Are scratch and dent appliances returnable?
Updated May 2026 – reflects current scratch and dent appliance return policies and post-warranty repair concerns.
Sometimes. Whether a scratch and dent appliance is returnable depends on the retailer’s specific return policy, the type and extent of cosmetic damage, and the timing of your request. Most scratch and dent appliances are sold as-is with limited or no returns, especially if the discount is significant and the damage was disclosed at purchase. However, some retailers may allow returns for functional issues or if the product arrives with undisclosed damage beyond what was agreed upon. It’s important to carefully review the store’s return policy before purchasing and to document the appliance’s condition immediately upon delivery or pickup. For customers considering protection plans or repair support, CPS can help with eligible scratch and dent appliances, especially if you’re concerned about future mechanical or electrical failures after the manufacturer warranty expires.
Quick Summary: Scratch and Dent Appliance Returns
Here’s what you need to know about returning scratch and dent appliances:
- Return policies for scratch and dent appliances vary widely by retailer and purchase channel.
- Most scratch and dent appliances are sold as-is, with limited or no returns for cosmetic issues.
- Returns are more likely if the product has undisclosed damage or functional problems at delivery.
- Document the appliance’s condition immediately to support any return requests.
- Protection plans may still be available for eligible scratch and dent appliances to cover future mechanical failures.
|
Topic |
Quick Take |
|---|---|
|
Are scratch and dent appliances returnable? |
Sometimes, depending on the retailer’s policy and condition at delivery |
|
Typical return policy |
Usually sold as-is; returns often limited or excluded for cosmetic damage |
|
Returns for functional issues |
More likely if the appliance has undisclosed or functional problems |
|
Protection plan eligibility |
CPS supports many scratch and dent appliances for mechanical coverage |
|
Key tip |
Check the policy and document condition at purchase or delivery |
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What Should You Look For Before Buying a Scratch and Dent Appliance?
When considering a scratch and dent appliance, it’s important to review the return policy and understand what coverage options are available for future repairs. Customers often want to know what protection exists if the appliance develops mechanical or electrical issues after purchase.
- Carefully review the retailer’s return and exchange policy for scratch and dent sales
- Check what types of damages are disclosed and included in the sale agreement
- Confirm eligibility for extended protection or repair plans before purchase
- Make sure coverage includes mechanical and electrical failures, not just cosmetic issues
- Document the appliance’s condition with photos at delivery or pickup
What Experience Does CPS Have With Scratch and Dent Appliance Coverage?
With more than 75 million products covered, 50,000+ repair servicers, and over $450 million in claims paid annually, CPS has extensive experience supporting scratch and dent appliance owners with repair coordination, claims support, and post-warranty coverage.
- CPS has helped thousands of customers with scratch and dent appliance repairs and protection
- Based on historical claims data, mechanical and electrical failures can still occur regardless of cosmetic condition
- Repair professionals often see control board, compressor, and pump issues even in discounted appliances
- Many scratch and dent purchases become expensive to repair after the manufacturer warranty expires
- CPS coordinates authorized repair service for eligible appliances, including many scratch and dent products
What Appliance Repairs Are Most Common With Scratch and Dent Products?
Based on CPS’s historical claims data, scratch and dent appliances experience similar mechanical failures as new products, including compressor, control board, and internal component issues, often after the manufacturer warranty expires.
|
Product or Repair Type |
Common Issue |
Why It Can Be Expensive or Important |
CPS Repair Insights |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Refrigerator |
Compressor or sealed system failure |
High labor and replacement part costs |
CPS claims data shows refrigerator sealed-system failures are among the highest-cost appliance repairs, often appearing 4–8 years into ownership and shortly after manufacturer warranty expiration. Compressor, evaporator, and refrigerant-related repairs commonly range from $850–$1,900 through authorized claims, while comparable retail repairs can exceed $2,100 due to labor-intensive diagnostics and refrigerant handling requirements. Historical CPS repair data suggests roughly 30% of approved refrigerator claims involving sealed systems require multiple service visits because leak isolation, pressure testing, and compressor replacement frequently escalate invoice totals. Replacement approval activity increases when repair costs approach 50%–60% of replacement value. |
|
Washer |
Drain pump or control board failure |
Requires specialized parts and diagnostics |
Based on CPS claim trends, washer failures involving drain pumps, suspension systems, and electronic control boards commonly occur 3–6 years into ownership, particularly in high-cycle households. Claims involving these failures typically require diagnostic disassembly and electronic calibration, with approved repair invoices frequently ranging between $320–$780 depending on board availability and labor exposure. CPS claims activity indicates nearly 25% of control-board-related washer repairs involve follow-up visits due to intermittent fault codes, moisture intrusion, or wiring harness complications that develop during mid-life ownership periods. |
|
Dishwasher |
Water pump or electronic failure |
Internal repair complexity and service costs |
According to historical CPS repair records, dishwasher circulation pump and electronic control failures often emerge 4–7 years after purchase as heat exposure, detergent residue, and vibration accelerate internal wear. Approved CPS appliance claims for these repairs commonly fall between $380–$950, especially when motor assemblies, diverter systems, or leak diagnostics are involved. Service history from CPS claims indicates repair delays are common because built-in dishwashers require removal from cabinetry, increasing labor time and creating higher repeat-visit rates when hidden leak sources or electronic communication failures are present. |
|
Range or Oven |
Control panel or heating element failure |
Expensive electronic components |
CPS repair history shows oven control boards, igniter systems, relay boards, and heating elements frequently fail 5–8 years into ownership due to sustained thermal cycling and electrical fatigue. Based on CPS claims data from comparable repair events, approved repair totals commonly range from $420–$1,150 depending on whether electronic display assemblies or dual-component heating systems require replacement. Claims activity indicates smart ranges and convection models experience higher diagnostic complexity, with repeat service visits occurring in roughly 20% of electronic-control claims because intermittent heating behavior can be difficult to reproduce during initial inspections. |
|
Smart Appliance |
Connectivity or main board failure |
Advanced electronics, higher repair costs |
CPS claims data shows smart appliances experience many of the same mechanical failures as traditional models, but connectivity modules, firmware instability, and main-board communication issues substantially increase repair complexity. These failures commonly appear 2–5 years into ownership as software aging, voltage irregularities, and wireless communication errors accumulate. Historical CPS repair data suggests smart appliance repairs frequently range from $500–$1,400 due to proprietary electronics, paired component replacement requirements, and limited parts availability. Claims involving smart control failures also show elevated replacement consideration rates because repairs can approach 40%–55% of replacement cost once labor, diagnostics, and firmware-related service escalation are included. |
Why Do Customers Choose CPS Protection Plans?
Customers choose CPS for the flexibility to cover scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished appliances, as well as for support with post-warranty repairs and easy access to repair coordination.
- Coverage for eligible scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished appliances
- Repair coordination for mechanical and electrical failures after manufacturer warranty expiration
- Nationwide access to authorized service networks for major appliances and electronics
- Simple claims process and helpful support for troubleshooting and repair guidance
- Options for long-term protection and ownership peace of mind
Can CPS Help if My Appliance Is Already Out of Warranty?
If your scratch and dent appliance is out of warranty, CPS may still be able to help with repair referrals, troubleshooting guidance, and coverage options for certain eligible products, depending on age and condition.
- Factory-authorized repair referral assistance for eligible out-of-warranty appliances
- Troubleshooting support and repair coordination for mechanical or electrical failures
- Help locating replacement parts and qualified service providers
- Guidance on extended protection eligibility for certain products even after the original purchase, if requirements are met
|
Contact Method |
Details |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
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Phone |
(800) 905-0443 |
Speaking directly with a CPS representative |
|
Web Chat |
|
Quick support and troubleshooting guidance |
|
CPS Client Care Portal |
https://client.cpscentral.com/ |
Claims, account access, and service support |
|
Text Message |
Text (347) 621-7180 |
Quick customer support questions |
|
Facebook Messenger |
http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService |
General support and communication |
|
|
cs@cpscentral.com |
Detailed questions and documentation |
What Should You Know About Scratch and Dent Appliance Coverage?
Are scratch and dent appliances returnable if I change my mind?
Usually not. Most scratch and dent appliances are sold as-is, and returns for buyer’s remorse or cosmetic reasons are often excluded. Always check the store’s specific return policy before buying.
Can I return a scratch and dent appliance if it doesn’t work properly?
Sometimes. If the appliance has undisclosed functional issues at delivery or pickup, many retailers may allow a return or exchange. Document any problems as soon as possible and contact the seller right away.
Do scratch and dent appliances come with a manufacturer warranty?
It depends. Some scratch and dent appliances still include a limited manufacturer warranty, while others may not. Always verify warranty status before completing your purchase.
Are scratch and dent appliances eligible for extended protection plans?
Many are eligible. CPS and some other providers offer extended protection for scratch and dent appliances, focusing on mechanical and electrical failures—not cosmetic damage.
What should I do if my scratch and dent appliance arrives with more damage than expected?
Take photos immediately and contact the retailer to report the issue. If the damage was not disclosed, you may be eligible for an exchange or return, depending on the store’s policy.
What repairs are most common in scratch and dent appliances?
According to CPS claims data, common repairs include compressor failures in refrigerators, control board issues in washers and ovens, and pump problems in dishwashers—similar to new appliances.
Does accidental damage coverage apply to scratch and dent appliances?
No. Appliance protection plans, including for scratch and dent models, generally do not cover accidental or cosmetic damage. Coverage focuses on mechanical and electrical failures.
Can I get help with repairs after the manufacturer warranty expires?
Yes. CPS can assist with repair referrals, troubleshooting, and in some cases, extended protection for eligible out-of-warranty scratch and dent appliances.
How should I document my appliance’s condition at delivery?
Take clear photos of all sides and any damage before using the appliance. Keep purchase documentation and note any discrepancies from what was disclosed at sale.
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Looking for Warranty Coverage Options?
If you want to explore coverage for your scratch and dent appliance or need help with repair options, CPS is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
For many customers, scratch and dent appliances offer great value but can still face expensive repairs as they age—especially once the original warranty expires. Reviewing both the return policy and protection options before purchase helps avoid surprises if you encounter functional or mechanical problems later. If you’re planning long-term ownership or want extra peace of mind, checking eligibility for a protection plan or repair support can make sense for many scratch and dent appliances.
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