Hello All,

I am the proud owner of two 1996 850 GLT Wagons (both manuals, one with 415,000 miles and the other with 345,000 miles). As you can see, I hold onto Volvos. However, my query today relates to my 2016 XC90 T8 Inscription Hybrid Plug-In. I have just over 47,000 miles and the factory warranty expires at 50,000. I was just reminded of the value of the factory warranty, when a few days ago, the rear (passenger side) electric differential failed. The retail cost of the part is between $4,000 to $5,000 and that does not include the labor to remove the old unit and install the new one. Thank God this repair was under warranty. However, this experience underscores the need to obtain a factory warranty extension. Volvo sells a VIP Platinum Warranty that will extend the coverage for 5 years or 60,000 miles. The cost of warranty depends on the deductible you choose: $0, $100, $250, $500. The warranty I am considering would be $250 deductible with one time cost of over $4,000. The cost of these warranties vary from dealer to dealer, so it pays to shop around. However, a number of the dealers besides offering the Volvo extended warranty are also promoting 3rd Party warranties which provide identical or greater coverage than the Volvo warranty in terms of time and mileage for almost half the cost.

My question to the Brickbaord community: Has anyone ever purchased any of these 3rd Party Warranty contracts and if you have, what has been your experience? At this time, my preference is for the Volvo warranty, even though it significantly more expensive and not as broad in coverage. Thanks to all who reply.

Hugh