posted 08-29-2003 03:18 PM                  

A few things to realize:

1. You can only modify an existing contract up to 4 years/48,000 miles

2. The rates increase after 1, 2 and 3 years

3. In crunching the number, DO NOT assume that the extended warranty covers the same items as the original 3/36. I have posted on this extensively elsewhere (wheels, handles, soft top, rotors, battery; center caps are unclear).

posted 08-29-2003 03:44 PM                  

My feeling is extended warranties are great if you know nothing about cars and you have the extra money. If you know a few things about cars (change the oil, brakes, belts and etc) then the extended warranty is not for you. Most extended warranties ONLY cover catastrophic failures, but ONLY if the routine maintance (Not covered) was performed. Normal "wear and tear" (belts, tires, exhaust , coolant and etc.) items are NOT covered. Don't forget there is a deductible on any warranty repairs and that's depended on the level of coverange you choose for your warranty. If you modify the mechanical components of your car (Gears, NOS, Supercharger) your warranty is void.

Therefore, If you preform all your routine maintance you should not have any catastrophic failures (Engine or Tranny blowing up) hence, not needing the extended warranty right?

posted 08-29-2003 11:32 PM                  

Pay me now,,,,,,or pay me more later is the way I see it. JMO

posted 08-30-2003 08:04 AM                  

quote:

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Originally posted by ALLEY CAT:

GRROWL - I have the extended warranty to seven years or 50,000 miles. Originally I thought I'd maybe just make 50,000 miles in that time, but now I see I should have bought it to 75,000 miles. Can I extend out the miles now by paying an additional charge? My cat will be 4 yrs old at the end of '03. I'm thinking this is the question that Grant is asking also?

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AC, according to Chrysler, you need to move quickly and do it befofe you hit the 4-year mark (doesn't sound like Chrysler gives the dealers much flexibility, although backdating may be possible). See Chrysler FAQs at:
http://www.servicecontracts.chrysler.com/faq/contract_change.html

It says:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Changing Your Contract

How do I Upgrade Coverage on my service contract?
An upgrade is a change to extend or improve the original service contract you purchased. DaimlerChrysler Service Contracts allows our Dealers and Customers the flexibility to make contract changes on new vehicle service contracts during the 48 months and 48,000 miles.

Example: If you have a 5 year 60 thousand mile Added Care plan, and after 2 years of driving you have accumulated 35,000 miles, you have the option of returning to your selling dealer to request an extension or change in your coverage. The dealer will then make the request with DaimlerChrysler Service Contracts, and after your request is processed you will receive your new Service Contract Plan Provision.
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Also, since I was there, here's the language on the "surcharge" if you add a contract after 1,2 or 3 years:

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When can I purchase a new or a pre-owned DaimlerChrysler Service Contract?
For new vehicle owners, you are eligible to purchase a new DaimlerChrysler Service Contract any time during the manufacturer's 3/36 basic warranty. On new vehicle service contracts purchased after 1, 2 and 3 years, an additional surcharge will apply.

All major new vehicle plans are eligible within the 48 months and 48,000 miles. Other new car plans must be purchased at time of vehicle sale. Please see your DaimlerChrysler Dealer for complete eligibility requirements.

All pre-owned DaimlerChrysler Service Contracts must be sold at time of vehicle sale and must be purchased through a DaimlerChrysler Franchised Dealer.
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It's not clear whether the extension carries the surcharge or not. My guess is that it does and would be calculated by determining the total new cost (after 1,2 or 3 years), crediting what you paid, and possibly adding a service charge for the transaction.

-GRROWL