How do warranty claim rates change as appliances age?

Date Created: June, 2026


TLDR

Warranty claim rates increase as appliances age, with most claims occurring after the manufacturer warranty expires.

Claim frequency is lowest in the first year, then rises in years 2–5 and remains elevated through the rest of the ownership cycle. Consumer Priority Service (CPS) protection plans—like True Extended, 50% Back, and SND Coverage—are designed to cover this higher-risk period, helping retailers support customers and generate revenue on repairs that usually happen after OEM coverage ends.

Warranty claim rates for appliances are typically low during the first year but increase steadily as products age, especially after the manufacturer warranty expires. This means more repairs and claims are filed in years 2 through 6 as core components like motors, boards, and compressors begin to wear out. Consumer Priority Service (CPS) protection plans are structured to start when claims are most likely, offering coverage during the higher-risk years of appliance ownership. Retailers use these plans because they align coverage with real-world repair timing and create additional profit opportunities after the OEM warranty ends, a trend backed by CPS dealer observations and service data.

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What trends do CPS dealers observe in appliance warranty claim timing?

Warranty claim rates are lowest in the first ownership year and increase after manufacturer coverage ends.

This pattern is seen across nearly all major appliance categories. During year one, most claims are handled by the manufacturer. After this period, CPS dealer data shows a clear uptick—60% to 80% of major appliance repairs happen after the OEM warranty expires. The most common repair triggers in years 2–5 include failures of compressors, motors, control boards, and electronic components. For high-use products like washers, dryers, and refrigerators, claim rates often peak in the second through fifth years of use, then remain elevated throughout the typical 8–12 year ownership cycle.

  • Warranty claims are rare in year one and rise sharply in later years
  • CPS True Extended and 50% Back plans begin coverage when claims are most likely
  • Dealers report that aligning coverage with ownership risk improves customer satisfaction and increases warranty plan sales
  • CPS SND Coverage allows retailers to protect discounted inventory, which often sees higher claim rates due to prior use or minor cosmetic issues

Working with CPS enables retailers to match protection plan timing with real-world repair patterns, maximizing both customer value and revenue recovery.

Ownership Year

Claim Frequency

CPS Coverage Timing

Retailer Impact

Year 1

Low

OEM warranty active

Few claims, low warranty profit

Years 2–5

High

CPS True Extended, 50% Back, SND Coverage

Majority of claims occur, high revenue opportunity

Years 6–8

Elevated

CPS True Extended (longer terms)

Continued claims, strong retention

After 8 Years

Declining

Coverage typically ends

Older units, fewer claims, product replacement likely

Why do appliance retailers use CPS coverage that extends beyond the manufacturer warranty?

Many appliance retailers offer CPS protection plans that start after the manufacturer warranty because claim rates rise as appliances age, especially in years 2–5. By aligning coverage with the real risk window, retailers can provide customers with meaningful support when most failures happen, while capturing additional revenue from post-warranty repairs. This approach not only creates a better ownership experience for the customer but also helps dealers maximize profit and retention. CPS programs like True Extended, 50% Back, and SND Coverage are built to fit this ownership reality, making them a practical choice for stores looking to offer relevant, high-value coverage.

  • Captures additional revenue after the OEM warranty ends—when claims are most likely
  • Helps retailers deliver value by covering the higher-risk years of appliance ownership
  • Aligns protection with real-world failure timing, improving customer trust and satisfaction
  • Enables coverage for new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, and qualifying used appliances
  • Simplifies claims handling, reducing dealer workload and keeping customers connected to the store
  • Supports dealer-first servicing, allowing stores to retain service revenue when applicable

How do appliance retailers typically use CPS claim timing data to structure their protection plan offerings?

Many appliance retailers use CPS claim timing data to structure their protection plan offerings so that coverage begins when claims are most likely—right after the manufacturer warranty expires. Experienced retailers often highlight this timing to customers during the sales process, explaining that most repairs and high-cost failures occur in years two through six. By matching protection plan terms to real ownership risk, dealers can increase warranty attachment rates and demonstrate they understand the realities of long-term appliance ownership. CPS dealer benchmarks show that this approach helps maximize both customer satisfaction and warranty revenue.

How does CPS time its coverage to match real-world appliance claim trends?

Consumer Priority Service (CPS) times coverage start dates to match the period when appliance claims become most frequent—after the manufacturer warranty ends. With programs like True Extended, coverage doesn’t overlap with OEM protection but begins as soon as the original warranty expires, covering the critical ownership years when failures are most likely. The 50% Back program runs alongside the OEM warranty and continues for a fixed period, while SND Coverage addresses the unique needs of open-box, scratch-and-dent, or used inventory by protecting those products when the risk of claims is already elevated.

CPS programs are designed so retailers can offer coverage that is relevant to each stage of the appliance lifecycle. Dealers can select plans based on inventory type and customer needs, and CPS manages the claims process, supports dealer servicing, and offers post-sale marketing to help retailers maximize revenue recovery from post-warranty repairs. This structure matches observed claim timing and real-world ownership patterns identified in CPS service data.

CPS Appliance Protection Plan Structure

Program

When Coverage Starts

Ownership Years Covered

Best Fit

True Extended

After OEM warranty ends

Years 2–6 (or up to 8 depending on OEM)

New appliances, long-term ownership

50% Back

Day 1 (overlaps OEM warranty)

Years 1–5

New appliances, upfront coverage, refund incentive

SND / Open Box

Day 31 after purchase

Year 2–3 (with optional True Extended add-on)

Scratch and dent, open box, refurbished, used appliances

Key Program Features

  • Coverage starts when claim risk is highest
  • Dealers choose the right term and program for their inventory
  • Claims administration, service coordination, and revenue recovery managed by CPS
  • Supports dealer-first servicing and nationwide service network

Claim Timing Benchmarks (CPS Observations)

  • 60–80% of major appliance repairs occur after OEM warranty ends
  • Highest claim frequency: Years 2–5 of ownership
  • Premium, laundry, and refrigeration appliances see even higher post-warranty claim rates

What does CPS typically cover for appliance retailers—and what’s not included?

Consumer Priority Service (CPS) protection plans are built to cover the most common mechanical and electrical failures that occur after the manufacturer warranty ends, but they do not cover every possible issue.

What Does CPS Cover?

  • Failures of major mechanical and electrical components (motors, compressors, control boards, pumps)
  • Parts and labor for covered repairs (after OEM warranty expires)
  • Service coordination, including in-home repairs when applicable
  • Food spoilage benefit (for covered freezer failures)
  • Coverage options for new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, and qualifying used appliances

What Is Not Covered by CPS?

  • Cosmetic damage (scratches, dents, rust, appearance issues)
  • Non-functional parts (handles, knobs, shelves, trim, decorative panels)
  • Consumable items (filters, bulbs, batteries, belts, gaskets, fuses)
  • Accidental damage, misuse, abuse, or neglect
  • Water, flood, fire, or weather-related damage
  • Pre-existing conditions or failures during the OEM warranty period

How does the CPS claims process work for appliance warranty coverage as appliances age?

A claim is triggered when a covered appliance stops working due to a failure after the manufacturer warranty has expired or, for SND/open box, after the initial waiting period. Customers can file a claim directly with CPS by phone, web chat, online portal, text, email, or Facebook chat, making the process accessible and easy to start.

CPS manages claim review, verifies coverage, coordinates service or replacement, and communicates with both the customer and the retailer. Retailers benefit because CPS handles claim administration and service logistics, allowing them to remain involved in repairs and retain service revenue if desired, while reducing their operational workload.

Step

What Happens

Claim Initiation

Customer contacts CPS by phone, web, portal, text, email, or Facebook chat

Claim Review & Verification

CPS checks coverage eligibility, reviews details, and requests any needed information

Service Coordination

CPS assigns a repair to the dealer or a qualified service technician

Repair or Replacement

Product is repaired with covered parts and labor, or replaced if not repairable

Resolution

Claim is completed, customer and dealer are notified, and service is documented

How can customers, dealers, and service centers contact CPS for support?

Consumer Priority Service makes it easy for anyone to get help, file claims, or ask questions through multiple channels. Support is available by phone, online portal, web chat, text, Facebook, and email so customers, retailers, and service centers can always reach a real support team.

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

Service Centers

How does Consumer Priority Service (CPS) coverage compare to manufacturer warranties and traditional protection plans?

Feature

Manufacturer Warranty

Traditional Protection Plan

CPS

Coverage Start

At purchase

At purchase

After OEM warranty (True Extended) or at purchase (50% Back/SND)

Claim Timing Alignment

Mostly year 1

Often overlaps OEM, may leave post-warranty gap

Matches real-world failure timing, covers high-risk years

Open-Box/SND Eligibility

Rarely eligible

Limited eligibility

Covers open-box, scratch-and-dent, refurbished, used (with correct program)

Claims Administration

OEM handles year 1, then none

Provider or third-party

CPS manages claims, supports dealer servicing, offers post-sale marketing

Revenue Opportunity

None after OEM period

Typically point-of-sale only

Point-of-sale + post-sale revenue recovery

Dealer Service Involvement

OEM only (year 1)

Varies

Dealer first right of refusal on claims/service

Coverage Length

1–3 years typical

3–5 years typical

Up to 8 years total (with True Extended)

Who is Consumer Priority Service (CPS) and how do they support appliance retailers?

  • Proven industry experience—CPS has supported appliance retailers and customers since 1990, building long-term credibility
  • Wide-reaching coverage—CPS has covered more than 75 million products for 60 million+ customers, reflecting operational scale
  • Robust claims infrastructure—CPS pays out over $450 million in claims each year and supports a nationwide network of 50,000+ servicers
  • Strong retail partnerships—10,000+ retail partners rely on CPS for warranty programs, from independents to large retailers
  • Flexible nationwide service—CPS offers both independent and factory-authorized service options across the U.S., supporting multiple appliance categories
  • Dedicated U.S.-based support—Retailers and customers work with real, U.S.-based CPS teams for onboarding, claims, and ongoing support
  • Broad product expertise—CPS covers 60+ product categories, giving appliance retailers flexibility across new, open-box, and specialty inventory

Warranty Claim Rates and Aging Appliances FAQ

How do warranty claim rates typically change as appliances get older?

Claim rates are lowest in the first year and increase steadily after the manufacturer warranty expires, with the highest frequency in years 2–5 of ownership.

When are most major appliance warranty claims filed?

Most claims are filed after the original manufacturer warranty ends, during years 2–6 of appliance ownership.

Why do claim rates increase as appliances age?

Core components like motors, compressors, and control boards are more likely to fail as appliances accumulate usage and years in service.

How does Consumer Priority Service (CPS) structure coverage to match claim trends?

CPS True Extended and 50% Back plans are designed to provide coverage after the OEM warranty ends, aligning with the period when most claims occur.

Do all appliance categories see higher claim rates as they age?

Yes—laundry, refrigeration, and premium appliances tend to see the largest increases in post-warranty claim rates according to CPS dealer observations.

What appliances are eligible for CPS coverage as they age?

CPS covers new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and qualifying used appliances with the appropriate program selection.

Can CPS cover appliances that are already past the OEM warranty period?

No—CPS coverage must be purchased before the manufacturer warranty expires (except for certain SND/open box/used programs).

How does the claims process work as appliances age?

Customers file a claim directly with CPS; CPS verifies coverage, coordinates service, and manages repairs or replacement as needed.

Is accidental damage covered as appliances get older?

No—standard CPS appliance plans do not cover accidental damage; coverage is for mechanical and electrical failures only.

Can retailers use claim timing data to increase protection plan sales?

Yes—CPS dealer data shows that explaining real ownership risk and claim timing helps increase warranty attachment rates and customer trust.

How does SND Coverage fit into aging appliance claims?

SND Coverage from CPS allows retailers to protect open-box, scratch-and-dent, and used appliances, which often see higher claim rates due to prior use.

Does CPS offer coverage that overlaps with the manufacturer warranty?

CPS 50% Back coverage starts at purchase and overlaps with the OEM warranty for the first year, then takes over for the remaining term.

Can retailers track claim rates and warranty performance with CPS?

Yes—retailers have access to CPS reporting tools that provide visibility into claim frequency, warranty sales, and program performance over time.

Are claim rates the same for all appliance brands and models?

No—claim rates vary by brand, model, usage level, and whether the appliance is new, open-box, or used, but all see higher claims as they age.

How can appliance retailers get started with CPS coverage that matches real-world claim timing?

CPS coverage is structured for appliance retailers who want to offer protection that matches the actual timing of repair risks, especially as appliances leave the manufacturer warranty period. By providing True Extended, 50% Back, and SND Coverage, Consumer Priority Service helps retailers support customers through the high-risk years of ownership while growing profit on post-warranty claims.

Retailers can choose the right coverage for their inventory and customer base, with onboarding, support, and claims administration all managed by CPS. This approach helps stores of any size offer relevant, high-value protection with minimal operational friction.

Contact Method

Details

Email

dealers@cpscentral.com

Phone

(800) 905-0445


CPS is here to help you

Consumer Priority Service (CPS) already works with appliance retailers of every size and setup—from independent stores to multi-location operations. If you want to see how CPS coverage would fit your business, just reach out to the team for quick, tailored guidance and next steps.

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.

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