Martin Lewis issues 'don't let them' warning to all shoppers

The Money Saving Expert has shared a 'good idea' with his many followers

Money Saving Expert has reissued a "don't let them" warning from its creator Martin Lewis. The financial guru continues to urge people not to let themselves be "fobbed off", especially in the run-up to Christmas.

In a new post on X on Monday, MSE quoted Mr Lewis saying: "Faulty tech? Don't let 'em fob you off with 'sorry, you're out of warranty". The update continues: "As we enter the seasonal shopping period, it's a good idea to remind yourself of your consumer rights".

An accompanying article, linked within the post, explains further, as Mr Lewis said: "I'm hearing this more and more, whether it's an iPhone, a Samsung or a laptop. People take it back to the store and they go: 'No, you've only got a year's warranty.'"

He clarified that a warranty is "a voluntary service agreement that a shop or a manufacturer chooses to give you over a product", but consumers also have legal rights, including that goods must be satisfactory as described, fit for purpose, and last a reasonable amount of time. Mr Lewis emphasised the importance of the last point, adding: "So, what is a reasonable length of time?

"Well, if I bought a £0.50p whistle and it broke after six months. Well, that's probably reasonable. However, if I bought a £1,400 phone and it stopped working after 14 months, I wouldn't say that was reasonable."

"Ultimately, only the court decides. But it's crucial for you to understand: warranty schmarranty."

Customers are advised that their warranty is "pretty irrelevant when it comes to the law", and should instead "look at what's reasonable" if they encounter faults. The full MSE article can be read here