I find the opposite to be true and I work part time for the dealer but in a different capacity, I don't work on saws, I deliver tractors for him so I cannot comment on that except to say that I've never seen them turn away any warranty work on any Echo power tools.
I will say that Echo has some very steadfast rules regarding what is warranted and what isn't and the very first thing that has to happen is the fuel has to be drained and inspected and if it's been straight gassed, no warranty. I know that. far as the rest goes, I'm not involved in it.
I do know that Echo uses a flat rate manual for repairs, warranty or otherwise so if the tech exceeds the flat rate time, it's on them, not Echo, but everyone is like that, not just them.
I don't have warranty issues simply because I don't do stupid things like straight gas them or drop them from up high or use them as wedges among other abusive stuff.
To me, it's a tool and I treat all tools with respect and follow the guidelines published in the owners manuals.
Just bought an Echo straight shaft scratcher-brushcutter the other day with handlebars and so far, I like it just fine. It replaced the ancient Stihl FS66 I've owned for decades.
Bought it from the dealer I work for and got it at dealer cost. Being an employee has distinct advantages and it fits my Stihl tri cut head as well.