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There is no simple answer to the question, “What does an extended RV warranty cover?” Every RV warranty will cover different components and have unique exceptions and terms.
However, there are some simple questions RV buyers can ask to learn exactly what is covered in each policy. Here are 5 clarifying questions to ask when buying an RV extended warranty.
Contents
What is an Extended RV Warranty?
An extended RV warranty is a service contract that covers repairs to your RV for a set time. This is different from the factory warranty provided by the manufacturer.
Extended RV warranties are usually purchased through the dealership or a warranty company, such as Wholesale Warranties. These warranties can be purchased for new or used RVs.
Extended warranties protect an RV’s electrical and mechanical components, such as appliances, slide-outs, automatic leveling systems, and entertainment components/
They do not cover maintenance, wearable items, or non-electrical or mechanical components (roof, caulking, or glass). A warranty also does not cover damage covered under RV insurance policies (i.e.physical damage from a tree falling on the RV).
Questions to Ask About RV Extended Warranty Coverage
Here are 5 questions every RV buyer should ask before purchasing an extended RV warranty. You should also ask for a copy of the policy and read it from start to finish before signing.
Question 1: Is It an Exclusionary or Comprehensive Policy?
The first thing to understand about the extended warranty you are evaluating is whether it is exclusionary or comprehensive.
An exclusionary policy covers all mechanical components except those listed under the “What is not covered” or “Exclusions” section of the warranty.
An exclusionary policy generally offers a higher level of coverage. If your RV has several high-tech components or off-grid systems, such as solar panels, an exclusionary policy is the right type of warranty.
The other type of policy is a comprehensive or stated component warranty. This type of warranty covers only major components. The policy lists what components are covered and only covers what is specifically stated.
Stated component warranties usually do not list wiring as a covered component. Wiring repairs would be common for many issues with RV electrical systems and appliances.
Once you understand whether the policy is exclusionary or comprehensive, review the policy’s list of what is excluded from or covered by the warranty.
Question 2: What is the Deductible?
An extended RV warranty covers repairs to your RV’s electrical and mechanical components. However, each repair will have a deductible. When shopping for RV warranties, ask how much is the deductible per claim.
When comparing policies, it is important to understand the cost of the warranty, as well as the deductible. If a warranty has a high deductible, your out-of-pocket costs may be more, even if the policy is cheaper.
Question 3: Are Service Calls Covered?
Service calls refer to mobile RV repair services that come to your RV. Some extended warranties cover fees for mobile mechanics, while others require you to take your RV to a repair facility for work.
Having a policy that covers service calls is convenient for any RV owner because it allows you to take care of repairs without leaving the campground. Service call coverage is essential for full-time RVers who must pay for alternate accommodations when their RV is in the shop.
Also, check whether there are any restrictions or requirements in the contract on where you can take your RV for repairs. If you are a full-time RVer or a frequent traveler, look for an extended warranty that allows repairs at any licensed facility.
Question 4: Is There an Emergency Claim Clause?
Warranty work requires pre-authorization, which means your extended warranty will only cover repairs if they authorize the repair facility to start work.
However, some policies have an emergency claim clause that allows for repairs without authorization when there is an emergency outside of normal business hours.
Question 5: Are Wheels, Tires, and Roadside Assistance Covered?
Wheels and tires are not usually covered under an extended RV warranty. However, some companies offer additional coverage for these components.
If you do not already have roadside assistance, also inquire if there is an option to include this feature with your extended warranty. No RV traveler should hit the road without the peace of mind provided by roadside assistance.
Where to Purchase an Extended RV Warranty
First, let’s talk about where not to buy your extended RV warranty. I strongly advise against purchasing an extended warranty from an RV dealership without shopping around first.
RV dealerships rarely offer the best deal on extended warranties, and many dealers sell low-quality plans.
As a sales tactic, some dealerships offer warranties only after the purchase price has been negotiated and try to pressure buyers to purchase the warranty while signing the paperwork. Avoid making an impulse purchase by having a plan for your warranty before the day of purchase.
Instead of purchasing an extended warranty through your dealership, I recommend shopping through Wholesale Warranties. This company only sells A-rated warranty programs, which ensures that 90% of their customers’ claims are adjusted in one phone call.
Every customer also has access to a warranty specialist and a claim assistance team to answer any questions and ensure claims are processed quickly. Our warranty was also about half the price of the extended warranty offered by our dealer.
Bookmark our Wholesale Warranties link to request a free quote when purchasing your RV.
Note: I am a Wholesale Warranties affiliate, so I will receive a small commission if you purchase a product through my link. Of course, I only work as an affiliate for products and services I use and love.
Take Care of RV Maintenance
As we noted above, no RV warranty covers regular maintenance tasks. To save money on RV maintenance, learn to do it yourself.
Our RV maintenance eBook, The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance, provides step-by-step instructions on how to complete essential upkeep tasks. For just $24.99, the eBook includes detailed how-to guides for exterior, holding tank, and appliance maintenance.
Happy Camping!
Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book.
