Thinking about getting an extended car warranty? You’re probably wondering if Endurance Warranty is the real deal or just another company making big promises they can’t keep. With repair costs skyrocketing and vehicles becoming more complex, it’s smart to consider your protection options.
What Is Endurance Warranty?
Endurance Warranty Services is a direct provider of extended vehicle service contracts, operating since 2006. Unlike many competitors who act as brokers or middlemen, Endurance administers its own contracts. This means when you file a claim, you’re dealing directly with Endurance rather than a third party.
The company offers six different coverage plans and has paid over $300 million in claims since 2012. They’ve also received multiple industry awards, including 2025 Buyer’s Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best Coverage, Best Value, and Best Customer Service.
Endurance Warranty’s Legitimacy Factors
Company Credentials and Standing
Endurance backs its contracts with financially stable insurers. Their policies are underwritten by Wesco Insurance Company, which maintains an A- financial strength rating from AM Best, indicating strong financial stability.
The company currently holds an A- rating with the Better Business Bureau but isn’t fully accredited yet. They’ve also earned Gold Certification from the Vehicle Protection Association, making them one of few providers with both credentials.
Consumer Ratings and Reviews
Endurance shows generally positive ratings across major review platforms:
| Review Platform | Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.0/5 | 10,500+ |
| Consumer Affairs | 4.6/5 | 16,000+ |
| Google Reviews | 4.1/5 | 20,800+ |
| BBB | 3.8/5 | N/A |
However, these positive averages hide a more complex reality. The BBB reports 3,469 complaints over the past three years, with 1,186 in the most recent 12-month period. These numbers suggest that while many customers are satisfied, a significant number face issues.
Endurance Warranty Plans and Coverage
Endurance offers six distinct plans to fit different needs and budgets:
Supreme Plan
Their most comprehensive option, covering almost everything except specifically excluded items. It’s similar to a manufacturer’s bumper-to-bumper warranty and works best for vehicles under 100,000 miles.
Superior Plan
A step down from Supreme, this plan protects your engine, transmission, electrical systems, air conditioning, brakes, steering, suspension, fuel system, and cooling system. It’s designed for mid-to-high mileage vehicles.
Secure Plus Plan
An affordable option covering the most crucial systems: engine, transmission, drive axle, brakes, steering, electrical, and air conditioning. It’s popular with budget-conscious owners and those with high-mileage vehicles.
Additional Plans
- Secure: Basic powertrain coverage
- Select Premier: Designed specifically for high-mileage vehicles
- Advantage: Unique plan combining mechanical coverage with maintenance services
All plans come with perks like 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage.
What Makes Endurance Stand Out?
Direct Provider Model
Unlike many competitors who sell policies from other companies, Endurance administers its own contracts. This direct provider model means:
- No middleman in the claims process
- Direct communication between repair shops and claims adjusters
- Potentially faster claim decisions
Unlimited Mileage Coverage
One of Endurance’s most significant advantages is its unlimited mileage protection for vehicles up to 20 years old. Most competitors cap coverage at 250,000-300,000 miles, making Endurance particularly valuable for high-mileage vehicle owners.
Elite Benefits Package
Every new customer receives one year of free Elite Benefits, which includes:
- Up to $500 in collision discounts
- Key fob replacement
- Tire repair/replacement
- Up to $1,000 in total loss protection
The Real Customer Experience with Endurance
What Satisfied Customers Say
Happy customers frequently mention:
- Clear explanation of coverage during the sales process
- Straightforward claims handling
- Prompt payment for approved claims
Some positive reviews highlight specific experiences: “Endurance made the process easy and saved me $2,000 without me having to jump through hoops” and “I like the fact that Endurance does not have a middleman. That is the reason they can speak to my mechanic and make the repair approval right on the spot.”
What Unhappy Customers Report
Common complaints include:
- Unexpected Claim Denials: Many customers report being denied for “wear and tear” despite believing their repairs should be covered.
- Complex Claims Process: Some describe lengthy approval processes involving teardowns, inspections, and multiple documentation requests.
- Customer Service Issues: Difficulty reaching representatives and encountering unhelpful service during claim disputes appears in many negative reviews.
One frustrated customer shared on Yelp: “I have spent $4,000 on this ‘extended warranty’ and in the time I have had it they have only covered maybe $250 of oil changes. I have had to replace two different exhaust manifolds and they have denied my claims both times.”
Recent Legal Challenges
In March 2025, the FeganScott law firm filed a class action lawsuit against Endurance on behalf of consumers who purchased vehicle service contracts. The lawsuit alleges that Endurance fails to deliver on promises of a “stress-free claims process” and “48-hour” claim resolution.
According to the lawsuit, some customers have:
- Incurred thousands in expenses while waiting for claim decisions
- Lost use of vehicles during extended claim processing periods
- Been forced to pay out-of-pocket for repairs promised to be covered
- Received contracts that don’t provide promised coverage
This legal action represents a significant challenge to Endurance’s business practices and highlights some customer satisfaction concerns.
Cost Comparison: Is Endurance Worth the Price?
Endurance’s pricing falls between $87-$141 monthly, slightly above the industry average. For standard terms, total costs typically range from $2,641 to $4,255.
When compared to major competitors:
| Provider | Monthly Cost | Mileage Limit | Number of Plans |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endurance | $87-$141 | Unlimited | 6 |
| CarShield | $79-$150 | 300,000 miles | 7 |
| CARCHEX | $120-$200 | 250,000 miles | 5 |
| autopom! | $79-$110 | 150,000 miles | 3 |
While not the cheapest option, Endurance’s unlimited mileage coverage can provide better value for high-mileage vehicle owners or those planning long-term ownership.
How the Claims Process Works
Endurance partners with RepairPal to provide access to over 3,900 certified repair shops nationwide. The standard claims process involves:
- Taking your vehicle to any ASE-certified repair facility
- Having the shop contact Endurance for authorization
- Endurance reviewing the estimate and providing approval
- You paying your deductible (typically $100)
- Endurance paying the shop directly for covered repairs
Despite this seemingly straightforward process, real-world experiences often differ. Customers frequently mention:
- Extended approval timelines beyond the advertised 48-hour promise
- Requirements for teardowns and inspections
- Disputes over coverage interpretation
- Some repair shops refusing to work with Endurance
Is Endurance Warranty Right for You?
Consider Endurance if you:
- Own a high-mileage vehicle (over 150,000 miles)
- Plan to keep your vehicle long-term
- Value comprehensive coverage options
- Prefer dealing directly with warranty providers
Think twice if you:
- Expect rapid, hassle-free claim processing
- Have modified your vehicle in any way
- Rely on independent repair shops that may not work with warranty companies
- Are unwilling to navigate potentially complex claim disputes
The Bottom Line: Is Endurance Warranty Legit?
Yes, Endurance Warranty is a legitimate company with real coverage options and financial backing. It’s not a scam operation. However, like most extended warranty providers, customer experiences vary widely.
The company’s strongest points are its direct provider model, unlimited mileage options, and variety of coverage plans. Its biggest weaknesses appear to be inconsistent claims processing and sometimes restrictive interpretations of coverage terms.
If you’re considering Endurance, read the contract thoroughly before signing. Pay special attention to exclusions, maintenance requirements, and the claims process. The 30-day money-back guarantee provides some protection if you change your mind after purchase.
Remember that no extended warranty eliminates all repair-related stress or expense. The best warranty is one that aligns with your specific vehicle needs, risk tolerance, and budget.
