Purchasing an RV extended warranty can be a daunting decision given the myriad of factors to consider. Whether you’re a seasoned RV owner or a newbie, understanding the intricacies of extended warranties is crucial.
From the potential cost of repairs to your own DIY skills, each aspect plays a significant role in determining whether an extended warranty is worth the investment.
The video below breaks down seven essential points to consider when deciding on an RV extended warranty. Below, we’ve highlighted these key points, but be sure to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article for a comprehensive understanding.
1. The Cost of Repairs
RV repairs can be notoriously expensive, especially when it comes to major components like air conditioners, refrigerators, engines, and transmissions. As the video mentions, “If you anticipate maybe down the road you having to repair some of these things yourself and they can be very costly, you might want to consider an extended warranty to protect against major repair costs.” If you don’t want to end up selling your kidney to fix your RV, an extended warranty might just be your saving grace.
2. Age and Condition of the RV
Older RVs are more prone to breakdowns and system failures. The video advises, “If you’re buying a used RV or an older RV with more miles on it, then maybe an extended warranty can give you that peace of mind that you’re looking for.” Remember, an old RV is like a vintage wine—it gets better with age, but only if it’s well-maintained. Otherwise, it’s just a bottle of trouble waiting to pop.
3. Manufacturer’s Warranty
Not all manufacturer warranties are created equal. Some offer extensive coverage, while others are pretty basic. “Jayco offers an extended two-year warranty, whereas a lot of the other RV providers just offer a basic one-year manufacturer’s warranty,” the video explains. So, if your RV’s manufacturer warranty is as thin as a slice of Swiss cheese, consider an extended warranty to fill in the gaps.
4. Your DIY Skills
If you’re handy and enjoy fixing things yourself, an extended warranty might not be necessary. The video humorously notes, “If you’re someone like me, an idiot who’s not that handy, well maybe the extended warranty is worth it.” So, if your idea of a DIY project is changing a light bulb and hoping it doesn’t explode, an extended warranty could save you from a lot of headaches.
5. Coverage Details and Exceptions
It’s crucial to understand what the extended warranty actually covers. The video warns, “A lot of people I’ve seen buy RVs, they get into the back to talk to the business managers and they just sign on the dotted line.” Don’t be that person who signs an extended warranty without reading the fine print—unless you enjoy surprises as much as a jack-in-the-box.
6. Personal Financial Situation
Your financial stability plays a significant role in deciding whether to purchase an extended warranty. The video points out, “If you are a payment buyer and you want to know that each month it’s going to be $500 for your RV and that includes the extended warranty, then maybe that’s what you need.” If your wallet is tighter than a drum, an extended warranty might provide the financial predictability you need.
7. Customer Reviews and Reputation
Finally, research the customer reviews and reputation of the extended warranty company. The video suggests, “Get on RV forums, get onto Facebook, and talk to people who have been in your situation before.” Think of it as online dating for warranties—do your homework to avoid ending up with a dud.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to buy an RV extended warranty involves careful consideration of multiple factors. We hope these points help you make an informed decision. For more detailed insights, watch the full video below.
