Buying Extended Car Warranty for Petrol Vehicles | What You Need to Know

If your manufacturer’s warranty has recently expired on your car, there is no safety net to fall upon unless you take out an extended car warranty policy. An extended car warranty offers peace of mind, protecting you from unexpected repair costs that can last for between three and seven years. But with so many options available, it can be tricky to know what’s best for you, particularly when dealing with petrol vehicles.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential information about buying an extended car warranty for petrol vehicles. We will highlight any requirements for an extended car warranty policy for a petrol car, as well as the best option for you and their typical lengths.

Can You Purchase an Extended Car Warranty for a Used Petrol Vehicle?

Yes, you can purchase an extended car warranty for a used petrol vehicle. Extended warranties are widely available for used vehicles, and they can be a smart investment, especially if your car has travelled a few miles or is nearing the end of its manufacturer warranty. New cars typically don’t need an extended car warranty policy, but it is worth checking.

You can read our previous guides on extended warranty for new, used and high-mileage cars here.

When it comes to used petrol vehicles, the process of obtaining an extended warranty isn’t much different from that of a new car. However, there are a few key factors to bear in mind:

• Vehicle Age and Mileage: Most extended warranty providers will have specific age and mileage limits. While each provider’s policies differ, older cars with higher mileage may face more restrictions, or you may be charged a higher premium. We have three levels of cover at ALA (silver, gold and platinum) tailored to different car ages and mileage.
• Inspection Requirements: In some cases, especially for older or higher mileage vehicles, the warranty provider may require an inspection before approving coverage. With ALA warranty, there are no pre-inspections required.
• Types of Coverage Available: Used cars, especially older ones, may be offered less comprehensive coverage. For example, some warranties might exclude certain components that are more likely to wear out due to age, such as air conditioning or suspension systems. Be sure to check what’s covered before committing to a plan.

Want to see if your car qualifies for an extended warranty policy? Generate your extended car warranty quote here.

Are There Any Specific Maintenance Requirements for Petrol Vehicles Under Extended Warranty?

All vehicles, whether petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric, need to be maintained to remain in good working condition. When you purchase an extended warranty for a petrol vehicle, there will typically be maintenance requirements that you must follow to keep the warranty valid.

Here are some common requirements for petrol vehicles under an extended warranty:

• Regular Servicing: You’ll be required to stick to a service schedule, which usually involves regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and checks on other engine components. If you skip a scheduled service, it could invalidate your warranty.
• Use of Manufacturer-Approved Parts: When replacing parts, it’s often required that you use manufacturer-approved or equivalent parts. Some warranties may refuse to cover repairs if third-party or cheaper components have been used in the past.
• Keeping Records: It’s crucial to keep a detailed record of all your servicing and repair history. If you ever need to make a claim, the warranty provider may ask for proof that you’ve maintained the vehicle correctly.
• No Modifications: Some warranties will also stipulate that the car must not be modified in any way. For petrol vehicles, this typically means no aftermarket parts that could interfere with the engine or other critical systems.

You can find out more about our terms and conditions at ALA here.

What is the Best Extended Car Warranty for Petrol Vehicles?

While there are many warranty providers in the UK, a few stand out due to their comprehensive coverage, customer service, and affordability. At ALA, we are a well-regarded provider in the UK market, offering a range of extended warranties with various levels of cover. Our warranties are known for being comprehensive and offering high levels of customer satisfaction.

When selecting the best warranty for your petrol vehicle, always compare coverage options, read customer reviews, and consider the provider’s reputation. The cheapest option isn’t always the best value, so weigh up the long-term benefits.

How Long is an Extended Car Warranty?

The duration of an extended car warranty varies depending on the provider and the type of coverage you choose. Most extended warranties offer coverage for one to five years, but some providers may offer plans that extend up to seven or even ten years.

Typically, you’ll find the following options:

• One Year Coverage: If you’re not ready to commit to a long-term plan, you can opt for a one-year warranty, which is usually renewable. These plans are ideal if you want to test out the provider’s service before making a longer-term commitment./li>
• Multi-Year Plans: Many extended warranties come in two- or three-year packages, which tend to offer better value for money in the long run. These are suitable if you plan to keep the vehicle for several years. Our policies at ALA can run for up to three years, and can be renewed.

It’s important to consider your driving habits when choosing the length of your warranty. If you drive a lot, a mileage-based plan might expire sooner than expected, so choose accordingly.

Extended Car Warranty at ALA

Choosing your extended car warranty policy ALA means you have three levels of cover to choose from, providing you with more choice to suit your specific needs and requirements. We will also skip the pre-inspection and aim to get you on your policy in 30 days. You can even choose your own labour rate and claim limit, and add key care as an extra incentive.

To find out more, get in touch with us today.

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