Extended warranty?

[Dan McMartin]

I'd add another perspective. Our son's dog ate a rock and $2200 later he has a keepsake. Now he's got pet insurance. He still owes us money from the surgery but from now on, he's fairly well covered.

But he's young and doesn't have a lot of money sitting around. Paying the $30 a month is a small price to pay for not being wiped out when his hyperactive puppy breaks a leg or eats another rock.

Same with RVing. I'd never advocate waiting to get on the road until you have some arbitrary amount of cash in savings or you can buy a rig with cash. If you need to finance (as we did) or buy an extended warranty to live your dreams, do it!

Generally, we don't see extended warranties as a good thing but if they help you get on the road now, so be it. Life is short and sometimes you have to finance your dreams to make them happen. As long as you do that responsibly and with eyes wide open, it's never a bad idea. You can't take it with you

[Hit_the_Rhod]

Originally Posted by Mr_D

Not worth it to me.

Originally Posted by RVPioneer

That's a choice. And your expenses are well documented.

I hate to say it Mr D, but RVPioneer got you on that one . . .

[MCJones]

We bought an extended warranty on a 5 year old used DP. Cost 6200/4years. They have paid out 6500 over the 4 years. so I could have lived without it and been ok. BUT it brought me peace of mind. That company only works with dealers so I have found another company and am going with it for 5800/3years. Really I am guessing I'll break even. Everything works great now but it is about 10 years old with original A/c(3) etc. Look carefully at what is excluded in a contract. One company would insure the engine/transmission and drive axle for 4300/3years. The 5800 covers for me all the drive line and all axles and steering components and coach appliances so for peace of mind I've shelled it out. that has been my experience. mark

[ChadFox]

Remember that warranties are negotiable. If they ask for $800, deal it down to where you are comfortable or do not take it at all. Warranties seem to cover everything except what is wrong with your vehicle.

[Cat320]

Originally Posted by Mr_D

Not worth it to me.

Same here...neither the money for the policy or the hassle of trying to get the warranty company to pay up.

[UFO Pilot]

I have never had a repair facility have trouble getting paid. As soon as they get approval, the warranty company issues payment.

You need to follow the rules. Repairs must be authorized prior to repairs. Find a repair man or shop that works with the warranty companies and they know how to play the game.

[juliejenkins]

You all have given me some great information and things to think about. Thank you, much appreciated.

I sure don't like to be ripped off, and I can't stand insurance companies for that reason. Although, they are a "necessary evil", right? Seems like the best way to go is have a "repair fund" of at least 10K in the bank, and add maybe $300-$400 a month to it. Heck, I pay $300 a month in property taxes here in California anyway. If I'm a full-time RV'er, I won't pay property tax, so that money can go into savings for maintenance/repairs on the rig.

[cruzbill]

Repairs can hit your stash of cash hard; There are two sides to the coin, how lucky do you feel????

Good luck and Happy Travels!