Dodge Durango Forum II

Re: Service Contracts

I have to admit that I will probably buy a service contract for EVERY American car I buy. "Stuff" just always seems to break on them. I don't say this lightly - my father is an executive with DCX. Very few of the lease cars my parents get have been perfect for the 1-2 year term of the lease.

You will get people who have had good experiences with many different types of contracts. My D is coming up on it's first birthday and I am going to buy a Chrysler contract. I chose Chrysler for 3 reasons: 1) No third parties involved; 2) I like my dealership and want to give them the business and build a relationship with them; and 3) they were willing to give me a good deal.

If you decide to go with the Chrysler, DON'T pay full retail price for the contract. One of the DOC's corporate sponsors offers service contracts for $50 over invoice. I chose not to purchase the contract from him after discussing the issue with the owner of my dealership. He validly pointed out that the only way someone could offer such a deal is if they never have to service vehicles under that contract. It just doesn't make economic sense for a dealer to only get $50 over invoice otherwise. My dealer offered me $200 over invoice and I figured the extra $150 is worth it.

You might not be able to find a dealer right off the bat who is willing to deal on the contract (especially 5-star dealers, who seem to try to nickle and dime you every chance they get). But keep looking.

Good luck!

Tue Oct 31