Should I purchase extended Warranty for Used 2003 PT Touring?

[DotMike]

I am new to this site...so far I note this vehicle may need a lot of maintenance....I paid $3,300.00 for this car. I just purchased. I really do like the styling and HUGE cargo space in the back. I have removed the rear seat because I have 2 dogs.

The question I am pondering is...should I invest in a $2,000 extended warranty? U.S. Fidelis, has quoted me $295.00 deposit and approx $100.00 a month. My friend thinks I am crazy BUT at this point I do not really have $1,000's of dollars for a major repair.

My 2003 PT Touring has 90,000 miles and right now there is something rattling under the vehicle near wheel well to the middle I think...as soon as I have a chance I will be bringing the vehicle in to see what this issue is...other than that the car runs great...plenty of pick up for me...and in general is very "Tight and strong" for a 90,000 mile vehicle.....

Please, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Mike (Dorchester)

[Hooligan]

Mike, welcome to the Forum!! With anything other than a Chrysler extended warranty, you WILL have to pay the dealer for repairs even IF it is covered by warranty. You then will have to TRY to collect from U.S. Fidelis.

Go online to see IF anyone will offer you a Chrysler warranty. I bought a 5/50 Chrysler warranty for less than $1000 total.

[CREWZIN]

Fidelis has changed names a couple times because of the bad rep and thousands of complaints. I think I read where they can't do business in certain states also. Same thing with other aftermarket warranty sellers. Before you do anything go to GOOGLE and type in "fidelis complaints" and start reading. The BBB has given them and other an "F" rating because of all their complaints.

Take Hooligans advise and see if the dealer can offer you something if you decide to buy an extended warranty.

[DotMike]

Crewzin and Hooligan, thank you so much for the advice! This Forum is great.
I am a NEW PT CRUISER owner,
2003 with 91,000 miles I am the 3rd owner...the previous owners seem to have taken good care of the vehicle.

But there is quite a rattle/knock noise going through the floor boards especially on good bumps...

I will bring it in for a sticker tomorrow and if the inspection does not fail it for safety I will have to deal with this potentially expensive repair....money is tight right now...

BUT I have to say I really enjoy driving this vehicle. I rented one when my car was towed...and found I liked the space and I liked the handling....mine is a 5 speed which does give the 2.4 non turbo engine more bang and control.

I will keep people posted....

When I bought the vehicle I had no idea this following even existed! So, far this is great.

Thanks,
Mike
Boston Ma
2003 PT TOURING
91k miles Silver

[Hooligan]

Mike, you say you have 91K on the PT now. It is or soon will be due for a timing belt etc change as that happens around 100K. I know you mentioned $$$'s are tight. If you can plan ahead and get some of the parts you need, contact Rock Auto Parts (I believe they are a sponsor on this Forum). Crewzin has purchased his parts for the change from them.

[quicksilverdon]

Rattle/knock is probably suspension bushings. Find a mechanic who'll replace them - the dealer will buy new parts with the new bushings installed...
ONLY go with Chrysler warranty - and even then statistics show they make money (on average) selling warranty.
Be sure and read carefully - what's covered and what you have to pay... the warranty comes in "flavors".

[rogert]

When my factory warrenty runs out, I am thinking seriously of buying an extended warrenty,etc. I have heard that all maintenance, fluid changes, etc must be done by a certified mechanic & annotated as such. Otherwise their warrenty is void. Any truth to this ?
Roger

[CREWZIN]

rogert,

That depends on the contract you enter into. Some say go back to the dealer, others say you can even do it yourself but keep all the receipts.