There are many choices when it comes to extended warranties, so how do you decide which company is right for you? Car Talk experts can help.
Both CARCHEX and autopom! are well-known names in the extended warranty business, but neither directly covers your vehicle. Instead, these companies are brokers that offer coverage that is provided from other companies.
Sounds confusing, but it’s pretty simple. You reach out to CARCHEX or autopom! and provide them with the information on your car. They then do the work of figuring out which of the providers in their networks offer the right plan at the right price for you.
Think of it this way. Instead of having to make a bazillion calls to all the different extended warranty companies directly, these guys do that work for you. Here’s a closer look at what both offer so you can decide which might be right for you.
autopom! | CARCHEX |
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The idea behind autopom! is to make the process of buying and using an extended car warranty less intimidating. This includes the availability of online sample contracts, knowledgeable associates, and a clear claims process. This company maintains high ratings and reviews within the industry.
CARCHEX offers fewer coverage options, but there’s still a good mix that makes it easy to find the right coverage for your needs. Whether you want just the basics or something more bumper to bumper, there’s a warranty for you. CARCHEX also prides itself on customer service and we found its representative very helpful.
While CARCHEX offers five plans, autopom! offers a whopping 19 plans that are divided into four basic categories.
autopom! Plan | Overview | Best for.. |
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CARCHEX Plan | Overview | Best for.. |
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autopom! | CARCHEX |
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autopom! | CARCHEX |
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“Excellent coverage and service!!!!!!!!! Thank you for your great service. Keep it up!” - Gregory M, ConsumersAdvocate
“I love Autopom! I was skeptical about all those extended warranties out there, but this one is trustworthy and good service.” - Bao T, ConsumersAdvocate
“I’ve used this company for 4 cars so far and they never disappoint.” - John, TrustPilot
“I have not had a good experience with autopom! and Royal Administration. I have had to fight to get repairs covered and have had a claim denied.” - Dana, BestCompany
“I did not get reimbursed like I was promised. I wish I never signed up.” - James, BestCompany
“CARCHEX has awesome awesome customer service . Great prompt response all I had to do was call.They took care of me and my car's needs. The service center was paid on time..no issues. I will refer CARCHEX to anyone I know.” - Andrew, TrustPilot
“CARCHEX is an excellent company. I have nothing but great things to say. Excellent, friendly customer service & very quick to resolve issues.” - Dean, TrustPilot
“The sign up process was really simple and easy. The associate gave me a lot of information and answered all of our questions.” - G, ConsumerAffairs
“Their customer service is absolutely horrible. Whenever I try to talk to somebody, I have to wait about two weeks after repeatedly emailing to get a response.” - Randy, TrustPilot
“I'm paying a little too high for what I got with CARCHEX.” - David, ConsumerAffairs
The key to finding the right warranty provider is to take the time to do you research. Don’t just go with the first provider that offers a plan that seems to fit. Make multiple calls and get multiple quotes. It’s also important to ask lots of questions so you don’t think you have more coverage than what’s actually included.
Don’t feel like the top plans are the only plans worth the money. The basic plans cover many of the most expensive repairs on your car for a lower premium. They’re still a great option. Consider your comfort level with paying out of pocket before you jump all the way to the most expensive plan.
Finally, don’t buy any plan from someone who cold calls trying to sign you up for an extended car warranty. These are almost always scams. Hang up the phone and reach out to reputable providers on your own.