Extended Warranty Scam
If you have purchased a new or used vehicle recently, you've probably been inundated with notices showing your warranty is about to expire or vehicle protection has not been activated. If you purchased a warranty through the dealership, make sure you have accurate information about what it covers and when it expires (make a note on the calendar). My thoughts on warranties are that they are not worth paying for. I was offered a warranty on a used car for $700! but the vehicle already has a manufacturer warranty (something they usually don't divulge.) Warranties cover very little, but these notices that don't show a company name and address, use scare tactics and are not much more than a scam. Their M.O. is to send as many notices out as possible, hoping someone who is confused will call and give them personal information. The FTC is currently working toward stopping these unethical practices.
So, if you see a notice that says please call us today to ensure continued safe operation 1-888-598-0258 - ignore it. If you have any doubts, contact your dealership, before following up on any notification that specifies that protection/warranty is about to expire.
You can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission
See more information on Faker Motor Vehicle Service Notification and Vehicle Warranty Sales Pitch.
Note: You may also receive phone calls, but my phone number has changed since I purchased the vehicle so I haven't received any phone calls. Don't think your phone number and personal information is kept private when you fill out forms at the dealership and for the Department of Motor Vehicles - it isn't.
View the Federal Trade Commission's suggestions for avoiding scams and fraud here
Update: Apparently the DMV, DPS, or whichever motor vehicle department is in your state, sells your information and makes millions doing so without your permission - you cannot opt out of this.
I don't give out my phone number to anyone unless absolutely necessary (and for friends and relatives). Even when purchasing a vehicle I gave a disconnected phone number and asked to be contacted by e-mail only. I know it's a hassle but nuisance calls are so frustrating when your number and address is given out without your permission.
