Buying an RV is a significant investment, and it’s important to feel confident and comfortable in your decision. Choosing where to buy an RV extended warranty is an essential step in securing the best protection.

Whether you choose to buy from a dealership or a private party, protecting your investment should be a priority. Outlining your needs as a traveler will help you determine where to purchase your home-on-wheels and how to protect it as you embark on your adventures.

In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of purchasing an RV through a dealership or a private party, as well as the warranties that can help you along the way.

Where to Buy an RV Extended Warranty

RV owners can by an extended warranty from a dealer or private third party that brokers warranties from administrators. It’s important to note that warranty administrators do not sell warranties direct to consumer. Dealers or brokers sell their policies.

Purchasing From a Dealership

Buying from a dealership can be an exciting experience, with rows of new and shiny rigs ready for your inspection. Typically, toward the end of the purchasing experience, the dealer will offer their warranty policy. Keep in mind that dealers do not specialize in RV warranties, and you may want to receive quotes from other options before signing the first contract you see.

Here are some key points to consider when buying an RV extended warrantyfrom a dealership:

Pros

1. Convenience: Buying the warranty at time of purchase saves time
2. Possible Bundle Discounts: Dealers may discount the warranty if included with RV purchase or financing package
3. Local Service: If you plan to service your RV at that dealership, they may prioritize warranty customers

Cons

1. Limited Warranty Options: Dealerships offer extended warranty contracts, but their options are typically limited. Brokers sell several options. When choosing a warranty, consider whether it offers personalized coverage tailored to your travel needs and lifestyle.
2. Expertise of Sellers: Ensure that the dealership staff are knowledgeable about the warranty’s administrator, repair facilities, and obligor. You want assurance that post-purchase support is available.
3. Repair Facility Network: Finding service at your dealer is simply not realistic if your RV breaks down on the road
4. Higher Markup: At the dealership, you pay for cost of convenience. Dealers often add significant markup to service contracts.
5. Pressure Sales Environment: Dealers often push warranties during closing, creating additional sales pressure

Purchasing Through a Third Party

Third-party warranty companies offer greater flexibility. RV warranty protection is available for both new and used units, regardless of manufacturer warranty status. Some programs, like ours, offer perks such as free emergency roadside assistance, mobile mechanic services, and camping membership programs.

Pros

1. Customizable Policies: Tailor your RV protection to your lifestyle goals.
2. Comparison Shopping: Brokers usually offer plans from multiple administrators, enabling side-by-side price and coverage comparisons.
3. Not Tied to a Dealership: Third-party warranties provide access to a nationwide network of licensed RV repair facilities

Cons

1. More Research Required: Not all warranty brokers are created equal. We recommend receiving multiple quotes, reading verifiable reviews, and comparing coverage.
2. Potential Confusion: Sometimes customers are unsure of who to call when they need to file a claim.

Many brokers do not provide claims support or require upfront payment–but Wholesale Warranties is different. We house our own claims support team to guide you through the process, and offer a monthly payment plan to provide customers with greater financial flexibility.

Selling Your RV Later

If you decide to sell your RV in the future, having an extended warranty can add value to your home-on-wheels. This tells potential buyers that the RV is in excellent condition and that they will be covered if any issues arise. When purchasing a warranty, ensure it can be transferred to the new owner. This process should be seamless, requiring just a small fee and a couple of signatures. A good online resource to buy, sell, or trade RVs is RVTrader.

Final Thoughts

You have several options when it comes to buying your RV and protecting it long-term. Purchasing from a dealership offers initial warranties and grace periods, while buying from a private party can be more affordable but riskier. Regardless of where you buy your RV, investing in an extended warranty early on can save you money and provide peace of mind.

To begin your journey, consider the tips above to understand the differences between private party and dealership RV purchases, along with the various ways you can protect your investment after securing your home-on-wheels. If you need more information or wish to get a personalized quote for an extended warranty, fill out the online form or contact a warranty specialist.