Route 66 vs Zurich

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. 

Zurich North America offers vehicle service contracts backed by one of the world’s largest insurance organizations, with US auto-related coverage dating back to 1914. Their plans are issued and administered by Universal Underwriters Service Corporation in most states, with state-specific structures in Florida, California, and New York. Coverage is primarily sold through franchised and independent dealerships, though direct inquiry and select broker access may also be available. Zurich’s vehicle protection lineup includes three main tiers: Powertrain, Standard, and Comprehensive. The Comprehensive plan is exclusionary, covering most mechanical, electrical, and electronic components except listed exclusions. Zurich also offers a dedicated EV service contract, with the Comprehensive EVSC tier standing out for its high-voltage battery coverage. Eligible vehicles may qualify up to 15 years old and under 150,000 miles, and most dealership-purchased plans begin with no waiting period. Benefits include roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, trip interruption coverage, direct repair shop payment, and access to any ASE-certified repair facility. Zurich’s institutional strength, A+ BBB accreditation, and A++ AM Best rating add credibility, though pricing transparency, dealership markup, non-renewable contracts, and mixed claim-related feedback are important considerations.