FROM: HOLLEY CARNRIGHT
DATE: DECEMBER 11, 2019
RE: PRESS RELEASE – BEWARE OF AUTO WARRANTY SCAMS
Be skeptical of mail and phone calls warning that the warranty on your car is about to expire. According to the Ulster County District Attorney’s Division of Consumer Affairs, the companies behind the letters and calls may give the impression they represent your car dealer or manufacturer. With phrases like Motor Vehicle Notification, Final Warranty Notice or Notice of Interruption, they are trying to make the offer seem urgent – and to get you to call a toll-free number for more information.
More than likely, these pitches are from unrelated businesses that want to sell you extended warranties – more accurately known as service contracts – that often sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars. If you respond to a call from a business pitching so-called extended warranties, you’re likely to hear high-pressure sales tactics, as well as demands for personal financial information and a down payment, before you get any details about the service contract. And if you buy a service contract, you may find that the company behind it won’t be in business long enough to fulfill its commitments.
If you have a question about your warranty, Consumer Affairs (845-340-3260) advises checking your owner’s manual, calling the dealer who sold you the car, or contacting the vehicle manufacturer.