Warranty Definition How It Works Types and Example

Warranty Definition, How It Works, Types, and Example

A warranty is a guarantee made by a manufacturer or party regarding the condition of their product. It also refers to the terms and situations in which repairs, refunds, or exchanges will be made if the product does not function as intended. Warranties offer consumers assurance that the goods and services they purchase are as advertised.

Key Takeaways:

– Warranties are promises made by manufacturers and parties about production conditions.

– Buyers must fulfill specific duties for the warranty to be honored.

– Warranties can be expressed or implied.

– The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers from fraud and misrepresentations.

– A guarantee is a promise from a seller that their product will meet certain standards.

How Warranties Work:

Warranties are promises made by manufacturers or retailers about their products and services. These promises can be explicit or implied. They guarantee the condition of goods and services purchased, ensuring they are as advertised. Warranties are generally valid for a specified period. After that period, the issuer is no longer obligated to repair or replace the product.

Warranties usually have exceptions that limit the conditions for repairs or replacements. For example, many warranties for household items only cover the product for up to one year from purchase and only if the product has problems due to defective parts or workmanship.

To provide additional coverage beyond limited warranties, many vendors offer extended warranties that function as insurance policies. Home warranties can also provide discounted repair and replacement services for household appliances and systems.

Special Considerations:

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975 sets standards and rules for consumer product warranties, protecting consumers from fraud and misrepresentations. The act requires full and clear disclosure of warranty terms and conditions, prohibits deceptive practices, and guarantees a remedy if the product fails to perform as designed.

Types of Warranties:

There are two general types of warranties: expressed and implied.

Express Warranty:

An express warranty is a guarantee from a seller or manufacturer that the purchased product will perform according to certain specifications. The warranty can be expressed in writing or verbally in advertising or on the product itself. However, not all expressed guarantees are warranties. Statements made for advertising purposes, known as puffery, do not guarantee specific outcomes.

Implied Warranty:

An implied warranty, also known as an implied warranty of merchantability, is a guarantee that the product functions as designed. It is implied unless explicitly excluded in "as is" sales. Implied warranties also apply when sellers sell products fit for specific purposes and make related statements.

Warranty Sub-Types:

Extended warranties are available for products like cars, electronics, and appliances, providing additional coverage beyond the manufacturer’s warranty. Special warranty deeds transfer property ownership from one person to another, assuring the buyer that the title is free of encumbrances.

Denied Warranty Claims:

Warranties do not always cover altered products or damages caused by owner actions. Modifications to a product can nullify warranty coverage, as can damages caused by the owner rather than a fault in design or manufacturing.

Warranty vs. Guarantee:

Warranty and guarantee are often used interchangeably but have subtle differences. A warranty is a guarantee that a remedy is available if a product fails to meet specifications, while a guarantee is a promise that a product will work as described or meet specific quality standards. Manufacturers include the warranty price in the product’s price, while guarantees are offered at no additional cost.

Resolving Warranty Disputes:

To resolve warranty issues, consumers should read and understand the warranty and contact the seller or manufacturer for assistance. They can also report issues to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or file a lawsuit seeking reimbursement for damages. Sellers must provide written warranties for products costing more than $15 before sale.

Warranty Tips:

Consumers can minimize warranty issues by reading and keeping a copy of the warranty, purchasing from reliable companies known for their warranties and customer service, and using products as intended with proper maintenance.

How Does a Warranty Work?

A warranty is a guarantee that a product will meet certain specifications, and the buyer can request repairs or replacements if it doesn’t. The terms and conditions of the warranty depend on the type of warranty.

What Does Having a Warranty Mean?

Having a warranty means that a manufacturer or seller will replace or repair an item under specific conditions listed in the warranty document.

What Are the 3 Types of Warranties?

There are two types of warranties: express and implied. Each type has sub-types for different products and circumstances.

What Is an Example of a Warranty?

An example of a warranty is a document included with a new television that explains what the manufacturer will do if specific issues occur within a certain time frame.

The Bottom Line:

A warranty is a guarantee from a manufacturer or seller that defective products will be repaired or replaced. The terms, conditions, and exclusions are outlined in the warranty document. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and the FTC’s Uniform Commercial Code provide rules on consumer product warranties. Consumers can contact the seller, manufacturer, or FTC to resolve warranty issues and may file a lawsuit if necessary.