Most CarShield buyers have never heard of American Auto Shield until they file a claim. Here is what you need to know before purchasing.
Get My Free Quotes →American Auto Shield (AAS) is the company that actually processes and pays CarShield claims -- but most CarShield customers have never heard of them until they try to file a claim. This guide explains what AAS does, why it matters, and what to know before buying any CarShield plan.
American Auto Shield (AAS) is a vehicle service contract administrator headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado. It is the primary administrator for CarShield contracts -- meaning it underwrites the coverage and processes all claims on CarShield's behalf. When you buy a CarShield plan, you sign two documents: a CarShield enrollment agreement and an American Auto Shield service contract. The American Auto Shield contract is the binding legal document that governs your coverage.
American Auto Shield authorizes labor at a set hourly rate. If your repair shop charges more than AAS's approved rate -- which is common at dealerships and many independent shops -- you pay the difference on top of your deductible.
American Auto Shield has its own BBB listing and holds an A+ rating. However, many complaints filed against CarShield with the BBB originate from AAS claims disputes -- the two companies' reputations are closely intertwined because of the CarShield relationship.
Common AAS-related complaints: claim denials citing pre-existing conditions argued retroactively, labor rate disputes, and difficulty reaching AAS directly when CarShield handles initial contact.
American Auto Shield is a legitimate claims administrator. The issue is the broker layer CarShield adds. When disputes arise, CarShield and AAS can each defer to the other, creating friction and delays. Direct administrators like Endurance and Complete Auto Protect handle the entire process internally -- one company, full accountability, no passing the buck between entities.
See providers that handle their own claims with no third-party administrator between you and your coverage. Free, 30 seconds.
Compare My Options →American Auto Shield is the third-party administrator that processes and pays CarShield claims. They make the approval or denial decision -- not CarShield.
Yes. It holds an A+ BBB rating and is a legitimate company. The concerns relate to the CarShield broker structure creating friction, not to AAS being fraudulent.
Direct contact information is in your CarShield contract documents. Always request direct AAS contact information before purchasing any CarShield plan.
AAS is the primary administrator for most CarShield contracts. Your specific contract documents will identify which administrator backs your plan.