My Inbox is full of emails from viewers.  In a blog a few days ago, I reported that Consumer Reports magazine is urging shoppers to "just say NO" to service plans and extended warranties this holiday season.  Their research says most buyers never end up using them.

But Kevin from Sun Valley has a different point of view:

Portable electronics, especially those with moving parts are prone to breaking, even with gentle handling. I was on vacation and had my portable DVD player. It quit, I took it to Best Buy and they swapped it right out. I didn't even have my receipt!

And Wade, from Upland, writes in with 30 years of experience working at a dealership as a service manager.  He recommends service plans for cars and trucks:

Having the service contract takes the concern away. Regarding service contracts (they are not extended warranties), I only recommend those backed by the factory which made that brand of car. Not the aftermarket contracts many dealers sell.

However, Rose Marie from Pomona had bad luck with the service plan she purchased for her car.  She writes:

When I bought my 2003 Chevy I also bought the extended warranty. What a waste of money now that I think about it. My car had problems at 62,000 miles and the extended warranty only covered to 60,000 miles. Just my luck ha. Thanks for keeping us informed.

I am always informed by what I learn from you, the viewers.  Keep your opinions rolling in...