Introduction to Route 66 Warranty
Owning a vehicle is one of the largest investments you’ll make in your life, and with it comes the need for protection, especially as cars age. While manufacturers’ warranties cover vehicles for a certain number of years or miles, what happens when that expires? Enter Route 66 Warranty, a leading vehicle service contract provider offering comprehensive protection to keep your car running smoothly without breaking the bank. In this guide, we will explore everything about Route 66 Warranty, why it’s essential for vehicle owners, its coverage options, benefits, and more.
1. Understanding Vehicle Service Contracts
Before diving into the specifics of Route 66 Warranty, it’s essential to understand what a vehicle service contract (VSC) is and how it differs from a manufacturer’s warranty. While many people refer to VSCs as “extended warranties,” they technically aren’t. Instead, a VSC provides coverage after your manufacturer’s warranty expires, offering peace of mind against expensive repairs.
Vehicle service contracts typically cover parts and labor costs for specific mechanical breakdowns. They are an added protection, shielding car owners from unexpected costs after the factory warranty ends.
2. What is Route 66 Warranty?
Route 66 Warranty is one of the top-rated providers of vehicle service contracts in the U.S. Their plans are designed to offer extended coverage for new and used cars, providing a reliable solution for customers wanting to protect their vehicles beyond the factory warranty period. Known for exceptional customer service, fast claims processing, and a wide array of coverage options, Route 66 Warranty has become a go-to choice for drivers looking to safeguard their investments.
The company offers coverage through partnerships with credit unions and other financial institutions, allowing members to easily purchase extended protection. They pride themselves on offering “No Deductible” plans and providing coverage with no pre-authorization required for repairs.
3. Why Choose Route 66 Warranty?
There are many vehicle service contract providers on the market, so why should you choose Route 66 Warranty? Here are some compelling reasons:
A. Nationwide Coverage
One of the standout features of Route 66 Warranty is its nationwide coverage. No matter where you travel across the U.S., you can rest easy knowing that your vehicle is protected. You can take your car to any licensed repair shop, making it extremely convenient whether you are at home or on a road trip.
B. No Deductible
Many extended warranties and VSCs come with deductibles, meaning you pay a certain amount before the warranty kicks in. However, Route 66 Warranty operates with no deductible. This means that if your covered vehicle experiences a mechanical breakdown, all costs are fully taken care of, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for the customer.
C. Fully Transferable
If you decide to sell your car before your Route 66 Warranty plan expires, the warranty is fully transferable to the new owner. This not only adds value to your vehicle but also makes it a more attractive option for potential buyers.
D. 24/7 Roadside Assistance
Route 66 Warranty doesn’t just cover mechanical breakdowns. They also provide 24/7 roadside assistance, covering towing, flat tyre assistance, battery jump-start, and lockout services. This added layer of protection is a significant benefit for any driver.
E. No Pre-authorization Required
Route 66 Warranty allows repairs to start immediately without pre-authorization. This can save time and prevent delays in getting your vehicle back on the road.
F. Direct Payment to the Repair Facility
Another convenience offered by Route 66 Warranty is direct payment to the repair shop. You won’t have to worry about paying out of pocket and waiting for a reimbursement; Route 66 pays the repair facility directly.
4. Types of Route 66 Warranty Plans
One of the primary strengths of Route 66 Warranty is the variety of plans they offer. Whether you have a new car, a used car, or a high-mileage vehicle, there is likely a plan that suits your needs. Below are some of the key coverage options:
A. Easy Street Plan (Exclusionary Coverage)
The Easy Street Plan is the most comprehensive option offered by Route 66 Warranty. It covers all mechanical and electrical components except for a few exclusions. This means nearly every part of your vehicle is protected, making it similar to the bumper-to-bumper coverage you’d get from a manufacturer.
B. Main Street Plan
The Main Street Plan is the mid-tier option, covering most major components of your vehicle. It provides a balanced option for car owners who want extensive coverage but don’t need the full protection offered by the Easy Street Plan.
C. First Street Plan
For those with older vehicles or cars with higher mileage, the First Street Plan offers powertrain coverage. This plan covers the essential components like the engine, transmission, and drivetrain—typically the most expensive repairs for ageing cars.
D. Additional Add-ons
Route 66 Warranty offers several additional add-ons to enhance your coverage. These include options for hybrid vehicle components, high-tech electronic systems, and additional wear-and-tear items like brake pads or belts.
5. Benefits of Route 66 Warranty
A Route 66 Warranty offers numerous advantages for vehicle owners:
A. Financial Protection
The most significant benefit of any vehicle service contract is financial protection. Major repairs like engine or transmission failures can be incredibly costly, often reaching into the thousands of dollars. With a Route 66 Warranty, you can avoid these surprise expenses, ensuring your budget remains intact.
B. Peace of Mind
Knowing that a trusted warranty provider covers your vehicle like Route 66 gives you peace of mind. Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, you can drive confidently, knowing that repairs are covered if something goes wrong.
C. Increased Vehicle Resale Value
As mentioned earlier, Route 66 Warranty plans are transferable to a new owner. This can increase the resale value of your car, making it a more attractive option for potential buyers.
D. Wide Network of Repair Facilities
With Route 66 Warranty, you aren’t limited to a small network of repair shops. You can take your car to any licensed repair facility in the U.S., making it convenient for those who travel often.
E. Customer-Centric Approach
One of the reasons Route 66 Warranty stands out from other service contract providers is its focus on customer service. Their quick claims process and excellent customer support make them a favorite among credit union members and vehicle owners alike.
6. What is Covered Under Route 66 Warranty?
While coverage depends on the plan you select, here is a general overview of what’s typically covered under Route 66 Warranty plans:
- Engine Components: Including pistons, crankshaft, oil pump, timing gears, etc.
- Transmission and Drivetrain: Including transmission case, torque converter, drive axles, CV joints, etc.
- Electrical Systems: Alternator, starter motor, battery, and more.
- Fuel System: Fuel pump, fuel injectors, and associated components.
- Air Conditioning and Heating: Compressor, condenser, blower motor, and related parts.
- Suspension: Control arms, ball joints, springs, and more.
- Braking Systems: Master cylinder, calipers, brake lines, and ABS systems.
For those who opt for the Easy Street Plan, nearly every vehicle component, except for specific exclusions, is covered.
7. Exclusions and Limitations
Like any vehicle service contract, Route 66 Warranty has some exclusions. Common exclusions include:
- Regular maintenance (oil changes, tyre rotations, etc.)
- Cosmetic items (paint, body panels, trim)
- Damage due to neglect, abuse, or accidents
- Modifications made to the vehicle (aftermarket parts not covered)
- Pre-existing conditions (issues present before purchasing the plan)
It’s always essential to read the contract carefully to understand the specific exclusions for your selected plan.
8. How to File a Claim with Route 66 Warranty
Filing a claim with Route 66 Warranty is straightforward. Here’s how the process works:
- Take Your Vehicle to a Repair Shop: You can choose any licensed repair facility across the U.S. The shop will diagnose the problem and provide an estimate.
- Repair Shop Contacts Route 66 Warranty: The repair shop will contact Route 66 Warranty to verify coverage and begin the claims process. No pre-authorization is required.
- Route 66 Warranty Approves the Claim: Once the claim is approved, repairs can begin immediately.
- Route 66 Warranty Pays the Repair Shop Directly: You don’t need to worry about paying out of pocket and waiting for reimbursement. Route 66 handles payment directly with the shop.
9. How Much Does Route 66 Warranty Cost?
The cost of a Route 66 Warranty plan depends on several factors, including the age of your vehicle, its mileage, the coverage you choose, and your location. In general, comprehensive plans like Easy Street will be more expensive than powertrain-only plans like First Street. However, the peace of mind and financial protection they offer can far outweigh the initial cost.
Many customers purchase vehicle protection plans through their credit union, which often offers financing options, making it more affordable for members to protect their vehicles.
Conclusion: Is Route 66 Warranty Worth It?
For many vehicle owners, vehicle protection can be a worthwhile investment. It provides comprehensive protection against mechanical breakdowns, eliminating the risk of costly repairs once your manufacturer’s warranty expires. With no deductible, nationwide coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does a Route 66 Warranty cover?
Vehicle protection offers a range of coverage options, from basic powertrain protection to comprehensive, exclusionary plans that cover nearly every mechanical and electrical component of your vehicle. Depending on the plan you choose, coverage can include the engine, transmission, drivetrain, electrical systems, air conditioning, and more. Always review the specific plan details to ensure it meets your needs.
Can I use any repair shop with a Route 66 Warranty?
Yes, one of the benefits of vehicle protection is that it allows you to take your vehicle to any licensed repair facility in the United States. This flexibility makes it convenient for drivers, as you’re not limited to a specific network of repair shops.
How do I file a claim with Route 66 Warranty?
Filing a claim is easy. Simply take your car to a licensed repair shop, and they will contact Vehicle Protection directly to verify coverage. Once the claim is approved, repairs can begin immediately, and Route 66 pays the repair facility directly, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process for you.
Is there a deductible with the Route 66 Warranty?
No, Vehicle protection offers plans with no deductible. This means that when your vehicle needs repairs, you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket for covered issues, making it easier to manage unexpected breakdowns and repairs.
Can I transfer my Route 66 Warranty if I sell my car?
Yes, Vehicle protection is fully transferable. If you sell your vehicle before the warranty expires, you can transfer the remaining coverage to the new owner. This can add value to your car and make it more appealing to potential buyers.
Does Route 66 Warranty offer roadside assistance?
Yes, Vehicle protection includes 24/7 roadside assistance with all plans. This service provides towing, battery jump-starts, lockout assistance, flat tyre help, and fuel delivery, ensuring you’re never stranded when facing unexpected vehicle issues on the road.