Are scratch and dent appliances usually new or used?
Updated May 2026 – reflects current scratch and dent appliance buying and warranty trends.
Scratch and dent appliances are usually new units with cosmetic damage or minor imperfections, but they can also include unused open-box or floor models that have never been owned or used in a home. Most are not “used” in the traditional sense—they haven’t been previously installed or operated by a consumer. Customers often choose scratch and dent appliances to save money on high-quality products, but it’s important to verify the appliance’s history, warranty eligibility, and the extent of any damage before purchase. CPS supports protection and repair options for many eligible scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished appliances across the U.S.
Quick Summary: Are Scratch and Dent Appliances New or Used?
Here’s what you need to know when shopping for scratch and dent appliances:
- Most scratch and dent appliances are technically new but have cosmetic blemishes, dents, or minor imperfections.
- They are usually not previously owned or “used” in a home, though some may be floor models or open-box units.
- Warranty coverage can vary—manufacturer and extended protection eligibility differs by retailer and product condition.
- Repair professionals commonly see scratch and dent appliances perform like new, but always inspect for functional issues before buying.
- CPS offers protection options for many new, refurbished, and scratch and dent appliances depending on eligibility and condition.
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Topic |
Quick Take |
|---|---|
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Are scratch and dent appliances new or used? |
Most are new, never-used products with cosmetic damage or minor imperfections. |
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What about floor models and open-box? |
Some scratch and dent units are open-box or floor models, typically unused in a home setting. |
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Is warranty coverage available? |
Coverage varies—CPS supports many eligible scratch and dent and open-box appliances. |
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What should you check before buying? |
Confirm product history, inspect for functional damage, and verify warranty eligibility. |
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Does CPS offer repair support for these appliances? |
Yes, for many eligible new, scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished appliances. |
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What Should You Look For When Buying a Scratch and Dent Appliance?
When shopping for a scratch and dent appliance, it’s important to look beyond just the price tag. Customers often want to make sure the appliance is truly unused, understand what the cosmetic damage means for future ownership, and check on warranty or protection plan options.
- Verify the appliance is unused and has never been installed or operated in a home
- Inspect all cosmetic damage to confirm it is only surface-level and does not affect function
- Ask about included manufacturer warranty and eligibility for extended protection plans
- Review the store’s return, exchange, and repair support policies
- Check if the appliance qualifies for CPS protection, especially if it’s open-box or refurbished
What Experience Does CPS Have With Scratch and Dent Appliance Coverage and Repairs?
For customers considering scratch and dent appliances, understanding real-world repair trends and coverage options is key. With over 75 million products covered, 50,000 servicers nationwide, and more than $450 million in claims paid annually, CPS has extensive experience supporting new, refurbished, open-box, and scratch and dent appliance owners through long-term repair situations.
- Scratch and dent appliances are typically new units with cosmetic damage, not previously owned products
- Based on CPS’s historical claims data, performance and reliability are similar to standard new appliances when there is no functional damage
- Repairs for cosmetic-only issues are generally not covered, but mechanical and electrical failures may be eligible under protection plans
- Eligibility for coverage depends on product age, prior use, and condition at the time of plan purchase
- CPS coordinates authorized repair support for many eligible scratch and dent and open-box appliances across the U.S.
What Appliance Repairs Are Most Common With Scratch and Dent or Open-Box Units?
Based on CPS’s historical claims data and long-term repair experience, scratch and dent appliances rarely have more frequent mechanical failures than their undamaged counterparts as long as the damage is cosmetic only. Customers most often encounter typical appliance issues such as control board failures, sealed system problems in refrigerators, or motor issues—similar to new appliances.
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Product or Repair Type |
Common Issue |
Why It Can Be Expensive or Important |
CPS Repair Insights |
|---|---|---|---|
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Refrigerator |
Compressor or sealed system failure |
Major repairs often require specialized parts and labor |
CPS claims data shows refrigerator sealed-system repairs often appear 3–6 years into ownership, with approved repair totals commonly landing around $650–$1,200. Retail repairs can run $200–$250 higher, and compressor jobs may approach 40%–60% of replacement value. |
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Washer/Dryer |
Motor or control board failure |
Internal electronic repairs can be costly after warranty expiration |
Based on CPS claim trends, washer and dryer motor or board failures usually surface 2–5 years after purchase, often shortly after warranty expiration. Approved repairs commonly fall near $325–$725, with repeat visits more likely when vibration, moisture, or wiring issues affect diagnostics. |
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Dishwasher |
Pump or electronic control failure |
Labor and diagnostic costs add up, especially for smart models |
CPS repair history shows dishwasher pump and control failures often occur 3–6 years into ownership. Claims involving these failures typically require diagnostics plus water-access labor, with invoices commonly reaching $275–$650 and smart-model repairs escalating when sensors or boards are involved. |
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Range/Oven |
Control panel or heating element issues |
Advanced electronics in modern units can be expensive to replace |
Historical CPS repair data suggests range and oven control-panel or heating repairs often appear 4–8 years into ownership. Approved claim totals commonly range from $300–$750, while retail repairs may exceed that by $200 or more when boards, elements, or calibration labor are required. |
Why Do Customers Trust CPS for Scratch and Dent Appliance Coverage?
Customers choose CPS for scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished appliance protection because of flexible coverage options, nationwide service access, and deep claims experience. CPS helps make post-warranty repair coordination and support more predictable for a wide range of appliances.
- Protection options for many eligible scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished appliances
- Access to a large network of authorized repair providers nationwide
- Help with repair coordination, troubleshooting, and claims support after the sale
- Support for expensive mechanical and electrical failures, not just cosmetic issues
- Simple claims process and U.S.-based customer support
Can CPS Help if My Appliance Is Already Out of Warranty?
After the manufacturer warranty expires, many customers want to know their options if they encounter a repair issue with a scratch and dent or open-box appliance. CPS may still be able to assist with troubleshooting, repair referrals, replacement part sourcing, and, for certain eligible products, extended protection options depending on the appliance’s age and condition.
- Factory-authorized repair referral assistance for eligible appliances
- Troubleshooting guidance and support for out-of-warranty repair situations
- Help finding replacement parts and service providers for scratch and dent, open-box, or refurbished units
- Guidance on eligibility for extended protection for certain products after the original sale, depending on product type and condition
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Contact Method |
Details |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
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Phone |
(800) 905-0443 |
Speaking directly with a CPS representative |
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Web Chat |
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Quick support and troubleshooting guidance |
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CPS Client Care Portal |
https://client.cpscentral.com/ |
Claims, account access, and service support |
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Text Message |
Text (347) 621-7180 |
Quick customer support questions |
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Facebook Messenger |
http://m.me/ConsumerPriorityService |
General support and communication |
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cs@cpscentral.com |
Detailed questions and documentation |
What Questions Do Customers Ask About Scratch and Dent Appliances?
Are scratch and dent appliances considered new or used?
Most scratch and dent appliances are technically new—they haven’t been owned or used in a home. They may have cosmetic damage, have been a floor model, or come from open-box inventory, but typically have not been previously installed or operated.
Do scratch and dent appliances come with a manufacturer warranty?
Some scratch and dent appliances still include a manufacturer warranty, but coverage can vary based on the type and extent of damage, retailer policies, and whether the product has been registered as sold previously. Always verify warranty status before purchase.
Can I get an extended warranty on a scratch and dent appliance?
Yes, many scratch and dent appliances are eligible for extended protection plans like those offered by CPS, especially if they are new, unused, or open-box. Eligibility depends on product type, age, and condition.
What should I check before buying a scratch and dent appliance?
Inspect the appliance for functional damage (not just cosmetic), confirm it is unused, ask about warranty coverage, and understand the store’s return and repair policies. This helps avoid surprises if you need service later on.
Are repairs more common with scratch and dent appliances?
Based on CPS’s historical claims data, repairs for scratch and dent appliances are typically no more frequent than standard new appliances, as long as the damage is only cosmetic and there are no hidden functional issues.
What types of issues are usually covered by protection plans for scratch and dent appliances?
Protection plans generally cover mechanical and electrical failures, like control board, compressor, or motor issues. Cosmetic damage and pre-existing problems are typically excluded, so only operational failures after coverage begins are eligible.
Can I get support for a scratch and dent appliance if it’s already out of warranty?
Yes, CPS may be able to help with repair referrals, troubleshooting, and, in some cases, extended protection options for eligible products even after the manufacturer warranty expires.
What’s the difference between scratch and dent, open-box, and refurbished appliances?
Scratch and dent appliances have cosmetic imperfections but are otherwise new. Open-box units are typically unused returns or floor models. Refurbished appliances have been repaired or restored to working condition after a previous issue or return.
Does CPS offer protection for open-box or refurbished appliances?
Yes, CPS supports coverage for many eligible open-box and refurbished appliances, as well as scratch and dent units, depending on product type, age, and condition at the time of plan purchase.
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Want to Learn More About Protecting a Scratch and Dent Appliance?
Explore your options for protecting scratch and dent, open-box, or refurbished appliances with support from CPS.
For many homeowners, scratch and dent appliances offer significant savings, but it’s important to understand warranty eligibility, repair risks, and long-term ownership costs. Customers planning to keep these appliances for several years often compare protection plan options, repair support availability, and coverage for refurbished or open-box products before making a decision. If you want to protect your investment or need help navigating post-warranty repairs, check your product’s eligibility or contact CPS for guidance.
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