How to add extended warranty to an EV

Electric vehicles (EVs) are reliable and cost-effective to run and maintain but if something does go wrong, you could face an expensive repair bill. Car warranties help to cover the costs of repairs for the first three to five years but after they expire, you could be left to cover the costs out of pocket.

You can add extra time onto your protection by getting an extended car warranty. These are available from dealerships or independent providers and can be tailored specifically to your EV or offer fully comprehensive coverage. Explore our helpful guide about adding protection for your vehicle.

Types of Extended Warranties Available for EVs

Most vehicle warranties are available for both electric vehicles and internal combustion engine cars such as petrol or diesel. However, some providers offer a specific EV warranty. It can be comforting to know that your EV warranty covers all the essential components you need it to when it matters. However, there are always limits to the component cover available, regardless of the type you choose.

• Manufacturer extended warranty: These paid warranties extend past the expiration date of the original car warranty. They are usually less comprehensive than your original warranty and can be expensive. However, you can rest assured they’re designed in accordance with your vehicle’s essential components and manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Dealership extended warranty: These warranties are available to buy from a vehicle dealership when you purchase your electric car. However, they can be generic, expensive, and often lower quality. It may be beneficial to shop around for the best deal before buying the first one you’re offered.
• Independent extended warranty: Third-party providers can offer you a more competitive price, flexible coverage, better service, and overall, greater peace of mind. Choose a reputable provider and prioritise an insured warranty (where consumer rights are protected).
• EV-specific warranty: These warranties are tailored to cover the most crucial EV components, such as the drive battery, electric motor, AC power inverter, DC converter, and charging module. However, review the full details of specific component cover and check for excluded parts.
• Generic warranty: A general warranty product can offer varying levels of coverage, from fully comprehensive cover to selective plans. The right policy may depend on your electric car’s condition (age and mileage) and your available budget. It’s always smart to opt for the most comprehensive cover you can afford to ensure the essential electrical parts are covered.

Choosing the Right Extended Warranty Provider

As mentioned, there are several warranty providers – manufacturers, dealerships, and independent providers. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Explore the options below:

• Manufacturers:

✅Created with your vehicle in mind

✅ Simple and convenient to extend an existing warranty

✅ Similar policies and coverage to the original warranty

✅ Can be combined with other payments such as car finance

❌ May not offer competitive pricing; limited flexibility

• Dealerships:

✅ Simplicity

✅ Usually day-one cover

✅ Can be combined with other payments such as car finance

❌ May not offer competitive pricing; may lack specific EV coverage; limited flexibility

• Independent Providers:

✅ Competitive pricing

✅ Can include additional features such as zero excess and no pre-inspection

✅ Covers key EV components

✅ Flexible tiers of coverage

✅ Generous component cover

❌ 28-day waiting period with ALA insurance

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Provider

Price, coverage, and policy quality are top priorities when selecting insurance products (ALA, 2024) for obvious reasons. Selecting a trusted provider with good customer service is essential for getting the service and cover you need.

Tips for choosing a trustworthy provider:

• Make sure you buy an insured warranty: This protects your consumer rights.
• Check reviews and endorsements: Pay attention to customer service and claims handling, as these will differ from provider to provider.
• Check for hidden fees and admin charges: Avoid providers who aren’t transparent about admin fees, as these can make a cheaper initial policy less worthwhile.
• Be wary of unnecessarily confusing policy documents: Read your policy documents in full to understand your responsibilities, coverage, and limits to avoid issues when filing a repair request.

Independent Providers vs. Manufacturer Extensions

Buying an extended car warranty from an independent provider often offers better value and flexibility compared to dealership or manufacturer warranties. Independent providers typically have competitive and more affordable prices, covering a broader range of repairs, including electrical faults, air conditioning, and power regeneration systems. They often include additional perks like hire car cover and roadside assistance. Independent warranties can be tailored to your needs, offering customisable warranty plans and transparent terms.

How to Purchase an Extended Warranty Online

It couldn’t be easier to buy an extended warranty online from ALA.

1. Enter your registration number into our handy quote calculator to see if you’re eligible.
2. Choose a policy tier from the options available. If your EV is less than 8 years or 100,000 miles, you can get a comprehensive Platinum policy.
3. Choose how long you want cover for (up to three years).
4. Select your labour rate cover from either £60 or £100 per hour; the maximum limit gives you peace of mind wherever you live in the UK, even London.
5. Select your claim limit; the options may be £2,000, £5,000, or your vehicle’s market value.
6. Select additional coverage options such as Breakdown Cover or Keycare.
7. Continue to ‘Buy Securely’ and your cover starts after 28 days (you still get the full length of cover you pay for).

What Documents and Information Do You Need Before Buying a Policy Online?

To buy an ALA warranty policy online, you’ll need to confirm the following:

✅ You are the registered keeper of the vehicle.

✅ Your vehicle has been serviced recently (in accordance with the manufacturer’s service schedule).

✅ You will continue to regularly service the vehicle during your warranty period.

✅ Your vehicle is not excluded (e.g., tuition, courier, or HGVs are examples of excluded vehicles).

✅ Your vehicle will primarily be used in the UK.

✅ You want cover for sudden or unforeseen mechanical or electrical breakdowns.

✅ You aren’t using this policy to cover faults that occurred before the policy start date or during the 28-day waiting period.

To make a warranty claim, you’ll need:

• Your policy number
• The registration number of your insured vehicle
• The vehicle’s current mileage
• Your vehicle’s service history documents

Frequently asked questions

What Makes EV Extended Warranties Different?

EV, hybrid or PHEV extended warranties differ from standard warranties as they often cover unique electrical components like the drive battery, electric motor, and charging system, which are not found in traditional combustion engine vehicles. Additionally, these warranties may offer different coverage periods or rates for batteries, reflecting their critical role and high replacement costs.

Can I Transfer My EV Extended Warranty If I Sell My Car?

Most EV extended warranties are transferable to new owners, which can enhance the car’s resale value. However, the process and any associated fees depend on the warranty provider. ALA doesn’t charge any admin fees for transferring an electric vehicle warranty.

When Should I Buy an Extended Warranty?

It’s best to buy an extended warranty before your factory warranty expires to ensure continuous coverage. Additionally, purchasing earlier ensures you’re out of the 28-day waiting period when your original warranty expires.

Do You Buy an Additional Warranty When Buying Your Car?

Buying an additional warranty at the time of purchase can provide peace of mind and potentially lower repair costs compared to adding it later. However, it’s wise to compare offers from third-party providers to ensure the best coverage and value. You can buy a warranty policy online, in advance of getting your used or new EV.