Carchex Review

Motor1 Reviews Team Take:

• Carchex offers five extended warranty plan levels ranging from basic powertrain to bumper-to-bumper protection.
• Carchex offers perks like roadside assistance, towing, trip interruption benefits, and rental car coverage with all its extended warranty plans. 
• In our research, which included mystery shopping and purchasing a Carchex warranty, we found that its auto warranty plans cost about $150 to $170 per month.

Carchex extended warranty plans cover high-mileage vehicles, offer flexible terms, and provide transparent contracts. While its plans can be more expensive than those offered by other providers, the company’s Titanium coverage functions like a bumper-to-bumper warranty and can save car owners a considerable amount in critical repairs. But is a Carchex warranty the right choice for you?

Every year, our research team collects data from dozens of companies to determine which companies offer the best extended car warranties. As with every provider in our review, we analyzed Carchex based on plan costs, coverage choices, customer reviews, and other factors. We also surveyed customers, collected quotes for different vehicles and coverage levels, and purchased a Carchex warranty ourselves. Based on our research and experience, Carchex took third place among more than 40 providers in the industry.

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Our Carchex Review and Methodology

Carchex extended warranties give consumers more choices and control over their plans than other companies—a highlight we found is consistently mentioned in positive Carchex reviews. We give the company an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5.0 stars based on its ratings in the key categories mentioned below.

How We Rated Carchex

We’re constantly revamping our review methodology to provide current rankings of the best companies. As part of our warranty research, we collected over 2,000 data points on 46 warranty providers, reached out for over 140 quotes, and surveyed 2,000 customers to give you a comprehensive picture of how Carchex compares to competitors. 

We evaluate companies in five main categories: industry standing, coverage, cost, transparency, and customer service. These categories provide a complete picture of what customers can expect when working with each provider we’ve reviewed, from shopping for coverage to getting quotes.

Industry Standing: 4.7 out of 5.0

We give Carchex a 4.7-star rating in this category due to its A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and numerous prestigious awards. The company has been on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies eight times and on Selling Power’s Top 50 Companies to Sell For on four occasions.

For context, the industry average in this category across all providers we reviewed is 4.0. Clearly, Carchex has established itself as a dependable warranty contract provider.

Coverage: 4.8 out of 5.0

Carchex offers five levels of warranty coverage that can last up to 10 years or 250,000 miles, which are higher limits than what most warranty providers feature. Carchex plans include towing assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption benefits that help pay for food and lodging when you have a covered breakdown far from home. 

Weighing all these factors, we give Carchex a healthy 4.8 out of 5.0-star coverage rating. Again, Carchex checks in above the industry average of 4.2. 

Cost: 4.6 out of 5.0

We give Carchex 4.6 out of 5.0 stars for cost, compared to the industry average of 4.0. Carchex offers long warranty terms, which means you may pay less per year of coverage than you would with many other leading providers.

Our team gathered Carchex quotes for the following vehicle models: a 2017 and 2021 Honda CR-V, a 2017 and 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, and a 2017 and 2021 Toyota Camry. Each 2017 model has 100,000 miles on it while each 2021 model has 60,000 miles. We selected several coverage levels and terms with a $100 deductible for each quote.

The process of collecting quotes from Carchex was fast and simple. We were immediately connected to a helpful agent who walked us through all our warranty options. After hearing initial price estimates, we were also offered an array of discount opportunities.

Transparency: 4.9 out of 5.0

We consider several factors when rating warranty providers for transparency, including the availability of a money-back guarantee and easily accessible sample contracts for each warranty plan.

Carchex checks these boxes and makes sample contracts available for all five of its coverage plans. This level of transparency builds strong customer relationships and reinforces Carchex’s legitimacy and strong industry standing, so we give the company a 4.9 in this category. 

Few providers we researched and reviewed scored as highly as Carchex in this category, as the industry average across providers we rated is just 3.9. 

Customer Service: 3.4 out of 5.0

Customer ratings and complaints through sites like the BBB and Trustpilot play a key role in our customer service ratings. Carchex loses some ground in this category due to mixed customer reviews and a lack of customer service chat options on its website.

Ultimately, we give Carchex a 3.4 out of a possible 5.0 in the customer service category—a score that reflects the company’s customer feedback and the volume of complaints on its BBB profile. Carchex comes in below the average score of 3.6 for this category.

Does Carchex Have a Good Extended Warranty?

Carchex is one of our top picks for extended warranty coverage. The company partners with top-rated and fully insured administrators such as American Auto Shield and Royal Administration Services. Each provider competes for your business, giving you a quality product at the best price. Carchex plans can last up to 10 years or 250,000 miles, making the provider an excellent option for a used car warranty and is our choice for Best for Used Cars.

See the table below to help you weigh the pros and cons of a Carchex extended warranty:

Carchex Quick Facts

• Founded: 1999
• Headquarters: Baltimore, Maryland
• Coverage options: Five including powertrain warranty coverage and comprehensive exclusionary coverage.
• Coverage terms: Up to 10 years/250,000 miles
• Partners: Edmunds.com, Carfax, Kelley Blue Book, and more

Carchex Pros and Cons

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Carchex Warranty Coverage

As an extended warranty broker, Carchex offers five coverage levels with contract terms that run from 12 to 120 months. Carchex covers most cars and trucks, but be aware that the company doesn’t cover RVs or ATVs and some luxury car models.

Since Carchex coverage can last up to 10 years or 250,000 miles, it’s an excellent option for those seeking used car coverage. All Carchex protection plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you change your mind after purchasing coverage. After 30 days, you can still cancel plans at any time for a prorated refund.

Carchex Plans

Carchex vehicle protection plans are customizable for all vehicles including hybrids, new cars, and pre-owned vehicles. In addition, each plan comes with benefits such as 24/7 roadside assistance and coverage for towing, rental cars, gas delivery, and trip interruption. 

In the table below, we compare systems covered under each Carchex warranty plan:

The sections below provide more detailed information about the specific components covered in each Carchex coverage plan.

Carchex Titanium Coverage

The Carchex Titanium plan provides coverage similar to a bumper-to-bumper or factory warranty, with a term of seven to ten years. This plan covers most parts of your vehicle and has only a short list of exclusions and is the highest level of coverage available.

In May 2024, our team surveyed 1,000 consumers who had purchased an extended warranty. We found that the majority (41 percent) purchased bumper-to-bumper coverage.

Carchex Platinum Coverage

The Platinum plan covers hundreds of components and offers the most comprehensive level of stated-component coverage with service terms ranging from five to ten years.

In addition to components covered in the lower-tier Powertrain Plus and Powertrain plans. Platinum coverage includes:

• Suspension components such as thrust and trailing arms, steering knuckles, and the upper and lower ball joints
• Enhanced electrical components such as wiper motors and solenoids
• Heating components such as the water pump and thermostat

Carchex Powertrain Plus Coverage

The Powertrain Plus plan covers essential components of your new or pre-owned vehicle. In addition to powertrain coverage, you receive protection for electrical, air conditioning, and fuel delivery components, such as the: 

• Fuel pump
• Fuel tank
• Starter
• Alternator
• Ignition switch
• Relays
• Air conditioning compressor
• Clutch
• Condenser fan

The Powertrain Plus plan offers six to seven years of coverage and is a good fit for high-mileage vehicles with more than 100,000 miles.

Carchex Powertrain Coverage

The Powertrain plan provides five to six years of coverage for your major vehicle systems, though it covers fewer parts in each system than higher-tier plans. It’s designed to protect you from the most expensive and common breakdowns. You will be covered for powertrain components, including:

• Engine components such as pistons, connecting rods and bearings, crankshaft and main bearings, pushrods, valves, and timing gear
• Transmission components for an automatic or manual vehicle
• Drive axle components for front and rear parts such as those within the differential housing, transaxle housing, and final drive housing

The Powertrain plan is a good choice for vehicles with 150,000 miles or more.

Carchex Extra Care Coverage

The Extra Care Coverage plan offers protection for items not associated with your vehicle’s powertrain. This type of coverage is designed to complement existing powertrain warranties and protect what those plans can’t. Components will be covered for the following systems:

• Air conditioning
• Suspension
• Brakes
• Electronic, high-tech items
• Fuel system
• Turbocharger
• Supercharger
• Audio center

The Extra Care Coverage plan is good if you’re looking for coverage for high-tech and electrical items and are unconcerned with powertrain protection.

Carchex Extra Perks

Along with the coverage offered with each Carchex plan for mechanical breakdowns, Carchex warranties come with additional benefits that include:

• Freedom to choose your repair facility: Manufacturer warranties typically restrict where you can take your car, often forcing customers to go to the nearest dealership, regardless of distance. With Carchex warranties, you can take your vehicle to any licensed repair shop for an assessment by a certified mechanic.
• Direct payments: Carchex will pay the repair costs to the shop directly (minus your deductible), so you don’t have to worry about paying for any expensive repairs upfront. Note that some plans may come with a small deductible you must pay when you pick your car up.
• 24/7 roadside assistance: Emergency roadside assistance includes flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout services. This benefit also includes towing and winching services, which provides customers with reimbursements for expenses incurred when your vehicle gets towed to a repair facility. 
• Trip interruption: Carchex reimburses customers for lodging and meal expenses as a result of a mechanical breakdown far from home. 
• Rental/alternative transportation coverage: Carchex reimburses customers for rental car or rideshare costs that are incurred while your car is in the shop for covered repairs. 
• Satellite radio: If you drive an eligible vehicle, you may receive access to free SiriusXM satellite radio.

 *Note: The maximum amount Carchex provides for the benefits you receive generally depend on the coverage level you choose.

Carchex Warranty Exclusions

All Carchex plans exclude certain parts and types of damage. Here are a few examples:

• Damage from misuse or lack of maintenance
• Regular maintenance like oil changes or filter replacements
• Pre-existing conditions
• Certain emissions components
• Cosmetic items
• Regular wear and tear
• Damage from the environment, accidents, or vandalism

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Carchex Customer Reviews

Carchex has a solid reputation among customers. However, out of just over 1,500 Carchex reviews on Trustpilot, the company received an average of 2.6 out of 5.0 stars. The Carchex customer score on the BBB website is even lower at 1.96 out of 5.0 stars. It’s worth noting that the BBB average is based on a relatively small number of reviews.

Happy customers in positive Carchex reviews often praise the company’s customer service and transparency. Several customers also mention being pleased with Carchex pricing, especially compared to competitors’ offers.

Carchex Complaints

Of course, not everyone is satisfied with Carchex. Some customers have posted negative reviews regarding claims service and refunds. However, complaints about claims are common for any extended warranty provider.

Still, we recommend reading your contract carefully before purchasing an extended warranty from any provider. You can find sample contracts on the plan coverages page of the Carchex website.

Carchex BBB Reviews

Carchex is in good standing with the BBB, holding an A+ rating with accreditation. Being accredited means Carchex has a membership with the BBB and meets certain standards for customer service. Specifically, an A+ rating means Carchex has responded to and resolved all complaints on the BBB. 

Take a look at how Carchex ratings compare to other popular third-party warranty companies:

Warranty Provider	Year Founded	BBB Accreditation	BBB Rating	BBB Complaints in the Last 3 Years
Carchex	1999	Yes	A+	164
autopom!	2009	Yes	A+	4
Endurance	2006	No	A-	2,956

*Accurate as of August 2024

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Carchex Warranty Cost

According to our research, the median monthly cost for a Carchex warranty is between $150 and $170 per month. Total costs vary depending on the plan, term length, type of vehicle you own, how old it is, and how many miles it has on the odometer. Compared to the market as a whole, Carchex prices are on the higher side.

That said, Carchex offers long contracts, and it typically offers a better price per year of coverage than other top providers. 

Carchex Prices

Our review team reached out to get prices for various Carchex coverage levels, and we were quoted the following rates:

These quotes aligned with our experience of actually purchasing a car warranty for one of our team member’s vehicles. We went with the Titanium plan for our 2021 Toyota Camry with 60,000 miles. That level of coverage for that vehicle ran $149.99 per month and had a $200 deductible.

Is Carchex Worth It?

If you are looking for good extended vehicle protection, we recommend Carchex. Carchex can be worth it for those who seek protection against repair costs from unexpected mechanical failures. In addition to being one of the most reputable extended car warranty companies in the industry, Carchex can be an excellent choice for owners of used and high-mileage vehicles.

Carchex Quote

Warranty costs vary based on the make, model, mileage, and year of your vehicle, so take advantage of free instant quotes online or direct consultations with a customer service representative over the phone. Doing so will give you the most accurate customized quote and help you answer any questions about Carchex costs before you make a purchase. 

Carchex Payment

An extended warranty plan is a vehicle service agreement (VSC)—you pay a bit every month to save more when breakdowns and repairs happen. Carchex requires a down payment equivalent to one monthly payment, and the maximum payment schedule is 24 months.

Carchex Deductible

Carchex warranty plans usually come with a deductible. You can choose between a deductible of $0, $50, $100, or $200 when you purchase your plan. Generally, the higher you set your deductible, the lower your Carchex warranty payments will be (and vice versa).

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Carchex Customer Service

Carchex offers several options for assistance, including 24-hour support for contract holders. Here’s how Carchex customer service offerings compare to those of other top warranty providers:

Provider	24-Hour Support*	Telephone Support	Email Support
Carchex	✓	✓	✓
Endurance	✓	✓	✓
autopom!		✓	✓

*For contract holders

Carchex Claims

When your vehicle requires service due to an unexpected mechanical breakdown, follow these three easy steps to file a claim and get back on the road:

1. Gather your warranty documentation and confirm that the needed repair work is covered under your plan.
2. Take your car to your preferred repair shop for diagnosis and work.
3. Once repairs are complete, the repair shop will receive an authorization number for the covered repairs and Carchex will pay the shop directly.

Carchex Claims Phone Number

To file a claim with Carchex, you need to call the administrator listed on your contract. However, if you have an issue with a claim, you can contact Carchex customer service at 1-888-973-0758. See below for a list of administrator phone numbers.

How To Cancel a Carchex Warranty

To cancel a Carchex warranty, you need to mail or fax a notarized odometer statement along with your request for cancellation in writing to the contract administrator. This may be American Auto Shield, Royal, or another administrator. You can get a full refund if you cancel within 30 days or a prorated refund after that.

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Carchex Warranty Review: Bottom Line

After an in-depth evaluation of Carchex’s plan options, pricing, and customer reviews, we named Carchex Best for Used Cars. With its wide range of coverage options and long warranty terms, Carchex received an overall review score of 4.5 from our team, making it one of the highest-rated extended warranty companies in our industry-wide review.

Car Warranty Companies Like Carchex

If you’re shopping for an extended warranty, we always recommend getting quotes from at least three providers so you can compare your options. We’ve reviewed all the major players in the industry and found that Endurance and autopom! are also among the best extended warranty providers, with Endurance ranking first and autopom! ranking second—right behind Carchex.

Endurance: Best Coverage

We named Endurance Best Coverage and our top-rated company in our comprehensive review. Endurance has a 3.7 out of 5.0-star rating on Trustpilot with over 8,500 customer reviews. The company offers six vehicle service contract plans that are customizable to your budget and preferred coverage. What makes Endurance unique is that it’s a direct provider, eliminating the need to deal with an outside warranty administrator. 

Another nice thing about Endurance is that all plans come with one year of Endurance Elite Benefits for free. That includes collision assistance, total loss protection, tire replacement, roadside assistance, and more. 

Learn more in our full Endurance review.

autopom!: Excellent Customer Service

Our second place choice for extended auto warranties, autopom!, has some of the best customer review scores in the industry, earning it our award for Best Customer Service. The provider offers three coverage levels lasting up to 7 years or 150,000 miles. 

autopom!’s plans also come with roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and trip interruption, while certain plans also offer tire repair coverage. 

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FAQ: Carchex Warranty

Below are common questions related to Carchex extended warranties.

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Methodology

In an effort to provide accurate and unbiased information to consumers, our expert review team collects data from dozens of extended auto warranty companies to formulate rankings of the best providers. Companies receive a score in each of the following categories, as well as an overall weighted score out of 5.0 stars.

• Industry Standing: Warranty providers with a history of strong business practices and endorsements from experts receive the highest scores in this category.
• Coverage: This rating is based on types of extended warranty plans available, coverage terms, and added benefits like roadside assistance.
• Cost: Our research team reviews sample quotes for a variety of plans and vehicles. Companies with lower prices per year of coverage receive the best scores.
• Transparency: This score takes into account contract transparency and the availability of a money-back guarantee.
• Customer Service: We comb through customer reviews and perform our own shopper analysis to get a sense of the responsiveness and helpfulness of each warranty company.

*Data accurate at time of publication.

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