Aftermarket Coverage Value vs. Factory Coverage Cost
Insights from Gregg Shields of RV Haulers
When it comes to protecting heavy-duty trucks used to tow large recreational fifth-wheel trailers, cost and coverage depth matter. In a recent interview, Gregg Shields of RV Haulers shared why many of their customers are advised to purchase trucks outside of factory coverage—and why aftermarket coverage often delivers more practical value.
The High Cost of Factory Coverage at High Mileage
According to Gregg Shields, extending commercial manufacturer coverage into the 500,000-mile range can be prohibitively expensive. Factory extensions at that level are often priced far beyond what makes sense for customers who don’t put extremely high annual mileage on their trucks.
For many RV Haulers clients, paying a premium for extended factory coverage simply doesn’t align with how they actually use their vehicles.
Coverage Limitations of Manufacturer Extensions
Another major concern is what factory coverage does not include. Gregg explained that manufacturer extensions frequently exclude or limit protection on some of the most critical and expensive components, including the turbo, engine, aftertreatment system, driveline, and transmission.
These exclusions leave owners exposed to costly repairs—precisely the risk many believe they are protecting against by purchasing an extension in the first place.
Total360™ coverage is designed to address these gaps by offering broader protection across the components that matter most in real-world operation.
Turning Depreciation Into a Financial Advantage
Gregg also highlighted the financial upside of buying a used truck outside of factory coverage. Due to depreciation, customers can often save tens of thousands of dollars upfront by purchasing used rather than new.
A portion of those savings can then be invested in Total360™ coverage, allowing customers to secure multiple years of protection while still retaining significant cost savings. For RV Haulers clients who typically drive 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year, this approach can feel like years of “free fuel” compared to the cost of factory extensions.
A Practical Ownership Strategy
For many truck owners, aftermarket coverage isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about making informed financial decisions. By avoiding expensive factory extensions, leveraging depreciation, and choosing broader component protection, customers gain flexibility, control, and long-term value.
Total360™ supports this ownership strategy by focusing on coverage that matches how trucks are actually used.
