused accelerator pedals to get stuck, leading to sudden unintended acceleration. Popular Mechanics reports that this problem caused a number of accidents, but while the issue has been handled, unintended acceleration can be caused by any number of things - such as defective throttle cables, cruise controls or even floor mats.

A new rule recently proposed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests that all vehicles equipped with push-button ignitions should be standardized so drivers will be able to easily turn off their vehicles in the event that their vehicles are accelerating unintentionally or if they leave the engine on, according to Bloomberg.

"At issue are drivers' inability to stop a moving vehicle in a panic situation, and drivers who unintentionally leave the vehicle without the transmission being 'locked in park,' or with the engine still running, increasing the chances of vehicle rollaway or carbon monoxide poisoning in an enclosed area," the regulator said in the proposal, the news publication reported.

The rule sets out to standardize the amount of time a driver must hold down a push-button ignition to disengage the engine. Even if the proposal becomes law, drivers will still be at risk of accidents, which is why it can be wise to purchase an extended car warranty/VSC. This way, drivers won't have to worry about the cost of repairs should they get into a car wreck.

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Topics: Best Extended Car Warranties, auto extended warranty, extended car warranty, automobile warranty

Used Auto Extended Warranty | Extended Car Warranties

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auto extended warrantyA car is one of the most valuable assets one can own. That is why a car extended warranty/VSC is so important. Purchasing an extended warranty/VSC will give you the peace of mind in knowing that this investment is safe and secure. An extended warranty/VSC will make sure that this investment stays in great shape, and runs smoothly for a long time. Repairing a car, or even performing a routine maintenance check, is almost always more expensive than the car extended warranty/VSC. Furthermore, if the car breaks down, the owner is on the hook for at least several hundred dollars. That is why it is important for a car owner, especially one of a commercial vehicle, to think about adding vehicle breakdown protection in addition to the extended warranty/VSC. 

A car extended warranty/VSC, especially on a used car, is extremely important to have. Most people who purchase a used car understand the inherent risk that comes with it. However, vehicle breakdown protection insurance will also cover the policy holder if their car breaks down on the road. Adding vehicle breakdown insurance will ensure that your extended warranty/VSC extends to breakdowns on the road, where a regular warranty would not. 

Purchasing a used car allows the vehicle's owner to drive a better car at a price much lower than the cost of a new vehicle. A used car with only a few thousand miles on it, is substantially less expensive than driving a new one off the lot. However, with this decrease in cost comes enhanced risk. Regardless of the quality of the vehicle at the time of purchase, there is simply no way of knowing that it will perform up to expectations. It is likely that something will go wrong, certain parts will need to be replaced, or worse, the car might breakdown on a busy highway or intersection. With a car extended warranty/VSC, one can feel confident that they have made the right purchase and that they are protected in case something does need to be replaced. Adding vehicle breakdown insurance ensures that the car owner is protected in the event of a breakdown. Extending the warranty/VSC of your used car and adding vehicle breakdown insurance will give you peace of mind, and make driving a new car exciting and fun without the risk. 


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Topics: car extended warranty, auto extended warranty, automobile warranty

How to Cancel an Extended Auto Warranty

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couple on computer   How exactly do you cancel a Vehicle Extended Warranty? Read below to find out how! 

Finance managers tend to make quite a profit when it comes to any given auto extended warranty. As a consumer, you may have decided that you've gotten a raw deal. Whether it's because you think you're paying too much, you won't need the security buffer, or you would rather cover repair expenses yourself, you may want to cancel your warranty.
   The good news is that you can cancel your auto extended warranty at any time, for any reason, and don't believe anyone who tells you otherwise. The bad news is that the previously mentioned finance managers don't want you to do so. Everyone involved in the car dealership business made a profit from you, and the finance manager may lose his profit or commission if you cancel your policy. Know your rights. You are allowed to cancel, and if it's within 30 days of purchase you can get the entirety of your money back. After 30 days you will get varying amounts depending on how long the coverage has been in effect and the mileage on the car.
    The easiest way to cancel your auto extended warranty will be to go back to the dealership in person. You know that they're going to stall, wheedle and even just "forget." Bring all your paperwork with you and ask to speak to either the finance manager or the office manager. Cancel your policy and make sure that you ask for a copy of the paperwork. This is the most important thing to remember. The longer the dealership waits to send in your paperwork, the less money you will get in return. If you have a dated copy then you have proof of the day that you reached an agreement and it won't matter if the dealership "accidentally" loses your papers.
   Once you have the signed and dated paperwork, you should be good. The process will take awhile, so maintain contact with the office or finance manager to make sure everything goes smoothly. After a month or maybe two, your auto extended warranty will be canceled and you'll know your money is safe.

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Topics: auto extended warranty

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