Vehicle Protection 101
CarShields FAQ’s on claims, coverage, and contracts.
Customer Service & Billing Questions
Can I get another copy of my contract?
Yes! You can access your contract anytime through the CarShield App or Customer Portal. Prefer to talk to someone? Call Customer Service at 1-800-569-9044, and we’ll send you a copy.
What is covered under my plan?
CarShield offers several different plans. To see exactly what’s covered, check your contract, it’s in your confirmation email and available in the CarShield App.
When does my coverage start?
Your protection begins once your waiting period ends. You can find the time and mileage details for your waiting period on your Declarations Page.
Can I transfer my coverage to a new vehicle?
Absolutely! If you get a new car, call 1-800-569-9044 and we’ll help you start coverage on your new vehicle and cancel your old one.
Which repair facility can I use?
You can visit any ASE-certified repair shop that accepts CarShield. For convenience, check out our ShieldRepairNetwork, a list of trusted facilities that work directly with CarShield.
What if I need towing or roadside assistance?
Call 1-866-222-7869 for 24/7 roadside help, including towing and flat-tire service.
How do I cancel my coverage?
Please contact Customer Service at 1-800-569-9044 and we’ll walk you through the process.
Can I make a payment online?
Yes! You can make a one-time payment using Guest Pay, the Customer Portal, or the CarShield App (available on the App Store and Google Play).
Can I make multiple payments at once?
Of course! Call Payment Processing at 1-800-587-4603 and we’ll help you apply multiple payments to your account.
Claims Questions
How do I file a claim?
Call 1-800-859-9923 or file a claim online here before any repairs are done.
Will my monthly payment go up if I file a claim?
No! Your rate stays the same, no matter how many claims you file.
What happens after I file a claim?
Your repair shop will work directly with our Claims Department to determine if the repair is eligible, then contact you with next steps.
How do I check the status of my claim?
You can call Customer Service at 1-800-569-9044, Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (CST).
When should I file a claim?
If your vehicle breaks down, stop driving immediately to prevent more damage. Call the Claims or Roadside Assistance number on your contract.
How do you determine if a claim is covered?
Once the mechanic identifies the issue, they’ll contact our Claims Department before any work is performed.
Do I get a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
Yes, most CarShield plans include rental reimbursement benefits. Check your contract for eligibility.
What if I break down after hours or while traveling?
Call 1-866-222-7869 for roadside assistance and towing to a local repair shop. Your plan may include Trip Interruption coverage.
How does the deductible work?
Once repairs are complete, CarShield pays the shop directly by credit card. You pay your deductible and any non-covered costs directly to the shop.
What are my responsibilities to keep coverage active?
Follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, keep receipts, and make sure your waiting period has passed before filing a claim.
General Questions
What's the difference between a "service contract" and an "extended warranty"?
An “extended warranty” continues your manufacturer’s coverage. CarShield is different. We’re not affiliated with automakers or dealers. Our service contracts step in when your warranty expires or doesn’t cover certain repairs.
Do you sell manufacturer or dealer warranties?
No. CarShield isn’t affiliated with manufacturers or dealerships. We partner with reputable administrators to offer service contracts that protect almost every make and model.
How is CarShield different from auto insurance?
Auto insurance covers accidents, not breakdowns. CarShield covers mechanical repairs like your engine, transmission, or air conditioning when they break down.
How do I choose the right plan?
Look for a plan that includes monthly payments, towing & rental benefits, and a money-back guarantee. CarShield offers plans for nearly every budget and covers over 5,000 parts.
Is my vehicle guaranteed to be covered?
A CarShield specialist will review your information and contact you after you request a quote. You can also call 1-800-974-9385 to learn more about eligibility for new or used vehicles.
Can I cover more than one vehicle?
Yes! Call 1-800-974-9385 to discuss multi-vehicle coverage options.
Vehicle Modification & Special Questions
Can I get coverage for a salvaged or branded title vehicle?
Yes, we can cover vehicles with salvaged or branded titles—a small surcharge may apply. Call 1-800-974-9385 for details.
Do you cover commercial vehicles?
Yes, we have plans for commercial use vehicles. Contact us for availability.
Can I tow a trailer with my covered vehicle?
Yes, as long as it’s within your vehicle’s factory towing limits. The trailer itself isn’t covered.
Can I get coverage for my truck if it has a snowplow?
No, vehicles equipped for snowplowing aren’t eligible for coverage.
Do you cover Uber, Lyft, or rideshare vehicles?
Yes, we cover Uber, Lyft, and rideshare vehicles. We cannot cover taxis.
What about food delivery (Uber Eats, Grubhub, DoorDash, etc.)?
Yes, we can provide coverage for vehicles used for delivery services.
Can I get coverage if my truck has a lift kit?
Yes, as long as the lift is 6 inches or less.
Can I put larger tires or wheels on my vehicle?
Yes, as long as the tires are within 2 inches of the original factory size. Vehicles with tires 37 inches or larger are not eligible.
Can I add performance enhancements to my vehicle?
Certain modifications (like tuners, chips, programmers, headers, or snowplows) can void your coverage.
Can I get coverage if I use my vehicle on a farm?
Yes, in most cases.