Which appliance categories have the highest repair rates after the manufacturer warranty ends?

Date Created: June, 2026


TLDR

Refrigerators, laundry appliances, and dishwashers have the highest repair rates after manufacturer warranties end.

Most post-warranty repairs involve refrigeration systems, washers, dryers, and dishwashers—especially as electronic components and control boards fail. Consumer Priority Service (CPS) Extended Warranties offer coverage beyond the manufacturer period, helping retailers address these high-risk categories while adding profit on every eligible sale.

Major appliances with the highest post-warranty repair rates include refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwashers. These categories see increased mechanical and electronic failures after manufacturer coverage ends, often involving expensive repairs like compressors, control boards, or pumps. Consumer Priority Service (CPS) Extended Warranties are designed to cover these failures once the original warranty expires, helping appliance retailers provide long-term protection and generate additional profit. CPS dealer data shows that more than 60% of repair events for these appliances occur after the manufacturer warranty period, making extended coverage a key revenue and service driver.

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Which appliance categories most often need repairs after the manufacturer warranty ends?

Refrigerators, laundry appliances (washers and dryers), and dishwashers consistently top the list for post-warranty service events. These products rely heavily on electronic controls, sealed systems, and high-cycle mechanical components, all of which are more likely to fail as appliances age and manufacturer coverage expires.

CPS dealer observations confirm that most major appliance repairs—especially for refrigerators and laundry—occur after the initial 1 to 3-year manufacturer warranty period. Premium and smart appliances, which use advanced electronics and sensors, also see higher repair exposure as they age. Extended protection becomes especially important for these categories because out-of-pocket repair costs are substantial and often unexpected.

  • Refrigerators: Highest post-warranty repair rates due to sealed system and electronic failures
  • Washers & Dryers: Frequent repairs on motors, pumps, and control boards after year 2
  • Dishwashers: High risk for leaks, pump failures, and sensor issues
  • Premium/Smart Appliances: More complex electronics lead to increased service needs beyond OEM coverage

Appliance Category

Common Post-Warranty Failures

Repair Trend

Refrigerators

Compressor, sealed system, control board, sensors

Highest post-warranty service rate

Washers

Drive motor, water pump, electronic controls

Frequent failures after year 2

Dryers

Heating element, motor, control board

Service calls increase after OEM coverage ends

Dishwashers

Pumps, electronic sensors, leaks

Notable rise in repairs after year 1–2

What benefits does offering CPS coverage on high-repair appliance categories provide to retailers?

Many appliance retailers choose to offer CPS Extended Warranties on refrigerators, laundry appliances, and dishwashers because these categories experience the highest repair frequency once manufacturer coverage ends. By providing post-warranty protection, retailers can help customers manage repair risk, drive additional revenue, and differentiate themselves from competitors. CPS programs are designed to be easy to implement and flexible, allowing stores to cover new, open-box, and qualifying used appliances while maintaining control over the claims and service experience. Ultimately, this positions retailers as trusted advisors for long-term appliance ownership.

  • Retailers increase profit per sale by capturing warranty revenue on high-risk appliance categories
  • CPS Extended Warranties help retailers address real customer repair concerns after manufacturer coverage ends
  • Coverage flexibility allows retailers to protect new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, and used appliances
  • Dealers maintain service involvement and customer relationships with CPS’s dealer-first claims model
  • Clear eligibility and claims support reduce administrative burden for retailers
  • Offering post-warranty coverage builds customer loyalty and trust in long-term ownership

How do appliance retailers typically use CPS coverage for high-repair categories?

Many appliance retailers offering CPS Extended Warranties make a point to highlight coverage options on refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwashers—both at the point of sale and during ownership discussions. Experienced stores often train their sales teams to present protection plans as an extension of the manufacturer warranty, focusing on the high likelihood of post-warranty repairs in these categories. According to CPS retailer feedback, presenting coverage after the product decision and discussing real-world repair costs significantly improves warranty attachment rates for high-risk appliances.

How does CPS Extended Warranty coverage work for appliances with high post-warranty repair rates?

Consumer Priority Service (CPS) Extended Warranties are structured to provide coverage for mechanical and electrical failures that occur after the original manufacturer warranty expires. Coverage can be added to new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, and qualifying used appliances, with flexible terms that extend protection for up to five additional years—depending on the length of the manufacturer warranty. When a covered failure occurs, CPS manages the claims process, coordinates authorized service, and ensures the customer receives repair or replacement support as outlined in the plan.

Appliance retailers can offer multiple CPS programs based on inventory and sales strategy. True Extended coverage starts after OEM warranty expiration, 50% Back runs for five years from purchase with a refund option if unused, and SND (Scratch & Dent) plans cover discounted or previously owned inventory. Dealers benefit from added revenue, service participation, and a structured claims process that reduces operational overhead while increasing customer satisfaction.

Key Components of CPS Appliance Coverage for High-Repair Categories

Program Component

Description

Coverage Timing

True Extended starts after manufacturer warranty; 50% Back runs 5 years from purchase; SND starts day 31 on eligible inventory

Eligible Appliances

New, open-box, scratch-and-dent, refurbished, and qualifying used appliances

Covered Failures

Mechanical and electrical breakdowns—motors, compressors, pumps, control boards, sensors; excludes cosmetic and consumables

Claims Process

CPS handles intake, service coordination, and resolution; dealers may participate in repairs

Additional Benefits

Food spoilage (refrigerators), laundry credit, removal/reinstall, unlimited claims

Revenue Model

Retailers set pricing (where allowed), keep margin, and can participate in service revenue

  • True Extended: Post-OEM coverage, up to 8 years total, unlimited claims
  • 50% Back: 5-year term, partial refund if unused, runs with OEM
  • SND Program: Designed for scratch-and-dent/open-box/used, 1-year coverage with option to extend

Retailers can combine these programs to maximize attachment across all appliance categories with high repair exposure.

What does CPS typically cover and not cover for appliances with high post-warranty repair rates?

CPS Extended Warranties are designed to cover real mechanical and electrical failures that affect appliance operation, especially in categories like refrigerators, laundry, and dishwashers. It’s important for retailers and customers to understand both the coverage and the limitations.

What Does CPS Cover?

  • Mechanical and electrical failures (motors, pumps, compressors, control boards, sensors)
  • Breakdowns occurring after the manufacturer warranty expires (for True Extended plans)
  • Parts and labor for covered repairs
  • Service coordination and claims administration through CPS
  • Food spoilage benefit for covered refrigerator failures (up to $250)
  • Multiple claims during the coverage period

What Is Not Covered by CPS?

  • Cosmetic damage (scratches, dents, discoloration, rust, trim)
  • Non-functional/accessory parts (handles, knobs, shelves, decorative panels)
  • Consumable/wear items (filters, bulbs, batteries, belts, gaskets)
  • Accidental damage, misuse, or neglect
  • Flood, fire, environmental, or installation-related issues
  • Failures during the OEM warranty period or pre-existing conditions

How does the CPS claims process work for post-warranty appliance repairs?

When a customer experiences a covered failure after the manufacturer warranty ends, they can initiate a claim with Consumer Priority Service (CPS) by phone, web, portal, text, or email. CPS verifies eligibility, reviews the issue, and assigns a qualified technician or coordinates repair through the retailer’s service department if applicable.

CPS manages the full claims process—including service scheduling, repair authorization, and resolution—so that the retailer isn’t burdened with claim administration. If the appliance cannot be repaired, CPS will coordinate a replacement or settlement according to the plan, keeping the experience simple for both the customer and the retailer.

Step

What Happens

Claim Initiation

Customer contacts CPS by phone, web, portal, text, or email to report the issue

Claim Review

CPS verifies coverage and confirms details of the reported failure

Service Coordination

CPS assigns a technician or works with the retailer’s service department

Repair or Replacement

Appliance is repaired or replaced based on coverage terms

Resolution

Claim is completed and customer receives documentation

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

Consumer Priority Service makes it easy for everyone—customers, dealers, and service centers—to get support or file claims using multiple convenient channels. No matter the situation, help is always within reach.

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 CPS coverage for high-repair appliance categories compare to manufacturer warranties and traditional protection plans?

Feature

Manufacturer Warranty

Traditional Protection Plan

CPS Extended Warranties

Coverage Start

At purchase

At purchase (may overlap OEM)

After manufacturer warranty expires (True Extended)

Total Coverage Duration

1–3 years typical

3–5 years (often overlaps OEM)

Up to 6–8 years total (OEM + CPS)

High-Risk Appliance Coverage

Standard categories only

May exclude open-box, SND, used

Includes new, open-box, scratch-and-dent, qualifying used

Claims Administration

Manufacturer managed

Third-party, may be limited network

CPS manages claims, dealer involvement allowed

Dealer Revenue

No additional revenue

Fixed margin, less control

Dealers set pricing, keep margin, participate in service

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

  • Established and experienced provider—Consumer Priority Service (CPS) has been serving the industry since 1990, providing retailers with a long-term, stable partner
  • Large-scale coverage—CPS has protected over 75 million products for more than 60 million customers, demonstrating deep operational capability
  • Robust claims and service infrastructure—With $450M+ in claims paid annually and 50,000+ servicers nationwide, CPS handles high-volume warranty needs
  • Extensive retail partnerships—CPS works with 10,000+ retail partners, from independent appliance stores to large multi-location chains
  • Nationwide and factory-authorized service—CPS offers both independent and factory-authorized repair networks for broad, reliable service
  • U.S.-based support—Retailers interact with dedicated, U.S.-based onboarding and support teams, ensuring a responsive experience
  • Flexible, category-spanning coverage—CPS supports warranties across 60+ product categories, giving appliance retailers coverage flexibility for their full inventory
  • BBB A rating—CPS’s strong reputation and service standards are recognized with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau

CPS Appliance Coverage FAQ

Which appliance categories have the highest repair rates after the manufacturer warranty ends?

Refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwashers have the highest post-warranty repair rates according to CPS dealer data and ownership trends.

Why do refrigerators and laundry appliances see more repairs after warranty expiration?

These appliances use complex sealed systems, control boards, and high-cycle parts that are more likely to fail as they age, especially after OEM coverage ends.

How does Consumer Priority Service (CPS) cover high-repair appliance categories?

CPS Extended Warranties provide coverage for mechanical and electrical failures on high-risk appliances after the manufacturer warranty expires.

When does CPS True Extended coverage begin?

CPS True Extended coverage starts immediately after the manufacturer warranty period ends, with coverage length based on the OEM term.

What is the maximum total protection period available through CPS?

The maximum total coverage is up to 8 years, depending on the manufacturer warranty and CPS plan selected.

Can retailers offer CPS coverage on open-box, scratch-and-dent, or used appliances?

Yes, CPS offers specific programs for open-box, scratch-and-dent, and qualifying used appliances, allowing retailers to monetize more inventory.

What types of failures are typically covered by CPS Extended Warranties?

CPS covers mechanical and electrical breakdowns of motors, compressors, pumps, control boards, and other functional parts after the OEM warranty ends.

What is excluded from CPS Extended Warranty coverage?

Cosmetic damage, consumables, accidental damage, misuse, and environmental issues are excluded from standard CPS coverage.

How does the CPS claims process work for post-warranty appliance repairs?

Customers file a claim with CPS, which manages eligibility review, service coordination, and repair or replacement based on coverage terms.

Can dealers participate in servicing CPS-covered claims?

Yes, CPS gives dealers first right of refusal, allowing them to handle repairs and retain service revenue if desired.

How do retailers benefit financially from offering CPS coverage?

Retailers generate additional margin per sale, including on high-repair categories, and can participate in claims service revenue where eligible.

Does CPS provide coverage for premium and smart appliances?

Yes, CPS covers premium and smart appliances, which often have even higher post-warranty repair exposure due to advanced electronics.

What is the CPS 50% Back program and how does it work?

CPS 50% Back is a five-year plan that starts at purchase and offers a partial refund if no claims are made, running alongside manufacturer coverage and then taking over after OEM expiration.

Are there additional benefits for refrigerators under CPS coverage?

Yes, CPS includes a food spoilage benefit for refrigerators, covering up to $250 in lost food from a covered failure.

How can appliance retailers get started offering CPS Extended Warranties?

Retailers can contact CPS for onboarding, training, and program setup, with support available for both low-tech and integrated workflows.

How can appliance retailers get started offering CPS coverage for high-repair appliance categories?

CPS Extended Warranties are built for appliance retailers who want to protect customers from the high repair rates seen with refrigerators, laundry appliances, and dishwashers after manufacturer coverage ends. These programs allow stores to generate additional revenue, provide long-term value to customers, and differentiate their offerings with flexible coverage options for new, open-box, and used inventory.

Retailers can get started with Consumer Priority Service by reaching out for a walkthrough of program options, onboarding, and training. CPS supports a wide range of store types and provides ongoing assistance to ensure a seamless launch and long-term success.

Contact Method

Details

Email

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, whether you’re selling new inventory, open-box, or scratch-and-dent. If you want tailored advice on rolling out coverage for your store, the CPS team is ready to help you get started and maximize your protection plan revenue.

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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