ASURION Sporting Goods Plan Review: Mixed Verdict
Opening with a surprising twist from user experiences, the ASURION Sporting Goods Protection Plan earns a 7.9/10 from cross-platform feedback. While many customers praised its fast claim approvals and full reimbursements, others uncovered frustrating coverage gaps and confusing claim procedures—especially when manufacturer warranties overlap. Digging deeper reveals a product that can deliver exceptional peace of mind for certain buyers, but demands careful reading of terms to avoid disappointment.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast, often same-day claim approvals and reimbursements | Coverage gaps during manufacturer warranty period |
| Full purchase price refunds via e-gift cards | Some claims denied due to exclusions like frame damage |
| Easy online claim process | Confusing communication and repeated documentation requests |
| No deductibles for covered sporting goods | Replacement items may differ in model or quality |
| Transferable coverage for gifts/resales | Aggressive upselling during support calls |
| Covers drops, spills, and wear-and-tear | Inconsistent customer service experiences |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing emphasizes “no additional cost repairs” and coverage for drops, spills, cracked screens, and mechanical failures. While these promises hold for many, the reality can shift depending on timing and product category.
On Amazon, one verified buyer explained: “Our hoverboard broke down after 1 1/2 years… within 24 hours we were issued a full refund… very impressed.” This matches the claim of quick resolution. However, another buyer of a Reebok treadmill discovered that “asurion will not do anything to remedy your problem until the 3rd year… totally useless and a waste of money” due to the manufacturer’s active warranty.
The “easy claims process” also sees mixed outcomes. Reddit user u/Verizon*** shared a smooth 20-minute phone claim for a shattered iPhone back, with next-day replacement and “battery capacity still 100%.” In contrast, a Trustpilot review detailed being “denied my claim… every day was the same cycle… until it was time to renew my monthly membership,” highlighting procedural obstacles.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Trustpilot, and ConsumerAffairs, speed is the standout. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “Filed the claim… had a full credit put on my Amazon account… everything was super simple and it only took 10 minutes.” For busy parents replacing damaged camping gear or sporting equipment, this immediacy is a major benefit. Tabitha on Trustpilot recounted how Asurion “processed a full refund… even with manufacturer’s warranty still valid” after her grandson’s electric car failed, a rare case where coverage exceeded expectations.
The breadth of coverage—drops, mechanical breakdown, wear-and-tear—earns praise particularly from outdoor enthusiasts. A reviewer wrote: “No hassle, no bs… submitted a claim, got a refund same day… highly recommend,” underscoring the plan’s value for high-risk, high-use gear like kayaks and hoverboards.
Common Complaints
Coverage limitations during manufacturer warranty periods frustrate many. Sporting goods users often discover only surge protection applies until the manufacturer’s term ends. One treadmill owner bluntly called it “useless” for the first two years. Electric bike owners reported denials for frame damage (“they say it’s not covered”) and battery failures that languished for months without resolution.
Customer service inconsistency is another pain point. Lynette on ConsumerAffairs described needing “several hours to get the claim processed… follow up on every step to push it through.” Others faced aggressive upselling during calls—Reddit user u/Verizon*** noted sales pitches “a bit sneaky… they push once more” before processing claims.
Divisive Features
The reimbursement method—Amazon e-gift cards—splits opinion. Quick credit appeals to frequent Amazon shoppers, but some prefer cash refunds. One treadmill owner said, “surprised that the refund went back onto our Amazon account… only downside.” Replacement product quality also divides users: while some receive “looked absolutely new” devices, others complain of refurbished items with differing specs.
Trust & Reliability
Scam concerns surface mainly in cases of denied claims or perceived runarounds. A Reddit thread warned, “been paying for a scam” after repeated label errors and broken claim links. Trustpilot hosts similar stories, like a buyer trying to fix a cracked phone screen only to be told service was “unavailable” despite paying monthly fees.
Yet long-term users report consistent reliability. One ConsumerAffairs member noted, “I’ve been with Asurion for thirteen plus years… they have replaced phones, sent technicians… they are the best.” This longevity suggests the plan can be dependable for those who understand its limits and use it within covered scenarios.
Alternatives
The only in-data alternative is AppleCare+, mentioned by Reddit users. AppleCare+ offers direct manufacturer repairs but can cost more, especially for accidental damage. Some buyers compare Asurion favorably in price and breadth—covering varied sporting goods beyond electronics—while others prefer manufacturer-backed service for guaranteed part quality.
Price & Value
Prices vary by coverage tier, with sporting goods plans often around $18–$37 depending on product value. eBay listings confirm “no deductibles… coverage begins after manufacturer’s warranty expires” for most categories. Value peaks when claims are filed post-warranty for high-ticket items—full refunds offset the plan cost many times over.
Community advice stresses reading terms carefully. As one Amazon reviewer put it: “Each product is different… need to read the contract… if not satisfied you can cancel within 30 days.” Frequent Amazon shoppers may find the e-gift card refund model especially convenient.
FAQ
Q: Does coverage start immediately?
A: Yes, but most categories only cover certain events (like power surges) until the manufacturer’s warranty expires. Full coverage for mechanical failures typically begins after that.
Q: How are reimbursements issued?
A: Most users report receiving Amazon e-gift cards for the purchase price, often within minutes or hours of claim approval.
Q: Are replacements new or refurbished?
A: Both. Some users receive “looked absolutely new” items, while others get refurbished products with minor differences from the original.
Q: Can I transfer the plan if I gift or sell the item?
A: Yes, plans are transferable, which adds value for resale or gifting.
Q: What’s excluded from coverage?
A: Loss, theft, intentional damage, cosmetic wear like scratches, and certain structural issues (e.g., bent frames) are common exclusions.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re an active Amazon shopper protecting high-value sporting goods and willing to navigate coverage timelines. Avoid if you expect manufacturer-style repairs during the warranty period or need cash refunds. Pro tip from community: File claims online for fastest resolution and keep all receipts—several users resolved complex cases by referencing original purchase documentation.
