Whether you are buying a new car or a pre-owned one, you should always consider buying an auto warranty to protect your investment. Buying the right warranty for your needs is not easy. Below is information that will help you get the right type of coverage, for the right price.

There are two types of auto warranties: extended warranties and manufacturer's warranties. These warranties are very different from each other.

Manufacturer’s warranties:
Issued by vehicle manufacturers. They offer protection for certain parts, for a pre-specified amount of mileage and time. Manufacturer's warranties by law must cover factory installed parts for defects.

There are two types of new car manufacturer's warranties:
A basic warranty will cover most component parts. However, normal wear and tear issues will not be covered, i.e. belts, breaks, filters, tires, etc..

A drive train warranty begins at the end of the basic warranty. This type of warranty will cover the car's engine, transmission, axels and driveshaft.

There is also a type of warranty called 'Rust Warranty'. Just like the name specifies, utilizing this type of warranty for your new car will protect you from abnormal rust.

The Federal law states that Passive-Restraint systems must be covered for 5 years or 50,000 miles and Emissions Equipment for 8 years or 80,000 miles.

The typical time frame of manufacturer’s warranties is 48 months or 48,000 miles up to 72 months or 72,000 miles. You will need to check with the dealer you are buying the car from about the specifics of your warranty.

Extended warranties
This type of warranty is a contact between the warranty provider and yourself. Extended warranties state that the price to fix certain parts of your car that break, or become worn out, will be paid by the warranty issuer, and not the vehicle's owner.

What other features are offered by extended warranties:
-- 24/7 road side assistance.
-- Assistance in getting into your car if you lock your keys in your vehicle.
-- Battery boosts.
-- Fixing flats.
-- No cost for vehicle towing.

The benefits listed above are some of the typical 'extras' offered by extended warranties. However, it is important to note that all extended warranties are different and are going to have different features. Therefore, do your due diligence when looking to buy an auto warranty to ensure you get a plan that offers coverage for your needs.