The packaging or manual often states a service life—for example, two years. Many people assume that this is exactly how long the device will last. In reality, that is not the case at all. Service life and warranty are different concepts, and they should not be confused.

What service life means

Under consumer protection law, the service life is the period during which the manufacturer must ensure that the product can be used for its intended purpose and, in certain cases, is responsible for significant defects.

It says almost nothing about the actual lifespan of the gadget. Most smartphones, laptops, and other devices are designed to last much longer. The main changes after this period ends are:

  • the manufacturer is no longer obliged to supply original spare parts;
  • authorised service centres may refuse repairs if original parts are no longer available;
  • the model is often dropped from support.

For certain goods that may become hazardous over time, a service life must be set. In other cases, it is up to the manufacturer. If no service life is specified, the obligation to provide repairs and spare parts lasts for ten years.

What the warranty period means

A warranty is a period during which, if a defect is found, the buyer can demand repair, replacement, a price reduction, or a refund. The specific options depend on the product, the time of the claim, and the nature of the defect.

The warranty is set by the manufacturer, and if it is not, by the seller. During this period, it is the seller or another responsible party that must prove that the failure was caused by improper use rather than a manufacturing defect. If they cannot, they are obliged to remedy the defect.

What happens after the warranty expires

The buyer's rights do not disappear entirely, but proving the origin of a defect becomes more difficult.

If the warranty has expired but less than two years have passed since the date of purchase, claims can still be made—it is simply necessary to prove that the defect was a manufacturing one.

If more than two years have passed but the service life is still in effect, for a significant defect, the buyer can approach the manufacturer, importer, or authorised representative and demand free repair. If no service life has been set, such a period is ten years by law.

A significant defect is not just any fault. It usually refers to an irreparable defect, a problem requiring disproportionate costs or repair time, or a defect that recurs. Battery wear or damage from drops is not considered significant in itself.

What to do if a fault occurs

The relevant periods are usually specified in the manual, product passport, warranty card, or electronic documentation. Keep your receipt, serial number, and correspondence with the seller—this greatly simplifies communication.

  1. Check the date of purchase, warranty period, and service life.
  2. Describe the defect: when it appeared, how it manifests, and whether it recurred after repair.
  3. Determine whom to contact: during the warranty period, usually the seller; later, the manufacturer or importer.
  4. Submit your claim in writing and keep proof of submission.
  5. Remember who bears the burden of proof: during the warranty period, it is the seller; afterwards, in most cases, it is the buyer.

Smartphones and laptops are classified as technically complex goods. They cannot simply be returned if you "don't like them," even if the device has not been used.

In brief

A warranty is a period during which, if a manufacturing defect is found, the device must be repaired or replaced free of charge, and the seller must prove the cause of the fault. Service life is different: it determines how long the manufacturer must support the product with spare parts and servicing. The expiry of the service life does not mean the gadget will break immediately, but it may make repairs more difficult. Even after the warranty period, in certain cases, rights to remedy significant defects remain.