GuardTree and the CAA both offer roadside assistance benefits, but there are several key differences in what you get from each of these providers.
GuardTree is an extended car warranty that also provides roadside benefits at no extra cost, whereas the CAA offers roadside assistance, trip insurance, and other member benefits.
In this guide, we’ll explain the differences between GuardTree and the CAA to help you make the choice that’s best for you.
Table of contents:
- What is roadside assistance?
- What is CAA?
- How much does CAA membership cost?
- What does a CAA membership include?
- Can you cancel a CAA membership?
- What is GuardTree?
- How much does GuardTree cost?
- What does a GuardTree subscription include?
- Can you cancel a GuardTree extended warranty?
- Does a GuardTree extended warranty include other benefits?
What is roadside assistance?
Roadside assistance is optional add-on coverage for drivers. Generally speaking, “roadside assistance” refers to a list of services that you can call upon when your car is having trouble or broken down. A roadside assistance provider can help to resolve your vehicle’s issues with towing services, emergency fuel and replacement battery delivery, a jump start, locksmithing, and more.
What is CAA?
The CAA or “Canadian Automobile Association” is one of Canada’s largest automobile associations with over 2 million Members in South Central Ontario alone. As a membership-based organization, the CAA provides roadside assistance services, travel services, and insurance (auto, property, life, health, and dental).
How much does CAA membership cost?
CAA membership costs vary depending on your location. The following pricing is based on CAA South Central Ontario membership costs.
- BASIC membership: $75 per year
- PLUS membership: $119 per year
- PREMIER membership: $149 per year
You’ll need to compare CAA membership plans and benefits and choose the plan that best suits your needs and budget.
What does CAA membership include?
Some of the main benefits of a CAA membership are:
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Four service calls per year
- Towing service (towing distance of 10 km per call)
- Mobile battery service
- Lockout/Locksmith service
- Extrication service
- Mechanical first aid
- Flat tire service
- Emergency fuel and delivery
- Lockout services
Can a CAA be cancelled?
Yes, you can cancel a CAA membership at any time, but refunds (less cost of services used) are only issued if you cancel within the first 30 days.
Read more: CAA North & East Ontario Membership Terms & Conditions
What is GuardTree?
GuardTree is an extended used car warranty that protects your vehicle from expensive costs for breakdowns and most mechanical, electrical, and software related repairs.
GuardTree warranty also includes car rental, roadside assistance, and trip interruption benefits at no extra cost.
Read more: What is an extended car warranty?
How much does a GuardTree subscription cost?
GuardTree offers 4 unique monthly pricing plans to choose from:
- $49.95/month - Deductible: $250, Limit per Repair: $2500
- $59.95/month - Deductible: $250, Limit per Repair: $5000
- $69.96/month - Deductible: $100, Limit per Repair: $2500
- $79.95/month - Deductible: $100, Limit per Repair: $5000
You can see what’s covered and use GuardTree’s price calculator to decide which plan best suits your needs and budget.
What does a GuardTree subscription include?
A GuardTree used car warranty includes protection from most major electrical and mechanical repairs. includes additional benefits like roadside assistance, car rental, and trip interruption costs.
See what’s covered and decide if an extended warranty is right for you.
Does a GuardTree subscription include roadside assistance?
Yes, a GuardTree extended warranty also includes roadside assistance. In the event that you need roadside assistance, GuardTree will cover:
- An unlimited number of roadside calls
- Towing (capped at $175 per event)
- Extrication/Winching (Up to $175 per event)
- 1x emergency fuel delivery claim per year (fuel costs are extra)
- Locksmith (up to $175 per event)
- Spare tire installation if you get a flat tire
- Jump start if your battery conks out
Contact details for GuardTree’s roadside assistance provider can be located under the roadside assistance heading in your warranty's terms and conditions.
Can you cancel a GuardTree subscription?
Yes, you can cancel a GuardTree subscription at any time. Because GuardTree extended warranties are subscription-based with no cancellation fees, you can pause, upgrade, downgrade, or cancel your plan at any time.
Read more: GuardTree Cancellation Policy
What’s the difference between GuardTree and CAA?
The CAA specializes in roadside assistance and other member benefits, whereas GuardTree is an extended used car warranty that also provides roadside assistance at no additional cost.
Do you need both GuardTree and CAA?
No, you don’t need CAA and GuardTree, as both are optional for drivers. However, GuardTree helps protect you from repair and breakdown costs and includes some roadside benefits within your monthly cost. And CAA membership offers a different set of benefits that focus more on roadside assistance.
GuardTree is a good option for drivers that need an extended used car warranty and roadside assistance benefits, whereas the CAA is ideal for drivers who want roadside assistance coverage but don’t need an extended warranty for their vehicle.
You’ll need to consider your own personal situation before deciding if either (or both) of these providers is right for you.
Get more for your money. Get GuardTree.
Extended auto warranties aren’t right for every driver. But many car owners are glad they purchased one—especially those who’ve been through unexpected, expensive breakdowns.
If you’re looking for an extended car warranty in Canada, GuardTree is a comprehensive, monthly extended warranty subscription that you can cancel at any time.
Pricing starts at $49.95 per month. You’re never locked into a long-term contract. And in addition to protection from most major electrical and mechanical repairs, our subscriptions include additional benefits like roadside assistance, car rental, and trip interruption costs.
See what’s covered and use our price calculator to decide if an extended car warranty is right for you.
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Disclaimer: This post is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute mechanical or other professional advice as it relates to your vehicle. Each person must consult a qualified professional with respect to matters referenced in this post. GuardTree Inc. assumes no liability whatsoever for actions taken (or not taken) in reliance upon the information contained herein.
