Should You Buy Extended Warranty Now

Avoid buying the warranty at the moment of purchase for new cars. You won't use it for several years while the manufacturer's warranty is active, and you can usually buy it later. The "Self-Insurance" Alternative

Deciding whether to buy an extended warranty—often called a service contract—depends largely on your personal finances, the reliability of the product, and your tolerance for risk. should you buy extended warranty

Many credit cards (like those from American Express or Chase ) automatically extend manufacturer warranties by a year or more for no extra charge. Avoid buying the warranty at the moment of

If a $2,000 engine or transmission repair would be a financial disaster, paying a smaller, fixed amount for a warranty functions like an insurance policy. When to Skip It Many credit cards (like those from American Express

Read the fine print; many warranties exclude "wear and tear" items or require high deductibles that make small repairs not worth claiming.

If you are buying a product with a proven track record of durability, the statistical likelihood of needing a major repair is low.

For many consumers, the cost of the warranty exceeds the likely cost of repairs. However, it can provide significant "peace of mind" for those who cannot afford a sudden, large repair bill.