RV Extended Warranty: Peace of Mind for the Long Haul

What is an RV Extended Warranty?

An RV extended warranty is a service contract that covers the cost of certain repairs and replacements after your manufacturer’s warranty expires. It’s not technically a “warranty” in the legal sense; it’s more like a safety net that helps with unexpected repair bills for covered components.

Before purchasing an extended warranty, it’s important to evaluate your current RV’s warranty status and consider your options for extending coverage after purchase.

Think of it like this: once your factory warranty ends, you’re on your own for repairs. An extended warranty steps in to help cover the costs of eligible issues, so you don’t have to shoulder the full expense yourself. Much like a house, an RV contains many systems and appliances that can break down over time and may require similar types of repair coverage. These contracts can cover everything from your RV’s engine and transmission to your air conditioner and refrigerator, depending on the plan you choose.

What Does an Extended Warranty Cover?

Coverage varies by provider and plan, but here are the main types of extended warranties:

Most extended warranties cover major systems and components, such as engines, roof-mounted AC units, transmissions, water heaters, refrigerators, slide-outs, and electrical systems. Coverage may also include protection for plumbing, heating, and other essential mechanical elements.

Extended warranties can also cover a wide range of RV types, including travel trailers and fifth wheels.

1. Exclusionary Policies

These are the most comprehensive. Instead of listing what’s covered, they list what’s not covered. If it’s not on the exclusion list, it’s covered. These are typically reserved for newer RVs with fewer miles and less wear.

2. Comprehensive (or Inclusionary) Policies

These name specific components that are covered, like slide-out motors, power steps, heating systems, and more. These plans are a little less expensive than exclusionary policies and still offer strong protection.

3. Powertrain-Only Policies

These are more limited and focus solely on the mechanical parts of your RV’s drivetrain, like the engine, transmission, and axles. These are often used for older rigs or motorhomes with high mileage.

4. Coach-Only Policies

These plans exclude the chassis and powertrain entirely, instead focusing on the living components, such as appliances, plumbing, electrical systems, and climate control.

What’s Not Covered?

Even the best extended warranties come with exclusions. Most policies won’t cover:

• Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, brakes, or tires
• Cosmetic damage, including paint, upholstery, or trim
• Pre-existing conditions
• Accidents or damage due to neglect or improper installation
• Wear-and-tear items like light bulbs, batteries, and wiper blades
• Water damage resulting from leaks in the plumbing system; while leaks themselves may be covered, water damage from those leaks is typically covered by RV insurance, not the warranty

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It’s important to read the fine print of any contract to understand what is and isn’t included.

Who Offers RV Extended Warranties?

You can buy extended warranties from:

While dealers often offer warranties at the time of purchase, many RV owners across America choose to buy coverage from third-party providers for better value and flexibility.

RV Dealerships

Most dealers will offer you a protection plan when you buy your RV. It’s convenient but not always the most cost-effective.

Third-Party Providers

Companies like Good Sam, Wholesale Warranties, and America’s RV Warranty specialize in extended service contracts for RVs. These can sometimes offer more flexible options at better rates.

Our Top Recommendation: Roamly

At RVUSA, we recommend coverage page for extended warranty coverage. Roamly offers transparent, flexible plans backed by exceptional customer service. They understand the unique needs of RVers and offer policies designed to keep you protected and on the road longer. Their coverage page outlines all the features you can expect, and their Learning Center article is a helpful read if you're on the fence about whether extended warranties are the right move for you.

With Roamly, you can skip the sales pitch and get the coverage you actually need.

Just like shopping for RVs, it’s worth comparing quotes and reading customer reviews.

How Do RV Extended Warranties Work?

It’s pretty straightforward. When you experience a covered breakdown:

1. You call the warranty provider to report the issue and get pre-authorization for the repair.
2. You take your RV to a licensed repair facility or mobile tech, if allowed.
3. The repair shop diagnoses the issue and sends an estimate to the warranty company.
4. The warranty company pays the bill, minus your deductible, usually between $100 and $500.

Many providers offer online account management, making it easier to file and track claims through your account.

Some providers offer 24/7 claims support and even direct payment to the repair facility so you’re not fronting the cost and waiting for reimbursement. A good warranty provider will also work with you to resolve any issues that arise during the claims process.

Are Extended Warranties Worth It?

Here’s the honest answer: it depends.

An extended warranty can offer significant savings on unexpected repair costs, especially for major RV components that can be expensive to fix or replace.

If you’re someone who values peace of mind and wants to avoid large, unexpected expenses, an extended warranty might be worth it. On the other hand, if you’re comfortable taking on the risk of paying for repairs out of pocket, you may decide to skip the extra coverage. Additionally, keep in mind that if you finance your warranty or service contract, the interest you pay can increase the total cost, which may impact the overall value of the warranty.

Extended warranties are worth considering if:

You’re traveling full-time or taking long road trips

You’re not mechanically inclined and would rely on professionals for repairs

Your RV is complex and packed with high-end systems

You want budget predictability with no surprise repair bills

They might not be the best fit if:

You have a newer RV still under factory warranty

You’re handy and can fix most things yourself

You’re okay with saving money in an emergency fund instead

The key is thinking about your comfort level with risk and your ability or willingness to pay for a major repair out of pocket.

Common Repairs and Costs Without a Warranty

Not sure if an extended warranty makes sense financially? Consider the average cost of some common RV repairs:

• Refrigerator replacement: $3,000 to $4,000
• Air conditioner repair: $1,000 to $2,500
• Slide-out mechanism repair: $1,500 to $3,000
• Engine or transmission work: $5,000 to $10,000 or more

Many manufacturer warranties only cover the first year, so purchasing an extended warranty during this period can help you avoid gaps in coverage.

One or two big issues could make a warranty pay for itself.

How Much Do RV Extended Warranties Cost?

Extended warranty prices depend on:

• The age and type of your RV
• The mileage for motorhomes
• The level of coverage
• The length of the contract
• Your deductible choice

For a typical Class C motorhome or fifth wheel, you might pay anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000 for a 3 to 5 year plan. Some RV owners have already paid for extended warranties or deductibles, so it’s important to consider whether the investment has been worthwhile based on their experiences. That can be a big investment upfront, so it’s important to compare options and consider what fits your travel plans and budget.

Maintenance Requirements: Keeping Your Warranty Valid

Owning an RV is all about freedom and adventure, but with that freedom comes responsibility, especially when it comes to your extended warranty. To make sure your coverage stays in effect throughout the warranty period, it’s essential for RV owners to stick to the recommended maintenance schedule for their vehicle, whether you drive a brand new motorhome or a trusty fifth wheel.

Most leaders in extended warranties require regular maintenance as part of their service contract. This means routine tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and system checks aren’t just good for your RV; they’re necessary to keep your warranty valid. Skipping these steps could mean that costly repairs aren’t covered, leaving you to pay out of pocket for issues that might otherwise be included under your plan.

Most extended warranties last anywhere from one to five years, depending on the type of RV and the specific coverage you purchase. During this time, it’s up to you as the RV owner to follow the maintenance requirements outlined in your agreement. Missing a scheduled service or ignoring a minor issue can lead to exclusions or even void your warranty, turning what seemed like a good deal into an expensive lesson.

That’s why it’s so important to read the fine print before purchasing an extended warranty. Take the time to review what’s required, what’s covered, and any potential exclusions. Some plans, like those from America’s RV Warranty, offer comprehensive or exclusionary coverage options, so you can choose the level of protection that fits your needs and budget. Remember, the price of the warranty is only part of the equation; the real value comes from knowing your repairs are covered when you need them most.

By staying on top of your maintenance schedule and understanding the details of your service contract, you can enjoy the full benefits of your extended warranty. That means more peace of mind, fewer unexpected costs, and more time spent enjoying the open road in your RV, trailer, or motorhome.

Tips for Choosing the Right RV Extended Warranty

Here are a few smart steps before you sign on the dotted line:

1. Read Reviews

Look for reviews from fellow RVers, not just marketing promises. RV forums and Facebook groups can be goldmines for real feedback.

2. Ask About Cancellation and Transfer Policies

Can you cancel if you sell the RV? Can the warranty transfer to a new owner? These are great features that add value to your contract.

3. Get Clear on the Claims Process

How easy is it to file a claim? Do they work with mobile RV techs? Do you have to use specific repair shops?

4. Know the Provider’s Financial Standing

You want a provider that will still be around five years from now. Ask who backs the policy; some are backed by insurance companies, which adds a layer of security.

5. Consider the Deductible

Higher deductibles lower the cost of the plan but increase your out-of-pocket expenses when something breaks. Think about your risk tolerance.

The RVUSA Take

At RVUSA, we believe in helping you travel with confidence. That means giving you the tools to protect your journey, whether that’s shopping smarter, preparing for the road ahead, or avoiding surprise expenses. Extended warranties aren’t for everyone, but for many RVers, they’re a solid way to keep your travels stress-free.

We recommend Roamly for extended warranty coverage because they offer the kind of straightforward, RVer-first service we believe in. They make it easy to understand your plan and get back to enjoying the open road.

We recommend doing your homework, comparing multiple providers, and asking questions until you feel good about your decision. After all, your RV adventures should be about what lies ahead, not what might break down along the way.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to RV extended warranties. Some RVers prefer the peace of mind, while others would rather save that money and take their chances. What matters most is finding a solution that fits your RV lifestyle.

If you're the kind of traveler who likes to be prepared for anything, an extended warranty could be your best co-pilot. If you're more the DIY type who likes to roll with the punches, you might decide to go without.

Either way, RVUSA is here to help you hit the road with confidence. From vehicle listings to expert advice and community support, we’re more than just a website; we’re your trusted companion on the journey.

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