I’d like a place where warranties aren’t a factor when discussing BIFL items. I know that some feel otherwise but for me the appeal of BIFL is NOT frugality (though it often overlaps) but rather in owning high quality, long lasting, repairable items. It also has an aspect of sustainability as I hope to only buy one of something and not have to consume multiples of the same thing when I replace them with a warranty. Also worth noting is that warranties are only good as long as the company issuing them still exists and honors them but high quality things will continue to work.
Anyway, excited to see this community here but I’d like a rule against warranties being considered when assessing if something is BIFL.
I think it depends to some on the nature of the warranty program. A lot of warranties are limited in scope (e.g., only on defects in worksmanship) and some companies just replace the item, especially if it is low-cost. However, other warranties are more comprehensive and the companies are actually repairing items to keep them in service. This contributes to the BIFL-ness of a product especially if it means that there will be parts or (paid) repair service available even after the warranty period is up or if you’re buying it second hand.