For Consumers

Extended warranties & service contracts

When you buy a car, appliance or other product, the retailer may offer to sell you an extended warranty, service contract, or maintenance agreement. Before you say, "Yes," here are some tips to consider:

Review the contract and what it covers

  • Read the contract to make sure you're getting what you think you are buying.
  • Are you duplicating coverage you get for free with a product's regular manufacturer's warranty?
  • When does the coverage take effect? How long does it last?
  • What is covered? What's excluded? For example, even "bumper-to-bumper" auto coverage almost always includes limitations and exclusions.
  • If you buy the contract, be sure to get — and keep — your receipt and a copy of the contract.

Service contract prices are negotiable

Don't be afraid to ask for a better price. The majority of the sales price for many extended warranties and service contracts is the seller's profit. 

Your rights if you want your money back on an auto service contract

Under state law, if you buy an auto service contract and make no claims, you can get a refund if you return it to the contract seller as follows: 

How refunds and cancellation fees work for auto service contracts

Time from the date of purchase

Refund

Cancellation fee

Within 9 calendar days

Full refund

No cancellation fee

Within 10-30 calendar days

Full refund

Contract seller can charge you a cancellation fee of no more than $25

After 30 calendar days 

Refund is prorated against time remaining in the service contract or mileage calculated — depending on your contract's details.

Contract seller can charge you a cancellation fee of no more than $25

Check out the company

Make sure it's registered to do business in Washington state (fortress.wa.gov).