What Is The Best RV Extended Warranty Plan?
12/1/2022 – Good Sam
The inevitable reality of owning an RV is that even the best rig breaks down from time to time.
A comprehensive warranty can save you money and headaches. But knowing how to find the right policy can feel daunting.
Where can you find an extended warranty for your RV? What is the best RV extended warranty plan? Are there alternatives to an extended warranty?
Before purchasing an extended warranty plan, consider the following to know which will best fit your needs.
RV Warranties 101
Does Your RV Qualify?
First thing’s first: make sure your RV qualifies for an extended warranty.
While it varies from company to company, many warranty providers include restrictions based on the age and mileage your RV has accrued. Older, high-mileage RVs will be harder to cover.
Warranty Limitations
It’s important to note that an RV warranty isn’t the same thing as insurance.
An extended warranty will not cover damages, collision repair, servicing, oil changes, and general wear and tear to windows or the interior.
Note: If you’re in the market for insurance, Good Sam saves customers an average of $321 a year.
Coverage
Most companies offering extended warranties for your rig will provide some variation for coverage, with services included but not necessarily limited to the following:
- Commercial Use
- Engine
- Transmission
- Axles
- Wheel and Tire
- Navigation Package
- Power Surge
Generally speaking, coverage will likely extend to most RVs but may vary slightly for towable rigs. Also, it’s important to note that many companies offer mechanical breakdown insurance coverage, which is very similar to an extended warranty in terms of coverage.
To get an idea of the best coverage for your motorhome, be sure to compare rates in the process.
Inclusionary and Exclusionary
Inclusionary and exclusionary policies indicate the scope of coverage provided. Inclusionary policies are often limited to items explicitly listed on the policy, whereas exclusionary policies tend to cover everything minus a few listed exceptions.
Options for RV Warranties
Wholesale Warranties
In terms of coverage, Wholesale Warranties provides three different extended warranties with optional add-ons, customizable coverage in the US and Canada, and deductibles paid per visit (as opposed to per item).
Some standout services include protection for tires and wheels, roadside assistance, and an adept internal claims department; however Wholesale Warranties do not directly provide coverage, and the cost is not readily listed.
RVing Solutions
Offering listed component and exclusionary policies, RVing Solutions works with vetted administrators and provides extensive coverage—including tire, roadside, food spoilage, and reimbursement for gas lost from repairs.
That said, RVing Solutions is limited in their ability to authorize or deny claims, as they are still only a broker.
America’s RV Warranty
America’s RV Warranty (ARW) was founded over 50 years ago by warranty experts and serves any RV.
A convenient option in a pinch, ARW will pay the retail price for new parts and maintenance - including seals, gaskets, and other repairs not covered by most providers.
However, there are limitations. Coverage doesn’t currently extend to California, Montana, or Hawaii, and qualifying travel trailers must be less than 15 years old, while motorhomes must be under 20 years and 100,000 miles.
Eagle Vision
One of the more recent providers in the community, Eagle Vision still offers several plans for some RVs, with add-ons for rentals, towing, food spoilage, and more. Despite being a younger company, reviews seem positive; however, they don’t yet have the same digital reach, resources, or track record as other warranty providers.
Good Sam Extended Service Plan
With over 55 years of membership and coverage experience, Good Sam is the most recognized name in the RV community. The Extended Service Plan offers the most robust and flexible coverage options for motorhomes, trailers, and personal vehicles despite not technically being a warranty.
Repairs are Convenient and Local
Repairs are inevitable. However, Good Sam’s Extended Service Plan mitigates the stress. While extended warranties tend to be limited by dealership locations or service centers, Good Sam allows you to get repairs done at any service center in the US or Canada. Simply have your service provider of choice call Good Sam before service.
A Smart Investment with No Lump Sum Payment
Good Sam’s Extended Service Plan pays for itself in one or two claims. You can even pay monthly versus shelling out for a more considerable up-front cost associated with most warranties.
Buying an extended warranty at the same time as an RV means you’ll possibly end up paying interest on the warranty itself.
Transferrable to a New Owner
Adding to the convenience, should you find yourself needing to sell your rig, your Good Sam plan transfers to the new owner at no cost to you—immediately and automatically adding value to the sale of your RV.
An Umbrella of Coverage
Warranties can also mean that only different parts of your RV are covered at any given time, making it a challenge to track the coverage of your rig. With Good Sam, everything is protected under the same policy and for the same duration.
Travel Benefits
Unexpected RV repairs mean unexpected expenses, not just for the rig itself but for lodging and food. Good Sam’s Extended Plan reimburses rental cars, meals, and hotel stays while your RV is in the shop.
Choosing the Right Plan
There are certainly a handful of reliable options for RV coverage. However, none of them quite seem to match the variety of services, the reach, or the reliability and track record that Good Sam provides.
Looking for the Right Coverage?
Good Sam can help! With unique plans for motorhomes, 5th wheels, travel trailers, and personal vehicles, we’ve got you covered. Get a free quote today!