Bill 29: video game consoles have a 3-year warranty

In short

Length: 3 years from delivery.
Home or handheld console.
Controllers, cables and headsets: the law excludes accessories not provided for by regulation.
Games aren't covered by this warranty.

Calculate your warranty end date

Your answer shows up here.

Enter the delivery date.

The rule

The video game console is named in s. 38.1. The regulation sets its warranty at 3 years, starting at delivery.

Examples of covered breakdowns

The console no longer starts, or shuts down from overheating for no reason (fan).
The disc drive no longer reads.
An HDMI or USB port stops working.

What isn't covered

Accessories not provided for by regulation (s. 38.3). A controller, a cable or a headset could be considered accessories.
Damage caused by a fall or a liquid.
Games and online subscriptions.

Faulty controller? Even if it's considered an accessory, the general warranties of sections 37 and 38 apply: an item must be fit for its intended use for a reasonable time.

It broke: the steps

Gather your proof: the receipt and proof of the delivery date (email, delivery slip). Take a photo or video of the problem.
Choose who to contact: the merchant, the manufacturer, or both. Neither one can send you to the other.
Make your request in writing and keep a copy. Our free letter generator cites the right sections.
If they refuse: see what to do when the store refuses.

Frequently asked questions

I bought the console online from a Quebec store. When does the warranty start?

At delivery, so the day you receive the package (s. 38.4). Keep the delivery confirmation email.

The manufacturer wants me to pay to ship the console. Is that right?

No. Reasonable shipping costs related to a covered repair are paid by the merchant or the manufacturer (s. 38.5).

Video game console: 3-year warranty with Bill 29