Ford Warranty Coverage Guide [Factory & Extended Warranty]

Geoff Cudd

All of the new Ford vehicles include a factory warranty with bumper-to-bumper coverage. However, the original warranty only lasts so long. As it nears its end, you must consider your options moving forward.

One of your choices is the Ford extended warranty plans. What coverage do they offer, and are they worth it?

In this review, I break down what you need to know about this manufacturer’s factory and extended warranty so you can make the best decision possible.

What Is the Standard Ford Factory Warranty?

New Ford vehicles include standard factory warranties. Here’s a brief overview of the standard Ford warranties:

New Vehicle Warranty

The New Vehicle Limited warranty lasts for 3-years or 36,000 miles. It offers bumper-to-bumper coverage for replacement or repairs of defective parts.

Powertrain Warranty

The vehicles also come with a Powertrain warranty. This lasts for 5-years/60,000 miles. It includes coverage for:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Front-Wheel Drive
• Four-Wheel / All-Wheel Drive

Safety Restraint Warranty

The Safety Restraint warranty covers the airbag Supplemental Restraint System and seat belts for 5-years/60,000 miles.

Corrosion Warranty

The Corrosion warranty lasts for 5-years, with no mileage cap. It covers the vehicle’s aluminum or sheet metal body panels.

Note that it only covers corrosion of normal use/manufacturing defects, not rust damage from accidents or customer actions.

Emissions Defect Warranty

Fords also include Emissions Defect Warranties. However, the coverage varies based on the specific vehicle. It covers any parts with an emission-related defect.

To see all of the parts and the different coverage terms, review this page on their website.

Hybrid & EV Unique Component Coverage

The manufacturer also offers standard warranties for Hybrid/EV Unique Components. Coverage lasts for 8-years or 100,000 miles.

Exact coverage varies based on the vehicle, but it includes parts that are specific to hybrid or EV vehicles like battery pack fan assembly, high-voltage batteries, variable transmission, and more.

Diesel Engine Coverage

This coverage lasts for 5-years or 100,000 miles. It covers direct injection diesel engines, which include:

• Gaskets
• Sensors
• Seals
• Water Pump

What Is the Ford Extended Warranty?

As the factory warranties approach their end, you have the option to purchase a Ford extended warranty. Here’s an overview of their extended options:

PremiumCARE

The most extensive extended coverage that Ford offers is its PremiumCARE plan. This plan covers over 1,000 key vehicle components including the transmission, engine, steering, brakes, front suspension, and more.

You can purchase this option for up to 8-years or 150,000 miles (whichever comes first).

ExtraCARE

ExtraCARE is ideal for vehicles without many high-tech parts. It’s more focused on the drivability features and vehicle performance, This plan covers 113 components that include:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Electrical

BaseCARE

BaseCARE is similar to an advanced Powertrain warranty. It covers 84 components, including major parts. However, it does not cover the flywheel ring gear, fuel system, or radiator.

PowertrainCARE

PowertrainCARE is the most basic extended warranty plan from Ford. It covers 29 components including the transmission, drive system, and engine.

Ford Additional Extended Warranty Plans

You also have the option to purchase additional extended plans. They provide coverage for parts that your New Vehicle Warranty does not cover. Note that you can only purchase them at the time of a new vehicle purchase.

TireCARE

TireCARE is an extended service plan for tires and wheels. It covers all repairs or replacements of tires and wheels due to road conditions or hazards. It will also cover towing to the repair facility and reimburse 100% of the cost of new tires or tire repair.

DentCARE

DentCARE will cover minor dent repair. You can purchase up to 7-years of coverage for minor dents or dings.

WindshieldCARE

Pebbles, rocks, or debris flying on the road can damage your windshield at any time. WindshieldCARE covers windshield repair for any minor cracks or chips for up to 7-years.

TripleCARE

TripleCARE combines the coverage of TireCARE, DentCARE, and WindshieldCARE into one. Enjoy 7-years of unlimited mile coverage, no claim limits, and no deductible.

Ford Protect Premium Maintenance Plan

You may also purchase the Ford Protect Premium Maintenance Plan. The other warranties do not cover maintenance, this plan is available for up to 8-years/150,000 miles. It covers:

• Preventive Maintenance
• Wear and Tear Items (brake pads, shock absorbers, wiper blades)
• Oil Filter Changes
• Routine Inspections and Multi-Point Inspections
• Factory Required Maintenance

Ford Additional Benefits

All of Ford’s extended warranties include a few added benefits. Ford’s additional benefits are:

• 24-Months of Interest-Free Financing
• 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
• Transferable Policies
• Towing Reimbursement
• Tire Changes
• Fluid Delivery
• Rental Car Benefits for 10 Days

How Much Does Ford Extended Warranty Cost?

There’s no set number for the cost of Ford’s extended warranties. The industry average for three to six years of coverage is $2,862. Ford’s plans can cost between $1,600 and $4,500.

The plan type, deductible, vehicle model, and vehicle condition will all impact the cost of the extended warranty. To find out how much you can expect to pay, you must request a quote on their website.

However, keep in mind the potential savings that the extended warranty may offer. For the PremiumCARE coverage, here are some average customer savings according to Ford:

• Engine: $4,5000- $6,000
• Transmission: $3,000- $5,000
• Rear-Wheel Drive: $1,000- $2,000
• Steering: $1,000-$1,500

What Is Not Covered by Ford Extended Warranty?

There are a few common exclusions to Ford’s warranties. These exclusions follow industry standards. They include:

• Wear and Tear
• Maintenance Items
• Damage from Weather
• Accident Damage

Should I Get the Ford Extended Warranty Program?

Compared to some other manufacturers Ford vehicles are not the most reliable as they rank 21st out of 32. Still, they have an above-average reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars. In general, Ford owners pay more than the market average for yearly maintenance and repairs.

A Ford extended warranty can give you peace of mind for dealing with any manufacturer defects that come up. They can save you money on costly repairs, and they also include some great additional benefits like roadside assistance.

To determine if a Ford extended warranty is right for you, you must evaluate:

• The Vehicle Model and Age
• Estimated Time You Plan to Keep the Vehicle
• Your Monthly Budget
• Your Savings

When it comes to extended warranties, the manufacturer option is a strong one. Still, you should assess third-party providers and obtain quotes from multiple sources before making a decision. Do not only focus on cost, but also consider coverage, term lengths, repair locations, additional benefits, and more.

Ford Extended Warranty vs. Third-Party Extended Warranty

If you determine an extended warranty is for you, Ford is not the only option. Oftentimes, third-party providers offer less expensive and more flexible coverage. Let’s compare Ford vs the top third-party extended warranty providers, like Endurance, CarShield, and CARCHEX:

Can I Cancel the Ford Extended Warranty?

Yes, you can cancel your Ford extended warranty at any time. If you cancel within 30 days, then you will receive a full refund (minus a $75 cancellation fee).

If you cancel after the 30 day period, then you receive a pro-rated refund.

Does Ford Have a Secret Warranty?

Secret warranties are not publicly advertised to consumers, but they are policy adjustments or extensions that manufacturers may offer due to defects. Many years ago, several brands were called out by a whistleblower for secret warranties.

As of right now, there are no known secret warranties for Ford.

What To Do When Your Ford Car Warranty Expires

The Ford factory warranty will come to an end. As it approaches an end, you have the following options:

• Ford Extended Warranty
• Third-Party Extended Warranty
• Keep the Car Without a Warranty
• Sell the Vehicle

Keep in mind that you must purchase a Ford extended warranty before your original one expires. That’s why it’s important to start the process as the warranty nears its end. Here’s what you should do as your warranty approaches expiration:

• Start. 3-months or 3,000 miles before your warranty ends, research warranty options.
• Reach Out. Contact your Ford dealership for an extended warranty quote and to discuss the process.
• Get Other Quotes. Obtain third-party provider quotes.
• Evaluate. Examine your monthly budget and savings account and evaluate how long you plan to keep the vehicle.
• Decide. Should you decide to go with the Ford extended warranty, you must purchase it before your factory warranty expires.

Ford Maintenance Guide

To meet the warranty criteria, you must properly maintain your vehicle. On Ford’s website, you can enter your vehicle details for a full maintenance schedule.

Be sure to check out our list of the best car-related subreddits, for Ford-specific forums.

Here are a few general examples:

• Every 5,000 miles
  • Change the Oil and Filter
  • Rotate the Tires and Adjust Air Pressure
• 15,000 miles
  • Engine Inspection and Coolant Strength
• 30,000 miles
  • Inspect Engine and Cooling Again
  • Full Inspection of Major Components

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the basic Ford warranty last?

There are multiple term length options available for Ford extended warranties. The longest option available is 8-years/150,000 miles.

How long does the Ford extended warranty last?

You can choose from different coverage term lengths for the extended warranty. The longest option is 8-years/150,000 miles.

Does Ford extended warranty cover maintenance?

Ford does not cover routine maintenance in their extended warranty plans, but they do offer a separate coverage plan that includes maintenance.

Is the Ford extended warranty worth it?

To determine if the Ford extended warranty is worth it for you, you must examine your personal monthly budget, savings, car model, and car ownership intentions. Additionally, you should always compare other extended warranties before making a final decision.

Can I transfer my Ford extended warranty?

Yes, Ford extended warranties are transferable.

Are Ford cars expensive to repair?

The cost of Ford vehicle repairs varies depending on the parts in question, the extent of damage, and the type/age of the vehicle. Compared to other brands, Ford repair and maintenance is more expensive on average, Ford owners pay $775 per year in maintenance and repairs.

Where can I take my Ford for repairs under warranty?

With a Ford warranty, you must take your vehicle to a Ford dealership for all repairs and maintenance.

Can I extend my Ford warranty after it expires?

You must purchase a Ford extended warranty before your factory warranty expires. As long as your original factory warranty has not expired yet, you can purchase an extended warranty.

How do I know when my Ford warranty expires?

Have your VIN ready and your odometer reading. Call your local dealership to inquire about your Ford factory warranty. With the VIN and odometer reading, they can let you know how much coverage you have left. It’s best to note this information down for future reference.