RV Warranty 101

Alison and Jason Takacs' Jayco Jay Flight parked at a campground under a starry night sky
Alison and Jason Takacs family photo
Alison and Jason Takacs family photo

ALISON & JASON TAKACS

WYLIE, TEXAS

Alison and Jason, along with their two boys Preston and Grayson, are not only avid campers and hikers but they’re also extremely talented photographers. They specialize in astrophotography and love taking pictures of comets, meteor showers and other celestial events. They take multiple trips every year in their Jayco Jay Flight travel trailer and try to visit as many dark sky state parks as possible.

RV Warranty 101: What You Need to Know

What is an RV Warranty?

In simplest terms, an RV warranty is a type of service contract that covers the repair or replacement of certain parts of your RV that may malfunction or fail. The warranty can protect you from unexpected and costly expenses in case of mechanical breakdowns or system failures in your RV.

Keep in mind an RV warranty does not cover damage caused by accidents, collisions, natural disasters, theft, or vandalism. That's why you have RV insurance. An RV warranty only covers specific parts or systems that are listed in the warranty contract, and it has a limited duration and may expire after a certain period of time or mileage similar to car insurance.

Jason Takacs' on his phone and laptop inside of his Jayco Jay Flight

Here are the most common types of RV warranties:

Manufacturer warranty

This is the warranty that comes with your RV when you buy it from the manufacturer or dealer. It covers the repair or replacement of defective parts or systems within a certain period of time or mileage and varies by brand and model.

Dealer warranty

When you buy your RV from a dealer, you have the option to purchase an additional warranty from them. It may cover many of the same systems as the manufacturer's warranty but could have a different time period or level of coverage. Since we knew our Jayco had an industry-leading warranty, we knew this wasn't something we would need.

Extended warranty

You also have the option to separately buy a third-party provider warranty after you purchase your RV. It should cover the repair or replacement of defective parts or systems beyond the manufacturer or dealer warranty periods. Extended warranties usually vary by provider and plan, but in general, they can add extra protection to your RV for many years beyond your original purchase date. They are a good option for anyone who wants to feel a little more secure in their purchase long-term.

The cost of an extended warranty depends on factors such as the type, size, age, value, and condition of your RV plus the length of the plan. We recommend you shop around when looking for extended warranty plans so you can find the best deals with the coverage you feel comfortable with.

These are some of our tips to help you get the most out of an extended warranty plan:

  • Read the fine print and understand what is covered and what is not.
  • Choose a deductible amount that you can afford to pay in case of a claim.
  • Check the reputation and reliability of the warranty provider.
  • Verify that the warranty plan is transferable if you sell your RV.
  • Follow the maintenance schedule and requirements to keep your warranty valid.
  • Keep all receipts and records of service and repairs.
  • File claims promptly and accurately if you have a mechanical breakdown or system failure involving your RV.
The Jason and Alison Takacs family watching a sunset outside their Jayco Jay Flight

RV Warranty Questions

  1. What components of the RV are covered by the warranty?

    Even though the THOR Industries family of companies has great warranties, it's important to know if parts or systems of your RV are covered by the warranty. You should look for one that covers as many components as possible, such as expensive ones like the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, plumbing, and appliances.

  2. What is the duration of the warranty coverage?

    Find out now how long the warranty coverage lasts, it may vary based on the component it is covering. 

  3. Is the warranty transferable if I sell the RV?

    If you predict you will eventually want to transfer the warranty to a new owner if you sell your RV, ask this question. See if the warranty is transferable, which can possibly increase the value and attractiveness of your RV to potential buyers.

    Jason Takacs' locking the door to his Jayco Jay Flight

  4. Are routine maintenance and service included in the warranty?

    Some warranties partially cover the cost of regular maintenance and service of your RV. Look for a warranty that includes routine maintenance and service to help you keep your RV in good condition and prevent future problems.

  5. What is the process for filing a warranty claim?

    Find out how to file a warranty claim and what documents or information you will need to provide when the time comes to see if this is a company you want to work with. It's nice if you find a warranty that has a simple and easy process for filing a warranty claim to save you time and hassle.

  6. Are there any deductibles or out-of-pocket costs for warranty repairs?

     We suggest you hunt for a warranty that has low or no deductibles or out-of-pocket costs for warranty repairs. It can save you money and reduce your financial burden when you are possibly at an emotional low point not having your RV to enjoy.

    Jason Takacs unhitching his RV from his truck at night time

  7. Does the warranty cover both parts and labor for repairs?

    Along the same lines as the last question, look for a warranty that covers both parts and labor for repairs. Make sure it covers the full cost so you can avoid any hidden fees or charges.

  8. Are there any specific conditions or maintenance requirements to keep the warranty valid?

    A warranty that has clear and reasonable conditions or requirements for maintenance is a must. Of course, you need to do regular maintenance on your RV, but make sure you aren't jumping through too many hoops to keep the warranty valid.

  9. Can I choose my preferred RV service center for warranty repairs?

    Choosing where to get your RV repaired under the warranty is ideal. Try to find a warranty that allows you to choose your preferred RV service center for warranty repairs to give you more flexibility and convenience.

    The Alison and Jason Takacs family sitting at a picnic table outside their Jayco Jay Flight

  10. Is there coverage for consequential damages caused by a covered component failure?

    Here's an example: if your engine fails and causes damage to other parts of your RV, such as the transmission or brakes, you should know if your warranty covers those damages as well. Seek out one that covers consequential damages caused by a covered component failure, which means that it can cover more than just the original faulty part.

  11. Are there any mileage restrictions or limitations on the warranty coverage for travel?

    Some RV warranty plans have mileage restrictions or limitations that may reduce or void your coverage if you exceed them. If you travel a bunch each year like us, get a plan that has no mileage restrictions or limitations and covers your RV regardless of how much or how far you travel.

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers are the most popular type of non-motorized RV. No doubt you’ve seen one pulled down the highway hitched to a car or pickup. Travel trailers come in all sizes including tiny jellybean-shaped models with a chuckwagon kitchen in the rear to the massive house-on-wheels with picture windows and a sliding glass patio door.

Jayco Jay Flight

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