If you own a vehicle with CarShield coverage and need suspension repairs, you may be wondering if your plan will foot the bill. The answer depends on the specific plan you purchased and the exact part that fails. CarShield offers several tiers of coverage, and suspension components can fall under different categories depending on whether they are considered part of the powertrain, chassis, or normal wear items. This article breaks down which suspension parts are typically covered, which are excluded, and how to get the most out of your contract.
Understanding CarShield Coverage
CarShield is a vehicle service contract provider that offers several plans: Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver, and others. Each plan covers a different list of components. The higher-tier plans (Diamond, Platinum) cover more parts, while the lower-tier plans (Gold, Silver) focus on the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Suspension parts are generally not included in basic powertrain plans, but they may be covered under comprehensive plans.
Different Plans and What They Cover
- Diamond Plan: This is the most comprehensive plan. It covers a wide range of components, including many suspension parts. It typically includes shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, and more.
- Platinum Plan: Also covers many suspension components, but may have exclusions for certain wear items like bushings. Check your contract.
- Gold Plan: This is a powertrain plan and does not cover suspension parts.
- Silver Plan: Limited to engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Suspension is not covered.
- Other specialty plans (like those for high-mileage vehicles) may have their own lists.
Suspension Parts: Which Are Typically Covered?
Coverage varies by plan, but here are the suspension components that are often included in higher-tier CarShield plans:
Covered Components
- Shocks and Struts: These are major components of the suspension system. If they leak or fail due to a manufacturer defect or normal use, they are usually covered under Diamond and Platinum plans.
- Control Arms: These connect the wheel to the chassis. Covered if they bend or develop excessive play.
- Ball Joints: Typically covered, but only if they are sealed and fail internally. Some plans may consider them wear items.
- Tie Rod Ends: Often covered, as they are part of the steering linkage that affects suspension geometry.
- Stabilizer Bar (Sway Bar): Covered if it breaks or its bushings fail.
- Coil Springs: Covered if they sag or break, except if the break is due to corrosion or wear (some plans exclude corrosion).
- Strut Mounts: Often covered when replaced with struts.
Common Exclusions
Even on comprehensive plans, certain suspension parts are typically excluded:
- Bushings: Rubber or polyurethane bushings in control arms, sway bars, and struts are considered wear items. Replacing them is often not covered unless they fail due to a manufacturing defect (rare).
- Wheel Bearings: While not strictly suspension, they are sometimes grouped with suspension. Coverage varies; many plans exclude them if they wear out.
- Alignment and Balancing: CarShield does not cover wheel alignments or tire balancing, even if needed after suspension repair.
- Shock Absorbers on Some Plans: The Gold and Silver plans exclude them entirely. Even on Diamond, if the shock is only leaking a little, the claim may be denied.
- Aftermarket or Modified Suspension: If you have lowered springs or aftermarket shocks, coverage is likely void.
- Normal Wear and Tear: Parts that wear out gradually (like bushings) are not covered unless the failure is sudden and caused by a defect.
How to Check Your Specific Plan
The easiest way to know if your suspension parts are covered is to read your CarShield contract. Look for a section titled "What is Covered" or "Exclusions." If you don't have your contract, log into your CarShield account online or call their customer service. Ask them specifically: "Is [part name] covered under my plan?" and get the answer in writing or note the call reference number.
Another tip: If you need a repair, take your vehicle to a CarShield-approved repair facility. They can check your coverage and submit a pre-authorization request before doing the work. This prevents surprise denials.
Filing a Claim for Suspension Repairs
If your suspension part fails and you believe it is covered, follow these steps:
- Get a diagnostic: Take your vehicle to a licensed mechanic (preferably one on CarShield's network). Have them identify the failed part and cause of failure.
- Contact CarShield: Call the claims number and provide your contract details. They will ask for the diagnostic report.
- Pre-authorization: In many cases, CarShield will need to approve the repair before work begins. Do not let the mechanic start without authorization.
- Pay deductible: Depending on your plan, you may have a per-visit or per-repair deductible. Ask about this upfront.
- Repair and reimbursement: After the repair, CarShield pays the shop directly (or reimburses you if you paid upfront).
Remember: If the repair includes parts that are not covered (like bushings or alignment), you will have to pay for those separately.
Alternatives if Suspension Isn't Covered
If your CarShield plan does not cover suspension parts, you have options:
- Upgrade your plan: You may be able to upgrade to a Diamond or Platinum plan at renewal. Note that this may require a vehicle inspection.
- Purchase an additional component-specific warranty: Some companies offer suspension-specific warranties, but they are rare.
- Self-insure: Set aside money each month for suspension repairs, which are usually infrequent.
- Shop around for a different warranty provider: When your CarShield contract expires, consider companies that offer more comprehensive coverage for suspension. Compare contract terms closely.
- Repair yourself: If you are handy, suspension work like replacing struts or control arms can be done at home with proper tools. This saves labor costs.
Final Recommendation
CarShield can cover suspension parts, but only if you have a comprehensive plan like Diamond or Platinum. Before signing up or filing a claim, read your contract carefully. Pay special attention to exclusions for wear items, bushings, and alignment. If you already have a basic plan and need suspension work, the out-of-pocket cost may be significant. In that case, consider whether upgrading or using a specialized warranty provider makes sense for your budget.
If you are shopping for a new vehicle service contract, ask specific questions about suspension coverage. A good rule of thumb: if the part is made of rubber or wears out over time (like bushings), it probably is not covered. For metal components like control arms and springs, it likely is. Always get coverage details in writing before you need a repair.