How to Get the Most Out of Your Warranty & Roadside Assistance

A car warranty and roadside assistance program can save you money on unexpected repairs and breakdowns, but many drivers don’t take full advantage of these benefits. Whether you have a manufacturer’s warranty, an extended warranty, or Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) coverage, understanding what’s included and how to use it can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.

This guide explains how to maximize your car warranty and roadside assistance benefits, ensuring you’re covered when you need it most.

Understanding Your Warranty Coverage

A car warranty protects against certain repairs and mechanical failures. The type of coverage depends on whether you have a manufacturer’s, extended, or BHPH warranty.

1. Manufacturer’s Warranty

• Covers new or Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles.
• Typically includes bumper-to-bumper and powertrain coverage.
• Lasts 3-5 years or up to 60,000 miles (varies by manufacturer).

2. Extended Warranty

• Purchased separately for additional protection beyond the manufacturer’s warranty.
• Covers major repairs like engine, transmission, and electrical issues.
• May have deductibles or limitations on covered repairs.

3. Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) Warranty

• Many BHPH dealerships offer limited warranties on used cars.
• Coverage varies—may include engine and transmission protection for a set period.
• Some warranties require regular maintenance at the dealership to stay valid.

Pro Tip: Always read the fine print on any warranty to understand what’s covered, what’s excluded, and how long it lasts.

What Roadside Assistance Covers

Roadside assistance helps drivers in emergency situations, often at no additional cost. It’s commonly included with:

• Manufacturer warranties (for new cars).
• Extended warranty plans.
• Third-party providers (AAA, insurance companies, credit card benefits).

Typical services include:

• Towing – If your car breaks down, roadside assistance will tow it to a repair shop.
• Battery jump-starts – Helps if your car battery dies.
• Flat tire changes – Technicians will install your spare tire.
• Lockout service – Assistance if you lock your keys in your car.
• Fuel delivery – Emergency gas delivery if you run out of fuel.

Pro Tip: Keep your roadside assistance contact information in your car or saved on your phone for quick access.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Warranty

1. Follow the Maintenance Schedule

• Warranties often require regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections.
• Keep all service receipts to prove proper maintenance.

2. Know What’s Covered Before a Repair

• Review your warranty before scheduling a repair to see what’s included.
• If the dealership tries to charge you, ask for written confirmation of what’s covered.

3. Use Preferred Repair Shops

• Some warranties require repairs to be done at specific service centers.
• Using unauthorized repair shops may void your warranty.

4. Request Repairs Before Coverage Expires

• If your warranty is about to expire, get a final inspection to identify any covered repairs.
• Fixing issues before the warranty ends can save you thousands.

How to Get the Most Out of Roadside Assistance

1. Check If Your Insurance or Warranty Includes It

• Some insurance policies and credit card companies provide roadside assistance for free.
• If you already have coverage, you may not need to pay for an extra plan.

2. Use It When Needed, But Don’t Overuse It

• Some plans limit how many times you can use roadside services per year.
• Frequent usage may lead to higher renewal costs or policy cancellation.

3. Keep Emergency Items in Your Car

• Even with roadside assistance, it’s smart to have:
  • A spare tire and jack.
  • Jumper cables.
  • A flashlight and phone charger.
  • Emergency cash for gas or tolls.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your warranty and roadside assistance benefits can help you avoid costly repairs and breakdowns. By following maintenance requirements, knowing what’s covered, and keeping roadside assistance handy, you can maximize your protection and save money in the long run.

If you’re looking for a reliable used car with flexible financing and warranty options, check out our Buy Here Pay Here dealership options today.