RV Protection: When and Where to Buy

You have options when it comes to where you buy your RV and the right RV protection. From dealerships to private party listings  and consignment shops, there is plenty to choose from for any RV shopper. But where do you go for the right RV protection? Let’s explore the key factors in helping you confidently decide where and when to purchase an RV extended warranty for your RV.

What is RV Protection, Exactly?

RV protection, in the form of an RV extended warranty, offers protection from the rising cost of RV repairs. These policies are designed to pay for the parts and labor expenses that come with inevitable mechanical and electrical breakdowns. This coverage extends to common mechanical failures that occur in slide-out rooms, leveling systems, heating and cooling components, and more. Protection will also cover some of the most expensive failures an RV might face, like engine, transmission, and electrical wiring.

Where Can I Find the Right Coverage for my RV?

As motorhomes and towable RVs become increasingly complex, we anticipate the rise in the cost of RV repairs to continue. An RV extended warranty is a great way to safeguard your travel budget from these costs. But where should you buy your warranty? It’s essential to find a reliable policy from the right provider. When it comes to finding the best provider to secure coverage, it’s important to know that you have options.

RV Warranties from the Dealership

If you purchase your rig from an RV dealer, they will likely offer you extended warranty coverage. However, it’s important to know that you aren’t limited to one option! An online broker, such as Wholesale Warranties, will be able to offer a quote for coverage as well. We recommend requesting quotes from multiple providers to compare not just price, but also extent of coverage, customer service history, and reputation.

RV Warranties from a Private Party or Consignment Shop

When purchasing a unit from a private party or consignment shop, you will typically need to utilize an online broker or provider for extended RV warranty coverage. With coverage options and eligibility, brokers typically offer the broadest variety. Reputable providers will also require a vehicle inspection to review its mechanical condition. If everything is in order, the inspector will inform the warranty company that the covered components of the RV are functional. This protects you from the dreaded “pre-existing condition” issues many RVers face when trying to file claims on used units.

When to Secure Coverage

We know that RVers have options when it comes to RV protection at virtually any time. Whether you’re purchasing a new or used unit, there are different factors to consider when it comes to timing. The next question you’re likely asking yourself is: when should I make the purchase?

Limited Term Options

As soon as you drive your rig off the lot, extended warranty companies allow you to take advantage of their best pricing for their longest term. Once the original manufacturer warranty expires, the term available is reduced, and the cost-per-year rises.

Increased Cost for the Same Coverage

Waiting for manufacturer warranty coverage to expire will usually take you into a new calendar year. This will result in increased pricing based on the model year alone.

If you buy an RV extended warranty right away, you will never be able to secure better coverage. When your manufacturer warranty is still in place, your extended warranty will be in place for a longer term and at a lower price. This option is an important consideration for cost-conscious travelers.

Used RVs

Been enjoying your home on wheels for a while now? No problem. There are still RV extended warranty options available to you, even if the manufacturer warranty is long expired. There are a couple factors to consider when timing your used RV protection purchase, namely vehicle age and mileage. Both affect coverage eligibility, but they also affect price. The older your unit—and the higher the mileage—the more expensive protection will be, as the risk for breakdowns is greater.

The risk for major and costly RV failures increases over time. Statistics show that 3 out of every 10 RVs will suffer a major breakdown by only their 2nd year on the road. This jumps to 8 out of 10 by the 5th year, and nearly every RV by its 8th year in service. With RV warranty coverage, your broker will step in to pay for these repair costs, allowing you to enjoy life on the road!

Is your RV Eligible?

So, what does that eligibility look like? In general, most providers will offer coverage to motorhomes and towable RVs aged 15 model years old and newer. Some private brokers, like Wholesale Warranties, can even extend certain levels of coverage to motorhomes aged up to 20 model years old! Be sure to do your research, as most programs will have restrictions on your odometer. This limit varies by level of coverage and policy provider, but full coverage generally stops around 100,000 miles. However, even if your unit is well-loved, there is likely an extended warranty that fits your needs. If you’re considering coverage, request a quote sooner rather than later! With most brokers, like Wholesale Warranties, these quotes are free. It never hurts to learn more about your options.

There is much to consider when buying an RV, so we understand that a few things slip through the cracks. Don’t let breakdown protection be one of them! Due to the rising cost of RV repairs, it’s best to begin your RV warranty research now. You deserve peace of mind while traveling. If you’re still undecided, you should at least know your options for where to purchase coverage and when you should make that investment. Staying informed will save you money.

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