SS319

A recent question about Refurb equipment prompted me to wonder about extended warranties on cameras, printers and other items. I notice that the majority of warranties are from SquareTrade or Mack. Has anyone had experience using a non-manufacturer extended warranty, and was the overall experience positive or negative?

Note: I know that most of us don't believe in extended warranties, so that response is a given, I am looking for feedback on actual experience with using the service paid for.

Thank You.

MtnMan Loc: ID

I have read good things on both. That does not mean they make financial sense. They are a horrible deal when combined with a manufacturers warranty of 90 days or more. The reason is that most manufacturing defects show up within that time so the supplemental warranty doesn't cover them. And wear out failures occur beyond the extended warranty. So it is rare that they pay.

That said I just fell for one on a gray market lens I have on order. I have buyers remorse because I then realized eBay would take it back if it broke in the first 30 days. I'm going to try and return it.

tramsey Loc: Texas

I depends on what you are buying and who you are buying it for. For example; a couple of years ago I bought my grand daughter an expensive scientific calculator for Christmas. I bought the Square Trade warranty for three years. She had it for a little over two years and dropped it on the cement sidewalk and if that wasn't enough, a fella on bicycle drove over it. Square Trade replaced it, no questions, no charge. Last Christmas I bought my grand son (my grand daughter who broke the calculator's brother) a lap top. I also bought the Square Trade 3 year warranty. June 1st he spilled orange juice on it. He has all ready received the replacement, no questions, no charge. I don't buy them for myself on anything. I should be old enough and conscious enough to take care of my things. It depends on WHAT you are buying and WHO you are buying it for.

kb6kgx Loc: Simi Valley, CA

A high school buddy of mine is on Square Trade's board of directors.

gvarner Loc: Central Oregon Coast

For your camera gear, look into a personal property policy with your homeowner's insurer. Mine with State Farm is great - repair or replace, no deductible, no depreciation, relatively cheap if you're an amature. I'd have to check to see if it covers my printer but I don't think it does. It does cover flashes and filters along with cameras and lenses.

MtnMan Loc: ID

Squaretrade refunded the warranty no problem. So I need to test the lens when I get it and from then on it is a throwaway if it goes bad. This lens will not get a lot of use.

So far I've had no issues with Nikon lenses.

MtnMan Loc: ID

Most of those policies cover losses due to accident or theft...not equipment failure.

I suppose if one broke it could get stolen if left on a park bench or something...