Give Now

Warranty Scams

I’ve never purchased an extended warranty.

An extended car warranty is a service contract between you and a warranty company. General warranties are included in the sales price of vehicles, but an extended car warranty or service contract is not. I don’t recommend them. Instead, buy reputable cars and set aside money for repairs.

We frequently get phony offers for extended warranties. An authentic one will identify the dealership where you purchased your car, but scammers don’t. We also get phone calls from so-called “representatives” of car dealers, manufacturers or insurers. They warn us that some policy’s about to expire and that we better act fast. They hope to create fear of out-of-pocket costs for broken or worn-out parts. It sounds scary, but don’t take the bait. They’ll play on your emotions and pressure you for personal information. They may actually have information about your car and warranty to get you to believe them. All they want is your credit card information by getting you to purchase their offer.

Use of the words urgent or time sensitive are red flags. Only vehicle manufacturers can offer to extend a factory warranty. Even when letters appear authentic, don’t call them. Even if phone numbers appear legit and the caller seems professional, never give personal information. Professional criminals engage in caller ID spoofing which falsifies the Caller ID that’s displayed. Manage what God’s given you with a sound mind and steady emotions. 

And if credit card debt has you stressed out, contact Christian Credit Counselors. They’ll create a debt management plan that works for you. For more information call the Crown Helpline: 800-722-1976 or online at crown.org/ccc.