Buying a 200-series - what are common repairs and would you buy an extended warranty?

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate
links, including eBay, Amazon, Skimlinks, and others.

A quick search on CarMax warranty shows non genuine parts can be used.
- While there are positives to purchasing coverage through an independent warranty provider, you’ll also find downsides. Neither third-party providers nor CarMax warranty options guarantee the use of an automaker’s genuine car parts or certified dealer technicians when repairs are needed.
Comparing quotes from independent warranty providers can make it easier to find the best option for your vehicle and situation. -

That aspect alone makes this warranty for anything more than a basic car something I would not want. Rather put the $2100 in an ETF and pull the money when you need it. Odds over multiple car ownerships of Toyota's is that you are ahead of yourself. The only reason IMO to get a warranty is if you cannot afford the repair cost, i.e. have zero savings. In that case I suggest you better buy a Toyota Yaris and figure out how to make more money.
Savage, but sage advice here. Like @FrazzledHunter I too went with the Toyota extended warranty just due to the overall perceived complexity of this rig compared to my prior vehicles. Thankfully, it's been money "wasted" to this point.
 
I think I paid $1300 for my Toyota platinum VSA 7/100k warranty. Got the dealer to cover the radiator which was about $700. I’d reported the dreaded occasional flashing CDL light twice while under warranty but didn’t have a repeated failure the dealer could investigate until about 35k after the warranty ran out. Toyota split the repair cost with me ($1300 of $2600). I don’t think Toyota would have split it with me otherwise, so I’m calling it a net win.

Ultimately it depends on how much the warranty is (they are VERY negotiable and you can buy them from any dealer) and whether you’re willing and able to eat a big repair if it occurs. Insurance companies always make money on average but individual cases vary. If you were buying 1000 land cruisers you shouldn’t buy the warranty, but if you’re only buying one then it might make sense to pay for it. I took a 5 year loan on an LC with 48k miles, so at the time it made a lot of sense for me to roll in what was essentially 2 extra months of payment, especially given all the electronics. YMMV of course.
 

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top Bottom