So, I'm looking to buy a new 52" Samsung lcd and so far im debating between Amazon.com and Frys. Both seem to have the most ideal situation for me. I like the amazon tv price and warranty thru samsung but i also like having a physical store i can go to (Frys) in case something happens) and their warranty price is good to for 5 years. But here's the question... Does anyone know the difference between their 2 warranty extension programs? I know amazon sells an extension directly thru Samsung and it's like $360 for 5 years.. Frys on the other hand seems to do something different and theirs is only $250 for 5 years.. i cant seem to find the difference between Frys warranty and a Samsung direct extension.. i even got a pamphlet on it from frys and its about as vague as it gets.. anyone else ever bought a tv from frys? or better yet, anyone had to make good on their warranty extension from frys? or even if someone understands what each warranty would cover would be good. Thanks in advance!
I work for Fry's in the Service Dept. The warranty is inhome service. The servicers Fry's uses are the same ones Samsung would use. They have to be certified by the manufacturer. The only major difference is with the Fry's warranty, they provide you with a loaner TV to use at no charge while yours is being serviced. Samsung is notorious for having parts on back order. I have seen a part take almost three months, so the loaner is a definate perk. Also if the cost of repair of the television set is more than replacement, you would get a new TV. (Hopefully it breaks down real bad in year 4 or 5 If you have any Fry's related questions, feel free, I should be able to answer them. The warranty does not cover DLP projection bulbs anymore, but you state you are getting an LCD. The only thing the warranty does not cover is physical damage to the set.
I agree that Fry's would be better as far as getting a loner tv and that fact that going directly through Samsung would be more of a hassle. Very good choice to go with the extended warranty. I bought a 52 inch LG lcd projection from bestbuy and had the light engine go out after 3 yrs. They gave me full purchase price (no questions asked) on a new tv. Now I have a brand new 52 inch Sony. Plus Fry's has a better reputation for customer service than bestbuy so I think you would be treated well.
ok, but can you explain a little more about what IS covered in there warranty? i understand no physical damage, but what else? Dead pixels, loose bezel, etc? thanks for the help
The warranty covers all manufacturer defects. The warranty does cover for dead pixels but there are guidelines. They wont fix it unless there are I believe 7 dead ones close to eachother or an entire line. If there are 7 spread out across the entire screen, that claim is usually denied. HOWEVER, alot of times if you speak to someone high enough, that rule can usually be bent. Loose bezels would be covered. Blown speakers are not covered ( I am pretty sure if you are going for a TV this size you would also be getting a surround sound setup ). If any ports somehow get ripped out, that is not covered. I have seen this happen with HDMI ports and component cables. So if you go for Monster cables, make sure you put them in right the first time because sometimes they are a real pain to take off. Also, if you are planning on wall mounting the TV, and you require service, you will need to have the TV taken off the wall for the service guy. The servicer will also not put it back on the wall for you as it is a liability issue that the store nor the servicer will take on.
that whole pixel part sounds pretty pointless.. what are the chances that they would all be together like that? i guess its possible tho. thanks for the more detailed explanation. i do like the loose bezel part since ive read many toc samsungs get loosened up over time.. thanks again
