HDTV Forum

Will be taking delivery of the Mitsubishi Diamond 73" DLP (73835) in a few days. I can buy the 4 year all inclusive warranty from BB for $499 - should I? I've read all the stuff on Mitsu DLP's and it seems to pretty much relate to older 2-5 years ago HDTV's. I've had 3 other Mitsubishi electronoic products for over 20 years with no issues. What say you?

If the reliability for Mitsu's newest technology is outstanding and available local service is very good, I probably wouldn't. Personally, I bought a 2000 Mitsu Gold 60 rear-projection through my insurance company after a monster lightening stike hit my Hatachi. The 3 year extended warranty from the insurance company was $60.00. Yes, six zero and no change. The dealer warranties are way, way, way overpriced. In less common circumstances, they are worth it. Especially new, expensive technology and/or poor reliability.

In 2006, the first 2000 Mitsu service call was 500.00 - 6 months later, another 800.00 estimate. No storms no nothing. The set just stopped twice and wouldn't reset. I choose a newer Sony 60" LCD. 2 years later the a cooling fan became blocked (fairly common).

That was 500.00 without a contract. The lifespan on Sony LCD's, I read, is about 20 years.

What did I learn?

Read service forums and learn anything that's problematic and especially model specific. Turn off the TV before, during and 2 hours after vacuuming, use a fresh surge protector, and avoid turning the set on and off repeatedly throughout the day. I also covered the fan intake with a extra high flow air filter.

Many credit cards double your factory warranty. I'd definately use that. Also, look at extended warranties available outside the selling dealer. Hope my experiences help and good luck !

Hi -

Don't overlook the FACT that Projection HDTVs have been the very highest on needing repairs of all !

GET the very longest possible - (5) years, In-Home, preferably by the Mfg - {unless they go broke, of course!}

p.s. - Since all the frantic times have hit the entire Globe, do double check re: Credit Card Warranties ..... many have stopped and / or make the buyer specifically apply / pay for that added year coverage .... things HAVE really changed within past 100-120 days & NOT for the better, obviously!

eli

Extended Warranties...Yes or No?
viewtopic.php?t=3214

There remains no one size fits all answer to this burning question...

Another recent post on this topic
viewtopic.php?p=36194#36194

Not purchasing an agreement is called "self insuring".
My 2 yr old 65" Mitsubishi has required a new light engine and bulb which easily cost twice what I paid for my service contract. I generally don't buy service contracts, but thought it would be a good idea with with DLP technology (moving parts, very hot projection lamp).
Consumer Reports for one recommends not buying contracts unless the product is known to have reliability issues.
This is all anecdotal, but do keep in mind that a DLP TV has a potential for costly repairs.

.... ya but they all do.

Fact is reliability is up and the insurance company is counting on the fact that most will likely never use it. IT's an insurance thing...

Will you regret having bought the contract if the TV does not fail?

Will you regret having not a bought the contract when yours does?