CarShield Vs. Endurance: Vehicle Protection Plans Compared

Editorial Note: Content was created in partnership with Money Research Collective. Cars.com receives a commission from the partner links contained within the content.

When it comes to vehicle protection plans, CarShield and Endurance are two of the best-known providers in the industry. Both companies are reputable, with a variety of vehicle protection plans to choose from.

In general, CarShield is better for budget-conscious car owners, while Endurance may be a good option for those with high-mileage vehicles.

This guide breaks down how these two providers compare.

Key Takeaways
  • CarShield has a broad range of plans, including specialized options for motorcycles and electric vehicles.
  • As long as the vehicle is under 20 years old, Endurance doesn’t have a mileage limit.
  • Both providers have strong customer satisfaction ratings.

CarShield Vs. Endurance: How These Vehicle Protection Plans Measure Up

CarShield and Endurance are well-known vehicle protection plans providers that have been in operation for over 20 years. They both have excellent customer satisfaction ratings and multiple coverage plans. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison:

CarShield Vs. Endurance
CarShieldEndurance
Year founded20052006
Trustpilot rating4.14.1
Maximum vehicle age1999 or newer2004 or newer
Maximum vehicle mileage250,000No mileage limit for vehicles under 20 years old
Waiting period30 days or 1,000 miles30 days or 1,000 miles
AvailabilityNot available in CaliforniaNot available in Massachusetts. In California, sells mechanical breakdown insurance

Which company is better for you comes down to your vehicle’s age, mileage and location.

CarShield Vehicle Protection Plans

Best for: Those looking for the most affordable options and those shopping for coverage for motorcycles, ATVs or EVs

With CarShield, plans start at $99 per month, so it can be a good choice looking for a basic, affordable plan. CarShield have five core plans and two specialized plans:

  • Aluminum: The Aluminum plan provides basic coverage for issues like electrical and computer-related problems, including the engine control module, starter and alternator.
  • Silver: The Silver plan covers the most critical components of your vehicle, including the engine and transmission.
  • Gold Select: The Gold Select plan covers the engine, transmission, starter and air conditioning.
  • Platinum: Best for high-mileage vehicles, it protects the vehicle engine, transmission, electrical system, water pump and fuel pump.
  • Diamond: The Diamond plan offers the most robust coverage, and it’s the most similar to a manufacturer warranty on a new car. It covers issues like engine failures, transmissions and fuel-pump breakdowns.
  • Motorcycle and ATV: This plan covers motorcycles or ATVs, including their engines, transmissions and electrical systems.
  • Electric vehicle: This plan is specifically for fully electric vehicles. It covers vehicle parts like the electric drive unit, electrical system and battery pack.

CarShield doesn’t provide online quotes. You can start the quote process by submitting your contact information and vehicle details, and a representative will contact you to discuss your vehicle, protection plan options and plan cost.

Endurance Vehicle Protection Plans

Best for: High-mileage vehicles or those who want coverage for salvage or rebuilt titled vehicles

Unlike many vehicle protection plan companies, Endurance doesn’t have a mileage limit. As long as your vehicle is under 20 years old, there is no limit on how many miles your vehicle can have, so it’s a good option for high-mileage cars. Endurance also covers vehicles with salvage or rebuilt titles, which is an uncommon perk.

Endurance has three plan options:

  • Secure Plus: Secure Plus is a basic plan that covers the major systems of your vehicle, including the air-conditioning system, engine and transmission.
  • Superior: Endurance’s mid-level plan, the Superior plan covers additional components, including the vehicle’s cooling systems, suspension and fuel systems.
  • Supreme: The Supreme plan is Endurance’s most comprehensive plan, covering the major systems of your vehicle. It also includes coverage for technical items like gaskets and seals.

You can request online quotes through Endurance. Depending on the type of vehicle you have and the plan you choose, the cost can be anywhere from $3,500-$6,500 for a plan with a 30-month commitment (it breaks down to about $116-$217 per month).

Carshield Vs. Ensurance: Which Company Should I Choose?

When deciding between CarShield and Endurance, the right choice depends on your vehicle age, mileage and coverage needs.

CarShield is the better choice if:

  • Your priority is affordability
  • You want specialized coverage
  • Your vehicle has fewer than 250,000 miles

Endurance is the better choice if:

  • You have a high-mileage vehicle
  • You have a car with a salvage or rebuilt title
  • You prefer to view quotes online

Whichever provider you choose, request a detailed contract before signing. Review the plan’s coverages and exclusions, and make sure you understand the claims process to avoid surprises down the road.

Are CarShield and Endurance reputable companies?

Yes, both CarShield and Endurance are reputable vehicle protection plan providers. They’ve both been in operation for over 20 years and have excellent Trustpilot reviews from customers.

How much do vehicle protection plans cost?

Costs vary based on your vehicle, location and plan. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $99-$300 per month for a vehicle protection plan.

What don’t vehicle protection plans cover?

Vehicle protection plans typically exclude routine maintenance, cosmetic damages, preexisting conditions, and damage from normal wear and tear. Coverages vary by provider and vehicle protection plan, so review your contract to find out exactly what’s covered.

Disclosure: We earn a commission from partner links from this article.