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Extended Warranties

Do you need an additional warranty for a product you thought was reliable and durable? Find out about what you need to consider before purchasing an extended warranty.

What is an extended warranty?

Extended warranties are service contracts. That means the manufacturer or retailer is promising to repair and/or maintain the product for a certain period of time. This period of time lasts longer than the manufacturer's warranty that usually comes with the purchase. Extended warranties cost extra and are sold separately from the products they apply to.

Extended warranties can come from the manufacturer, the retailer, or a third-party that does business with the retailer. Retailers that do not repair in the store, generally sell extended warranties that are third-party policies. This means that even though you buy the warranty from the retailer, another company deals with your claims. This can be frustrating to the consumer because the retailer will not be able to help you while you make a claim.

Should you buy?

In order for you to make the best decision, here is a list of things you should consider before purchasing an extended warranty:

How long is the manufacturer's warranty?
How likely is the product to fail?
What would it cost you to repair/replace the item?
What is covered under the warranty?
Does the manufacturer offer an extended warranty?
Are you making the purchase with your credit card?

If you decide to purchase an extended warranty:
You should make sure that you ask the following questions before signing the contract:

An explanation of exactly what is covered? If you can, ask for something that is in writing.
Are both parts and labour covered under the warranty?
Is there a deductible? How much?
Where are the repairs done? If your product will need to be sent away for repair, you may be in for a long wait.
Will you be provided with a loaner while yours is being repaired? A loaner can be helpful for products that are used every day, such as a cell phone or laptop computer.
Who pays for the shipping if the product needs to be sent away for repair? If it is a large item, shipping costs can be very expensive.
What documents (receipt, warranty card, etc.) do you need to keep in the event that you will need to make a warranty claim?

Claiming your warranty

If you have already purchased a warranty and need to make a claim, make sure that the problem you have is covered, that you have a copy of your receipt, the extended warranty and the product. Bring these to the retailer and ask for repairs. If they refuse to help, you should contact the company that covers the extended warranty. If you are still left with no answer, you should contact your provincial consumer protection office or file a complaint using the Complaint Courier.