Where to Get a Warranty for a Used RV
So, you’re ready to take a look at safeguarding your RV with warranty protection–great! You’re in the right place. RV warranties can be a great layer of protection to add to your motorhome or travel trailer to help cover the cost of expensive repairs. But just like most things in the RV life, you have a little research ahead of you! Finding the right provider for your extended warranty protection is an important part of the process. This article will help you along in your research and offer a guide on how to find a provider you can trust.
Where can you purchase an RV Warranty?
Step one: How do you find an RV warranty provider to purchase from? Traditionally, RV warranties were mainly sold through the dealership. This meant that brand new motorhomes and those sold through large dealerships would have access to a warranty, while used rigs, private party purchased, and more would not.
This also meant RVers didn’t really have options, or the ability to compare coverage offers. But you’re in luck, RVers now have options when it comes to where they can purchase their RV warranty! You’ll still likely be offered a policy through your dealership if that’s how you purchase, but there are also online RV warranty brokers, who have become a great resource for RVers who are interested in RV warranty coverage. These brokers help RV owners comparison shop to find a policy that meets their needs at a price they can afford, saving them the hassle of having to have a phone call with each different warranty provider in order to find the best price.
Comparing Different RV Warranty Options
It’s not just about where to find coverage. Some traditional warranties are also limited in the type of coverage options available. Online providers and brokers, like Wholesale Warranties, were born out of a belief that there are no “one-size-fits-all” RVers—so there shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all warranty, either!
Every RVer is different, and should be able to select a policy that matches who they are as a traveler, the type of rig they own, their desired level of risk, and their budget. For example, an RV owner who intends to live in their RV full time will likely have different needs than someone who plans to take their camper out for occasional weekend glamping trips.
That’s why it’s important to look at the service contract before signing anything and handing over payment. Because warranty coverage differs depending on the type of policy you choose, seeing the service contract in full sets realistic exceptions when putting your policy to use. When a warranty provider is able to show you a sample contract before making you sign, this shows great transparency and honesty. This is definitely something to look for as you shop various providers.
Another thing you’ll want to look for in a provider is a company willing to offer coverage to a wide array of RVers. What are their eligibility requirements? Do they offer policies to used units? If so, is there a waiting period enforced before you can use the coverage? At a provider like Wholesale Warranties, for instance, full coverage is offered for motorhomes aged 20 model years and newer, and towables aged 15 model years and newer. Click here to learn more about eligibility and when to buy a policy.
Finding a Reputable Warranty Provider
In the past, RV warranties have had a bad reputation. Unfortunately, there were many horror stories to be found about RVers who were scammed, and didn’t receive the coverage they were expecting when things went south. This is why we always recommend finding a provider who has been in the industry for a while, has a trustworthy reputation in the community, and offers policies with strong administration and insurance backing!
When choosing the provider that will fit your RVing lifestyle and budget, make sure your policy is backed by an insurance company. This means that if the warranty company were to go under, you and your money would be protected, and your claims would be paid out when you use your policy. This insurance company should represent a strong financial backing. Check out the company on AM Best for stability ratings!
Reputation is key. RVers are great at sharing their experiences, both online and around the campfire. Before you choose to do business with any provider, look them up online! What is being said about coverage on RV forums? How about consumer advocacy sites, like BBB, Escapees RV Club, and FMCA? How do your favorite RV bloggers and YouTubers feel about a company? Be sure to read real reviews of RV warranty providers from real RVers who have made claims before signing on the dotted line.
The simplest advice we can give is to do business with a provider who is in it for the long haul, not just the sale. Work with a provider that has a dedicated team available for support for the life of your policy term. If you have an issue with your policy a few years into coverage (or a few days for that matter!), you’ll want to know there’s someone to help you out, answer your questions, and work toward resolution. Solid customer service is key to a positive RV warranty experience.
Repairs Done When You Need Them
Breakdowns happen when you least expect them! Wherever you are traveling when failures hit, you should have the ability to take your motorhome or towable RV to any licensed repair facility in the area.
Many policies will require you to take your unit back to the selling dealer, or to a select group of repair facilities. This can be tough to do while traveling, and your warranty is there to relieve stress—not add to it!
Make sure to purchase an extended service contract that does not limit the repair facilities you can use. Purchasing a policy from Wholesale Warranties allows travelers to take their rigs to any licensed mechanics near their area, including mobile mechanics. Before getting towed to a certain repair facility, give them a call to make sure they accept warranties and have the time to take your rig in.
Finding the right policy and provider can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Look for a provider who will work with you, educate you fully and transparently on your options, and offer customer service for the entirety of your warranty term. A reliable RV warranty can provide you with peace of mind out on the road, knowing that your next adventure is protected from unexpected RV repair costs.
To learn more about RV warranties and the coverage options offered by Wholesale Warranties, click here.
