Most service contracts run for a fixed term and then offer or require a renewal. The renewal terms can differ from the original terms. This guide does not print any figure. It gives you the list of items to find in your own paper and the questions to put to the seller before you sign.
Items to find on the paper.
The renewal clause, which says whether the contract renews on its own, requires a new signature, or ends at the close of the term.
The notice period, which says how far before the term ends the seller must tell you about a change in terms or in cost.
The rate reset language, which says whether the cost may change at renewal and on what basis. Look for words such as current rate, then-current rate, or the rate in effect at renewal.
Any age, mileage, or usage limit that changes the cost at a later point in the term. Find where the contract says the limit applies.
Any loyalty, no-increase, or continuation statement. A statement that the cost will stay the same is a written term, so ask for it in the contract, not in a sales call.
The cancellation terms that apply after renewal. Some contracts treat a renewed term as a new contract with its own cancellation period.
Questions to ask the seller.
Will you send the renewal notice in writing, and to which address?
Which rule decides the new cost, and can you show me where it is written?
If I do not accept the renewal, what happens to any open claim?
Does the renewal start a new waiting period for covered parts?
How do I cancel a renewed term, and does the refund method change?
What to compare. Put the original paper and the renewal paper side by side. Compare the cost lines, the notice rules, and the cancellation rules line by line. Use the published figures on this site's state pages to see what the state requires the seller to show, and treat any figure a seller gives you as something to check against the contract.