So you got a great deal on a used ATV, dirtbike, or snowmobile and want to protect that investment? You’ve come to the right place. We’re going to discuss how to get the best extended warranty used Powersports.
Know Your Coverage
No matter what Powersports warranty you go with, plan on spending an hour or two to discover the fine print. The last thing anybody wants is for their warranty not to work when needed.
For example, let’s say you buy a used dirt bike at 30% of the original MSRP. You’re excited about saving 70% on your new machine, but you have to pay an additional $600 in warranty fees. Is it worth it? You decide!
Products Covered
Some ATV, Motorcycle, and Snowmobile warranties only cover the engine or chassis. Be sure you read the fine print before buying. You want to be covered for everything your future self may need to fix on your used Powersports vehicle.
Water Damage Clause
Does your new dirt bike come with a water damage clause? If it does, make sure you get full coverage. This is the amount of money the warranty company wants if your bike falls into the drink.
No Water Damage Clause
If your warranty doesn’t cover water damage, you may want to rethink your purchase. We don’t know of any ATV, motorcycle, or snowmobile riders who would pass on riding if it’s raining out. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule, but that is how we feel about it.
Warranty Coverage with Interest
Research what kind of interest rates your warranty company charges if your coverage isn’t renewed. The most common rate for motorcycle and ATV extended warranties is 20%, and some snowmobile dealerships charge as much as 50%. We’ve even heard of cases where the dealer charged the customer’s credit card the interest before the contract was even signed.
Price vs. Coverage
Don’t get fooled into thinking you’re getting a great deal on an extended warranty because you’re saving $20 or $30 over what another company is charging. You may not be receiving complete coverage for that amount of money. Do your homework and make sure your future self won’t need to pay for hidden costs.
Five Things to Look for in a Good Extended Warranty
1) You want to pick an extended warranty company that has been around for many years. If you have to look up their phone number in the yellow pages, there may be a good reason why.
2) Inquire if your extended warranty offers instant protection. You don’t want to wait several days or weeks before being covered.
3) Ask your dealer what the total amount covered is. For example, does it cover accidental damage? What is their deductible?
4) Search for online reviews of your potential warranty. Bad customer support, hidden fees, and delayed coverage are all red flags you need to watch out for.
5) You want to make sure your motorcycle or ATV extended warranty will be honored at any dealership in the U.S. If you travel or visit friends who are miles away, this is important to consider.
Our Warranty Recommendations
It’s important to use common sense when buying an extended warranty. We’ve seen people pay out thousands of dollars for coverage because they didn’t read the fine print first. Always keep in mind the main coverage areas an extended warranty should include.
