There’s nothing quite like driving out of the dealership with a brand-new ride. As you sit behind the wheel of a Subaru, amid the fresh car scent and the gleam of untouched paint, a question pops up at the starting line – should I pass on it, or is Subaru extended warranty worth it? After all, this is your new road companion, from daily commutes to epic road trips. Let’s explore if this extra layer of Subaru warranty coverage is the trusty sidekick your adventure needs.
What Is a Subaru Extended Warranty?
When you buy a new Subaru, it comes with a factory warranty, essentially a promise from the manufacturer to cover certain repairs and issues for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. But what happens when that initial coverage sails into the sunset?
Like most automakers, Subaru steps in with their extended warranty, also known as the added security plan. This plan is designed to extend the peace of mind you get from the factory warranty, covering your vehicle for longer periods and more miles. So, make sure to recognize all the red flags when purchasing your ride and avoid the car dealership scammers.
Who Can Get the Extended Warranty for a Subaru?
Subaru’s approach to extended warranties is pretty straightforward, especially when you compare it with other manufacturers. If you’re looking to extend your Subaru’s warranty, there’s a key timeframe to keep in mind – you can do it as long as it’s still under the 3-year, 36,000-mile coverage. Unfortunately, used vehicles that have moved beyond this window aren’t eligible.
Subaru Offers Three Plans for Automotive Peace of Mind
This automaker simplifies the journey towards extended coverage with three distinct plans, no matter if you’ve just got a Subaru Ascent or one of those off-road driving beasts, like the Outback or Forester.
No matter the plan you’re eyeing, you will be faced with two pivotal decisions. The first is selecting the duration of coverage, with options tailored to your driving habits – an 8-year, 120,000-mile or a 10-year, 100,000-mile plan. The second choice hinges on the deductible – opt for a 0$ deductible for straightforward coverage or a $100 deductible to reduce the overall cost of the premium. Here’s an overview of the three plans in question:
Powertrain
The Powertrain plan is Subaru’s foundation-level coverage, focusing on the essentials that keep your vehicle moving. This plan is designed to safeguard the heart of your precious ride, covering the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components.
To put it simply – it’s the same as the basic factory coverage, only it’s longer, going up to five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. It’s a fitting choice for those who want reassurance for the major mechanical systems without the broader coverage of more comprehensive plans.
Classic
Stepping up, the Classic plan offers a broader safety net, encompassing everything covered by the Powertrain plan with additional protection of different parts and systems. This includes air conditioning, electrical components, and more, making it a balanced choice for drivers looking for more thorough protection.
Gold Plus
At the pinnacle of Subaru’s offerings is the Gold Plus plan. This comprehensive plan extends beyond the Classic to include nearly every component of your vehicle, plus additional benefits like roadside assistance, car rental service, and trip interruption service. So, for drivers seeking the utmost peace of mind, you can’t go better than the Gold Plus plan.
Is Subaru Added Security Worth It? What Are the Main Benefits of This Extended Coverage?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to shift gears and explore whether this added security is the right sidekick for your journey. First and foremost, let’s delve into the advantages of this extended journey with Subaru:
- You can enjoy more comprehensive coverage for longer periods of time, keeping the good times rolling without worry,
- Whether you’re a road warrior or a weekend explorer, you can choose the plan and deductible that suit your journey and your wallet,
- You can rest assured that any necessary repairs will be handled by experts using authentic parts, maintaining your vehicle’s integrity and performance,
- Cars with extended warranties often attract more buyers and can command a higher vehicle resale value, making it a smart long-term investment,
- Shield yourself from the shock of unforeseen repair costs, turning potentially large expenses into manageable, predictable coverage.
It’s All About Getting Complete Peace of Mind on the Road
Imagine breaking down mid-adventure, far from home, and the nearest approved repair shop is just a makeshift garage down the road. That’s a common scenario with third-party warranties. However, with Subaru’s Added Security, you’re guaranteed that any repairs will be undertaken by Subaru-trained technicians. This means no matter where your travels take you, expert hands, familiar with every bolt and screw of your vehicle, will ensure it’s running smoothly again.
Extended Car Warranty Costs – What You Can Expect
Diving into the world of extended warranties without a clue about the costs is like setting off on a road trip without checking your fuel gauge – exciting but potentially full of surprises. And when it comes to owning a car, surprises are the last thing you want, especially in your budget. To make sure that doesn’t happen, here’s an overview of what you can expect to pay:
| Years/Mileage | Classic Plan ($100) | Gold Plus Plan ($100) | Gold Plus ($0) |
| 3/45,000 | N/A | $960 | $1,000 |
| 4/60,000 | $980 | $1,080 | $1,320 |
| 5/60,000 | $1,010 | $1,260 | $1,460 |
| 5/100,000 | $1,560 | $2,040 | $2,425 |
| 6/60,000 | $1,050 | $1,500 | $1,710 |
| 6/80,000 | $1,260 | $1,770 | $2,140 |
| 6/100,000 | $1,710 | $2,220 | $2,520 |
| 7/70,000 | $1,280 | $1,790 | $2,150 |
| 7/100,000 | $1,970 | $2,420 | $2,670 |
| 8/120,000 | $2,370 | $2,980 | $3,240 |
| 10/100,000 | $2,190 | $2,690 | $2,870 |
Cost vs. Coverage – It’s All About Finding the Right Balance
All in all, the key is getting enough coverage to protect against major expenses without overpaying for protection you might not need. Think of it as crafting your personal playlist of coverage, where the right mix keeps you humming along, confident that your budget is secure and your ride is covered for the long haul.
What Is Not Covered by Subaru Extended Warranty?
Let’s switch gears and take a look at what these warranties don’t cover. Think of this as an “exclusionary coverage” policy – it’s like having an all-access pass with a few areas roped off. Essentially, if an item doesn’t make an appearance in the grand list found at the end of the brochure on Subaru’s website, consider it outside the coverage zone.
All in all, it’s crucial to comb through your contract with the precision of planning a road trip through famous US routes, ensuring you know exactly what scenic spots (or in this case, parts and services) are on the itinerary. Most routine tasks are out of the picture, but you can purchase a separate maintenance plan. Here’s what’s not covered by Classic or Gold Plus plans:
- Oil changes,
- Normal wear and tear,
- Regular maintenance,
- Timing belts,
- Brake pads,
- Belts and hoses,
- Windshield wiper blades.
Subaru Reliability Ratings – Evaluating the Worth of These Extended Warranties
Subarus are often hailed as the stalwarts of the automotive world, boasting reliability that’s as solid as their reputation for safety. With high safety ratings that reassure even the most cautious of drivers, these vehicles are built to navigate life’s highways and byways with confidence. Whether you’re scaling mountain roads or cruising city streets, the renowned reliability of a Subaru ensures that your journey is as smooth as the vehicle’s famed all-wheel drive.
But all of that reliability doesn’t exactly mean you won’t stumble upon some mechanical issues during your time on the road. Here are the most common repairs for popular models:
| Model | Problem | Cost |
| Forester | Broken coil spring | $1,060 |
| Outback | Oil consumption | $1,590 |
| Impreza | Head gasket leak | $1,000 |
| Legacy | Repeated headlight failure | $180 |
Bottom Line – Is the Subaru Extended Warranty Worth It?
After cruising through the ins and outs of Subaru’s extended warranty offerings, the burning question remains – is it worth it? Well, with Subaru’s sterling reputation for reliability and safety, the extended warranty acts not as a necessity but as a reinforcement of peace of mind.
For those who see their Subaru as a long-term companion on countless adventures, the extended warranty offers a safety net, ensuring that your journey remains uninterrupted by the unforeseen. It’s a balance of added protection against the backdrop of Subaru’s dependable build quality, potentially saving you from future headaches and unexpected costs.
The Most Important Thing Is to Make a Personalized Decision
When it comes down to it, this decision is highly personal. It’s about assessing your driving habits, financial flexibility, and how much value you place on stress-free vehicle ownership. Consider how long you plan to keep your Subaru, the miles you’ll rack up, and whether the thought of future repair costs makes your eyes roll to the back of your head.
Like choosing the right model or color for your new four-wheeler, deciding on an extended warranty is another step in tailoring your experience to fit your life perfectly. So, take a moment to think about it thoroughly, and you’ll land on a plan that makes sense for you.
Revving up the Engine and Steering Toward Your Final Decision
As we coast to the end of our journey through these winding roads of auto coverage, you’re now finding yourself at this crossroads. Equipped with the knowledge of what’s covered, the plans available, and the inherent reliability of Subarus, you’re now in the driver’s seat, ready to make an informed decision. Remember, this isn’t just about choosing additional coverage – it’s about gearing up for the long haul, ensuring your ride is as smooth and worry-free as possible.
