The mechanical breakdown policy.

It's also referred to as an extended warranty, but they are one and the same. They both are insurance policies to cover the vehicle in the event of a mechanical malfunction.

The only difference between the two is the price. If you get it at the dealer, you can pay up to twice as much as if you get it through me, your insurance agent.

The finance salesman will add the mechanical breakdown cost to the purchase price of the car, often at a cost to you of $2,000.00 or more. That $17,000.00 car just became a $19,000.00 car, plus tax, just like that.

Watch for it on the sales contract. Your contract will include this additional charge, without your knowing it. It just makes it easier to accept it if it's already there.

Don't fall for it.

Don't get me wrong. Mechanical breakdown policies are a good thing. They extend the manufacturer's warranty past the expiration date, so you will be protected against a major breakdown after the warranty exires.

They're good to have if you plan on keeping the car past the manufacturers warranty.

The major benefit to having the policy won't go into effect until after the manufacturers warranty expires, usually in 5 years if you buy the car new.

Will you keep the car that long? If you drive a lot of miles, you may need the warranty sooner. If you sell the car before the warranty is up, it can be transferred to the new owner, a strong selling point.

Just make sure it's what you want, and that it's your choice whether to get it or not. It's also your choice whether to pay up to twice as much through the dealer for the same type of product.

Most people don't realize that they can get the same warranty from me, at a significant savings. Most people don't even think about the policy until it's too late.

But you can cancel it if you do get stuck with it from the dealer, and I can provide you with the form to sign. Just submit a contact request and I'll send you one.

If you decide you don't want the mechanical breakdown policy, then tell the finance salesman that.

If you do want it, submit the quick quote form below so you will know before you buy the car what you will pay for the warranty.

Just remember to just say no when the finance salesman inevitably offers a mechanical breakdown policy to you.

You don't have to buy the mechanical breakdown policy at the dealership, before you drive home. Every car they sell has to have a warranty on it when you drive it away.

You have 10 days after you buy the car to get a mechanical breakdown policy from me. You can think about it for a few days before deciding whether to buy it or not, then call me if you decide to get it.

But why pay twice the price when you can get it for half at Advice?

But if the dealer adds a $2,000 mechanical breakdown charge to the terms of the sale, politely say thanks, but no thanks.

Before you go to the dealer, be sure to fill out the quick quote form below and you will receive a quote from us in your email shortly, or a text if you prefer.

It pays to be prepared.