CAVEAT: This article is from Dustin Simpson of California RV Specialists. While Wholesale Warranties is an advertiser with us here at RVtravel.com, we are not affiliated with this article.
You’ll often hear conflicting stories about RV Extended Warranty Plans. Some consumers hate them, some won’t travel without them. Before you continue reading, make sure you read Part 1 of this series here. I recently interviewed Staci from Wholesale Warranties. In this episode, Staci shares all the plan offerings available through Wholesale Warranties.
Here are some common reasons why people consider purchasing RV extended warranties:
Financial protection: RVs are complex vehicles with various mechanical and electrical components. If a major system or component fails after the manufacturer’s warranty expires, the repair costs can be significant. An extended warranty can help cover these unexpected expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind.
Budgeting and predictability: An extended warranty allows you to budget for potential repair costs more easily. Instead of facing unexpected, high repair bills, you can plan for a fixed upfront cost and potentially avoid financial strain.
Extended coverage: Extended warranties typically cover a range of systems and components beyond what’s covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. This can include appliances, plumbing, electrical systems, air conditioning, heating, slide-out mechanisms, and more.
Travel confidence: RV enthusiasts often travel long distances and explore various environments. Having an extended warranty can provide a sense of confidence, knowing that you have assistance in case of breakdowns, especially when you’re far from home.
Resale value: Some extended warranties are transferable to new owners, potentially increasing the resale value of your RV. A potential buyer might be more interested in an RV with a warranty in place, as it offers them added assurance.
Quality of life: RVs are designed to provide comfort and convenience while traveling. A warranty can help ensure that your appliances, heating, cooling, and other systems are operational, enhancing your overall RV experience.
Peace of mind: RV travel is about enjoying the journey and the destination. Knowing that you’re covered by an extended warranty can reduce worries about potential breakdowns and allow you to focus on enjoying your adventures.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase an RV extended warranty depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and comfort level with potential repair costs. It’s advisable to research and compare different warranty options, ask questions, and read the fine print before making a decision.
Make sure you check out Dustin’s website, California RV Specialists, and their YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.
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Doesn’t work in the Plumbing & Heating business for 10 different reasons and doesn’t work in the RV world.
Jesse,
Thanks for sharing, we have had not one issue with any of the extended warranty companies. In most cases its very simple – Mr Smith is here, here is the unit info, miles, vin no, lic, ect. The water pump is internally failed. Whats the part no? (give them the number) whats the retail price your asking for ($X) most dealers have a standard mark up $$$$ sometimes way too much, that will case a declined claim. Then ask how much labor time (45 min) whats the tax rate (8.25) = Here is your approval code for authorization.
Here again where dealership go wrong – I need 2.0 hour to replace the pump, why so much? Oh let me come up with a lie… (declined)
As long as your business is being far, they will never decline or not assist you. If there is a situation that requires additional labor all they ask is for pictures or they will even send out a 3rd party inspector if needed. Ive had claims be as small as $100.00 and high as $5000.00 or more depending on the failure.
Most RV owners are sold these contracts and think its a will pay everything, as well as a lot of them trash the units, don’t do the maintenance and then expect the world. Hope this helps explain another side form someone that doesn’t sell extended warranties. However they do what they are design to do, that’s why its an insurance.
Sounds like Dustin is a salesman for Extended Warranties and not an unbiased advisor.
Jopa,
First of all we dont sell any extended warranties, there are 100s of different companies we accept that are provided to use from RV owners. We get asked all the time about them, so far this company has been very easy to deal with. Even RV Travel has them on there site as a referral business. The interview is a 5 parts because we talked so much and i learned a bunch of good info that i felt that it would help explain to others.
The big question I have is; does the repair shop accept the warranty provided as payment for repair, or do I pay for repairs and then fight with the warranty company over the bill? I know preapproval will be necessary prior to the work being done to get covered. I know many shops will not accept your warranty claim as payment. Can you from your experience name some companies that service facilities accept warrant companies because the warranty companies are reputable. Thank you
Warranties are another form of Risk Management. How much does it cost vs the likelihood of using it. Anybody who has had a major failure will likely be happy they have this form of insurance. From my own experience, I am typically better off dealing with the smaller stuff (less than $1,000) myself, and putting in the not insignificant effort to diligently maintain my RV. Most environmental related repairs will be covered by my vehicle insurance policy less my deductible.
Jim, Thanks for sharing with us. Being on the other side of the counter helping RV owners for 28 years almost i can say that buying one for car i wouldn’t waste my money. However buying one for a RV is completely different, depending on the failure i have personal had clams be $500.00 – $5000.00 and RV owners walking away with $50.00 deductible. Keep in mind that we dont sell these extended warranties, we work with all of them, there are 100s of different companies. At the end of the day its a black and white, failed part, covered items. Approved… Where we see claims declined from other dealerships or repair shops is because they are trying to over charge the extended warranties, then they simply just say declined and move on. Most times they will call the owners and advise them to find a new shop that not trying to overcharge them.