The Basics of RV Warranties

RV warranties

The Difference Between Warranty and Extended Warranty

Buying a trailer is a big decision, so it is important to know what options you have to keep your trailer in good shape. Trailers require upkeep, which can mean buying new parts when old ones break and getting your trailer serviced. One way to help you protect your trailer and save you money is through warranties. 

A simple definition of a warranty is a written contract by a manufacturer that promises replacement or repair of your RV parts within a predetermined time. Manufacturers typically have set warranties when you buy a new trailer. Warranties work for the allotted time so you can fix any damage or break you may have. RV warranties are beneficial to you because service rates can be high, but warranty covers service and parts. Warranties will help you keep your unit in good shape and help you maintain a good resale value. So what happens when that warranty runs out? Well, you could purchase an extended warranty.

 RV extended warranties are warranties that extend past the manufacturer's warranty. When the manufacturer’s warranty ends, the extended warranty stays to continue to cover your trailer. Extended warranties are great because even well taken care of parts can get old and break. Be aware of the rules and conditions when you agree to one. Parts and service can get pricey when things start to break, so an extended warranty will cover you.

Why Warranties and Insurance Are Different

Now that we established what a warranty and extended warranty are, we should go over the difference between your insurance and your warranty. Some states require RV insurance by law. *Make sure to check what your state’s laws require* Insurance is important to have even if it is not legally required. A great way to think of what insurance covers is as what happens on the road - collision or physical damage. On the other hand, warranties are not a legal requirement, but provide the owner with a safety net for coverage. It covers parts of the RV that insurance may not cover. Insurance covers costs of accidents whereas warranties cover repair expenses for the unit. Both insurance and warranties cover you because accidents and damage happens. Having both insurance and warranty will offer peace of mind while you camp because you will know that you are covered.

How to Buy Extended Warranties

There are two options for buying an extended warranty - through an online company, or through a dealership. If you choose an online company, make sure you understand the contract and understand what it entails. We suggest buying extended warranties through us, so you can have a friendly, in-person experience when you need work done. When you buy an extended warranty through us, we go through all the details of our contract and make sure you know what is covered. At Mountainland RV, we offer extended warranties that last 5 years and covers all major components. The extended warranty we offer can also be used at almost every other repair shop. The cost of the extended warranties are based on how much that trailer is.

So, should you get an extended warranty? 

Well, that is really up to you. Big factors to consider when contemplating this purchase are the size of your trailer, if it comes with a warranty already, and the cost. We usually recommend extended warranties on larger trailers that are a bit more expensive. Most used trailers do not come with warranties, so you may want to consider an extended warranty on a used trailer. All of us at Mountainland RV want you to feel comfortable knowing that you are covered in a RV you plan to use for years to come.