An extended warranty is a service contract that provides additional coverage for a product beyond the manufacturer's warranty. It typically covers repairs or replacements for specific issues that may arise after the original warranty expires. Extended warranties are commonly offered for items like electronics, appliances, and vehicles. Consumers can purchase extended warranties at the time of buying a product or shortly after. These warranties can vary in terms of duration, cost, and coverage details. It's important for buyers to read the terms carefully to understand what is included and any limitations that may apply.