What's the most important thing I should know about an extended service contract?

It is important to know the company that is promising to pay you if your car breaks down. A contract is only as good as the company that backs it. Some dealers offer service contract products other than the Ford ESP plans. For example, you can purchase Ford ESP plans (the only extended service contract backed by Ford Motor Company) or an extended service contract backed by an independent insurance company, which could be mistaken for Ford-backed protection. Be careful when considering independent plans.

Here are some facts about independent companies:

The 10 leading independent providers 10 years ago are all out of business today. That means a large number of customers who had valid claims were not paid or received only partial reimbursements.

Independent providers profit only if their costs are less than what you paid for protection. Ford ESP's focus is on customer satisfaction, not extended service contract profits. Ford wants your next car to be another Ford!

On the surface, many independent coverages appear to look like ours. The problem is they often require the use of inferior replacement parts, exclude important coverages like wear and tear, or make it extremely difficult to collect benefits.

Do I really need an extended service contract?

An extended service contract is an important option. With the high technology built into today's cars, repair costs have risen dramatically and will continue to do so. With just one major after-warranty repair, the contract could easily pay for itself. Ford is proud of its reputation for reliability and superior engineering; however, anything mechanical could eventually require repairs.

My car is still under warranty, is there any benefit to taking advantage of an extended service contract opportunity now?

As with any other product, service contracts are subject to inflationary price increases. By purchasing it now, you can lock-in at today's cost. In addition, if you take advantage of Ford ESP at the time of vehicle purchase, you can include the cost in your monthly finance or lease payment. Plus, you may be entitled to benefits in addition to the basic factory warranty, such as car rental, lodging and meal reimbursement for warranty repairs required when you're traveling. Your plan can even include emergency roadside service for a jump-start, gasoline delivery, tire change, locksmith service, road hazard tire protection and lost key retrieval.

Why is a Ford-backed extended service contract the best choice?

Ford views a service contract as an investment in customer satisfaction, rather than as a profit maker. We know that a satisfied customer will likely be a repeat car buyer. Independent providers/insurance companies have no investment in your next car purchase. This philosophy really makes a difference in the quality of their service contract product, and even more importantly when it comes to honoring your claims.

Is this the same Ford extended warranty that my local dealer offered me
at a higher price?

Yes, Ford ESP is the only Ford extended warranty backed by the Ford Motor Company. It is the same plan nationally. It doesn't matter where you purchase it, it's just a matter of price. Keep in mind that a real Ford extended service plan is a contract between you and Ford. It is not a contract between you and any dealer. Once you have a Ford extended service plan, you can walk into any Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealership, with