What to Look for in a Tire and Wheel Warranty

Posted by Wheel on November 18th, 2019

Imagine you've been driving your brand new BMW for only around 5 months. You have approximately 3,000 miles in when you pass by a construction site and puncture one of your tires with a galvanized nail. Roadside assistance helps you bring your car home and sadly informs you that your coverage doesn't include wheel replacement and repair. So, you have to do everything on your own. You shop for the tire itself, spend on shipping, and find a mechanic to handle mounting and balancing.

Now, imagine if you had a tire and wheel warranty. Your policy would've covered everything for roughly the same amount and provide you with security for the next 5 years. No ordering the tire, talking to various salespeople about shipping, and finding a shop that'll install aftermarket parts. Plus, if you take your sweet time shopping for a trusted provider, you can probably have an emergency loaner car thrown in for free. That's some good package right there.

Not all warranties are created equal, though. Make sure you're getting quality coverage by looking for the following details in the contract:

When Will Insurance Pay Out?

Your policy should explicitly state instances where repairs and replacements will be covered. This typically includes damage from punctures, potholes, and road accidents. A more comprehensive service agreement will cost more, but you’ll get added protection. Some policies even cover cosmetic restorations, which aren't usually paid for by standard warranties.

When Will Insurance Not Pay Out?

Exclusions are every bit as crucial as inclusions. They'll allow you to plan and make sure you have the resources ready for services that won't be covered. For example, it's unlikely for a car owner to get coverage for tires that have been damaged by regular wear and tear. Some policies even require that your vehicle be checked for signs of failure to maintain the recommended tire pressure. Improper handling can sometimes be a criterion for a claim denial.

How Will Insurance Pay Out?

Depending on your policy, you may claim the full cost of replacements or repairs. In some instances, you'll have to shell out money and submit the receipts to your provider so they can reimburse the amount you spent. When deciding between these 2 options, choose whatever works best for you from a financial viewpoint.

Will the Policy Come With Extras?

Free additional services are benefits you'll appreciate during emergencies. One that's commonly available is accommodation coverage. Where damage to your tires will leave you in need of a place to stay, your insurance will give you an allowance so you can check in at a safe establishment. Another bonus comes in the form of a loaner car. This is particularly useful if it's going to take multiple hours or a couple of days to have your vehicle fixed.

Remember these characteristics when shopping for a comprehensive BMW tire and wheel warranty. Inspect your standard coverage carefully to see how you can make your additional insurance work with it to get solid protection. This way, you cover all the bases with a policy of your choosing.