What’s the difference between vehicle protection and an extended car warranty?
The main differences between Progressive’s vehicle protection plan and an extended car warranty are:
- Vehicle protection is offered as a car insurance coverage for newer cars
- Extended car warranties are offered by car dealers and manufacturers when you buy a car, and by third parties for a period after you buy a car
Both can cover major system and part failures within a certain period, but here are some other key differences between vehicle protection and an extended car warranty:
Progressive Vehicle Protection Extended car warranty Increase your auto insurance premium by a small amount Pay a large lump sum up front Choose to cancel anytime or renew every 6 months (auto-renew available if you have auto-pay) Warranty is locked in for a set number of years (often 4 to 7) One coverage for all major car systems Separate warranties for different systems, such one for powertrain and one for corrosion Also covers minor dents and dings and lost, stolen, or damaged keys and key fobs Only covers specified parts
Progressive Vehicle Protection vs. Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
Progressive offers two products that could be considered mechanical breakdown insurance: Progressive Vehicle Protection, and Mechanical Breakdown Insurance through Good Sam. Progressive Vehicle Protection is designed for newer cars and trucks. If you have an RV, or if you have a car that’s over the Progressive Vehicle Protection initial age limit, you might be interested in Progressive’s Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) through Good Sam.†
To help you decide which is right for you, here are some key differences between Progressive Vehicle Protection and Good Sam’s Mechanical Breakdown Insurance:
Progressive Vehicle Protection Progressive Mechanical Breakdown Insurance through Good Sam What type of vehicle is it for?
New cars and trucks
RVs and other vehicles
What is the initial vehicle age limit?*
2 years old or newer
15 model years or newer with less than 100,000 miles
When will my vehicle no longer be eligible?
At 8 years old
At 18 model years old or 150,000 miles
What’s covered?
System/component failures and breakdowns outside your vehicle warranty coverage, plus:
- Minor dents and dings
- Lost, stolen, and damaged keys and fobs
System/component failures and breakdowns outside your vehicle warranty coverage
What travel expenses are covered if I break down?
Through Progressive’s other required coverages:
- Food and lodging: $50 and $100 per day, respectively
- Rental car: $40-60 per day (depending on limit selected)
- Transportation: Towing within a 15-mile radius plus $50 per day
Through MBI’s travel benefits:
- Food and lodging: $100 per day total
- Rental car: $60 per day**
Maximum limits will apply
What other coverages do I need to have?
Progressive liability, comprehensive, collision, rental car, and roadside assistance with trip interruption
Any coverages required by your state and your vehicle lender
What’s the deductible?
$100 ($0 for minor dents/dings or key/fob replacement)
$100-$500
Is Progressive Vehicle Protection worth it?
It costs hundreds and even thousands of dollars to repair the major systems in your car. Even small scratches and dents can be expensive to repair professionally. For as little as $12 per month, Progressive Vehicle Protection can be worth it to protect your wallet while keeping your vehicle functioning and looking like a new car.
