It is important to get further in depth on the term "bumper to bumper" in order to understand exactly what it means and to be able to distinguish a true "bumper to bumper" policy from the countless third party companies offering what they call "bumper to bumper" coverage. A true "bumper to bumper" policy is ONLY available on your vehicle when it is purchased new from the manufacturer and only extends as long as indicated by the manufacturer at the time of purchase. This time frame is either 3 years / 36,000 miles, 4 years / 50,000, or 5 years / 60,000 miles, although the latter is very rare. After that time period expires, there is no coverage available ANYWHERE for your vehicle that will equal your original "bumper to bumper" manufacturer warranty.

     The original bumper to bumper portion of your manufacturer warranty will cover every part of your vehicle from defect. Under the terms of this policy you would bring your vehicle to an authorized service center of your manufacturer, usually a dealership, and the vehicle would be repaired free of charge. During your vehicle's repair, many dealerships will offer complimentary loaner cars. This courtesy is on a dealership by dealership basis.

     Aftermarket warranty companies advertising "bumper to bumper" coverage may be engaging in misleading marketing techniques. The consumer may be led to believe this policy will cover every part of their vehicle, but this will never be the case in the aftermarket. Even if a policy is advertised as "bumper to bumper", the contract will probably include a long list of exclusions. If you read and understand the exclusions, these contracts can provide great coverage, although it may be better to realize this misuse and steer clear of such aftermarket warranty companies. Better safe then sorry. If you end up seriously considering a company that is marketing their policy as "bumper to bumper", you need to know how to read and understand the contract fully. Check out the articles about contracts in the following chapters. A good rule to follow is that the contracts of these aftermarket "bumper to bumper" policies should list which components are excluded, as opposed to included in your coverage. That way you know that everything on your vehicle should be covered besides what is noted in the contract.

     The extended repair service contracts that you can purchase through your new car dealership, which usually cover your car from the end of the "new car" warranty to around 100,000 miles, are the closest thing to your original warranty. You will probably have similar coverage, minus some things, but still be able to service your car at your original dealership and take advantage of their loaner car service, transportation, etc. Be ready to pay the premium for these contracts so evaluate your necessities before committing to purchase.