Basically it's a gamble not sending it in. It could work out great; you fish hard and use the reel for 5 years and spend nothing in maintenance, and when you eventually send it in it only costs you maybe $100. Cheaper then $36.95 every year. DZ's VS went a decade or so before needing anything. But he took a pretty good hit when it finally went in. It still worked out in his favor. Or in year 2 you could have some bad luck, need a bunch of parts, and get screwed.
If it's leaking, send it in. If it's making noise, send it in. If it's healthy it could go years without issue. Just weigh it all out and go with what works for you. If you've got bad luck you might want to send it in.
