2003 Grand Caravan ES

I'm considering purchasing the extended warranty on this van but am not sure if it's the right thing to do. Any advice would be helpful. The extended warranty from Chrysler is for 7 years/100,000 miles, so I'm getting additional coverage for the 4 years after the 3/36 ends. But then the powertrain warranty is 7/70,000. So is it really worth it ? Also, is the Chrysler extended warranty the way to go or are there other companies out there with a better product ?

thanks, Nick

Reply to
ncs
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Depends on what you're going to spend for it. It also depends on how long you're going to keep the van, how its equipped, and which warranty program you're talking about.

In general, the engine and transmission are going to easily outlast the

70K-mile warranty, even if maintenance is minimal. But people do sometimes have mechanical failures before that mileage.

Also, is the

I had reasonable success with an aftermarket company, American Guardian Warranty, on my Intrepid. I ended up recovering my initial outlay in the two repairs I had during the warranty's coverage.

Frequently, the aftermarket warranties are sold by a different company than the one that stands behind it. You need to understand who the actual policy is with before making a purchase decision. Some have bad reputations, some good.

One way of looking at extended warranties is that you're gambling with the warranty company. Your bet is that your van will need an expensive repair that costs more than the warranty. The warranty company is betting you won't. They're the house in this gamble, and the house usually wins!

That said, there's nothing wrong with buying an extended warranty if you get more peace of mind for your money, and you comparison shop enough to make sure you're not paying too much. Extended warranties, even the ones from DaimlerChrysler, have *negotiable* price tags.

Good luck,

--Geoff

Reply to
Geoff

thanks for the detailed feedback. I understand your comments and since so much on this vehicle is computerized or electrical (side doors, back hatch, dvd, auto-temp control, etc.) it's got me wondering if I should spring for the warranty. I'll do some checking.

Reply to
ncs

Factory extended warrenty. ALL Chrysler dealerships must honor it. Aftermarkets - who knows. Sure everyone where you live may honor the aftermarket warrenty but when your away from home it could be more of a hassle. You call the 1-800-find-me-a-repair-shop-that-honors-my-warrenty number and maybe it's two towns away?

Reply to
<jbharri

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