Extended Car Warranties for European Vehicles
Consider A Better Option: autoPOM! Mechanical Breakdown Protection
Extended car warranties, or a mechanical breakdown protection plan, for European vehicles are something you may be considering. Extended car warranties are offered by the manufacturer and are typically sold by the dealership. Mechanical Breakdown Protection, sold by autoPOM! backed and administered by Mercury Insurance Group offers more flexibility and comparable coverage for less money. For example, you can take your vehicle to any licensed repair facility in the US or Canada for repair.
For most people, European cars are the first thing that come to mind when you start talking about luxury transportation. Hello, I'm Teddy Field and in this short article I will introduce the European brands sold in America:
The links above and below will direct you to specific discussions on mechanical breakdown protection (commonly referred to as extended car warranties) for each brand.
Images of a car that's built like a vault, and filled with the finest leather, and real wood trim probably spring to mind. Piloting a big Mercedes, BMW, or Audi can do loads for your self-image. It says that you've arrived, but you still want the most for your hard-earned dollar.
Even the affordable German Volkswagen offers a bit of panache within its segment.
If you don't mind shelling out your hard-earned cash for quality, then a European car can provide a cutting-edge alternative to more "pedestrian transportation devices."
Audi
Long known for their Quattro All Wheel Drive systems, Audi cars provide a discreet luxury experience, with just the right amount of performance thrown in.
From the practical A3, to the ferocious R8. An Audi can be a gentle cruiser, or it can be a corner-carving fun-machine...depending on your mood.
Since they're built in Germany, Audi's tend to be reliable. With the exception of the odd-electric/electronic problem, Audi's can provide many years of faithful service...provided you take proper care of them. However, if they do need repair, they can be very expensive.
Perhaps that's why so many Audi owners opt for mechanical breakdown protection (a.k.a. extended car warranties). Continue reading..
BMW
If you enjoy driving, then BMW probably has a model to suit you.
Built on the premise that people actually enjoy driving, BMW cars provide both an exhilarating driving experience, and every luxury known to man.
With models ranging from family-friendly SUV's, to race-ready supercars, BMW engineers have crammed that famous "absolute driver control" into every model. When properly equipped, even the most ham-fisted junior partner can feel like Mario Andretti.
A combination of cutting-edge computer systems, and engineering know-how have helped give BMW that coveted title "The Ultimate Driving Machine". But, that same precise design that can cause maintenance nightmares when things go awry. Continue reading...
Mercedes Benz
If you think that your luxury car should have the latest technology, and driver-aides available. Then look no further than a Mercedes Benz.
Few automakers can claim over 100 years of experience. And, those that can, sure can't produce an endless list of mechanical, and safety innovations that Mercedes has.
With one of the biggest Research & Development budgets on the planet. Mercedes engineers continue to wow the world with such advancements as Night View Assist, and a cruise control system that can practically drive itself (Distronic).
Mercedes Benz is one of the most cutting-edge car makers in the world. If you want to see the future of the automobile, just go to the nearest Mercedes dealership. On the other hand, cutting edge technology sometimes comes with a price in terms of maintenance which is why many Mercedes owners opt into extended car warranties. Continue reading...
VW
Volkswagen was conceived during World War II, as a means of providing affordable transportation for the masses.
The first VW cars were actually designed by Dr. Ferry Porsche. Though they weren't exactly little rocket ships. They were reliable, and extremely easy to work on.
Modern Volkswagens are just as solid, and reliable as they've always been. They're just a lot harder to work on.
A properly maintained VW can far outlast any domestic car. But, if it does break, get ready for a big bill. Or, you could avoid the hassle and consider the purchase of mechanical breakdown protection (commonly referred to as extended car warranties). Continue reading...
Protect Your Investment
It's a well known fact that if you want a good car, you have to buy German. But, if you want to have the best, you're going to have to pay for it.
Mercedes, BMW, Audi and are going to cost considerably more than a Cadillac. Both in terms of purchase price, and maintenance. Which is why mechanical breakdown protection is so important.
The factory warranty will cover the repair bills for your car, up to the allowed time limit, or mileage. Which ever comes first.
- Audi - 4-years/50,000 miles
- BMW 4-years/50,000 miles
- Mercedes Benz 4-years/50,000 miles
- VW 3-years/36,000 miles Bumper to Bumper
- 5-years/60,000 miles Powertrain
When it comes to extending protection for your vehicle beyond the manufacturer's warranty, you have two basic options:
- Manufacturer's (factory) extended warranty
- Mechanical Breakdown Protection (from a third party)
The biggest difference between extended car warranties bought from the manufacturer, and mechanical breakdown protection is where you can have your car serviced.
- Repairs must be performed by an authorized dealer or factory authorized repair facility when extended car warranties are purchased from the manufacturer.
- Extended mechancal breakdown protection repairs can be performed by a much larger network of independent service centers.
If you've owned a European car in the past, chances are, you already know of a few good foreign repair shops. These independent shops are great because most of them are staffed by true automotive veterans. Not, recent Tech School graduates, like your local dealership.
If you haven't found a good independent mechanic yet, I urge you to do so. Call the local chapter of your Audi, BMW, Mercedes or VW owners club, and ask who they'd recommend. Internet forums are also a great place to look.
Then, take a moment to consider which type of coverage is right for you. Remember, premium cars cost premium money to maintain. So, protect your investment now by researching mechanical breakdown protection and extended car warranties. Do so before your factory warranty runs out or your options will be limited and more expensive!
Although, you will pay more, the manufacturer's extended car warranties are usually a solid choice. However, if you decide that mechanical breakdown protection is a better option for you, I recommend the folks at autoPOM! and Mercury Insurance Group.
autoPOM! backed and administered by Mercury can provide you with repair service comparable to the manufacturer's extended warranty. Not surprising, autoPOM! pricing is far less than dealer pricing and offers the flexibility of allowing you to choose the repair facility that you're most comfortable with.
autoPOM! has an A+ rating from the BBB and Mercury has a A+ rating from A.M. Best.See 10 Reasons To Choose autoPOM! and Mercury.
