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Dos and Don’ts of Buying Extended Warranty Online

5 March 2025

Written by Simon England

|  4 Minutes

In today’s world, we can buy almost anything at the click of a button, including Car Warranty. Although many drivers still prefer to buy an extended warranty policy at the dealership, when buying a new car, or with your comprehensive car insurance policy. You can conveniently buy extended warranty from your web browser and even secure a better-value policy for the ultimate peace of mind. This way, you know you are safe from unexpected repair costs after the manufacturer’s warranty ends.

However, not all extended warranties are created equally, there are some online providers offering uninsured warranties that are worth skipping if you value your consumer rights.

Should you Buy a Separate Warranty Policy for your Car?

A manufacturer’s warranty usually protects your car for a limited time, often three years, or a set number of miles. This factory warranty covers problems from the manufacturer but may not protect against normal wear and tear of some parts.

An extended car warranty is different. It can extend your factory warranty or work independently. It gives you extra coverage for a longer time or more miles, depending on what you need. You can buy one of these policies from your manufacturer or you can search online for third-party providers who often offer better deals for similar, if not better extended warranty cover.

While extended warranty policies aren’t a legal requirement like car insurance, they help you avoid a significant repair bill should a mechanical or electrical part fail in your car unexpectedly. Full component cover options such as ALA’s Platinum Warranty cost more for good reason but it can be tempting to opt for the cheapest offering on comparison sites. However, you might get caught out with the fine print, after-purchase fees, unexpected costs or hidden clauses.

ALA have award-winning customer service and offer complete policy transparency

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Which Online Extended Warranties are Worth Buying?

When looking at online extended warranties, it is important to check the different cover levels. A good warranty cover includes many parts and systems like the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. Think about your vehicle’s age, mileage, and condition when choosing the right level of cover. For example, warranties for high-mileage cars and old cars may offer reduced cover to make the policies affordable. New cars that are less than 8 years or 80,000 miles benefit from comprehensive component cover and even wear and tear warranty protection.

Explore what’s covered under ALA Platinum Warranty.

You should also ensure you select a trustworthy provider who has your interests at heart. ALA are rated 4.9 stars on Trustpilot and we have award-winning customer service. Our Customers trust us to help you make an informed decision.

Insured warranty vs uninsured warranty

Eastern Man Using Phone Sitting In Auto With Opened Door

Insured warranty:

An insured warranty is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), all policies are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) and you have the right to challenge any decisions made with the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). An insured warranty is an insurance product rather than a maintenance product and means if you’re within the terms of your policy, you’ll get a pay out.

Uninsured warranty:

An uninsured warranty is neither protected by the FSCS nor regulated by the FSCS. You also can’t complain to the FOS if you’re not happy with the decision following your extended warranty claim. The policies tend to be much cheaper but you, may not have the same rights as with an insured policy. Your policy is not legally binding and if the company goes bust, you may lose your cover.

So, it’s important to research and pick a trusted provider. Look for one with a good reputation. Make sure to read the policy documents carefully and check for specific exclusions and policy terms. A good provider makes their policy documents straightforward and transparent. Explore an example policy document from ALA.

Platinum Warranty Policy Wording

How to avoid Scammy Warranty Products Online

When you buy an extended warranty online, be careful to avoid scams. Look for providers that have a real online presence. This includes a good website, clear contact information, and a helpful customer service team. Be cautious of offers that sound too good to be true, they often catch you out with the fine print, or offer no coverage at all.

Is Car Warranty a Scam?

Protect your consumer rights with an insured warranty. Be careful, a company can be insured but their extended warranty uninsured. Motor Easy, an insured GAP insurance provider, offers an uninsured warranty. Don’t get caught out buying subpar warranty products.

Before you decide on anything, do your research. Compare prices and coverage from different providers. Read customer reviews to see what others think about them. If an offer seems too good to be true, it’s likely going to catch you out. Choose a trustworthy provider that gives full details about their products and services.

Ultimately, with a trustworthy provider, you get what you pay for.

Get Your Quote Now

ALA award picture

Why Choose Award-Winning Warranty Provider: ALA?

ALA is an award-winning warranty provider. We focus on offering complete and dependable vehicle protection plans for customers across the UK. Our customer service team is proud to help you make the best purchase decision, whatever that might be. The support team are not salespeople, they’re people, people. ALA can also help you with any questions you have about your current warranty policy.

Our Extended Warranty Policies offer reassuring benefits too

  • No pre-inspection required
  • Cover for high mileage vehicles (up to 150,000 miles)
  • Used car warranty available for old cars (up to 16 years)
  • Wear & Tear cover (selected policies only)
  • Award-winning customer service
  • Full policy transparency
  • Breakdown Cover available separately
  • Great-value policies
  • Generous component cover

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Extended Warranty for a High Mileage Vehicle?

You can buy extended warranty for vehicles up to 150,000 miles with ALA as long as its under 16 years old. While coverage is available, there are limits when you choose policies for used vehicles. Silver policies from ALA are available for cars up to 150,000 miles and 16 years but they offer less comprehensive component cover compared Gold or Platinum Warranties.

Explore what car warranty is available for cars over 100,000 miles.

How Does the Claims Process Work with ALA Insurance?

Having an unexpected failure is stressful and having to make a claim should be easy and stress-free. Explore our claims advice. The claims team will help you find an authorised repair shop. We aim to get your repair sorted as quickly as possible but if you’re waiting for the necessary repairs, you can use a courtesy car while your car is being repaired.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Vehicles Covered by ALA?

ALA coverage is available for a range of vehicles from newer models to older used cars. However, there are some eligibility criteria for the three levels of cover based on the age and mileage of your car. Platinum warranties offer the most comprehensive coverage for cares less than 8 years and 80,000 miles. Gold warranties offer generous coverage for 12 years and 100,000 miles. Silver warranties offer moderate coverage for older cars up to 150,000 miles and 16 years. Your maximum claim limit is calculated off the market value of your vehicle.

Explore the tiers of ALA coverage