Does Ford Protect cover labor?

Yes. Ford Protect generally covers labor costs for repairs on covered components when the work is performed by Ford dealers or approved service providers, subject to your plan’s terms, any deductible options, and network requirements.

Ford Protect is Ford Motor Company's line of extended service plans designed to cover repairs beyond the factory warranty. Coverage—and specifically labor reimbursement—varies by plan tier, regional rules, and the specifics of each contract. The following sections explain how labor coverage typically works, how different plan types handle labor, and how to verify and claim labor reimbursement for your vehicle.

How labor coverage works under Ford Protect

The following points summarize how labor is reimbursed for covered repairs under Ford Protect.

• Labor is typically included for repairs on covered components when performed at Ford dealerships or other approved facilities.


• The reimbursement is usually based on Ford's standard hourly labor rate or a negotiated rate; some plans cap labor reimbursement per repair or per service visit.


• Many plans offer little to no deductible, while some options include a deductible per occurrence or per contract term.


• To qualify, the diagnosis and repair must fall under the contract’s covered items; some repairs may require pre-authorization depending on the plan.

In practice, labor coverage is a core part of most Ford Protect contracts, but the exact scope depends on your specific plan and where the service is performed.

Plan-level differences

Understanding labor requires looking at the two main plan categories Ford Protect uses: Exclusionary plans and Named-component (listed) plans. Each category handles labor differently.

Exclusionary plans

Labor coverage under exclusionary plans tends to be broad, often including most major components with a straightforward labor reimbursement approach. The following points apply to this plan type:

• Labor is typically covered for repairs on all covered components; parts and labor are usually included for a wide range of failures.


• A single deductible may apply per repair or per service period, depending on the contract.


• Repairs generally must be performed at an authorized Ford dealer or approved shop.

Exclusionary plans aim to minimize exclusions, but travelers should review the contract to confirm which systems are covered and what labor limits apply.

Named-component plans

Named-component (listed) plans cover labor only for specific components that are enumerated in the contract. The labor coverage is more restricted but can be tailored to individual needs.

• Labor is included only for listed components and their defined failures; repairs outside the listed scope aren’t covered for labor.


• Labor reimbursement rates and any deductibles apply per the terms of the listed components plan.


• Work performed by an authorized dealer or shop is typically required for labor to be reimbursed.

When choosing a named-component plan, customers should pay close attention to which parts are covered and the corresponding labor provisions to avoid gaps in coverage.

How to confirm coverage and file a claim

Before you file a claim, verify that the repair is within your Ford Protect plan’s labor coverage and follow the proper claim procedure. The typical workflow is as follows:

• Review your Ford Protect contract or dealer disclosures to confirm whether labor is included for your plan and what the applicable labor rate or deductible is.


• Have the vehicle diagnosed by a Ford dealer or authorized repair facility to determine if the issue qualifies as a covered failure.


• Submit the claim through the dealer or Ford Protect administrator, including diagnosis details, repair codes, and supporting documentation.


• Ensure the service is performed by an authorized facility and that the proper labor codes match the contract’s reimbursement guidelines.

Processing times and documentation requirements can vary by plan and region, so contact your dealer or Ford Protect administrator if you have questions about labor reimbursement.

Limitations and caveats

Even when a repair seems to fit a plan’s scope, several limitations can affect labor reimbursement. Key caveats include:

• Routine maintenance and wear items are generally not covered, so labor for those items is typically excluded.


• Pre-existing conditions, improper maintenance, or aftermarket modifications may void coverage for labor on affected components.


• Network restrictions and regional differences can influence where you can obtain service and which labor rates apply.

Always read the full terms of your specific Ford Protect contract and confirm details with your dealer to understand the precise labor coverage for your vehicle and location.

Summary

Ford Protect commonly includes labor coverage for repairs on covered components when performed at Ford-authorized facilities, but the exact details depend on your plan type, deductible options, and network rules. To ensure you have the correct expectations, review your contract and speak with your dealer about how labor will be reimbursed for your specific situation.

Does the Ford warranty cover labour?

All repairs undertaken at a Ford Dealership or authorised repairer include both parts and labour.

What does the Ford Protect warranty cover?

Ford Protect is a collection of extended service plans that offer various coverage options, including extended mechanical repair coverage, routine maintenance, and cosmetic protection, along with benefits like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement. The specific inclusions vary by plan, such as PremiumCARE for major components and Premium Maintenance for wear-and-tear items, while some plans like the Ultimate plan are the most comprehensive.
 
Coverage examples by plan type
Extended Service Plans (e.g., PremiumCARE) 

• Major components: Covers parts and labor for thousands of key components, including the engine, transmission, steering, brakes, and electrical systems. 
• Specifics: The PremiumCARE plan provides coverage for up to 10 years or 175,000 miles (whichever comes first). 
• Other details:
  • Includes coverage for failures due to defects and normal wear and tear. 
  • May include a $0 deductible option. 
  • Offers emergency roadside assistance, towing, and rental car reimbursement. 

Maintenance Plans (e.g., Premium Maintenance) 

• Routine maintenance: Covers scheduled maintenance services like oil changes and multi-point inspections. 
• Wear-and-tear items: Replaces normal wear items such as brake pads, linings, shock absorbers/struts, spark plugs, and wiper blades. 
• EVs: Includes specific coverage for electric vehicles, such as cabin air filters. 

Specialized and Cosmetic Protection 

• Diesel EngineCARE: Offers major diesel engine component protection. 
• TireCARE Plus: Covers damage to tires and wheels from road hazards like nails, glass, and potholes. 
• Surface Care: Provides protection for cosmetic issues such as paint fading, hard-water etching, and interior stains. 

Key benefits across plans

• Repairs: Covers parts and labor for covered repairs. 
• Service: Services are performed by Ford technicians using genuine Ford parts. 
• Transferability: Plans can be transferred to a new owner, which may increase the vehicle's resale value. 
• Acceptance: Accepted at over 5,000 Ford dealerships. 

What does the Ford warranty not cover?

Aftermarket parts or components, sometimes installed by Ford Motor Company or an authorized Ford dealership, may not be covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Any damage caused to Ford components due to the failure of aftermarket parts (other than a certified emissions part) is not covered.

Does the Ford warranty cover labor cost?

Defective components replaced under the bumper-to-bumper warranty are eligible for labor reimbursement through Ford Motor Company.