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Importance of an Extended Car Warranty

An extended car warranty, more commonly known as a vehicle service contract, is a contract
that extends the warranty coverage that covers the cost of any car repairs or vehicle parts
replacement.

Extended car warranties give you peace of mind that whenever you’re on the road and
experience a breakdown out of nowhere, you’re sure to get some help. Best of all is that you
don’t have to pay for out-of-pocket expenses since the warranty provider will do that for you.

Choose the Best Coverage for You

1. Equip Yourself with the Right Information
The first thing that you need to do is carry out before deciding on what kind of extended
warranty coverage you’re going to purchase is to carry out some research. If you won’t do this,
you probably will end up getting the incorrect coverage.

Here is a list of things you need to keep in mind to help you with your research.

A. Find out the best warranty provider that can cater to your needs. Shop around first,
in this day and age where you can easily find information about anything, you don’t
have to make a lot of effort finding out about each warranty provider.

B. Find out about your car’s history. Use online forums to know what’s the most
common problems with your car.

C. Is the warranty transferrable? You might not think about it right now have any plans
of selling your car in the future, but it’s good to know that in case you change your
mind, you’re able to add value to your car with a transferrable warranty.

2. Don’t Just Choose the Cheapest Coverage

You might think that the best way for you to save money on your extended car warranty
purchase is to choose the cheapest coverage, but that’s the worse decision you can make. If
you want to save money, don’t hesitate to haggle with your agent to the budget that you’re
willing to work with.

Just because you want to save money, doesn’t mean you need to compromise on coverage or
you might end up regretting it in the future.

3. Always Read the Fine Print

Most people will not pay attention to what the fine print states so that you’ll be able to fully
grasp what is covered and what is not. Make it a habit to read the fine print and never hesitate
to ask a question. As a paying customer, you have the right to know what the exclusions are
too.

You can ask your agent about labor coverage and the parts replacement. Also, see to it that
they have information on the service repair shops recommend or accredited.

4. Find Out How Much the Deductible Is

A deductible is the only expense the policy owner will need to shell out for repairs or parts
replacement before the warranty provided pay out the rest of the expense. There are two
instances where you can lower your deductible.

(1) If your car is still covered under the factory warranty, this will give you a lower price for the
reason that you are at the lowest risk of any breakdowns.

(2) Another factor to look out for to lower your deductible is that if you agree to a higher
deductible, you’ll be able to pay much lesser for it. For lower deductibles, you’ll have to pay
higher.

5. Additional Coverage is Provided

The best-extended car warranty coverage is not the one that is cheapest (although for the same
coverage, then go for it), but the best one is the coverage that enables you to choose additional
protection. I’m not just talking about bumper-to-bumper or powertrain coverage but I’m talking
about the availability of Unlimited Kms, Car Rental, Wear and Tear, etc.

Key Take-Away

The best-extended car warranty is the one that tailor fits you and your vehicle’s needs. Before
doing anything, do your research first and shop around. To know more about the additional
coverage stated about, visit A-Protect Warranty. You can find out more on the website or talk
to any of the customer service representatives and get your free quote today!

You may have come to the point where you were so tempted to not get your vehicle
maintenance checkup because you either were lazy or were “too busy” to do. Well if you’re not
that kind of person, then kudos to you! But for the rest of us, we’ve thought about it.

Did you know that regular maintenance is just like going to the doctor? Even when you’re
healthy and feel fine, you go to the doctor to keep your health in check. The same goes for car
check-up and maintenance.

Always check your owner’s manual to know the recommended car check-up and maintenance.

Why Is Preventive Maintenance Important?

1. Prevents Future Critical Issues
If you want to continue driving your car for a long time and have peace of mind whenever
you’re on the road, then you need to follow the recommended maintenance. The reason for
that is to prevent future serious issues with your car in the future. Imagine going for a long
drive with your friends but end up on the side of the road in nowhere because your car
suddenly made a clink-clank-clank sound and eventually stopped.

2. Prolongs the Life of Your Vehicle
Not only does preventive maintenance save you from serious damages and breakdowns but it
can help you extend the life of your vehicle. Don’t just be a reactive car owner but be a
proactive one!

Preventive Maintenance You Should Follow

1. Check Your Fluids Regularly
Although you’re not skilled in changing the oils of your car, it doesn’t have to take a genius to
check the state of your fluids. You should regularly inspect your wiper fluids, antifreeze, engine
coolant, and power steering. If you notice that your fluids are low, add more. Don’t forget to
check for any leaks, it’s best to ignore if this happens.

2. Give Your Car a Thorough Wash at Least Once a Week
Heavy rains, mud, dust, polluted air, and small debris can cause a number on your car is left
grimy for a long time. The purpose of cleaning your car is not just to make the exterior look
good but this is a way for you to prevent any damage due to the small debris, muds, or acid
rain. If your car is not washed regularly, chances are you’re going to see rust building up on
some parts.

3. Oil Change and Oil Filter Replacement Every Month
Depending on the type of car that you own, you can check the oil level by using a dipstick or an
electronic gauge. Just with all types of oils, you’ll know the difference between good oil and bad
oil you’d want to drain immediately. If you stick your dipstick and see a clean oil, then your car
is still good for road trips but when you see a dark, muddy oil, we do recommend changing it
already. It’s good practice to also change your oil filter together with your oil change since you
can do it in one go.

4. Check Tires and Tire Pressure Every Month
Visually check your tires every month and see if the thread is still good for the road or you can
also check by using the “penny trick”. In checking your tire pressure, Use a pressure gauge. Not
only will this help you be safe on the road but healthy tires help you save fuel.

5. Rotate Your Tires Every 6 Months
You might be wondering why you need to rotate your tires every 6 months when in fact, all four
of them are touching the road at the same time. But this isn’t the case, thread wear patterns
can vary from front to back or even on each side. Make your car tires last longer by rotating
them. Your owner’s manual will give you an idea of how often you should do this.

6. Make Sure to Check Your Brakes
How many road accidents have you heard because of faulty brakes? A lot right? This is why
before you hit the road, make sure your brakes are working properly. The rule of thumb is that
whenever you get an oil change, have the mechanic check your brakes and suspension system.

If you’re planning to buy a car, the first thing that comes to mind is the brand reliability and the type
of car model you need. Whether you’re a family man who needs a spacious SUV or an adventurous
lad who’s looking for a vehicle that can drive in the mountains, there are different vehicles available
for different needs.

When it comes to choosing which brand of car you will buy, you always try to consider the price of the
car versus the budget that you’re willing to shell out. But have you ever considered how much money
you’ll need to maintain it?

Most people might be able to afford the initial price but fail to consider the future maintenance cost.
In this article, we are going to share 5 reasons why European cars and more expensive to maintain
compared to Japanese Vehicles.

1. European Car Parts Are Less Common Compared to Japanese Car Parts Because of the Low Volume Production

European cars have low-volume vehicle production for the reason that it puts its effort more
on manufacturing high-end vehicles that concentrate on customer comfort, and not on mass-
production. With the low-volume vehicle production, car parts replacement is also limited the same
way, this is why European car parts are more expensive.

But if you’re a cautious driver who follows rules to the tee and maintains your BMW well, then you
don’t have to worry about getting your car serviced often. There’s going to be a good chance for you
to be driving around in luxury if you just know how to drive properly.

2. European Cars Are Significantly Engineered for Better Performance Compared to Japanese Cars

Both Japanese and European engineers have one thing in common and that is to modify and
manufacture their vehicles to superior quality. The only thing that makes a huge difference between
the two is how much thought is given when it comes to engineering the vehicle for the customers.

Japanese engineers focus on how to make their vehicles perform better even if the customers use
them to the limits. European engineers however take pride in creating the best performing and
comfortable vehicles that the only way for customers to enjoy the full benefit of the vehicle is that
they have to follow exactly what the manual recommends.

3. European Cars Take More Time and Effort to Maintain Compared to Japanese Cars

Japanese Cars are manufactured to have a more reliable and durable vehicle while European
cars lean more towards performance and customer comfort.

With this in mind, you’d have to think about the huge difference between European and Japanese
cars when it comes to performance. Japanese vehicles use simplified transmission while European
cars use higher and more complex transmissions.

4. European Cars Are Created to Offer More Customer Comfort Instead

Have you seen what’s under the hood of most European cars? For the less trained eye, there wouldn’t
be anything wrong even if the battery is not that visible and is tucked underneath the tubes, but for
the mechanics, this is a nightmare.

No matter how small of an issue your BMW has, it’s going to take more time to remove all the parts
and then returning them into place is a hassle. The time and effort put into maintaining European cars
are much greater which then leads to more expensive labor cost.

5. European Cars and Expensive Fuel Cost

Fuel consumption mostly relies on the type of car you drive and how you drive it. If you’re more of a
Fast and Furious wheelman, then expect your fuel to be consumed faster than you can say, Jack
Robinson!

With European cars, loud V8 rumbles and better quality performance can cost you a lot of money. So
before you decide on what type of car to buy, make sure that you take into account all considerations,
not the initial purchase price but also the maintenance cost and day-to-day expenses.

Key Take-Away

Chances are, you’ve probably heard of Japanese cars being synonymous with reliability. This is the
reason why more people are choosing Japanese vehicles because they’re able to retain their market
value longer. European cars have been well-known for its great performance and customer comfort;
it’s also known for being expensive.

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, or popularly known as BMW, is a German transnational
enterprise that manufactures high-end cars and motorcycles.

It’s not news anymore how expensive German vehicles are, and a BMW is far from being an
exception. German cars are known to only use high-quality materials and eminently systemized
engineering. The higher quality of the material is, the more expensive the overall car’s price is.

What Makes BMW Cars Expensive to Repair?

There are several reasons why it’s so expensive the repair cost for a BMW, let alone the
purchase price.

1. The Number of Replacement Parts are Limited
One reason why BMW’s repair cost can skyrocket is that when you need a part replacement,
you’re going to have to pay a lot more for it compares to other car brands. Because German
automakers focus more on manufacturing high-quality cars that the number of vehicles
produced is not that many, this, in turn, limits the production of replacement parts.

So when there is low production of parts, prices go up.

2. The Parts Have to Be Bought Overseas
There aren’t that many BMW plants in the US, and where there are manufacturing plants
present, the parts that are produced may not cater to all the BMW models in the area. So when
you’ll need parts replaced and it’s not available locally, you’ll have to pay more.

3. The Complexity of the Arrangement of Parts Under the Hood
Remember when I told you that the main focus for BMW manufacturers is to produce high-
quality vehicles. This means that the core of their production is engineering the vehicles in the
most complex, high-performing way. If you look under the hood of a BMW, you might not be
able to see much of the engine assembly. To the less trained eye, it may seem normal and neat
but to a mechanic, it’s a nightmare.

4. The Time and Effort It Takes to Repair

Minor service maintenance done on a BMW like oil change, or full engine inspection can cost up
to $400 per visit. Imagine if your car would need major repairs, the expense charge could go as
high as $2,500. It doesn’t sound very appealing especially if you’re on a budget.

What’s the main reason why it takes more time and effort? Well if you want to change the oil
or replace the battery, your mechanic will have to remove a lot of parts out of the way before it
can reach the item. Mechanics will have to dedicate more time to repairing or servicing a BMW than he does on a
Toyota.

Worry Less On Expensive Vehicle Repair Cost with an Extended Car Warranty

The main reason why you should purchase an extended car warranty is that it allows you to get
peace of mind whenever you’re on the road. Cars will breakdown eventually, and a BMW is no
exception, so before you get a heart attack with the out-of-pocket repair expense, get yourself
protected and your car covered with a warranty.

A-Protect Warranty Coverage for BMW

With A-Protect’s comprehensive warranty coverage, you’re sure to get your money’s worth.
Choose from the different warranty plans and options. Whether you want to get the Bronze
Plan with the basic coverage of powertrain up to Luxury+ Plan that covers the powertrain,
unlimited kilometers, and additional options like head gasket, turbo/supercharger, seals &
gaskets, air conditioner, fuel systems to name a few.

Key Take-Away

When it comes to purchasing luxury cars, you have to keep in mind that not only will you have
to think about the expensive purchase price but you also need to worry about the maintenance
cost. Because a BMW has a limited number of cars produced, the parts replacement is also
limited which makes it’s expensive. Not only do you have to worry about the parts’ price, but
you also need to think about the time and effort it takes to service a BMW.

The last thing you expect to happen when you get your car serviced or repaired is getting your
warranty voided and your claim rejected.

The main reason why you purchased an extended car warranty is that in case your car breaks
down, you don’t have to worry about paying for expensive repairs because the warranty covers
the expenses.

1. Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs on Your Dashboard!

Just because you’re used to ignoring red flags on relationships, doesn’t mean your car needs to
suffer too. Never ignore the warning signs blinking on your dashboard or lighting up, there’s a
reason for why they’re there, to warn you!

Each symbol on your dashboard corresponds to different parts of your car. Now we all know
that some symbols are common knowledge but there are still several icons we don’t know. This
is why you need to read your owner’s manual. You’ll be able to know which part of your vehicle
needs attention.

2. Don’t Forget to Follow Scheduled Maintenance

Although, we sometimes get the urge to follow an irregular maintenance schedule if you don’t
want to get your claim rejected in the future because you were “too busy” to have your car
serviced.

Following your scheduled maintenance is not only good for your warranty but it would do
wonders for your car. When you follow the schedule religiously, you’re sure to have your car up
and running for a long time.

3. Think Twice Before Deciding on Vehicle Modifications

Are you planning on getting an upgrade on vehicle performance and install some turbo or how
about an aftermarket CNG kit? Well, think again! Although you want to customize your car, you
have to think twice before doing it. Turns out that warranty providers can reject a claim in case
they find out that the modification done on the vehicle caused the issue.

There are some aftermarket parts you can install or modifications you can do that will not void
your warranty. Back in the day, several warranty providers misused warranties and disclaimers.
It was so rampant that in 1975, the government enacted a law that would fight against these
exploitations. The law came to be known as the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act.

4. Stop Driving Like You’re Baby from Baby Driver

Stop going on road rage and drive like you’re the only one on the road. Turns out that warranty
providers can know if you’ve been misusing or driving your vehicle to the limits.

Not only will the parts of your car wear faster, but there’s also a big chance that your car will
break down sooner than later. Well, it’s a no-brainer that you should be a responsible driver
but some people just need to be reminded often. It’s not just about preserving your car but
more about preserving your life and the life of other people on the road.

5. Forgetting to Keep a Paper Trail

Every time that you get your car serviced for maintenance, always keep a record of every
transaction you did and keep at least a copy of your receipts in case you’ll lose the original.
Practice taking pictures of your transaction receipts and of the products purchased for
maintenance before storing them safely. It’s more convenient to have it on your phone and
accessible anytime.

Why? Sometimes, warranty providers will argue that you didn’t follow the recommended
maintenance schedule or used a product that isn’t of quality, and from that have a reason to
reject a claim you filed. So to avoid this, make sure you kept proof of all the transactions.

Key Take-Away

For you to avoid getting your claims rejected and your warranties voided, always remember to
follow scheduled maintenance, never ignore warning signs, be a responsible driver and always
keep records of your maintenance. Although there’s a law that could save you from getting a
claim rejected with your modified car, this doesn’t mean that you are free to do whatever
modification you want because there are certain alterations that can damage your vehicle. If
you’re looking for an extended car warranty that can give you comprehensive and customized
coverage, contact A-Protect Warranty and get your free quote today!

When it comes to purchasing an extended car warranty, it’s best to choose the ones that offer
you the best coverage that tailor fits your needs. The truth about extended car warranties is
that nobody wants to buy them until they will need an extended car warranty.

Don’t be one of those people who regret getting covered and when they do decide to get
protected, it’s already too late. If you’re worried about extended warranties being expensive,
don’t be. This is why third-party providers are better than factory warranty providers because
they offer more affordable options.

If you’re not yet convinced, here are 4 reasons why it’s better to buy from third-party providers:

1. Third-Party Providers Offer Affordable Extended Car Warranties

When it comes to extended car warranties, third-party providers are the best as far as
affordable coverages are concerned. Did you know that negotiations are acceptable> So if
you’re tight on budget but still want to get the best coverage, then don’t hesitate to discuss it
with your agent and tell them what your car need and how much your budget is.

2. Third Party Warranty Offers Autonomy When It Comes to Choosing Car Replacement Parts

One of the things that we tend to worry about when our car gets serviced for repairs is the cost
of the replacement parts. Although original parts are highly recommended for compatibility and
optimal performance, this does not mean that other brands don’t have great quality.

Third-Party Providers don’t have that exclusivity aspect that factory warranty providers have.
This means that you can choose which brand to buy for the replacement, whether you’re up for
some high-end car replacement or the cheapest but of the quality part.

3. Third Party Warranty Offers Better Coverage Option

Concerning coverage options, third party providers offer 2 different types coverage option
which is Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage and Powertrain Coverage.

A. Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage
A bumper-to-bumper warranty is a comprehensive coverage that covers from the front of the
car to the back, literally from the front bumper to back bumper. The most common term
provided is 3 years/36,000 miles and some providers offer up to 5 years/60,000 miles.

Although the name states bumper-to-bumper covers, you have to keep in mind that not all
parts of the car are covered. Wear and tear items like brake pads, tires and wipers are not part of the coverage. Whenever you’re shopping for a replacement, take into account the
recommended specification in your owner’s manual.

B. Powertrain Coverage
The primary elements that powertrain coverages include parts of the car that helps it move
forward which includes drivetrain, powertrain, and transmission. The most common difference
between bumper-to-bumper and powertrain is that powertrain offers a longer coverage term.

Be mindful of the fact that the parts covered differ depending on your provider, the make, and
the model of your car. So before you buy an extended car warranty, shop around first to get the
best deal.

4. Third-Party Providers Offer More Additional Warranty Options for Comprehensive Coverage

The best part about third-party providers is that they know too well that your car needs a lot
more coverage than what is usually offered, this is why A-Protect Warranty which is Canada’s
leading auto warranty company offers comprehensive and customized coverage to fit your
needs.

One of Canada’s leading auto warranty companies, A-Protect Warranty, offers up to 17
additional coverage options.

Additional Warranty Options
A. 4X4/AWD
B. Head Gasket
C. Turbo/Supercharger
D. Seals & Gaskets
E. Air Conditioner
F. Fuel Systems
G. Cooling System
H. Power Steering
I. Front Suspension
J. Brakes
K. Supplementary Package: Water Pump, Motor Mounts, Oil Pan, Harmonic Balancer, Pulley Intake and Exhaust Manifold, etc.
L. Electrical: Alternator, Starter, Solenoid, Switch, etc.

Key Take-Away

Vehicles are bound for breakdowns eventually, so before you suffer a costly out-of-pocket
repair expense, get your car covered.

If you don’t spend a lot of money but still be a worry-free driver, then shopping for an extended
car warranty from a third-party provider is the best option for you. Get your free quote now
with A-Protect Warranty. Talk to one of our representatives so they can offer you a customized
extended car warranty that will fit your needs, taking into consideration all of your concerns
especially when it comes to affordability.

Leased Car VS Loaned Car

The difference between a leased car and a loaned car is what happens after each of their term ends. With a leased car, you have the option to buy the car and pay for the predetermined amount or return the car to the dealer and settle the remaining balance. For a loaned car, you get to keep the car once you paid off your loan.

Isn’t it better to apply for a car loan straightaway instead of leasing it at first? – Well, it’s true but the beauty about leasing a car is that it offers a much lower monthly rate compared to a loaned car. Aside from this, if in case you change your mind about the car, then you can easily trade the car off when the car lease contract expires.

Extended Car Warranty Vs Car Insurance

One thing that you need to understand in the get-go is that a car warranty is different from car insurance. Although they both protect against repairs and car replacements they differ from what they essentially protect you from.

Car insurance protects you from spending out-of-pocket expenses from repairs against damages caused by natural disasters like floods or earthquakes and accidents.

A car warranty will protect you from paying for expensive repairs and parts replacement due to component failures or wear and tear issues.

These two protection plans offer peace-of-mind whether you’re on the road or off.

Is an Extended Car Warranty Necessary If I’m Leasing?

A lot of people are on the fence when it comes to buying an extended car warranty if they’re leasing a brand new car.

Brand new vehicles come with a factory warranty which covers against expensive repairs. Factory warranties are limited to covering only powertrain components, this means that in case you have issues with your head gasket or air-condition, you’re going to have to pay for it yourself. To give you a better idea of what you should do, consider the following conditions:

1. How long you’re planning to keep the car
If you’re planning to keep the car for more than 3 years, then it’s best to buy an extended car warranty since the factory warranty will end after 3 years/36,000 miles. 

2. The mileage consumed per year

The more you’re going to use your car, the more mileage accumulates. When you’re well over the mileage limit of the factory warranty then expect to be without any coverage anymore even if you still have a year left on your plan. An extended car warranty will help you get the proper mileage allowance and many more protection plans. 

3. You’re leasing a used car

Used cars don’t usually have warranties anymore. So if you’re leasing a used car without any warranty, buying an extended warranty for used cars is a smart choice.

What Happens When My Car Lease Expires?

Right before the lease expires, you have three options to choose from. You either trade the vehicle for a new lease, return it to the dealer or keep the car and pay for the remaining fees.

1. Trade The Car
Have your car traded out for a new leased car, this is very common nowadays. Even the car dealers offer this before your leased car expires because this will ensure them of your continuous patronage to the products and services they offer.

2.Return The Car
You can choose to settle the account and say goodbye to your leased car. Although this might seem very simple, you may have to pay additional fees in case you went over the allowed mileage limit.

3. Buy The Car
If you’ve grown to love the car, especially if you’ve invested a lot in keeping it in great condition, you have the option to buy it. This is what we call lease-to-own. In case you’re short on cash, you can always apply for a car loan.

Key Take-Away

Extended warranties are more than just a replacement of a factory warranty when it expires. It offers a comprehensive protection plan that is beyond powertrain coverage. Get your free quote today with A-Protect Warranty for a detailed coverage that tailor-fits your needs.

Have you ever bought something and then regret immediately after giving your cash to the
register, but you can’t do anything about it cause you’re already in too deep? Yep, you’re not
alone in making those shopping mistakes.

We’re here to show you the most common mistakes when buying an extended car warranty
and the best way to deal with them.

Buying because you were pressured to

One of the biggest mistakes a buyer does is purchasing an extended car warranty because they
were pressured into buying the coverage. While not all warranty dealers are shams, but there
are still some that would go as far as using fear-mongering tactics for you to buy the coverage.

If you feel that you’re one of the people who got scammed into buying additional coverage,
here’s what you can do.

1. Check for policy cancellation. Read the fine print, in the contract and double-check if you can
get a refund of the payment. Usually, they’ll give you 90 days for cancellations and refunds.

2. File a complaint. If you feel that you got conned and you’re already in too deep to cancel, you
can contact your state’s attorney or Better Business Bureau and file a complaint.

With all this, just remember that you can always say NO.

Buying without proper inspection

Trust between you and the car dealer is really important especially if you’re investing a big
amount of cash in your car, may it be new or preowned. With preowned cars, even with the
vehicle history report, it’s best to have the car properly inspected. This way, you’ll be able to
pinpoint which specific part needs the coverage.

Buying without considering the potential breakdowns and car parts replacement

We worry less about preexisting issues when it comes to brand new cars; but did you know that
even new cars have underlying issues? This is why before you decide to invest in a new car, you
need to do your research.

Vehicles nowadays are built to last longer, but even the most durable cars are prone to
breakdowns. This is why an extended car warranty is necessary since not all breakdowns and
car parts replacement are covered by a factory warranty, especially when it comes to wear and
tear.

Buying without proper research

Knowing your car like the back of your hand is a necessity. This is why it’s best to properly
research the car you bought or still planning to buy. I’m not just talking about the basics like the
make and model but the repair record. Check out internet forums, it’s a gold mine of
information.

Buying the wrong warranty package

The biggest mistake you could make when buying an extended car warranty is getting the
wrong warranty package. Well, not entirely the wrong package because the most common
protection covers the powertrain, but what I’m talking about is the additional coverage. For you
to know exactly what coverage you need, consider these tips.

1. Do Your Research
Not only should you know about the make and model, and best features of the car but you
need to know what kind of potential issues you’re going to expect.

2. Have Your Car Inspected
Even with thorough research, you still need to have your car inspected by professionals since
they know what to look for.

3. Get Professional Advice
Even with the proper knowledge and thorough inspection, you’re still unsure of what coverage
plan to purchase, you can always ask for professional advice. This way, you’re sure to get a bang
for your buck and get the comprehensive coverage that suits your needs.

Key Take-Away

When it comes to buying an extended car warranty, do not lose sight of the fact that you don’t
have to buy it soon after you’ve got a car deal. When your car dealer pressures you into buying
a car warranty, just say no and give yourself some time to research and ponder. Avoid doing
mistakes when buying an extended car warranty by doing your research properly. With A-
Protect Warranty, you’re sure to get comprehensive coverage and get your money’s worth. Get
your free quote today and enjoy a worry-free tomorrow!

Does a DIY Oil Change Void the Car Warranty?

Caring for your car and having regular maintenance can be expensive but it is necessary. Even if
you take a car warranty out of the picture and just focus on your vehicle, maintenance is very
important to keep your car running in top condition.

Extended Car Warranty

An extended car warranty is a promise that is made by your warranty provider that if your car
breaks down at any point within the warranty period, then you are entitled to file a claim. A car
warranty will protect you against expenses from repairs or car part replacements in case of
vehicle issues such as engine and powertrain problems.

A standard manufacturer warranty is a guarantee given by these providers to let you know that
the vehicle you bought is reliable and is of top quality.

Things to Keep in Mind On a DIY Oil Change

When planning on a DIY oil change, always bear in mind to buy the recommended oil and filter,
save the receipts, keep tabs on the date and the number in your odometer, and of course the
most important thing is to do the oil change properly.

1. Buy The Required Oil and Filter
You might think that this is one of the ways for automakers to take more money from you –
which probably is half true, but the other side to this is that certain car engines run better with
specific fluids. So when thinking about changing your oil and filter, make sure to use the
recommended parts.

2. Take Note of the Dates
Take note of these two figures, (1) the date of the oil change and (2) the miles on the odometer
at the date of the oil change. This will give you solid proof that the regular oil change schedule
is properly followed.

3. Always Keep Copies of the Receipts
When buying your oil and air filter, always keep the receipt and make sure to make a copy of it
in case you’ll lose the original receipt.

4. When in Doubt, Ask A Professional
It’s not rocket science to change the oil in your car. Some people even associate it with putting
petrol in your vehicle. But just because it’s easy, doesn’t mean that you should force yourself into doing it on your own. A DIY oil change can be satisfying especially if you’re going to save
yourself about $100 instead of having your car serviced, but if an oil change is not properly
done and causes failure then your warranty provider has a good argument against you in
voiding the warranty.

Myths About DIY Oil Change

Most manufacturer warranty providers will scare you into choosing only their service center
instead of someone else or other qualified mechanics in doing the regular maintenance. Don’t
be easily fooled! It’s illegal for them to deny a claim simply because you didn’t have your
regular maintenance serviced by them. Routine maintenance does not stop at oil change but it
also includes tire rotations, belt replacements, vehicle inspections, and brake pads.

If you think that your warranty claim was unfairly denied by the service advisor and the
management, you may file a complaint with your state Attorney General or the Federal Trade
Commission (FTC).

Key Take-Away

Following your regular maintenance schedule is very important to keep your car running in top
condition. As to where you should have your car serviced, you have the option of choosing
someone else instead of their ‘required’ service center by your factory warranty provider.

Contrary to popular belief, changing your oil will not automatically void your car warranty.
Make sure that you read the fine print in your warranty. Keep in mind that if you’ve done the
regular service maintenance that your car manual recommends, and chose genuine parts for
your car, then a warranty provider can’t just deny your claim and dismiss your case. It’s illegal
for them to deny a claim under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act enforced by FTC if you had
your regular maintenance with someone else instead of their service center.

As a giant automaker, Toyota has solidified its reputation for producing vehicles synonymous with
dependability, which has remained its norm over the years. Known for engineering excellence,
durability, and efficiency, Toyota has consistently been the best option for motorists worldwide. The
Toyota Corolla Cross, a recent addition to their lineup, veers from the traditional Corolla sedan formula,
embracing the increasingly popular crossover utility vehicle (CUV) design. Given this direction, potential
buyers may wonder: Does the Corolla Cross uphold the dependability Toyota is renowned for? This
article will put you to speed with the dependability of the Toyota Corolla Cross, covering various aspects
from engine reliability to after-sales support.

Reliability of the Engine

The Toyota Corolla Cross is powered by a reliable 2.0L four-cylinder engine, identical to those found in
several other Toyota models renowned for their dependability. The engine delivers 169 horsepower,
striking a harmonious balance between power and fuel efficiency, a crucial factor when assessing a
vehicle’s overall dependability. This engine has consistently performed exceptionally well in various
Toyota models, earning accolades for its durability and low maintenance needs.

The engine’s longevity is attributed to Toyota’s adherence to rigorous quality control measures and
superior engineering. This commitment to quality ensures that the engine can withstand the rigours of
daily driving without the risk of unexpected breakdowns or expensive repairs. Thus, the presence of this
tried-and-tested engine in the Corolla Cross verifies the vehicle's reliability. The engine’s proven track
record in other Toyota models predicts a similar performance in the Corolla Cross, making it a
trustworthy choice for drivers seeking reliability.

Build Quality and Durability

The Toyota Corolla Cross mirrors Toyota’s trademark superior build quality. It’s high-grade cabin
materials and durable bodywork, meticulously designed and crafted, demonstrate the automaker’s
commitment to durability. The vehicle’s reinforced chassis ensures improved stability, while rust-
resistant materials help to protect against corrosion, enhancing the vehicle's longevity.

The Corolla Cross is also equipped with durable tires engineered to withstand challenging driving
conditions on any terrain. The long-lasting performance of these tires contributes to the car’s overall
durability. Furthermore, Toyota’s extensive warranty coverage underscores the robustness of the
Corolla Cross’s build quality. This warranty is a testament to the vehicle’s durability and Toyota’s
confidence in the product, providing buyers with added assurance about their investment. The Corolla
Cross’s solid build quality and Toyota’s comprehensive warranty guarantee a dependable vehicle built to
last.

Improved Safety Features

Dependability extends beyond mechanical reliability and durability, encompassing the breadth and
quality of a vehicle’s safety features. The Toyota Corolla Cross excels in this aspect, offering an
impressive suite of standard safety features that enhance its dependability.

Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-
departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These advanced technologies collectively work to
prevent accidents and protect occupants, contributing to a safer driving experience. The model has also
received high scores in various crash-test evaluations, further validating its robust safety profile. The
Corolla Cross's top-tier safety measures provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers and
contribute to the vehicle's overall dependability.

Fuel efficiency

Fuel efficiency plays a pivotal role in the dependability of a vehicle. More efficient cars tend to exhibit
fewer fuel-system-related issues and are cheaper to run, reducing the total cost of ownership. The
Corolla Cross shines in this aspect, offering impressive fuel efficiency with around 32 mpg in the city and
33 mpg on the highway.

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and the vehicle's lightweight design contribute to its
impressive fuel efficiency. The CVT adjusts to the driver's speed, ensuring the engine runs at its most
efficient point, while the lightweight design reduces the vehicle's fuel demand. Thus, the Corolla Cross’s
high fuel efficiency not only lowers running costs but also enhances the vehicle's overall dependability.
This efficiency and the engine's reliability cements the Corolla Cross's position as a dependable choice in
the crossover market.

Final words

The Toyota Corolla Cross with its steadfast engine, superior build quality, comprehensive safety
features, exemplary fuel efficiency, and remarkable after-sales support, the Toyota Corolla Cross
undeniably upholds Toyota's reputation for dependability. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable
CUV. Whether commuting, undertaking long road trips, or embarking on weekend getaways, the Corolla
Cross assures a dependable driving experience. If you're seeking a vehicle that seamlessly combines the
adaptability of a CUV with the proven dependability of the Toyota brand, the Corolla Cross is
unquestionably a worthy contender. It is more than a car; it's a testament to Toyota’s commitment to
creating Ever Better Cars.