Used Car Warranty Guide – What Amazon’s Move Means for You
Amazon’s Entry into the Used Car Market: A Game-Changer for 2024?
It’s not news that Amazon has disrupted nearly every market it touches. Now, the retail giant is making waves in a new arena—used and certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. According to Car and Driver, Amazon Autos has begun selling used cars sourced from Hertz and brand-name dealerships. The program launched first in Los Angeles, with plans to expand across the U.S. in the coming months.
This shift could redefine the used vehicle buying experience. Instead of haggling at the dealership, Amazon customers can browse, select, and even arrange test drives—just like ordering home essentials. But with new buying options come new responsibilities. Smart drivers know a used car warranty is no longer optional—especially when buying remotely.
In this article, we’ll break down what Amazon’s expansion into autos means for drivers, examine industry implications, and showcase how DriveSmart keeps your vehicle investment covered long after purchase.
What Amazon’s Used Car Launch in L.A. Signals for the Industry
Amazon’s decision to pilot its used car sales in Los Angeles isn’t random. As one of the largest car markets in the U.S., L.A. acts as a bellwether for national automotive trends. By situating the launch here, Amazon can gauge consumer response and iron out logistical challenges before taking the concept nationwide.
Just as consumers have learned to buy everything from groceries to electronics online, used cars are quickly becoming part of the ecommerce experience. This digitization brings undeniable convenience—but it also requires safeguards.
- Third-party inspections can’t happen in your driveway.
- You may not meet your seller face-to-face.
- Returns are trickier to arrange.
That’s why having something like a vehicle service contract (VSC) is essential. These extended protection plans act as a safety net for the unexpected hiccups that inevitably follow a used car purchase.
Used Car Warranty: Why It Matters More in the Digital Age
Buying a car online means you miss out on lots of in-person reassurances. No off-the-cuff observations from sales reps, and fewer chances to spot cosmetic or mechanical red flags. This increases your reliance on honest listings—and powerful protection afterward.
A used car warranty filters stress out of the ownership equation. Should something go awry post-purchase, you won’t have to pay enormous repair bills out of pocket. Instead, quality VSC programs like DriveSmart’s leverage a nationwide repair partner network, towing coverage, and dedicated customer support to get you back on the road immediately.
Learn how DriveSmart’s roadside protection pairs with warranty coverage to make ownership worry-free, even for cross-country used car purchases.
What Will Amazon’s Car Selection Look Like?
Currently, Amazon Autos features used and certified pre-owned inventory from major rental chains like Hertz and brand-affiliated dealerships. This strategic sourcing means buyers can expect solid inventory pass-through from high-turnover vehicles—often newer models retired from rental use or off-lease units.
These vehicles tend to be:
- Well-maintained due to regular servicing
- Lower in mileage
- More competitively priced
However, like any used car, these units still carry risks. Factory coverage may have expired, and wear-and-tear issues may only surface months down the line. DriveSmart’s plans provide customizable coverage tiers that adapt to your needs—offering peace of mind beyond Amazon’s initial offering.
Want to understand what a vehicle service contract really covers? We’ve got your back with guides that simplify the fine print.
Los Angeles First—But What About Drivers Nationwide?
Having launched in Los Angeles, Amazon plans to roll out its used car services nationwide in 2024. This means more drivers across the U.S. will soon access a streamlined, convenience-first method of car buying. However, they’ll also face the same remote-purchase risks that underline the need for trustworthy service plans.
Here’s where you start thinking smart—especially if you’re among the first to embrace digital car buying in your town. As others scramble to figure out where to turn when things go wrong, being covered by a VSC puts you miles ahead. Roadside mishaps? Engine failures weeks after delivery? Covered.
Many savvy customers in cities like Los Angeles already rely on roadside membership bundles with comprehensive towing and repair perks. It’s this kind of future-ready thinking that separates regret from reassurance.
Why Choosing the Right Used Car Protection Plan Matters
Whether you shop on Amazon or a traditional dealer lot, the car-buying process doesn’t end when you sign. Post-sale protection is where value either compounds—or collapses. That’s why a used car protection plan must go beyond marketing fluff.
What separates DriveSmart?
- Comprehensive repair coverage with no-hassle claims process
- 24/7 roadside support included in every contract
- Customizable plans for vehicles up to 20 years old
These benefits come together when things go wrong. And they do—about 68% of used car buyers encounter a major repair in their first three years of ownership, according to industry estimates.* If your transmission gives up the ghost, would you rather pay $3,800 or $0 out of pocket?
To learn just how affordable peace of mind can be, use our guide: What does a car warranty cost?
Real-World Rescues: How Roadside Plans Save the Day
New to VSCs or roadside memberships? Here’s what they can cover in a pinch:
- Dead Battery? Jumpstart services can arrive in under 30 minutes in most cities.
- Locked Your Keys in the Car? Mobile car lockout support 24/7.
- Flat Tire? We’ll swap it with your spare on the side of the highway.
- Out of Fuel? Fuel delivery coverage comes standard with higher-tier plans.
- Major Breakdown? We offer emergency towing across hundreds of U.S. metros.
For every roadside emergency, there’s a DriveSmart solution. And the best part? It’s seamless and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cars will Amazon Autos sell?
Amazon Autos is currently offering used and certified pre-owned vehicles from Hertz and various brand-name dealerships. These typically include lower-mileage, well-maintained sedans, SUVs, and trucks covering in-demand models from recent years.
Will certified pre-owned cars still need a used car warranty?
Yes. While CPO cars go through inspections and may include short-term warranties, issues can arise post-coverage. A solid used car warranty like a DriveSmart VSC extends protection for years, offering real peace of mind.
Can I still use roadside assistance if I bought my car from Amazon?
Absolutely. Your car’s source has no impact on eligibility. DriveSmart’s roadside plans cover any vehicle you own that meets plan criteria—whether it’s Amazon-bought or dealer-purchased.
How does Amazon ensure the quality of these used cars?
Amazon collaborates with trusted sellers like Hertz who follow rigorous inspection protocols. That said, unknown mechanical risks are always present. That’s where a vehicle service contract fills the gap.
Is mileage a factor when choosing a used car warranty?
Definitely. Higher mileage vehicles often face more repair risks. DriveSmart offers coverage for cars up to 20 years old or with significant mileage—ensuring there’s a car repair warranty right for any situation.
What should I do after buying a car from Amazon?
Right after purchase, review your coverage options. Investing in extended protection from DriveSmart ensures you’re not left footing the bill for surprise repairs or towing.
