You have probably seen the commercials: Protect yourself from expensive auto repairs with a vehicle service contract. It sounds like a great idea. Pay a monthly fee now and avoid a huge repair bill later. Unfortunately, it may not always work that way. At Advantage Automotive we believe vehicle owners should understand exactly what they are buying before spending money on an extended vehicle warranty or vehicle service contract. Some repair shops are reluctant to work with these companies because of concerns involving claim approvals, payment procedures, labor rates, parts requirements, and what is actually covered. Before signing up, read the fine print and ask plenty of questions. They are different from Your Factory Warranty One of the first things consumers should understand is that products commonly advertised as "extended warranties" may actually be vehicle service contracts. That distinction matters. A manufacturer's factory warranty generally cove...

  Over the last several years, Right to Repair has become one of the most critical issues facing vehicle owners, independent repair shops, and automobile manufacturers. As vehicles become more computerized and connected to the internet, the debate is no longer just about replacing a water pump or changing brake pads it is about who controls access to your vehicle's data and who has the right to repair it. For drivers, the outcome will affect where they can have their vehicle repaired, how much repairs cost, and how long they must wait for service. What Is Right to Repair? Right to Repair is the idea that vehicle owners should have the freedom to choose where their vehicle is repaired and that independent repair shops should have the same access to repair information, software, diagnostic tools, and technical data as dealerships. Simply put: You bought the vehicle. You own the vehicle. You should decide who will repair it. Without access to repair information, inde...