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About CarShield
CarShield offers customizable vehicle service contracts that cover new and used cars against malfunctions or breakdowns. Along with these extended warranties, CarShield also provides 24/7 roadside assistance, towing services, rental vehicles, mobile app access and exclusive customer rewards. Month-to-month coverage plans include flexible monthly payment options to fit as many of your needs as possible.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- More plans than many competitors offer
- Plans start at $99 per month
- Free access to 24-hour assistance and repair facility map
- Month-to-month, price-locked plans available
- Covers cars with up to 300,000 miles
Cons
- Rental reimbursement isn’t standard
- Oil changes and tire rotations not included
Bottom Line
CarShield's high points include its month-to-month and motorcycle coverage. Although CarShield's quote process isn't the best, its numerous plans and lax vehicle requirements make finding the right coverage easy.
Featured Reviews
Had to replace my 2018 Impala evaporator core and it would have cost me 2000.00 out of pocket if I didn't have Car Shield. I took the car to the dealership services and they took ...
Read full reviewIt was a wonderful experience for me to see that CarShield really care about their customer. I told them I couldn't pay my bill and they went beyond and out their way to make sure...
Read full reviewWhat is CarShield?
CarShield offers vehicle service contracts for new and used vehicles, including motorcycles, ATVs and cars with up to 300,000 miles. The company has six contract options, almost all of which are available on a month-to-month basis, so you aren’t locked into a long-term commitment. Contracts are available both in English and Spanish. Most warranties are transferable, too. All CarShield plans also include access to a customer app that allows you to manage your plan, request 24-hour roadside assistance and get exclusive rewards.
CarShield cost
CarShield’s rates vary widely, but you can expect prices to start around $100 a month. You can buy your coverage on a month-to-month basis at a price-locked rate. That means that your monthly price will never go up once you begin your coverage, and your protection lasts only as long as you want it to. If you decide to remove your vehicle’s CarShield policy, you can conclude your coverage at the end of the month.
Details like contract lengths, deductibles and other fees can be found on the sample policies on the company’s website. The best way to get precise prices is to contact CarShield. You can get a free quote from CarShield by submitting your information via its online form or by calling. CarShield reviews do mention that the quote process can be tricky, with salespeople preferring to call about quotes rather than email.
What does CarShield cover?
CarShield has six protection plans available for both new and used cars, offering protection that ranges from powertrain coverage to a bumper-to-bumper warranty. CarShield’s six contracts are as follows:
- Diamond
- Diamond is CarShield’s plan that most closely mimics a manufacturer’s warranty, covering up to 5,000 components. It covers everything the Platinum plan does and more, including the following most common components:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Drive axle(s)
- Transfer case
- Air conditioner
- Fuel delivery system
- Fuel pump
- Starter
- Alternator
- Power windows
- Water pump
- Fuel injectors
- Steering
- Suspension
- Brakes
- Electrical system
- Instrument cluster
- GPS
- Factory audio
- Radiator
- Wiring harness
- Emissions
- Platinum
- Platinum is CarShield’s comprehensive plan. It covers everything the Gold plan does and more, including the following most common vehicle components:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Drive axle(s)
- Transfer case
- Air conditioner
- Fuel delivery system
- Fuel pump
- Starter
- Alternator
- Power windows
- Water pump
- Fuel injectors
- Steering
- Suspension
- Brakes
- Electrical system
- Instrument cluster
- GPS
- Factory audio
- Radiator
- Emissions
- Gold
- Gold is CarShield’s powertrain plus plan. It covers everything the Silver plan does and more, including the following most common vehicle components:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Drive axle(s)
- Transfer case
- Radiator
- Air conditioner
- Fuel delivery system
- Fuel pump
- Starter
- Alternator
- Power windows
- Water pump
- Fuel injector
- Silver
- Silver is CarShield’s powertrain plan and its most affordable coverage. It covers the following most common vehicle components:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Drive axle(s)
- Transfer case
- Water pump
- Aluminum
- Aluminum covers electronics- and computer-related components, including the following most common vehicle components:
- Starter
- Alternator
- Power windows
- Steering
- Fuel delivery system
- Electrical system
- Instrument cluster
- Factory audio
- Wiring harness
- Suspension
- Water pump
- Air conditioner
- GPS
- Brake system
- Radiator
- Other coverage
- CarShield’s other plans cover components on motorcycles and ATVs, including the following components, if applicable:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Drive axle(s)
- Fuel pump
- Starter
- Alternator
- Water pump
- Fuel injectors
- Steering
- Suspension
- Brakes
- Electrical system
- Factory audio
- Radiator
The Diamond plan is similar to a manufacturer’s warranty, often referred to as a bumper-to-bumper warranty. It is the most extensive plan offered by CarShield. CarShield suggests the Platinum plan for older vehicles since it offers significant coverage.
The Gold plan is billed as a good option both for used and high-mileage vehicles, while the Silver plan is CarShield’s most basic and affordable plan. This is a good choice if you want simple coverage at a low price.
The Aluminum plan covers high-tech items, and plans for motorcycles and ATVs offer customized coverage for those vehicles.
The above lists contain only the largest or most popular covered items, so each plan likely includes other parts you may be interested in. For more details on costs and what each plan covers, talk to a CarShield representative.
How does CarShield work?
CarShield provides extended auto warranties for new and used vehicles to protect you against the costs of unforeseen breakdowns. When you need a repair completed, bring your vehicle to an ASE-certified repair facility and file a claim. CarShield helps you find a licensed facility through its Shield Repair Network. Once you pay a small deductible, your selected plan pays for the rest of the covered repairs.
Make sure to read the terms and conditions of your contract so you fully understand what CarShield covers. Contracts are available in English and Spanish. Most CarShield contracts are also transferable, meaning the warranty can still cover the car even if you sell it. This can increase the value of your vehicle.
Additional CarShield benefits include towing, roadside assistance and rental cars, app access, and a map locator for ASE-certified repair facilities.
CarShield FAQ
Is CarShield a rip-off?
No, CarShield is a legitimate company offering extended vehicle warranty plans. Before settling on any warranty company, it is important to do your research and understand its cancellation and refund policies, along with its various plan offerings. Doing this early on helps you decide what is right for you and avoid scams or rip-offs.
How much does CarShield cost a month?
CarShield does not offer pricing on its website, as costs vary based on your vehicle’s type, age, mileage and coverage. However, CarShield plans could cost you as little as $2 per day, depending on your selected plan. No matter which plan you’d like to go with, you can get a free quote by calling the company’s customer service or submitting a form online through CarShield’s website.
Does CarShield cover electrical problems?
Yes, the Diamond, Platinum and Aluminum plans cover electrical issues.
What doesn’t CarShield cover?
CarShield does not cover oil changes or similar routine maintenance issues. It also does not cover oil leaks unless they are a result of engine failure and you have one of the appropriate plans. Be sure to check your plan’s specific coverage policies.
Is CarShield worth it?
CarShield is a solid option, depending on your warranty needs. It offers a wide variety of plans, which can be especially helpful if you aren’t yet sure what kind of coverage you want. Additionally, it provides protection for vehicles with up to 300,000 miles. This makes CarShield a superior choice if you have a high-mileage car.
We like that it offers month-to-month plans— that means that you aren’t locked into a full-year plan. If you decide it’s not working for you, then you can simply not renew your coverage for the next month. Plus, having contracts available in Spanish is a big benefit if you’re not as fluent in English. If you’re looking for an extended auto warranty with a solid reputation behind it, consider CarShield.
CarShield Reviews
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Reviewed July 5, 2023
It is quite disconcerting to continue to receive notifications that my account is late/overdue. CarShield is paid monthly automatically by my bank. This error occurred because CarShield changed their accounts system and unfortunately all accounts did not transfer. So, the reason my account was not paid was because of the error on the part of CarShield's new system.
On June 21, 2023, I called to inquire as to why my account was overdue. The situation was explained by Associate Sharron and the payment for June was paid over the phone and I received an email from CarShield at 1:37 p.m. verifying receipt of the $99.00 payment, titled CarShield Transaction Receipt for 1998 Toyota Camry. I was quite alarmed that I had been contacted yet again on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 in regard to the same situation created by CarShield. When I spoke to Associate Vee about 20 minutes ago, she restated the error created by CarShield but now the automation system has not caught up with payments made.
I have been told by both Associates, Sharron & Vee that my account is fine and the next payment will come out automatically on July 18, 2023. I truly expect that this automation situation will be solved by then and that I will not receive any more notifications of payments due. Also, it would be appreciated when a payment has not been made it would not be stated as if the customer not CarShield is in error.
Sincerely,Valerie
Thank you for your time and review. If you have any questions give us a call!
Reviewed April 14, 2023
In March my son called CarShield to correct a VIN error made. Rep told my son he corrected everything, said he transferred to other department and we'd get a call and receive revised the new Policy Plan coverage and would get booklet, card and policy within 10 days.... which did not happen. Apr. 14th, 23 Friday @9am - called to find out why we hadn't heard from or received updated policy information packet from Car Shield. I spoke with Mikayla who then transferred me to Specialist Chris's department. Chris is an exceptional Representative Specialist. I was upset by the time Chris got on the line, she immediately sensed that when I gave her my information and Chris decided to calm me down and had me take deep breaths and sips of water before proceeding to correct my policy.
Chris is a compassionate and very considerate Representative Specialist and explained in very detail what occurred and what steps she was taking to correct and how my previous payments would transferred into my new policy. Chris reiterated the Gold Protection Plan in detail, reverified my address and contact number and my son as the alternate person to speak with. Chris also informed me that my payments were lowered and when my next payment would be.
Chris is my angel, not only is she an exceptional Rep Specialist she is very compassionate, understanding and knew I needed to calm down before proceeding any type of discussion regarding my policy issues. Chris also took the time to explain to my son that when he had called in March to make the corrections and was told it would go to Data Management who would called us (we didn't get call). I cannot express the GRATITUDE I have for Chris, she also let me change my payment date to the 7th of each month instead of the original 14th due date. Thank you for having such a wonderful, conscientious, considerate and very Professional Specialist on you team. VERY VERY GRATEFUL, Norma **
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Reviewed April 8, 2023
Janet was very helpful thank you. However, my previous 5 phone calls were extremely frustrating as I was unable to get any help or advice after my VW center (where I purchased my car) informed me that they would not deal with CarShield) and neither would 2 others in the area that I called. They said this was due to "terrible customer service" and frankly I had to agree as each time I called I was bounced from place to place with long holds and disconnected several times. The last person I talked with refused to allow me to submit my detailed diagnostics for review or connect me to anyone who could help me, just kept citing "company policy" and made no helpful suggestions, was clearly not listening to me and was what I can only call "politely obstructive". Not good, left me with a very bad impression.
Happily I called again today and Janet was the first to actually listen to my problem, advised that she would look for a service center that would work with CarShield, and promptly did so - another VW service center that is further away that I didn't know existed. So kudos to Janet for being so helpful, thank you very much. You clearly need more reps like her who are willing to help customers and not give them a runaround. Happy Easter Janet.
I'm pending judgment on "recommending CarShield" until I see how the claim goes and if you actually make good on your promises of coverage and don't leave me in limbo again or deny coverage and leave me with a big bill. I'm giving you a chance on this so please don't let me down, I'll be following up. Appointment is next Friday.
Lisa
We are pleased to hear you found our customer service team helpful! If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to contact us.
Reviewed Feb. 11, 2023
On January 16th I requested service for a tow truck. Everything went well, except when the tow truck arrived the driver informed me I wasn't going to be able to ride along because their company wasn't allowing customers to ride with them due to COVID. Therefore, I had to incur cost for a rideshare. In the future, please ask tow companies if drivers can accompany the driver or not. Customers need to know ahead of time if there is going to be a cost involved.
On this specific occasion, the experience was good. This is why I gave it a rating of 4 stars. Overall, not so much. On this same occasion, I had my car towed to the dealership. Now, to make a long story short, I told the car advisor I had a warranty. He informed me if I wanted to get back home that same day (I was in San Antonio, TX and I live in Austin, TX) I would not be able to use the warranty. He tells me it's about a 2-3 day process: calls the warranty company, the rep comes the following day ( generally), receives the information from the rep the next day, and then the work can begin on the 3rd day. And to wait three days, to be told the repairs are not covered, is unacceptable!!! I ended up paying $1697 so I could get home that same day.
First, no one has 2-3 days for a rep to come out to view the repairs of your vehicle. When your car is not working you need it back as soon as possible, especially if you're out of town. A better process would be for the advisor/mechanic to call Credit Shield and state what repairs are needed, and Credit Shield could let the advisor/mechanic know right then whether or not those repairs or covered.
Second, if I am having to pay $1697 and I pay Credit Shield approximately $900/yr (for which most times I am having to pay out pocket), then I might as well save the money I'm giving to Credit Shield and not have to worry if the repairs are going to be covered. At the end of my contract, I will not be using Credit Shield any longer.
Sorry to hear there may have been confusion about your coverage. Give us a call sometime and we can go over your policy and answer any questions you have.
Reviewed Feb. 9, 2023
I was driving down the road and the check battery light came on the like the car is possessed. The ABS then the Transmission light and Engine light, I pull to the side of the road and called for some help with this car possessed. I received outstanding support and assistance. Finally all was going to be alright. Tow truck was on the way. My breakdown begin at 9:20pm and I was home in my nice warm bed by 11:00pm MTS time. Not bad. Now for the pain of repairing that possessed car but wait I have CARSHIELD. That will ease the pain of the repairs. Thank you Car Shield. Do drive without it. THAT'S THE FACT JACK.
Thank you for the kind words. We are pleased to hear you found our service helpful! If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to contact us.
Reviewed Nov. 1, 2023
Had a good experience with them being a new customer. Talked with Joselyn. I think that was her name. Signed my car up with her. Called back and signed with Jason for my husband's vehicle and Jason didn't ask me hardly any questions, just kept wanting my credit card number. Was put off by that. He was not interested in asking me any questions like the other person did.
Reviewed Nov. 1, 2023
Unfortunately the only place in my area that can service my car is a very unreputable place. Which makes my extended warranty useless. No dealership or reputable garage accepts CarShield or American Auto Shield. If I can not get my car serviced at a reputable place then I have no need for this extended warranty. I will have to shop for another company. I wish someone would have talked to me about it from the beginning so that a few months in I now have something I can not use.
Reviewed Oct. 31, 2023
My credit card was compromise and had to be replaced. I forgot to notify Car Shield. Your representative was very professional and kind. I would gladly recommend your company to my friends and family. Luckily, I haven't yet processed a claim but the peace of mind your policy provides me is worth the price I pay.
Reviewed Oct. 31, 2023
I would highly recommend CarShield after your original car warranty has expired. It offers peace of mind. My dad has always encouraged me and my whole family to have warranties. They are so professional and easy to work with. Very positive experience. I will use them in the future for sure.
Reviewed Oct. 31, 2023
Mindy was very helpful, and I felt she was genuinely interested in helping me. I told her my car heater needed repair, but I could not find it listed in the contract. She looked as well; said I should contact the home office. Since the Air Conditioner system was covered, the assumption would be the heater would be as well. But she suggested I contact the home office for confirmation.
CarShield Company Information
- Company Name:
- CarShield
- Company Type:
- Private
- Year Founded:
- 2005
- Address:
- 333 Mid Rivers Mall Dr
- City:
- Saint Peters
- State/Province:
- MO
- Postal Code:
- 63376
- Country:
- United States
- Website:
- carshield.com
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