Smart consumer
20 articles in smart consumer.
- Smart consumerCar Warranty Robocalls: How to Spot a ScamGot a call saying your car warranty is expiring? Learn the red flags of warranty robocall scams, how to protect yourself, and where to report them.4 min read
- Smart consumerRed Flags in an Extended Warranty Sales PitchLearn the warning signs of a misleading extended car warranty pitch, from pressure tactics to vague coverage, and the questions to ask before you buy.4 min read
- Smart consumerHow Service Contracts Are Regulated by StatesA general overview of how US states regulate vehicle service contracts and home warranties, what protections may apply, and where to turn with a complaint.4 min read
- Smart consumerWhat a Reputable Warranty Provider Looks LikeLearn the signs of a trustworthy auto or home warranty provider, the red flags to avoid, and the questions that help you check before you buy.4 min read
- Smart consumerChecking a Provider's Complaint HistoryBefore buying a car or home warranty, check the provider's complaint record. Here's where to look, what patterns matter, and how to read reviews.4 min read
- Smart consumerYour Rights When a Warranty Claim Is DeniedWhat to do when a car or home warranty claim is denied, how to ask for reasons in writing, appeal the decision and where to turn for outside help.4 min read
- Smart consumerHow to Appeal a Denied Car Warranty ClaimHad a car warranty claim denied? Learn common denial reasons, how to request a review, what documents help, and where to turn if you're stuck.4 min read
- Smart consumerKeeping Records That Win Warranty ClaimsWhich maintenance and repair records to keep for your car and home, how to organize them, and how good records help warranty claims go smoothly.4 min read
- Smart consumerThe Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in Plain EnglishThe Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act sets federal rules for written consumer warranties. Learn what it requires, what it protects and how it affects car owners.4 min read
- Smart consumerCan a Dealer Void Your Warranty for Using Another Shop?Can using an independent shop or aftermarket parts void your car warranty? Learn what federal law generally says and how to protect your coverage.4 min read
- Smart consumerFree-Look Periods: Canceling for a Full RefundMany service contracts include a free-look period to cancel for a full refund. Learn how it works, typical timeframes, and how to cancel the right way.4 min read
- Smart consumerFinancing a Warranty Into a Car Loan: Pros and ConsRolling an extended warranty into your auto loan is convenient, but it adds interest and can affect equity. Weigh the pros, cons and alternatives.4 min read
- Smart consumerBundling Home and Auto ProtectionWhat it means to have both a home warranty and a vehicle service contract, how the two products differ, and how to decide whether having both makes sense.4 min read
- Smart consumerQuestions to Ask About Claims Before You BuyHow a warranty handles claims matters as much as what it covers. Ask these questions about repairs, payment, and denials before you sign.4 min read
- Smart consumerWhat \"Up To\" Means in Warranty Marketing"Up to" appears in warranty ads for term lengths, discounts, and coverage limits. Learn what it really promises and which questions to ask.4 min read
- Smart consumerHow to Budget for Car and Home RepairsA practical way to plan for car and home repair costs, build a repair fund, track the age of major systems and decide when coverage makes sense.4 min read
- Smart consumerWhat to Do if Your Warranty Company Goes Out of BusinessIf the company behind your extended warranty or home warranty shuts down, here's how to find out who's responsible, protect claims, and seek refunds.4 min read
- Smart consumerHow to File a Complaint About a Service ContractStep-by-step guidance for resolving problems with a car or home service contract, from contacting the provider to filing complaints with state agencies.4 min read
- Smart consumerUnderstanding Arbitration ClausesMany service contracts and home warranties include arbitration clauses. Learn what arbitration is, how it differs from court and what to check.4 min read
- Smart consumerFine Print Terms Decoded: A Warranty GlossaryA plain-English glossary of common auto and home warranty terms, from obligor and deductible to exclusionary coverage and pre-existing conditions.4 min read