CarMax Maxcare Warranty Review (2025)

Car ownership can be more expensive than most people realize. A 2024 study by Bankrate.com found that the hidden cost of owning a car, including maintenance, averaged $6,684 annually in the U.S. Since repair and upkeep costs are on the rise, extended protection plans like CarMax MaxCare are becoming increasingly appealing to used-car buyers who want peace of mind and predictable expenses.

When you buy a used vehicle from a national retailer like CarMax, it comes with a 4,000-mile/90-day limited warranty for added confidence. For even greater protection, CarMax also offers the MaxCare extended warranty at the time of purchase. This plan helps cover unexpected repair costs and provides long-term security, but it’s only available when you buy your car. In this guide, we’ll explore what the warranty covers, how much it costs, and whether it’s a smart investment for your vehicle.

Key Takeaways

• CarMax’s MaxCare provides extended repair coverage, offering peace of mind beyond the manufacturer’s warranty.
• The CarMax warranty cost varies depending on the vehicle’s make, model, and mileage. While it can be a significant investment, it’s essential to understand what’s covered and what’s excluded.
• MaxCare comes with perks like rental car reimbursement and roadside assistance, but it does not cover some repairs and maintenance. 
• Consider your individual needs, vehicle reliability, and driving habits when selecting the best option for warranty coverage.

In This Guide:

• CarMax Maxcare Warranty Review (2025)
• What Does CarMax Cover?
• What Isn’t Covered by CarMax MaxCare?
• Benefits of MaxCare
• CarMax Limited Warranty
• Cost of CarMax Extended Warranty
• Is CarMax Extended Care Worth It?
• Customer Reviews & BBB Rating
• Bottom Line
• CarMax Warranty FAQs

CarMax Maxcare Warranty Review (2025)

In recent years, CarMax has refined its warranty experience by improving customer claims support and nationwide repair network partnerships. Customers now have access to a wider selection of ASE-certified repair shops, making the process smoother and faster. Despite these improvements, MaxCare still offers only one coverage plan, which may not appeal to drivers seeking customizable levels of protection or coverage for luxury models.

For many used car buyers, MaxCare offers solid value, especially if your vehicle is out of the manufacturer’s warranty or prone to costly repairs. It’s ideal for drivers who want predictable repair costs, planning to keep their car for several years and prefer the convenience of bundled protection at the time of purchase.

What Does CarMax Cover?

MaxCare is an extended service plan that helps protect against unexpected repair costs. The warranty includes:

• Comprehensive Component Coverage – Covers most mechanical and electrical parts, including the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
• Roadside Assistance – 24/7 support for towing, jump-starts, fuel delivery, and more.
• Rental Car Reimbursement – This covers the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
• Nationwide Repair Network—This network allows you to get repairs done at any ASE-certified mechanic, not just at CarMax locations.

The CarMax extended warranty can stretch up to five years or 150,000 miles. Coverage begins from the date of purchase and ends when either the time or mileage limit is reached.

So, what does maxcare cover? MaxCare auto warranties cover parts and systems including: engine, transmission, drivetrain, electronics, electrical systems, steering, suspension, cooling systems and climate control. You can get repairs for these parts and systems at any licensed repair facility in the U.S. or Canada, as long as they provide a six-month/6,000-mile warranty on labor and parts.

Certain documentation, such as receipts or maintenance records, may be required to ensure coverage. MaxCare handles payment directly with the shop. You can request a sample contract for more details on coverage.

What Isn’t Covered by CarMax MaxCare?

While MaxCare covers many major repairs, it does not include:

• Regular maintenance of parts
• Wear-and-tear parts 
• Pre-existing conditions or modifications
• Cosmetic damage 
• Collisions
• Overheating
• Some corrosion repairs
• Repairs caused by misuse
• Aftermarket accessories or equipment

Once you receive your contract, discuss your concerns with the representative. While it is not an explicit exclusion, the CarMax extended warranty can only be purchased when you buy your car. 

Benefits of MaxCare

Why do many CarMax customers opt for MaxCare warranty coverage? Here’s what makes it appealing:

Protection Against Expensive Repairs

There is a rise in repair costs. To overcome them, MaxCare can save you thousands on unexpected breakdowns.

Convenience

You can use any ASE-certified repair shop. This gives you flexibility beyond dealership servicing.

Peace of Mind

You know that car ownership comes with risks. MaxCare offers reassurance that significant repairs are covered.

For buyers looking to avoid high out-of-pocket repair costs, CarMax MaxCare can be a worthwhile investment, offering valuable coverage and potential savings compared to paying for major repairs on your own. In addition to protecting against unexpected mechanical and electrical issues, MaxCare includes several convenient perks that enhance its overall value.

These include 24/7 emergency roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement of up to $40 per day for up to seven days, and deductible discounts of up to $50, depending on where your vehicle is serviced. Together, these benefits make MaxCare a practical choice for drivers who want financial security and convenience throughout their ownership experience.

Pro Tip: If transporting your CarMax vehicle across the states, consider a reliable shipping service like Sherpa Auto Transport to ensure a smooth and secure delivery.

CarMax Limited Warranty

Before purchasing MaxCare, remember that every CarMax vehicle comes with a free limited warranty which includes a 90-day/4,000-mile limited warranty (whichever comes first). Also, it covers significant systems like the engine and transmission included at no extra cost. While this is a great perk, it’s a short-term solution, so many buyers opt for MaxCare for long-term protection.

Cost of CarMax Extended Warranty

The cost of a CarMax MaxCare warranty varies based on your vehicle’s make, model, year, mileage, chosen plan, deductible, annual driving distance, and payment method. Prices typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, with deductibles between $50 and $600 per repair. CarMax’s online tool lets you estimate costs by adjusting key factors.

For example, a five-year, 75,000-mile plan for a 2020 Toyota Camry LE with 30,000 miles costs around $1,659–$1,839 with a $50 deductible. You have the option of paying upfront or financing the warranty as part of your car loan, though financing may include interest.

When purchasing,you need to consider your driving habits, budget, and regional dealer fees. CarMax also provides customer support and claims assistance. Moreover, it’s always wise to compare quotes from other warranty providers to ensure the best value.

CarMax Extended Warranty Deductible

CarMax offers four deductible options: $50, $200, $400, and $600. Your vehicle’s make, model, age, and mileage will influence the final cost of your MaxCare plan. Because CarMax exclusively sells used cars, its extended warranty prices may be higher than providers covering both new and used vehicles

CarMax Extended Warranty Claims

CarMax does not publicly share details about its claims process. Before purchasing a MaxCare plan, it’s best to ask a CarMax representative how claims work, whether you’ll need to pay upfront at the repair shop, and how reimbursements are handled.

Is CarMax Extended Care Worth It?

CarMax MaxCare review is mixed. Some buyers love the protection, while others feel it’s unnecessary.  If a MaxCare extended warranty fits within your budget, it could be a wise investment. It covers essential parts and systems, helping you avoid costly repairs. Furthermore, many customers appreciate the financial relief it provides for significant fixes. If you’re purchasing a used car from CarMax, an extended warranty can offer extra peace of mind by protecting you from unexpected breakdown expenses. Consider these factors:

Pros

• Comprehensive coverage for major repairs
• Added benefits like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement
• Peace of mind for high-mileage or luxury vehicles

Cons

• Additional cost on top of the vehicle price
• There are some exclusions and fine print to watch out for
• You may never use it if your car remains trouble-free

Customer Reviews & BBB Rating

CarMax holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and many MaxCare customers report positive experiences with claims. However, some customers complain about slow processing times or insufficient repairs. CarMax uses customer information and feedback to improve its warranty services and customer support.

Bottom Line

CarMax MaxCare offers an easy and affordable way to extend coverage on used cars, but with only one plan, it may not suit everyone. It’s best if you compare quotes from other providers for better coverage or pricing flexibility. MaxCare is ideal for drivers seeking extra protection and nationwide repair access, but those with reliable cars or who prefer to handle repairs themselves may not need it.

If you face online access issues, clear your browser cache or contact customer support. Check out Sherpa Auto Transport for safe and reliable shipping!

CarMax Warranty FAQs