The defect is in the seat which probably had steel bolts which corroded and created pressure which cracked the bowl. You well have to buy a new toilet, and even if A/S had a liablility, which they dont, any costs would be far in excess of the price for a new unit. And since the new one will be a 1.6 gpf model, check with your water company to see if they give a rebate for retrofitting the new toilet into your residence.: I have an American Standard toilet which is about 12 years old. It cracked today where the seat attaches to the bowl. Does anyone know if there is a defect with these toilets or if I can otherwise go after American Standard because of the crack? I didnt think Id need to replace the toilet this soon!!