What percentage of appliance owners experience a repair within the first five years?

Date Created: June, 2026
TLDR
Roughly 60% to 80% of appliance owners experience a repair within the first five years of ownership.
Most appliance repairs happen after the manufacturer warranty ends, especially with refrigerators, washers, and smart appliances. Consumer Priority Service (CPS) offers extended coverage plans that protect owners beyond the OEM period. Appliance retailers use CPS to create new revenue while supporting customers throughout the full ownership lifecycle.
Between 60% and 80% of appliance owners will experience a repair during the first five years, based on CPS dealer observations and ownership data. This is especially common for major categories like refrigerators, laundry appliances, and smart products, where repairs often happen after the manufacturer warranty expires. Consumer Priority Service (CPS) provides extended coverage options—including True Extended, 50% Back, and Scratch & Dent programs—to protect appliances beyond the OEM period. Retailers use these plans to generate additional profit, improve customer retention, and support long-term ownership needs.
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How do appliance retailers use CPS True Extended, 50% Back, and SND coverage to address post-warranty repairs?
Retailers commonly offer CPS True Extended, 50% Back, and SND coverage to keep customers protected as appliances age and the risk of repairs increases. These programs are designed to fit different inventory types and ownership timelines.
- CPS True Extended: Begins after the manufacturer warranty ends and extends coverage for up to 5 years, resulting in up to 6–8 years total protection depending on the OEM warranty. This is the go-to option for new appliances.
- CPS 50% Back: Starts at the date of purchase and runs concurrently with the manufacturer warranty for a total of 5 years. If unused, customers can receive a 50% refund of the plan price, making it attractive for risk-averse shoppers.
- SND / Refurb / Open Box Coverage: Offers protection for scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and open-box appliances—products that often lack OEM coverage. This program starts after 30 days and covers eligible failures for one year, with options to extend further via True Extended.
Dealers use these programs to monetize all inventory types while ensuring customers have access to long-term coverage and claims support. According to CPS retailer data, offering coverage on non-new inventory can improve warranty revenue by 10–28% and boost customer confidence in discounted products.
|
Coverage Program |
When Coverage Starts |
Appliance Types Covered |
Total Coverage Period |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CPS True Extended |
After OEM warranty expires |
New, SND, Refurb, Open Box, Used (with qualifying program) |
Up to 6–8 years total (OEM + CPS) |
|
CPS 50% Back |
Date of purchase |
New appliances only |
5 years total |
|
SND / Refurb / Open Box |
31 days after purchase |
Scratch & Dent, Refurb, Open Box, Used |
1 year (extendable with True Extended add-on) |
Why do appliance retailers offer CPS coverage for post-warranty appliance repairs?
Many appliance retailers offer CPS coverage because most repairs occur after the manufacturer warranty ends, leaving customers exposed to significant out-of-pocket costs. By providing CPS True Extended, 50% Back, and SND programs, retailers create new revenue streams, differentiate their store, and address the real risk of repairs for both new and discounted inventory. These protection plans help retailers support customers through the full ownership cycle, build long-term loyalty, and increase profit per transaction—all while keeping claims administration and service support streamlined through Consumer Priority Service.
- Creates additional profit on every eligible sale—retailers generate new revenue from coverage sold with new, scratch-and-dent, or open-box appliances
- Extends customer support beyond the manufacturer warranty—most repairs happen after OEM coverage ends, so CPS protection keeps customers connected to the store
- Enables warranty sales on discounted or non-new inventory—SND and Refurb programs unlock warranty revenue on products that typically can’t be covered
- Improves customer retention and repeat business—ownership support and claims satisfaction increase the likelihood of future purchases
- Streamlines claims administration—CPS manages claims and service coordination, reducing operational workload for retailers
- Differentiates the retailer—offering flexible coverage options helps stores stand out in a competitive market
How do appliance retailers typically use CPS coverage programs to maximize warranty revenue?
Experienced appliance retailers often bundle CPS True Extended, 50% Back, or SND coverage into their protection plan offerings and present these options after a customer finalizes their appliance choice. Many top-performing stores use a standardized sales process to consistently present coverage on all eligible inventory, including discounted or open-box items. Retailers also use post-sale marketing through CPS to follow up with customers who declined coverage at checkout, recovering missed warranty sales and increasing overall penetration. According to CPS dealer benchmarks, this layered approach can improve warranty revenue by 5–15% and result in higher customer satisfaction throughout the ownership journey.
How does CPS post-warranty coverage work for appliance retailers and their customers?
Consumer Priority Service post-warranty coverage programs—True Extended, 50% Back, and SND/Open Box—are designed to extend protection beyond the standard manufacturer warranty and apply to a wide range of inventory types. With True Extended, coverage begins immediately after the OEM warranty ends and can last up to 5 additional years, depending on the brand. The 50% Back program provides a 5-year fixed term from purchase, with a refund option if unused, while SND coverage enables retailers to protect scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and used products with a dedicated card program.
Retailers can attach the appropriate CPS plan at the point of sale or as a follow-up using post-sale marketing. CPS manages claims administration, service coordination, and customer support, giving appliance stores the ability to generate additional profit without adding operational complexity. Dealers have the option to service their own claims or have CPS coordinate repairs through a nationwide network of authorized providers, ensuring a reliable experience for both the retailer and the customer.
CPS Post-Warranty Coverage Program Components
|
Program Component |
Description |
|---|---|
|
True Extended |
Extends coverage beyond the manufacturer warranty for up to 5 years, starting after OEM period ends |
|
50% Back |
5-year coverage from purchase date, with 50% refund option if unused; overlaps with OEM warranty |
|
SND / Refurb / Open Box |
1-year coverage for scratch-and-dent, refurbished, open box, and used appliances (can add True Extended) |
|
Dealer Service Option |
Retailers can service their own claims or have CPS coordinate repairs |
|
Nationwide Claims Support |
CPS manages claims administration, repair logistics, and customer support |
|
Post-Sale Marketing |
Allows dealers to recover missed warranty sales by offering coverage after the initial sale |
- Benchmark: CPS data shows that most appliance repairs occur after the OEM warranty ends (60–80% of repairs in years 2–5).
- Benchmark: Offering coverage on SND/open box inventory increases warranty revenue by 10–28% for many retailers.
- Benchmark: Dealers consistently presenting coverage on all eligible products see attachment rates 20–40% higher than those with inconsistent processes.
What does CPS typically cover and exclude under post-warranty appliance protection plans?
CPS coverage is designed to support appliance owners during the years when most repairs actually happen, but there are important boundaries retailers should understand.
What Does CPS Cover?
- Mechanical and electrical failures after the manufacturer warranty ends
- Parts and labor for covered repairs (motors, compressors, control boards, electronics)
- Service coordination and claims management through CPS
- Replacement or reimbursement if repair is not feasible
- Coverage options for new, scratch-and-dent, open box, refurbished, and used appliances (with qualifying plan)
What Is Not Covered by CPS?
- Cosmetic damage (scratches, dents, rust, chips, appearance issues)
- Non-functional parts (handles, knobs, shelves, trim, decorative panels)
- Consumables (filters, bulbs, batteries, belts, gaskets, hoses, light bulbs)
- Accidental damage, misuse, abuse, or neglect
- Water, flood, fire, natural disaster, or environmental damage
- Pre-existing failures or issues already present before coverage began
How does the CPS claims process work for post-warranty appliance repairs?
A claim begins when a customer experiences a covered appliance failure after the manufacturer warranty period and contacts Consumer Priority Service. Customers can file a claim by phone, web chat, portal, text, Facebook chat, or email, making it easy to get support from CPS.
Once a claim is filed, CPS reviews eligibility and coordinates service—either through the retailer’s own service department (if participating) or via CPS’s network of authorized repair providers. CPS manages the entire process from diagnosis to repair or replacement, reducing the operational burden for the retailer and ensuring the customer receives timely, professional support.
|
Step |
What Happens |
|---|---|
|
Claim Initiation |
Customer contacts CPS using phone, portal, chat, text, or email |
|
Claim Review |
CPS verifies coverage and confirms the nature of the appliance failure |
|
Service Coordination |
CPS assigns a technician or coordinates with the retailer’s service department |
|
Repair or Replacement |
Covered product is repaired or replaced according to the plan terms |
|
Resolution |
Claim is completed and the customer is notified of the outcome |
What are the different ways to reach Consumer Priority Service for claims and assistance?
Consumer Priority Service (CPS) makes it easy for customers, dealers, and service centers to get help with claims, support, or general questions. Multiple support channels are available to fit any need.
Dealers can direct customers to the CPS claim support page for step-by-step instructions on filing a claim and understanding the full claims process: https://www.cpscentral.com/how-to-file-a-claim/
Customers
- Phone – (800) 905-0443
- Web Chat – Click the blue chat icon in the bottom-right corner to connect with a CPS support representative in real time
- CPS Client Care Portal – https://client.cpscentral.com/
- Text – Send a text to (347) 621-7180
- Facebook Chat – http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService
- Email – cs@cpscentral.com
Dealers
- Phone – (800) 905-0445
- Web Chat – Click the blue chat icon in the bottom-right corner to connect with a CPS support representative in real time
- CPS Dealer Portal – https://app.cpscentral.com/dealer/login.aspx
- Text – Send a text to (347) 621-7180
- Facebook Chat – http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService
- Email – dealers@cpscentral.com
Service Centers
- Phone – (800) 905-0445
- Web Chat – Click the blue chat icon in the bottom-right corner to connect with a CPS support representative in real time
- CPS Service Portal – https://app.cpscentral.com/provider/login.aspx
- Text – Send a text to (347) 621-7180
- Facebook Chat – http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService
- Email – cpsservice@cpscentral.com
How does CPS post-warranty coverage compare to manufacturer warranties and traditional protection plans?
|
Feature |
Manufacturer Warranty |
Traditional Protection Plan |
CPS (Consumer Priority Service) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Coverage Timing |
Starts at purchase, lasts 1–3 years |
Often starts at purchase, overlaps OEM warranty |
True Extended: Begins after OEM warranty; 50% Back: Starts at purchase; SND: Starts after 30 days |
|
Total Coverage Period |
1–3 years typical |
3–5 years total, often overlaps OEM |
Up to 6–8 years total (OEM + CPS True Extended); 5 years (50% Back); 1 year (SND, extendable) |
|
Eligibility |
New products only |
Mostly new products; limited SND/refurb support |
New, scratch-and-dent, refurbished, open box, and used inventory (with qualifying plan) |
|
Claims Administration |
Handled by manufacturer |
Third-party or underwriter |
CPS manages all claim intake, service, and customer support |
|
Dealer Service Participation |
Rarely allowed |
Sometimes allowed |
Dealer can service own claims and retain service revenue |
|
Post-Sale Warranty Sales |
Not available |
Rarely supported |
CPS Post-Sale Marketing recovers missed warranty revenue |
|
Open Box/SND/Refurb Coverage |
Not covered |
Limited or not offered |
Full coverage options for discounted or non-new inventory |
Who is Consumer Priority Service (CPS) and how do they support appliance retailers?
- Established and experienced provider—Consumer Priority Service (CPS) has operated since 1990 and is trusted by retailers for its long-term industry presence
- Large-scale customer and product coverage—CPS has covered over 75 million products and served more than 60 million customers, giving retailers confidence in its depth of experience
- Strong claims and service infrastructure—CPS pays over $450 million in claims annually and maintains a nationwide network of 50,000+ servicers, so retailers can rely on robust support
- Extensive retail partnerships—With 10,000+ retail partners, CPS supports appliance stores of all sizes, from independents to multi-location operations
- Nationwide and factory-authorized service capabilities—CPS offers both independent and factory-authorized repair networks, ensuring reliable coverage for a wide range of products
- U.S.-based support and long-term relationships—Retailers benefit from a dedicated, U.S.-based support team focused on onboarding, ongoing service, and partnership
- Broad category flexibility—CPS supports warranty programs across 60+ product categories, giving appliance retailers flexibility as their inventory and business evolve
CPS Post-Warranty Appliance Coverage FAQ
How likely is it that an appliance will need a repair within five years?
CPS dealer observations show that 60% to 80% of major appliances require at least one repair within the first five years of ownership.
Which appliance categories experience the most repairs in the first five years?
Refrigerators, washers, dryers, and smart appliances are among the categories with the highest repair rates, according to CPS service data.
Why do most appliance repairs happen after the manufacturer warranty expires?
Most manufacturer warranties last only 1–3 years, but major failures often occur as appliances age, typically in years 2 through 5.
How does CPS True Extended coverage help with post-warranty repairs?
CPS True Extended begins after the OEM warranty ends, protecting against mechanical and electrical failures for up to five additional years.
What is the CPS 50% Back program?
CPS 50% Back provides five years of coverage from the purchase date and refunds 50% of the plan price if no claims are made during the term.
Can CPS cover scratch-and-dent or open-box appliances?
Yes, CPS offers dedicated programs for scratch-and-dent, refurbished, open-box, and used appliances, expanding warranty eligibility beyond new inventory.
What does CPS coverage typically include for appliances?
CPS covers mechanical and electrical failures, critical functional parts, parts and labor for repairs, and may include replacement if repair is not feasible.
What is not covered by CPS appliance protection plans?
CPS does not cover cosmetic damage, non-functional parts, consumables, accidental damage, environmental damage, or pre-existing conditions.
How can appliance retailers recover missed warranty sales after checkout?
Retailers can use CPS Post-Sale Marketing, which follows up with customers who declined coverage at purchase to offer protection after the sale.
Do retailers need to handle claims themselves?
No, CPS manages all claims administration and service coordination, but retailers can choose to service their own customers if they prefer.
How do customers file a CPS claim?
Customers can file a claim with CPS by phone, web chat, portal, text, Facebook chat, or email, with instructions provided on the CPS website.
Can CPS coverage be added after the appliance is purchased?
Yes, CPS Post-Sale Marketing enables retailers to offer coverage to customers after the initial sale, increasing overall warranty penetration.
What are the business benefits for retailers offering CPS coverage?
Retailers generate additional profit per sale, improve customer retention, monetize non-new inventory, and streamline claims support with CPS programs.
How long can CPS True Extended coverage last?
CPS True Extended can last up to five years beyond the OEM warranty, resulting in a total of up to 6–8 years of coverage depending on the manufacturer warranty period.
How does CPS help retailers with discounted or open-box inventory?
CPS SND and Open Box programs allow retailers to offer protection on inventory that typically cannot be covered by manufacturer warranties, unlocking new revenue streams.
How can appliance retailers get started with CPS post-warranty coverage?
Consumer Priority Service (CPS) post-warranty coverage is built for appliance retailers who want to offer long-term protection, increase profit per sale, and support customers when repairs are most likely to happen. By choosing from CPS True Extended, 50% Back, and SND programs, stores can protect both new and discounted inventory, streamline claims administration, and build stronger customer relationships.
Retailers can get started quickly with support from the CPS team, flexible onboarding, and multiple program options that fit existing sales processes. Whether you operate a single location or a multi-store group, CPS makes it easy to add post-warranty coverage and generate new revenue from every eligible appliance sale.
|
Contact Method |
Details |
|---|---|
|
|
dealers@cpscentral.com |
|
Phone |
(800) 905-0445 |
CPS is here to help you
Consumer Priority Service (CPS) is built to work with how appliance retailers already operate, from simple setups to fully integrated systems. If you want to see what this looks like for your store, the CPS team can walk through your setup and help you get started quickly.
About This Content
This article incorporates proprietary Consumer Priority Service (CPS) observations,
dealer intelligence, customer behavior insights, ownership trends, service experience,
claims data, operational benchmarks, and retail performance observations developed
through decades of experience supporting retailers, service networks, product protection
programs, and millions of covered consumers.
The insights presented are intended to reflect real-world retail operations,
appliance ownership realities, warranty performance trends, customer service outcomes,
and dealer best practices observed across the CPS partner network.
Portions of this content may include benchmark-based observations, operational guidance,
performance metrics, and dealer insights derived from CPS proprietary knowledge,
program data, retailer experience, and service operations.
© Consumer Priority Service (CPS). All rights reserved.

