Extended warranties, especially Extended Service Plans (ESPs), are often seen as profit-makers for sellers. However, they can also offer peace of mind, which is why I decided to invest in Ford’s PremiumCARE plan for my car. After hearing positive feedback and researching the plan, I took the plunge. Here’s my personal experience with Ford’s service center and the PremiumCARE plan, detailing its pros, cons, and tips for dealing with potential issues.
I purchased my Ford PremiumCARE for $2,720, which is slightly above the usual price. This was likely due to my car being used, already 4 years old, and having 47k miles on it. One memorable instance was when the seat ventilation fan burned out. Thanks to the PremiumCARE plan, the replacement was covered, reinforcing the value of having the plan.
Pros of PremiumCARE:
Comprehensive Coverage for Peace of Mind: PremiumCARE covers over 1,000 components, including the engine, transmission, electrical systems, and advanced electronics. With the increasing complexity of automotive technology, having this coverage is reassuring. When I bought PremiumCARE, I lacked a garage or space to work on my car, making this plan invaluable for unexpected costs.
Nationwide Acceptance: The plan is accepted at all Ford and Lincoln dealerships across the US and Canada, providing flexibility and convenience for finding a service center.
Transferability: PremiumCARE is transferable, potentially boosting your car’s resale value. This feature offers added security to potential buyers, demonstrating the vehicle’s proper maintenance.
Rental Car Reimbursement: If your vehicle requires covered repairs, the plan includes rental car reimbursement, ensuring you’re not left without transportation.
Roadside Assistance: PremiumCARE provides 24/7 roadside assistance, offering added security and support in emergencies.
Cons of PremiumCARE:
Limited Coverage Compared to Factory Warranty: While extensive, PremiumCARE doesn’t match the factory warranty’s coverage. It excludes wear-and-tear components, body parts, trim, and specific repairs. For example, the factory warranty covers wiper blade replacements, wheel alignments, and brake pad replacements within specific periods, which are not included in PremiumCARE.
Avoid Relying on PremiumCARE for Pre-Purchase Issues: It’s crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase. Some issues might not be covered by PremiumCARE, as I found with the LED cup holder lights damaged by the previous owner.
Diagnostic Fees: Even with a $0 deductible, you’re charged upfront diagnostic fees for each issue. These can accumulate, as I experienced with a $720 bill for four separate diagnostics.
Inconsistent Service Advisor Knowledge: Some service advisors might lack knowledge about the PremiumCARE plan, causing confusion about coverage. This inconsistency can be frustrating when trying to make informed repair decisions.
Repair Denials: If a repair is denied, disputing the decision can be challenging. Despite reaching out to Ford, I had to negotiate with the dealership for a resolution.
Limited Control Over Service Center Experience: Service quality can vary by location. My experience differed between dealerships, affecting my overall satisfaction with the PremiumCARE plan.
Upfront Costs: The plan requires an upfront investment, which might be a drawback for some. It’s essential to weigh the benefits against the initial cost.
The PremiumCARE plan offers numerous advantages but also has some drawbacks. Being aware of these potential challenges can help you make an informed decision about whether PremiumCARE is right for you. My experiences, like the seat ventilation fan replacement, have shown the plan’s value for peace of mind, but I remain cautious and prepared for any difficulties with Ford’s service department.