I just read an article from HDGURU (http://hdguru.com/your-new-disposable-flat-panel-hdtv/107/), that I think this is an extremely urgent eye opener for those consider buying a new flat panel.

Since it's copyrighted, here are some teaser extracts:
A representative informed him that its HDTVs carry a one-year on-site warranty. Fine. But what about parts and service for out of warranty service? Incredibly, the customer service rep replied “there are no out of warranty repairs available, you are basically on you own,” adding that Polaroid does not offer any out of warranty support (including parts), at its US headquarters or through independent TV repair shops.

With no parts and no authorized “out of warranty service available”, what you basically get when you buy a Polaroid is a disposable HDTV— think paper towel. When the warranty expires, if the set breaks, it’s ready for the town dump.

...bringing the total cost of an out of warranty repair cost a staggering $1079. The current cost of a new Visio 42” LCD at Circuit City is $1099. Think of it, twenty bucks more and you get a brand new disposable TV with a new one-year warranty. What a deal!


In a nutshell, the lower prices of tier 2 and tier 3 sets just doesn't seem worth it while top tier manufactures work hard to ensure repeat business.
Stay away from store brands and off label sets!

This is from 2007, although valid:

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=67455&highlight=disposable+HDTV

I know the original article is 2 years old but going to Vizio's website shows that they do support their products.

http://www.vizio.com/support/

During the one-year limited warranty period, VIZIO will provide, when needed, service labor to repair a manufacturing defect. Repairs required on displays which are thirty (30) inches and larger will generally, but not always, be made "on-site" where the display is installed. However, the decision to perform an on-site repair is dependent upon the manufacturing defect and is at VIZIO's option and sole discretion. Repairs required on displays which are less than thirty (30) inches generally will be performed at a VIZIO service center.

VIZIO offers these supplier parts contact information for your convenience. in the event service is needed on your VIZIO product (after the warranty period) and a replacement part is required, please contact one of the following VIZIO authorized spare parts distributor with the required part number.