MADISON, Wis. -- If you're in the market for a new appliance like a refrigerator or washing machine, you may be getting more features than your old one had. But Consumer Reports says you're getting less of something else.

Major manufacturers such as Maytag, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire are cutting back on their warranties. The new, shorter warranties will cover parts and service for only one year.

Up until now, expensive parts like refrigerator compressors, and washing machine tubs, were usually covered for anywhere from five to 25 years. But now, if they break, Celia Kuperszmid Lehrman of Consumer Reports says you'll have to pay for it yourself.

"In addition to paying for the part, you'll also have to pay for the service call, and that can add up to hundreds of dollars," says Kuperszmid Lehrman.

Some brands, like Jenn-Air and Kitchenaid, still offer longer warranties on parts, but these premium appliances will cost you more. So what can you do if something breaks and the warranty has expired?

"It pays to complain to the manufacturer," says Kuperszmid Lehrman. "Because according to our surveys, sometimes they will fix it even if it's not under warranty."

And Consumer Reports says when you're shopping for a new appliance, check with your credit-card company to see if it will extend the warranty on your purchase when you use its card.

Since warranties are giving you less protection, you'll want to be even more careful with your appliance choices. Consumer Reports can help with refrigerators with its free online shopping guide.