MasterCard doubles the manufacturer or retailer's warranty for up to one year when you pay with an eligible card, says Schenck.

Visa Signature cardholders also get the same extended-warranty period on eligible warranties of three years or less. The product must be purchased entirely by the Visa Signature card. Certain items don't qualify, such as boats, cars, aircraft, real estate or used or pre-owned items.

Sahni says all Capital One cards come with extended warranty coverage, which offers additional warranty protection at no charge on items purchased with the card.

Chase Sapphire doubles the free repair period under the manufacturer's warranty for up to one extra year on warranties of three years or less.

American Express cardholders receive an extended warranty on the manufacturer's warranty of up to one extra year on warranties of five years or less for purchases made on the card.

Discover cards don't come with extended warranty benefits, but cardholders can purchase an extended warranty plan through the issuer's partnership with SquareTrade. The plan is available to all consumers -- there is no requirement to own a Discover card.