Asurion Auto Accessories Plan Review: Worth the Cost?
A Reddit bombshell revealed that a major mobile carrier’s Asurion plan charged a Samsung Fold owner $800 for a full phone replacement instead of repairing a minor defect—despite advertising “repair rates” for covered devices. This abrupt policy twist cost the customer hundreds in wasted premiums and became part of a larger conversation about how the ASURION Auto Accessories Protection Plan actually performs once you need it. Across thousands of Amazon, Reddit, Trustpilot, and ConsumerAffairs reports, the verdict: 7.9/10—strong coverage and speed, but recurrent frustrations over deductibles, refurbished replacements, and repair scope limitations.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Excellent for users needing fast replacements and accident coverage, but disappointing for those expecting repairs or new-device swaps.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Replacement devices often shipped within 24–48 hours | High deductibles relative to repair costs |
| Simple online claim process for most users | Refurbished phones common, sometimes with defects |
| Covers drops, spills, mechanical/electrical failures | Limited repair options; some devices replaced only |
| No deductibles for certain portable tech repairs | Strict policy clauses can deny claims |
| 24/7 tech support availability | Confusion over coverage details and claim documentation |
| Works with multiple retailers and carriers | Occasional delays or miscommunication during claims |
Claims vs Reality
One of Asurion’s headline promises is “no deductibles or added costs” for parts, labor, and shipping on portable products, with accidental damage covered from day one. Amazon marketing also emphasizes that claims can be filed “anytime” without a waiting period, and repair or reimbursement will be offered if the product can’t be fixed.
Digging deeper into user reports, these claims generally hold for straightforward accidents. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “I use them as much as possible… basic questions asked online, return the goods and the checks were on the way.” For small electronics, the promise of quick coverage matches experience.
However, when specialized devices or less common repairs are involved, the gap widens. Reddit user solitaire0199 warned: “They do not cover any repairs to fold/flip devices from Samsung… only option is an $800 phone replacement.” This flies in the face of the perceived “repair where possible” policy and highlights a significant caveat for certain categories.
Another official claim—“fast and easy claims process”—is widely corroborated for replacements, but not for repairs. Trustpilot reviewers frequently mention overnight shipments of phones like “had my new phone at my doorstep in less than 24 hours,” while others criticize the repair pathway as disorganized, with one Amazon reviewer stating, “You have a protection plan that doesn’t state what it’s protecting… I can just imagine the hassle if I ever have a claim.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Speed of replacement is arguably Asurion’s biggest selling point. Thousands of Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs reviews recount stories of claims filed one day and devices arriving the next. A verified Amazon buyer summed it up: “Hope to never file claim. Helps taking chance on product easier.” For parents and busy professionals, that turnaround prevents massive disruption.
This rapid service is life-saving for critical work tools. A Trustpilot reviewer wrote: “My family was in a car accident… I submitted a claim and they had a representative deliver the phones the same day.” For mobile-dependent workers, such as Realtors or remote professionals, real-time tech support is equally critical. Many praised polite, knowledgeable staff guiding setup and troubleshooting—“The representative… was very polite and helpful, the issue was addressed immediately,” according to Twitter user Chun.
Coverage breadth also earns respect. Beyond accidental drops, users celebrate protection for mechanical breakdowns after manufacturer warranties expire. This reassures buyers of auto accessories like dash cams, who know mechanical faults months later will still be addressed.
Common Complaints
Deductible shock is a recurring grievance. Many users felt repair deductibles were too close to local shop prices, negating value. One Trustpilot reviewer asked, “Why will I take insurance… if [repair cost] is only $10 or $20 less?” Some even discovered repair options removed from their claim flow, forcing a pricier replacement path.
Refurbished replacement quality is another sore point. Reports include weak battery life, physical wear, and malfunctioning parts. A ConsumerAffairs reviewer lamented, “The refurbished product… looked used… I am dissatisfied and disgusted.” This especially frustrates customers who expect “like-new” standards after paying premiums.
Strict policy adherence occasionally leads to denied claims when documentation or device settings aren’t perfectly aligned. Multiple accounts cite repeated calls and emails about disabling “Find My iPhone,” even after doing so. One Trustpilot user said, “We did our part… what else can we do? Frustrated!”
Divisive Features
Refurbished device swaps split opinions. While some appreciate upgraded models when originals aren’t in stock (“Was supposed to get my iPhone 7 replaced, got an iPhone 8 at no charge”), others resent receiving non-new replacements, especially after paying high deductibles.
Similarly, the Amazon e-gift card reimbursement system wins praise for speed (“Gift card… happened almost instantly”) but can be limiting if the replacement must be bought outside Amazon, as eBay shopper feedback on Assurant plans highlighted: “You are stuck with the value on an Amazon gift card… have to pay out-of-pocket if buying elsewhere.”
Trust & Reliability
Long-term customers often speak of consistent service—several say they’ve kept Asurion coverage for years with repeat positive outcomes. “You guys have never failed to respond,” wrote one Trustpilot reviewer. The brand’s scale, protecting “300 million worldwide,” lends an air of credibility.
Yet trust can erode through repeated negative experiences. Some note delayed refunds or feeling misled about deductibles at sale, and others recount multiple faulty replacements before receiving a working unit. Reddit posts like solitaire0199’s expose hidden policy exclusions that damage transparency. The consensus: reliability is strong for common cases but risky for edge scenarios.
Alternatives
Within the data, Assurant protection plans on eBay are mentioned as a competitor for specialized coverage of automotive parts. While both cover mechanical/electrical failures, Assurant’s auto parts plan offers repair or reimbursement up to $5,000 and can work for used parts—a niche Asurion’s auto accessories plan doesn’t always directly address. For consumer electronics, AppleCare+ or manufacturer extended warranties may provide more direct repair channels, though often at higher upfront cost and more limited accidental damage scope.
Price & Value
Amazon listings show the plan’s cost scaling with item price (e.g., $6.18 for $100–$124.99 items). Many customers see value in avoiding a full replacement bill, especially on costly smartphones or specialty gear. However, reviews highlight that for mid-tier items, local repair costs can be close to or even below Asurion’s deductible. Community buying tips suggest checking the manufacturer warranty term first; pairing a longer manufacturer coverage with Asurion’s post-warranty protection can maximize value.
FAQ
Q: Does Asurion cover repairs on all devices?
A: No. Certain devices, like Samsung Fold/Flip models, may be excluded from repairs, offering only full replacements instead.
Q: How fast can I expect a replacement device?
A: Many report receiving replacements within 24–48 hours of claim approval, often with clear return instructions.
Q: Are replacements always new devices?
A: Not always. Refurbished units are common, though some users receive upgraded models when originals aren’t available.
Q: Can I get reimbursed in cash instead of an Amazon gift card?
A: For Amazon-sold items, reimbursement is typically via Amazon e-gift card, which may limit purchase flexibility.
Q: What happens if I don’t disable “Find My iPhone” before returning?
A: You may be charged a fee (up to $500) and your claim completion delayed until the lock is removed.
Final Verdict
Buy if you value speedy replacement coverage for accidents and breakdowns and are comfortable with possible refurbished devices. Avoid if you expect guaranteed repairs, brand-new replacements, or low deductibles for minor fixes. Pro tip from community: Read the policy fine print for your specific device type before paying into the plan—especially for foldables or specialty gear—to avoid costly surprises.
