What Should You Ask Your Mechanic If You Have An Extended Warranty?
Posted on: 30 March 2022
Taking your vehicle to the shop when you have an extended warranty can be a little different from a typical visit to the mechanic. Extended warranties often function as insurance policies for your vehicle's mechanical parts. When a part fails on your car, the warranty company will assess your claim and pay for a repair or replacement if the warranty terms cover the problem.
However, this process often involves some back and forth communication between the mechanic and your extended warranty company. Since your mechanic may need to contact the warranty company or even meet with an adjuster, there are a few questions you may want to ask before they start working. These three inquiries may help you get your car fixed with less time and frustration.
1. Is My Repair Covered?
Warranty terms vary, and not every extended warranty covers every problem. For example, some warranties may only cover powertrain items, such as the transmission and engine. Your mechanic may not know precisely what's wrong with your car when you bring it in, but they can often make an educated guess about the likely source of trouble.
Mechanics that often work with extended warranty companies also usually understand what is and isn't covered by any specific warranty. Your mechanic can help you determine if your company will likely cover your repair and keep you updated if anything changes as they proceed through the steps necessary to diagnose the problem.
2. Have You Worked With This Company Before?
Every extended warranty company has its own procedures for making repair claims. These procedures may require your mechanic to submit documentation or wait for an adjuster to examine your car before approving a repair. If your mechanic has worked with your extended warranty company before, they'll understand what they need to do to improve your chances of a successful claim.
If they haven't, you can ask if they need any additional paperwork from you. For example, the shop may want to see the terms of your warranty so they can go through the steps necessary for a claim. Taking care of this before they begin work will help expedite the process of repairing your car and covering your costs.
3. What Might Not Be Covered?
Finally, it's worth asking if your mechanic expects your warranty not to cover some parts of the repair. Your warranty may not cover extra items that the shop needs to replace, or your mechanic may recommend replacing some items as preventative maintenance in addition to the primary repair job. Asking about these now can help save you from a surprise bill later on.
Extended warranties can protect you from some of the most expensive repairs you're likely to face on your vehicle, but knowing how to use them will save you time and trouble. Asking your mechanic a few questions before they begin repairing your car is often the best way to ensure you can quickly and efficiently get your claim covered.
To find out more, contact a company such as Elite Auto Repair.
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