CARCHEX vs Route 66

Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, CARCHEX is a vehicle protection broker that connects customers with vehicle service contracts administered by third-party providers. Their current lineup includes five levels of coverage, ranging from basic Powertrain protection to the exclusionary Titanium plan, along with dedicated coverage for eligible electric vehicles. CARCHEX also offers access to licensed repair facilities and benefits such as towing, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage on eligible plans. The company has a long history in the extended warranty business and has received recognition, including multiple appearances on the Inc. 5000 list. Their Better Business Bureau profile currently carries an A+ rating, though CARCHEX is not BBB accredited. Customer feedback is mixed. Trustpilot currently lists a 3.2 out of 5 rating based on more than 1,500 customer reviews, while BBB customer ratings are considerably lower. This review looks deeper into CARCHEX’s plans, costs, contract terms, advantages, drawbacks, and customer experiences.

Established in 1986 and based in Mountain Home, Arkansas, Route 66 Extended Warranty, an Auto Services Company, Inc. subsidiary, stands out in the national extended auto warranty sector. The company aims to provide "Peace of Mind" through comprehensive mechanical breakdown coverage. Advantages of Route 66's extended warranties include instant coverage, no deductibles, nationwide accessibility, and 24-hour emergency roadside assistance. However, drawbacks include limited plan transparency, exclusive availability through financial institutions, and the absence of an online quote service. The company offers three plans—First Street, Main Street, and Easy Street—ranging from $1200 to $3500. Customer reviews vary, offering both positive and negative feedback. They highlight the positive experience of timely reimbursement and express concerns about denied claims and challenges with customer service. The company operates under Auto Services Company, Inc., which holds an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau. Despite some limitations, Route 66 Extended Warranty remains a comprehensive option for reliable and tailored vehicle coverage. The company caters to a diverse audience, focusing on used car owners, frequent travelers, and new vehicle owners looking to extend factory warranty coverage.