CarShield vs Protect My Car

CarShield vs. Protect My Car

Protect My Car (PMC) and CarShield are both Vehicle Service Contract (VSC) providers that have great reputations for providing your car with extended warranty coverage. But their offerings may differ somewhat, which could affect your policy purchase decision. Read on to find out more!

CarShield is a broker for third-party VSC administrators, mostly working with American Auto Shield. They negotiate prices and coverage with those administrators, who provide contracts and handle repair claims. On the other hand, PMC is a direct contract provider and administrator who handles everything in-house. Both companies may cover a vehicle for up to 300,000 miles. Neither provider sells VSCs in California, but PMC also doesn’t sell in Arkansas, Hawaii, Missouri, Oklahoma, or Washington. 

CarShield promotes eight plans online, more than PMC’s three. The plans at PMC are all inclusionary and state all components covered. CarShield has four such plans, one of which is meant to supplement an existing powertrain warranty, as well as an exclusionary plan that covers everything except what they explicitly list as excluded. They also have specialized plans for electric vehicles, motorcycles, and ATVs. 

Aside from roadside assistance and other typical benefits, PMC plans also include free oil changes and tire rotations, which CarShield’s do not. Both companies allow for limited ‘commercial use’ of covered vehicles after paying a surcharge, such as for delivery, maintenance, farming, and other purposes, but CarShield also optionally allows for rideshare use. As both providers offer sample contracts online, we recommend going through them for details on coverage, limitations, and exclusions.

You have to request quotes from both companies because neither advertises plan prices. CarShield contracts can be taken on a monthly basis or for certain term periods, which often bill at monthly installments. We found their monthly costs usually fall between $99.99 and $129.99. PMC only sells term contracts, and our research shows you may pay between $68 and $120 monthly for them. Keep in mind that total contract costs generally fall within the same range for both companies and that premium prices may be higher or lower than those ranges based on customer budgets and requirements. PMC may quote lower premiums partially because they accept longer installment plans of up to 48 months.

Both providers are not accredited with the BBB, and CarShield is currently suing the BBB over alleged bias. However, Trustpilot review scores are high for both, with positive reviews praising helpful customer support, quick claims processes, and savings. Many of the negative reviews and complaints surround coverage denials or having to go through lengthy processes for claims approval or contract cancellation, among other issues. Both companies thoroughly and transparently reply to those, aiming for satisfactory resolutions.

If you’re looking to extend your car’s warranty coverage, both CarShield and Protect My Car are trustworthy, solid choices that have each received great reviews and accolades. CarShield gives you more specialized coverage choices in more states, with a bumper-to-bumper option, but PMC has more perks in oil changes, tire rotations, and a loyalty program that saves you money on shopping and travel. Total contract costs are similar, but PMC allows you to pay less monthly for a longer period. Your choice ultimately depends on your vehicle needs, location, and coverage term preferences.

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