Should you buy a service contract for a used car?

Dealers will almost always recommend that you buy a service contract, and often will call it an extended warranty. They will tell you it's a good deal and will give you peace of mind knowing that if you have any problems with your car, it will be covered. ... Even many used cars now come with dealer warranties.

1. Is it worth buying service contract on a used car?
2. Should you get a vehicle service contract?
3. Is a service contract a good idea?
4. Why should I buy a vehicle service contract?
5. Is a service contract a warranty?
6. Can I cancel a service contract after signing?
7. How does a service contract work?
8. Which is an advantage of leasing a vehicle instead of buying it?
9. How do you get out of a service contract?
10. Should I buy extra warranty on a used car?
11. Will changing your own oil void warranty?
12. Can I sue car dealership for lying?
13. Why are extended warranties bad?

Is it worth buying service contract on a used car?

If your car's make and model often has emission problems and the service contract doesn't cover emission repairs, it's probably not worth your money. Follow your car's maintenance schedule. Most contracts require you to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for routine maintenance, such as oil and fluid changes.

Should you get a vehicle service contract?

Are Vehicle Service Contracts Worth It? Vehicle service contracts can be worth the money, especially for used vehicles, if you purchase from a reputable brand and value having some peace of mind, even if your service contract doesn't end up saving you any money.

Is a service contract a good idea?

If you're buying a new or used car, the salesperson might try to sell you an auto service contract to help protect against unexpected or expensive repairs. While a service contract might sound like a good idea, it could duplicate coverage you have through your manufacturer's warranty.

Why should I buy a vehicle service contract?

A vehicle service contract is designed to help protect you from the cost of vehicle repairs beyond your original manufacturer's warranty. So, if you plan on keeping your vehicle for a few years (versus trading it in for a new model) a vehicle service contract may be a good option to continue coverage on your vehicle.

Is a service contract a warranty?

A service contract is sometimes called an “extended warranty,” but service contracts are not warranties. A service contract can help you fix or maintain your product for a specific time — like a warranty. But, unlike a warranty, service contracts cost extra.

Can I cancel a service contract after signing?

There is a federal law (and similar laws in every state) allowing consumers to cancel contracts made with a door-to-door salesperson within three days of signing. The three-day period is called a "cooling off" period.

How does a service contract work?

A service contract, also called an extended warranty, is a contract that covers certain vehicle problems or repairs after the dealer's or manufacturer's warranty expires. You might find one of these offered through an auto manufacturer, car dealer or warranty administrator.

Which is an advantage of leasing a vehicle instead of buying it?

You have lower monthly payments with a low — or no — down payment. You can drive a better car for less money. You have lower repair costs because you are under the vehicle's included factory warranty. You can more easily transition to a new car every two or three years.

How do you get out of a service contract?

Contact the service provider regarding the service agreement and ask what the options are to cancel the contract. The company may state that you can not cancel the contract at this time. Remember you can always cancel the contract. Research your statutory rights to cancel certain service contracts without penalties.

Should I buy extra warranty on a used car?

In general, we don't recommend buying an extended warranty on a used car. ... This means you'll likely spend more on the extended warranty — $3,000 or more, in some cases — than any repair costs your car may accrue during the period when the warranty stays valid.

Will changing your own oil void warranty?

Changing your own oil won't directly void your manufacturer's warranty. ... If you're going to do your own oil changes, make sure to use the type of oil recommended by the car manufacturer. Furthermore, you should keep all receipts as proof that the correct products were purchased.

Can I sue car dealership for lying?

Yes, you can sue a car dealership for lying to you in some situations. ... You are protected under consumer law and can choose to file a lawsuit with the help of an auto fraud attorney. This doesn't apply just to used cars. You can sue for issues with a new car as well.

Why are extended warranties bad?

While it may sound like a good idea in theory, extended warranties often come with a high price tag and don't necessarily cover everything that could go wrong. Plus, many people who buy extended warranties never use them. In that case, an extended warranty becomes a cost with no financial return.