Extended warranty: worthwhile or wasted money?
When buying electrical devices, a paid 'extended warranty' is readily offered. Before you agree, a second look is worthwhile: part of the protection you already have anyway, free of charge and by law.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Clarify the question →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
- 1
1. Know the statutory guarantee
You have two years of statutory guarantee vis-a-vis the seller anyway.
- 2
2. Check the added value
Does the extended warranty offer real additional benefit (wear and tear, longer duration)?
- 3
3. Read the terms
Watch for exclusions, deductible and conditions in the warranty contract.
- 4
4. Decide consciously
When in doubt, do without the expensive extension; the statutory guarantee covers initial defects anyway.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an extended warranty?
Often not. Independently of a warranty, you have two years of statutory guarantee vis-a-vis the seller for defects that already existed at the time of purchase. A paid extended warranty is only worthwhile if it goes beyond that, for example covers wear and tear or applies beyond the two years. Check the terms before you pay for it.
What is the difference between a warranty and the statutory guarantee?
The statutory guarantee is a statutory right vis-a-vis the seller (as a rule two years) and applies to defects that were already present at the time of purchase. The warranty, by contrast, is a voluntary undertaking by the manufacturer or dealer with a self-determined scope. The two exist alongside each other; the statutory guarantee cannot be excluded by a warranty.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.