Once your vehicle’s initial factory warranty has expired, there are many types of warranties and vehicle service contracts that can help you when faced with unexpected and costly repair bills. From an extended auto warranty, a powertrain warranty, a bumper-to-bumper warranty, or any other type of auto protection plan, it’s important to understand what each can offer you and your vehicle in terms of protection.

One of the most common and often misunderstood types of warranties is what is known as a “drivetrain warranty.” A “powertrain” typically refers to the components that create and deliver power (engine and related delivery components), while a drivetrain usually refers to the parts that transfer power to the wheels (often excluding the engine).

For manual transmission vehicles, the following components are typically covered under a drivetrain warranty:

• Transmission (and internal parts)
• Clutch-related components (when listed)
• Driveshaft (if applicable)
• Differential
• Axle shafts

The following are drivetrain warranty components on automatic transmission vehicles:

• Transmission (and internal parts)
• Torque converter (when applicable)
• Driveshaft (if applicable)
• Differential
• Axle shafts

When selecting an extended warranty or service contract for your vehicle, it’s essential to understand what components are or aren’t covered in your plan. At Endurance, we understand the importance of knowing the differences between a drivetrain warranty and any other kind of vehicle protection. By selecting the wrong coverage, you can be left uncovered and responsible for any costly repair bills you may face.

Drivetrain Warranty vs. Powertrain Warranty

As mentioned before, the main differences between a drivetrain and a powertrain warranty are:

• A drivetrain warranty commonly includes the transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axle shafts, while a powertrain warranty typically includes those components plus the engine. Whether wheels are covered depends on the specific plan terms.
• A powertrain warranty is focused on the parts that make your vehicle move. This includes everything from the engine itself to the transmission and every component that allows energy to transfer from the motor to the wheels.

Many VSCs restrict coverage for failures related to aftermarket modifications or non-standard equipment, but rules vary by contract. If a vehicle has modifications, coverage eligibility should be confirmed before purchase and before repairs. Regular maintenance is also important, as failure to maintain your vehicle can also lead to you voiding your coverage.

What’s the Difference Between Insurance and an Extended Car Warranty?

When you get insurance for your vehicle, you agree to a contract between yourself and your insurance company to protect yourself from any potential financial loss. However, most insurance plans will only help cover against damages caused by an accident, theft, or natural disaster. If you experience any mechanical breakdowns or need other repairs caused by normal wear and tear, you’re left paying those repair costs on your own.

Thankfully, this lack of protection is why a factory warranty is put into place by the manufacturer of your vehicle, promising that their product will perform in a particular way for a specific period of time. If your vehicle does not meet those standards, the manufacturer will reimburse you for any repairs or replacements as outlined in your warranty.

However, most factory warranties typically last three years or 36,000 miles – whichever comes first. Once that coverage expires, any repairs you may face outside of what your insurance covers are left to you to pay for. Thankfully, an extended warranty or vehicle protection plan, such as one from Endurance, can help provide you with protection from mechanical breakdowns or other unexpected and costly repairs so you can have peace of mind for the road ahead.

Endurance Can Help Protect Your Drivetrain

When you experience any drivetrain or other type of unexpected breakdown with an Endurance protection plan, follow these simple steps:

1. Find and Choose a Repair Facility – A key benefit to the coverage provided by independent companies like us at Endurance is that our network of repair facilities goes beyond what automakers have to offer. Simply take your car to any affordable, reliable, and trustworthy mechanic or repair facility in your area, and know you’ll have help with any costly repairs. Better yet, Endurance offers plans like Advantage that can include routine maintenance benefits in addition to breakdown protection.
2. Give the Mechanic Your Coverage Information – All coverage holders with Endurance are issued a contract and contract number. When visiting a repair facility, present them with this information to help them know if your plan covers the necessary repairs. Not only is it that simple, any one of Endurance’s coverage plans automatically comes with a year of Endurance Elite Benefits, where you can receive extra perks like complete tire coverage, key fob replacement, windshield repair, and collision discounts.*
3. Get Your Car Diagnosed – After having your contract information, the mechanics will run several diagnostics to pinpoint the issue with your vehicle. Once the problem has been determined, the facility will relay this information to us before starting repairs.
4. Wait for Your Repairs – Once approved, all you need to do is sit back and wait for your repairs to be completed. If the repairs are expected to take an extended time, Endurance can work with you to help with finding a rental car as a part of your Endurance Elite benefits. You can also receive trip reimbursement for food and lodging for up to three days if you happen to experience a breakdown 100 miles from home with the help of the trip interruption benefit.
5. Pay the Deductible (if applicable) – Some vehicle service contracts may or may not have a deductible. This is typically paid at the end of the repair after your car is back in your possession.
6. Take Your Car Home – Once any applicable deductibles have been paid, you’re all set! Having your vehicle protected with any Endurance plan means we’ve got you covered for the cost of any:
   • Parts
   • Labor
   • Any applicable taxes.

Why Should You Protect Your Drivetrain Warranty with Endurance?

1. Endurance Elite Benefits. All our plans come with added benefits such as four tire repairs or replacements per year, key fob replacement, collision discounts, and more.
2. Outstanding Customer Service. Providing you with industry-leading auto protection is just one part of what we do. Our customer experience department operates with laser-focused integrity to deliver on our promise of providing you peace of mind through reliable vehicle protection.
3. We Cut Out the Middleman. While many companies are not direct administrators of the vehicle protection contracts they sell, Endurance is. We handle everything from quote to claim with no middleman and no runaround
4. Comprehensive Coverage at an Affordable Price. When searching for coverage on your new or used vehicle, price is undoubtedly a factor. Drivers wishing to protect as many components as possible in their warranty coverage will likely pay more for their contract compared to someone only wishing to protect a limited number of parts. No matter the type of coverage you are looking for, Endurance has options for every budget and need.

Drivetrain Protection with Endurance FAQs

• How does drivetrain protection from Endurance differ from the rest?

Not only do our protection plans cover your drivetrain and more, but each one also offers a year of Endurance Elite Benefits, which includes perks you can’t find anywhere else. Elite Benefits provides up to four tire repairs or replacements per year, key fob replacement, windshield repair, and more.

• How can I file a claim with Endurance?

We’ve outlined the best practices to take when filing a claim with Endurance. We also recommend setting up your account in the Endurance Customer Portal to easily access your contract and roadside assistance in the event of an emergency.

• Does Endurance provide Roadside Assistance?

Yes, Endurance offers 24/7 roadside assistance that you can access through the Customer Portal. Once you sign in, you can find your roadside provider’s information quickly.

Not sure what repairs might come next? An Endurance auto protection plan can help take the guesswork and the financial stress out of owning an older vehicle. Explore your coverage options or get a FREE quote to see what protection could look like for your car. You can also see your price and plan recommendations when you shop online.