Harley-Davidson Extended Warranty: Learn the Pros and Cons Before You Buy | Autance

Harley-Davidson has a stellar reputation for making some of the best motorcycles that are known for their reliability and outstanding performance. Owning one of these motorcycles means that you have the freedom to ride anywhere, so it’s expected that your bike may need a few repairs from time to time. Having a warranty absolves you from the worry of paying for unexpected repair costs and service fees.

The new Harley motorcycles come with a two-year unlimited warranty, but both new and used Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners can purchase extended coverage from the company. The extended coverage is known as the Harley-Davidson Extended Service Plan.

What IS Covered in the Harley-Davidson Extended Warranty

While you may try to keep your motorcycle in good condition, defects in workmanship and material can set you back and this calls for repairs. If you decide to purchase the extended plan, the manufacturer will take on the fender-to fender-repair costs and will reimburse you for some expenses.

• Fender-to-Fender 

Under this policy, 1,100 parts of your motorcycle are covered against mechanical breakdowns. This coverage extends to major components, parts, and systems of your motorcycle including the engine, transmission, steering system, brake system, fuel system, suspension components, electrical systems, instruments, and gauges.

For new motorcycles, this coverage begins after the factory warranty expires. For used motorcycles, it starts the same day that the motorcycle contract was purchased. You will pay a $50 deductible for every covered repair.

• Expense Reimbursement Package 

For roadside breakdowns, you will be reimbursed up to $200 for towing services. If you need to hire an alternative means of transport, you will receive up to $75 per day, for 10 days, to cover the expenses of a rental vehicle. In case you break down while you are traveling or are away from your home address, you will receive $150 per day for three days to cover meals and lodging expenses.

For new motorcycles, the reimbursement plan starts the same day as the factory warranty. As for used motorcycles, the reimbursement plan and all extra coverage start the same day the motorcycle contract is purchased. There are no deductibles for this benefit package.

• Extras 

Typically, most manufacturers don’t cover damages to tires and wheels. However, Harley-Davidson offers optional coverage for these parts, and it’s available to both new and used models. There’s a surcharge for this additional coverage, and it only applies if the damage was caused by a covered road hazard.

In addition, the warranty includes Nationwide Repair Location Assistance where, in the event of a breakdown, the H-D Service Center will direct you to the nearest dealership for repairs.

What’s NOT Covered in the Harley-Davidson Extended Warranty

The H-D Extended Service Plan will provide fender-to-fender coverage for unlimited miles. However, there are a few exclusions on the parts that can be covered and the instances under which the coverage applies. You need to know the limits of the coverage before you purchase the warranty.

• Wear Items 

Wear items like brake pads, paint chips, and tires aren’t automatically included in the extended warranty Generally, anything that needs to be replaced as a result of normal wear will not be covered.

Also, the warranty won’t cover repairs that are a result of worn-out components. For instance, if one component in your transmission wears out and causes rough shifting, then the manufacturer won’t cover the repair.

• Others 

Harley-Davidson won’t reimburse you for repairs related to improper maintenance, improper towing, or damages resulting from misuse, negligence, or abuse of your motorcycle. It also won’t cover vandalism or breakdowns caused by accidents. The exclusions extend to damages caused by environmental conditions or pre-existing conditions on used motorcycles.

The policyholder is allowed to service their own bike if they have the know-how and don’t want to take it to an authorized dealer. However, the warranty won’t cover any damages resulting from DIY servicing.

Perks of the Harley-Davidson Extended Warranty

All replacements and repairs are done by factory-trained technicians at Harley-Davidson dealerships, so you know that only the best are taking care of your motorcycle. They also use genuine H-D motor parts, which will last longer than most aftermarket brands.

In case you need to sell your motorcycle. You can transfer the contract to the subsequent owner, and it will be effective for the remainder of the coverage. This will increase your motorcycle’s resale value.

The extended warranty offers everything covered in the factory warranty and can save you a lot of expenses for the next seven years from the day that you purchased your bike. You can also purchase an additional five years of coverage and it will still encompass everything in the previous plan.

The Extended Service Plan is not limited to miles. So if you are a high mileage rider, it is more likely that your ride will need more repairs, thereby making this warranty totally worth it for you.

The Drawbacks of the Harley-Davidson Extended Warranty

The roadside assistance you can get is somewhat limited in comparison to what’s offered by other manufacturers. You only get directions to the nearest authorized dealer and would have to source your own towing services.

Also, there are limited extra benefits in this warranty, plus you have to pay extra for the added benefits such as the optional tire and wheel coverage. Roadside assistance is the only added perk that comes with no extra charges.

The warranty doesn’t offer free scheduled maintenance services for its clients and the warranty can be voided if you fail to service your bike regularly.

Takeaway Value

One thing to like about the H-D Extended Service Plan is that every perk under the coverage is available for seven years or unlimited miles. This offers great value for the money since you can ride for more than 100,000 miles and still be covered.

Also, the warranty is quite comprehensive, as it covers 1,100 parts of your bike, and you get reimbursed for expenses on the road in case of a breakdown. It’s something worth considering if you want to avoid out-of-pocket payments for the long haul.