2 months, maybe 1000 exposures
not really. Use the LCD cover, it will scratch but that's the point ...
But beware the lemons. It's more like a computer than a camera, unpredictable problems can happen any time. Mine is at Nikon service now because the mirror started sticking without provocation. Before that I once had a random malfunction of the LCD screen that lasted just a few exposures. I ignored it. But later, the sticking mirror was there to stay.
probably becomes obsolete before it breaks, I mean physically breaks. It seems physically solid, gives a good feel. But see above.
Be sure you get your warranty card filled out and have good dealer contact. I'm not being cynical. The technology and manufacturing are not quite mature yet. Still not. The same likely holds for other consumer DSLRs. Statistically, warranty cases may be in the lower % ranges. But it's a far cry from six sigma ;-).
You're a bit of a beta tester of Nikon's first "low cost" (haha) mass market DSLR with its new factory in Thailand and a few random cost savings moves which may or may not have been a good idea. Most of your $1000 goes to amortize the enormous past R&D to make this camera even happen in the first place, and the new manufacturing plants, NOT into actual cost of goods sold.
As long as you accept this reality you'll be fine.
MBK
