What to Know About CarShield and Carchex
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Despite the similar names, CarShield and Carchex are separate, unrelated companies that are well-known providers of vehicle service protection plan companies.
While CarShield is known for its affordable plans, Carchex stands out for its added perks like roadside assistance and trip interruption benefits. Which company is a good fit for you depends on your budget, vehicle and coverage needs.
This guide breaks down how CarShield compares to Carchex so you can make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- CarShield has a stronger reputation for customer satisfaction than Carchex, with a higher Trustpilot rating.
- Neither company offers protection plans in California, but Carchex may recommend a company that issues mechanical breakdown insurance policies.
- Both companies have a 250,000-mile limit.
How Do CarShield and Carchex Compare?
CarShield and Carchex have both been in operation for over 20 years and have served thousands of customers. The table below shows a quick breakdown of key characteristics of these companies:
| CarShield | Carchex | |
| Year founded | 2005 | 1999 (Began offering vehicle protection plans in 2004) |
| Trustpilot rating | 4.1 | 3.1 |
| Better Business Bureau rating | A+, accredited | A+ (Not accredited) |
| Maximum mileage | 250,000 miles | 250,000 miles |
| Maximum vehicle age | 1999 or newer | 2001 or newer |
| Availability | Not available in California | Not available in California; may recommend a mechanical breakdown insurance provider |
What Makes CarShield Stand Out?
Since 2005, CarShield has been in operation, and it established itself as a leading vehicle protection plan provider. CarShield outperforms Carchex in customer satisfaction. The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ rating. Plus, it has a 4.1 Trustpilot rating based on over 56,000 customer reviews.
CarShield plans start at $99 per month, and you can choose from the following coverage options:
- Aluminum: The Aluminum Plan is CarShield’s base level plan. It provides coverage for your vehicle’s critical systems, including the engine control module and starter.
- Silver: The next plan is the Silver Plan, which covers essential components like your vehicle’s engine and transmission.
- Gold Select: The Gold Select Plan expands coverage, protecting your vehicle’s engine, transmission, starter and air-conditioning systems.
- Platinum: The Platinum Plan is what CarShield recommends for high-mileage vehicles. It covers important components like the engine, transmission, electrical system and water pump.
- Diamond: The Diamond Plan is CarShield’s premium option. It’s similar to a manufacturer’s warranty, covering engine failures, transmissions and fuel pumps.
- Motorcycle and ATV: CarShield has specialized coverage for motorcycles and ATVs, covering their engines and transmissions.
- Electric vehicle: EVs have unique needs, so CarShield’s Electric Vehicle Plan provides coverage for fully electric vehicles. It covers issues like electric drive unit failures and battery pack problems.
What Makes Carchex Stand Out?
Carchex started offering vehicle protection plans in 2004, and it’s established itself as an industry leader. Though it is not accredited by the BBB, it does have an A+ rating. Carchex stands out from other companies due to its added perks. Customers can add benefits like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, towing and trip interruption benefits to their coverage.
Carchex has several plans:
- Powertrain: Carchex’s most affordable option, the Powertrain Plan covers the major systems of your vehicle, such as the engine and transmission.
- Powertrain Plus: The Powertrain Plus Plan provides more robust coverage than the basic Powertrain Plan.
- Platinum: The Platinum Plan provides stated component coverage for all major vehicle systems.
- Titanium: The Titanium Plan is Carchex’s most comprehensive option, providing coverage similar to a manufacturer warranty.
- Extra Care: The Extra Care Plan covers components outside of the powertrain, such as the electrical system, suspension and braking system.
- Electric Vehicle: Specifically designed for EVs, this plan covers the electric drive unit, electrical system and battery pack.
Choosing a Vehicle Protection Plan Provider
When comparing CarShield and Carchex (or any vehicle protection plan option), consider the following factors:
- Cost: Cost varies by plan, provider and deductible amount. Be sure to choose a plan that balances affordable monthly payments with sufficient protection for your vehicle’s major components.
- Coverage: Compare coverages, including what components are covered and what parts are excluded.
- Exclusions: When comparing plans, consider typical exclusions, like certain components, damages related to wear and tear or cosmetic damages, and company waiting periods.
- Vehicle eligibility: Some companies, including Carchex and CarShield, will cover vehicles with as many as 250,000 miles, but some companies have stricter eligibility requirements.
Take the time to request quotes from both CarShield and Carchex and compare protection plans, Read the fine print on exclusions, and think about your typical vehicle use and how expensive your car’s make and model is to repair. A little research can save you money over the long run.
FAQs
Which vehicle protection plan company is better, CarShield or Carchex?
No company is better for every customer and vehicle. CarShield tends to have better customer satisfaction stings than Carchex, but Carchex offers added perks like trip interruption benefits.
How much are plans from CarShield and Carchex?
Pricing varies based on plan and vehicle. CarShield’s plans start at $99 per month, and we found that Carchex plans started at about $100 per month.
What issues are excluded from vehicle protection plans?
Vehicle protection plans exclude preexisting issues, routine maintenance and cosmetic damage. Specific exclusions vary by plan and provider, so read your agreement before signing and purchasing the plan.
Disclosure: We earn a commission from partner links from this article.
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