Extended car warranties generally fall into five key categories:

1. Bumper-to-Bumper Warranties: These offer the most extensive coverage, taking care of repairs for nearly all major mechanical systems in your vehicle. Any exceptions to this coverage are clearly outlined in the contract.

2. Powertrain Warranties: Focused on the essential components that keep your vehicle running, such as the engine and transmission. This is a solid choice for older vehicles or those with high mileage.

3. Drivetrain Warranties: Cover the parts responsible for moving your vehicle, like the transmission, driveshaft, axle shafts, and wheels. However, the engine itself isn’t included in this type of warranty.

4. Named Component Warranties: These plans cover only the specific parts listed in the contract. Unlike bumper-to-bumper warranties, which cover everything except what's excluded, named component warranties protect only the items explicitly mentioned.

5. Wrap Policies: Designed to complement a bumper-to-bumper warranty, wrap policies extend coverage to parts of your vehicle that may no longer be protected after the original policy expires.