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Digital camera extended warranty
What is an extended warranty?
Extended warranties continue the protection offered by the manufacturer's original warranty for one or more years. Warranty prices vary according to what you paid for a camera, length of the plan and type of coverage and deductible.
Digital camera extended warranties are sold by independent repair shops, camera dealers and sometimes the manufacturer. The warranty typically must be bought at the time of camera purchase or within a given time frame, usually 30 days, after the purchase date.
Proof of camera and warranty purchases are required to get service, so save sales slips and the warranty contract.
What extended warranties do and do not cover
Warranties generally cover parts and labor costs resulting from a mechanical or electrical failure of the camera caused by defects in workmanship and/or materials. Some parts however, such as the lens and LCD, may be excluded. Extended warranties generally do not cover damage due to accident, loss, misuse, tampering or improper care. [Coverage options]
Costs of extended warranties
Prices of extended warranties vary according to length of the warranty, the original price of the camera and type of coverage. For example, a three year warranty of an inexpensive digital camera can cost about $25 U.S. For a professional digital single lens reflex camera, a three year extended warranty can cost $250 and more.
If a warranty has a deductible, make sure you can live with it.
Obtaining service under an extended warranty
To obtain service, you bring or mail the camera to an authorized location. If repair is made in a foreign country, you may have to pay for the repair and later submit the bill to the warranty company for reimbursement.
Renewals and transfers
Most warranties can be renewed or transferred to a new owner, though there may be a transfer fee.
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