I've had great experience with Apple support and repair. However, when I purchased a new laptop recently I made sure I had Applecare.

Another option (if you live near an Apple store) is to get an [link|http://www.apple.com/retail/procare/|Apple ProCare] card. It's sort of "AppleCare Lite" but it gets you priority support and services at your local Apple store. I think it's US$99/year.