Just locked in a 2021 Forester Limited! Picking it up next month, super excited.
We got $2k off MSRP, which surprised me, so we’re traveling a few hours to pick it up.
Now I’m wondering… is the extended warranty actually worth it?
I’ve never bought one for my past cars (Honda) but I’ve heard Subaru maintenance can get pricey. We’ve got a solid emergency fund, so we could cover repairs if needed, but I’m still curious.
If you got the extended warranty, was it worth it? And if you skipped it, do you regret it?
If anything, I’d look into windshield coverage. My ‘21 Limited already has a crack running across most of it from a rock chip. It’s about $1250 to replace the windshield and recalibrate the Eyesight system. Insurance will cover it, but making a claim can bump up your rates.
@Renny
Some states offer a $0 deductible option for windshield replacement, including recalibration. I pay $46 a year for that, so it made more sense than an extended warranty for me.
Chandler said: @Renny
Some states offer a $0 deductible option for windshield replacement, including recalibration. I pay $46 a year for that, so it made more sense than an extended warranty for me.
I remember NY used to have that. I don’t live there anymore, but it was a nice perk.
@Renny
I’ve heard from a few people that the extra windshield coverage isn’t worth it. Apparently, it doesn’t cover impact damage, which is the main reason windshields crack. You might be better off just using your insurance.
It’s an insurance product, so it really depends on what gives you peace of mind. Insurance companies make money by charging more than they pay out, so most people won’t come out ahead. That doesn’t mean it’s a bad idea though.
I never buy extended warranties, especially if they’re rolled into a loan with interest. I’d be even more cautious with third-party warranties, since they make you jump through hoops to get anything covered.
I regret not getting it. I had to get an engine reseal (thankfully Subaru covered it), and now I need a transmission repair that isn’t urgent but still annoying.
I’d rather pay upfront and not have to stress about big repair bills later.
Just remember, you don’t have to buy the warranty when you get the car, and you don’t have to get it from the same dealer. Shop around if you decide you want it.
I didn’t buy it and ended up needing a big repair at 62k miles. Subaru covered most of it since I was barely out of warranty, but it was a reminder that these cars aren’t bulletproof.
I bought the warranty with my ‘18 Forester XT, then canceled it a month later because I figured it was a new car, what could go wrong?
Fast forward… transmission and wheel bearing went out at 34k miles. Thankfully, I was still under factory warranty, so I repurchased the extended one before it expired.
CVT repairs are pricey… without the warranty, I probably would have just driven it into the ground and called it a loss lol.
Or… stick with Honda. I traded in my RAV4 and regret it every day.
And before Subaru fans come for me… everything important is covered for 60k miles. If you’re keeping the car long-term, then yeah, maybe get the extended warranty after that.
@Renny
My brother used his extended warranty five times on his ‘14 XT, and he’s under 80k miles. So yeah, if you’re planning to keep your Subaru long-term, get the warranty.