Extended Warranty program?

[SParker]

I know DISH has a extended warranty plan where you pay $1.99 a month and it cover out of warranty stuff. Does Directv have a plan like this as well? Why I ask is because I am considering switching to DTV when the HDTivo comes out.

[boba]

Yes Directv has an extended warranty but I believe it is $5-6/Mo. a little too expensive for me to consider.

[paulh]

D* charges a littel more for advanced products:
http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/packages/protection_plan.dsp

The DIRECTV PROTECTION PLAN gives you the ultimate in professional technical services for your DIRECTV® System, including:

Coverage of components and wiring - from your satellite dish to your receivers
Power surge related repairs
Dish antenna realignments
Replacement of defective remotes

ALL FOR JUST $5.99 a month for standard DIRECTV Receivers and only $7.99 a month for the DIRECTV® DVR, DIRECTV HD Receiver, or DIRECTV Receiver with UltimateTV Service.

[SParker]

Ouch that is a little pricey. So you would probably want to wait till it is about to go out of regular warranty before signing up right?

[paulh]

Of course, all warranties only exist (just like insurance) to make the seller money. On average, the warranty buyer will pay out more than they'd ever receive in actual repairs. Some people place a greater price on the so-called "piece of mind", though.
Personally, as a former PC repair tech, I highly recommend extended laptop warranties as they have rather expensive components, but usually extended desktop warranties are a rip-off because component prices keep dropping.

The HD Tivo, though will initially be somewhat pricy (not that I know about any planned price drops, but SD Tivo's are now much less than initial offering..), so it may be a good idea. (warranting a $99 SD Tivo would not seem to be as wise)
The aditional advantage of D*'s warranty would be the wiring and dish warranty, but should be OK with a new install. Also D* may be more quick to send out a replacement than a manufacturer, but I'm not sure. If receiving the HD programming on that one receiver is essential, then I'd probably get D*'s warranty, otherwise wait for the manufacturers warranty to end.