Using Ford Protect at a Ford Dealerships
Taking your vehicle to authorized Ford dealerships will give you repairs from factory-trained technicians who use genuine Ford parts. Your service begins with a quick check of your coverage through your vehicle's identification number in the Ford OASIS database at the time your vehicle needs attention.
The claim process at Ford dealerships is straightforward and organized. A service advisor records your specific concerns. Certified technicians then diagnose the issue and figure out the work to be done. You'll only need to pay the deductible for repairs under warranty.
Ford's network exists throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Ford Protect gives you rental vehicle coverage up to 10 days at $60 per day while your car is being repaired. There's another reason to feel secure - your plan automatically has rental car benefits if your vehicle needs overnight service for covered repairs.
Ford-certified technicians do all repairs with factory-authorized parts to keep your vehicle running at its best. Your specific plan level determines the coverage for parts and labor costs. The dealership keeps detailed records and might store replaced parts to verify warranty claims.
Independent Repair Shop Options
You'll need to think over Ford Protect's specific requirements when looking for repairs at independent shops. Ford requires you to get pre-authorization by calling 800.321.7790 before any work at non-Ford facilities. This step will give a smooth claims process and helps avoid denials.
Independent shop repairs come with some rules. You just need to submit claims within 90 days after repairs. Ford usually pays the repair facility directly, but you'll still pay your deductible. You can also pay upfront and get your money back from Ford within a year of the repair date.
Getting reimbursed isn't complicated. We needed original repair invoices and proof of payment. Ford sets the maximum reimbursement based on their recommended repair times and official parts prices.
There are a few differences between independent shops and Ford dealerships. The coverage amount lines up with Ford's standard rates for labor and parts. You'll have to pay extra if an independent shop charges more than Ford's rates. These shops must use Ford-authorized parts and employ ASE-certified technicians.
Manufacturer-certified technicians have special training for Ford vehicles - that's something to think over when choosing between dealerships and independent shops. Independent shops are flexible, but authorized dealers are a great way to get direct warranty processing and guaranteed Ford Protect coverage.
So What's The Verdict?
Ford Protect plans are a great way to get coverage that goes well beyond simple warranty protection. Of course, authorized Ford dealerships make warranty service straightforward because they have direct access to Ford systems and certified technicians.
Independent repair shops might work for you, but dealership visits prove more convenient due to pre-authorization requirements and specific documentation needs. On top of that, Ford-certified technicians use genuine parts to maintain your vehicle's performance and reliability.
Your repair facility choice should depend on your specific needs. Your Ford Protect coverage works at any Ford dealership nationwide, giving you peace of mind during your travels.
