Extended Warranty

[67butch@gmail.com]

I wold like to purchase an extended warranty, but comments on the forums put me in doubt. Has anyone had good experience with a particular company?

2007 Alfa See Ya

[kalynzoo]

We have always maintained extended warranties on our MHs. The coaches have changed, and so have the companies, as we purchased what was offered by the dealers. We currently have a policy with Platinum Plus (or something like that). I do not work on my motorhome, other than light repair. I keep it clean, I change fuses, I have replaced water pumps, I fix woodwork, I actually changed the shower valve with the help of a knowledgeable friend. If a major appliance needs repair, if the motorhome itself needs repair, I take it to a recommended shop. That costs quite a bit, just for the evaluation. Over the past many years I have had the basement air overhauled, a MH transmission replaced, a string of fuel filter problems on one coach, a jack failure, and a microwave failure. Almost forgot the two frigs that needed repair over the years. Each time I relied on the warranty to find a qualified shop, oversee the repair, and guarantee the repair for my copay of $50. Yes, you MUST play their game. Call THEM first before going to the shop, make sure the shop is on their list, and start a claim. Then go to the shop, tell them you have started the claim. Make sure the shop calls for authorization BEFORE any work is started. Recently, when I had the basement air problem, it was repaired for my copay, and worked well for about a month. Then the basement air started making a horrible sound. I took it back to the shop, where I was told the shaft was out of balance, probably my fault for driving on bad roads. They then said the insurance would not cover the adjustment, since it was not a faulty part. I immediately called the warranty service, I was told, very politely, that the claim was denied because they had paid previously for a new shaft and for its proper instillation. They then called the shop, spoke with the owner/manager and the shop realized they had made an "error" and the repairs were promptly made. In short, they had my back.

Many RVers will write that it is a waste, just putting the money in the bank will cover the repair later. Maybe, if you don't need the repairs for a few years. If you fix things yourself, or have a shade tree mechanic friend, you will not be reimbursed for parts or time. For me, the warranty works.

[67butch@gmail.com]

Thank you for sharing your experience regarding warranties. I did almost all repairs on my past three motorhomes, and had two extended warranties. I have been very lucky by not having to file any claims. Two years with this Alfa and so far no problems, but feel it is time to get at least a five year coverage.

Again, thank you

Butch