Vehicle Service Contract vs Warranty in Florida
Dealers often blur the line between warranty (free, included) and service contract (paid product).Florida treats them very differently — understanding the distinction protects you.
Quick Reference
Legal Distinction
Warranty: included. Service Contract: separate paid product
Florida Statute Ch. 634 — vehicle service contracts regulated as insurance products. Warranties are sale obligations.
Warranty Regulation
Florida AG Consumer Protection
Warranties covered by FDUTPA + Florida Lemon Law for manufacturer defects.
Service Contract Regulation
Florida Office of Insurance Regulation
FL service contracts regulated as insurance. Cancellation, claims, administrator licensing under OIR.
Consumer Protections
FDUTPA + Lemon Law + Insurance Code
Florida has strong consumer protections for both. FDUTPA covers misrepresentation; Insurance Code covers service contract operations.
Who Sells What
Warranty: dealer. Service Contract: dealer or direct (Endurance, CARCHEX)
Florida service contract market is one of largest in US due to vehicle age (many older cars). Direct online purchase often cheaper.
Cancellation Rights
Service contracts: 60-day full refund; prorated after
FL Statute §634.121 — 60-day full refund on service contracts. After 60 days, prorated refund.
Florida Standout Protection
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between warranty and service contract in Florida?
Warranty: included. Service Contract: separate paid product. Florida Statute Ch. 634 — vehicle service contracts regulated as insurance products. Warranties are sale obligations.
Who regulates warranties in Florida?
Florida AG Consumer Protection. Warranties covered by FDUTPA + Florida Lemon Law for manufacturer defects.
Who regulates service contracts in Florida?
Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. FL service contracts regulated as insurance. Cancellation, claims, administrator licensing under OIR.
Can I cancel a service contract in Florida?
Service contracts: 60-day full refund; prorated after. FL Statute §634.121 — 60-day full refund on service contracts. After 60 days, prorated refund.
Who sells warranties vs service contracts in Florida?
Warranty: dealer. Service Contract: dealer or direct (Endurance, CARCHEX). Florida service contract market is one of largest in US due to vehicle age (many older cars). Direct online purchase often cheaper.
Document the Coverage at Sale
A Florida bill of sale should document exactly what coverage was sold and at what price. Protects you if the dealer later denies covered repairs.
Generate Bill of Sale