Repair Electronics or Buy New ? Consider 3 Things - AARP

Lehrman likes the 50-percent rule: If the repair will cost you more than half of the price to replace it, don't repair. Consumer surveys show that some products are tougher and more frustrating to repair, such as built-in fridges, gas cooktops and home theater systems, she says. Dryers, electric cooktops and digital cameras are easier, which may mean a less-expensive fix.

Weigh your options by getting an estimate from an authorized repair person or other qualified professional, but do a little cost-free troubleshooting on your own first. Check the back of your owner's manual (if you can find it) or search for your problem online at websites such as repairclinic.com or howstuffworks.com.

Warranty: Could the costs of your repair be covered? If it's more than a year old, then it may not be. But it's worth contacting a customer service rep to find out. Also, if you purchased the item with a major credit card, check to see if your benefits include extended warranty coverage. But don't go out of your way to buy extra coverage. "For appliances, extended warranties really don't deliver," Lehrman says. According to Consumer Reports surveys, items rarely break down during the coverage period. "Find a reliable brand, and you won't need to spend the money on a warranty." The same is true for electronic purchases, Otte says. "A manufacturer warranty always comes with a product, and they will repair it at no cost." However, know that if you crack the screen on your iPad, Apple's limited warranty excludes such coverage. For hardware repairs that are past warranty, an "out-of-warranty" service can be purchased for between $219 and $249, more than half the cost of a new one.

Age: In some instances, your outdated appliance is costing you on your utility bills. "There are benefits to buying modern appliances," Lehrman says. "Consider today's more energy-efficient, water-efficient dishwashers and washing machines." So, even if the repair is cheaper than buying new, could a new purchase save you money elsewhere in your budget? On the electronic side, parts may be scarce for older devices. "Usually, the older the device, say 6 to 7 years, the tougher it is to find a motherboard for it," Otte says.

Last, exhaust all options. If you aren't satisfied with the manufacturer's response to your repair problem, take it to social media. "Don't get mad, get social," Lehrman says. Post your complaints on the company's Twitter and Facebook pages to see if you can get the attention you need.

And should you choose to buy new, try selling your broken item on eBay. Who knows: According to Otte, folks may wish to buy the parts that are working.

Stacy Julien is a writer and editor for AARP Media.

Source: http://www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-04-2013/buy-new-or-repair-electronics.html

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