Finding a reputable company that will provide you with a good extended auto warranty is a bit of a challenge. And unfortunately, it’s easier to find bad examples than good ones. However, there are a few things you can look out for that will guide you to the exact policy you need.

First off, did the provider contact you or did you contact them? The most problematic companies in this industry are ones tied up with telemarketing and mail scams. Failure to abide by the federal “do not call” list and misleading mailing are at the heart of the many class action suits currently plaguing the less-than-sound members of this industry.

Also, think about how they’re treating you. Do you feel pressured to make a decision right away, especially if you’re being told that the coverage “won’t last?” This is the mark of a company that’s more interested in selling than in supporting. And, as with any insurance policy, you’re buying support. Being too pushy on the front end can mean that there will be problems on the back end.

Next, ask if the people you’re talking to are brokers or administrators. This is an important distinction. A broker will sell you a policy and then walk away; leaving you to deal with people you’ve never seen and know nothing about. Instead, you want an administrator who will actually oversee the policy they’re trying to sell you. You want the same relationship you’re used to with a traditional insurance agent – and you won’t get that from a broker.

In addition, be very wary if they won’t give you details about the coverage before you buy. If they speak exhaustively about need or bad outcomes, but little about what they’ll actually do in the event of a claim, ask even more questions. If they won’t answer, know that you aren’t dealing with a reputable company.

Instead, request a copy of the terms of the warranty to be sent to you before you sign on the dotted line. Any reputable underwriter will be glad to send you the exact terms of the policy for you to review. If they refuse to do this, end the conversation immediately. You want nothing to do with anyone who won’t be up front with you.

Whether they explain everything to you or they send you a policy to review, check the language – especially the claims procedures. Are they simple and easy to understand? They should be. Another way that unscrupulous companies try to defraud consumers is with claims procedures that are so difficult to complete that you’ll eventually give up out of frustration.

Things like deductibles, out of pocket expenses, what types of replacement parts are covered (whether they’re new or used) and who you can use as a mechanic should be clear and understandable in the policy’s terms. Take the time to learn and understand all of the policies so that you aren’t surprised down the line.

Finally, check out any company on the internet or with the Better Business Bureau. The companies with a bad track record are being investigated very openly and will be easy to discover. This simple check could save you thousands of dollars on a fraudulent auto warranty.