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rozwell

macrumors regular
Original poster
Apr 17, 2004
242
1
I ordered a refurbished iMac 2 days ago (got it this morning) turned it on and it appears to have a bad video card. Called tech support and they tell me the same thing and to take it in to a local store.

After digging on Apple's site I see a DOA statement saying they need to check it out before replacing it (in person or via mail). I then contacted executive customer service since I wasn't given the option to do an RMA the first two times and they told me it may be several days. potentially a week before its mailed back, checked and then either repaired or a new refurb is sent out and since stores don't stock refurbs it NEEDS to be sent in in order to be replaced.

Has this happened to anyone? Should I get another refurb and be treated like a 2nd rate Apple owner for the life of the machine? The situation seems a little ridiculous or maybe I am just frustrated, but a dead machine sent to me, now becoming my headache seems a little crappy.

Its time like these I wish Apple had the same policy as Amazon (send defective item back within 30 days, new item sent immediately).
 

jroller

macrumors regular
Jul 24, 2008
128
0
Charleston, SC
Sorry to hear that... I have always been a big fan of the refurbs. I have bought them and recommended them with regularity. Your situation is ridiculous, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy another refurb.

I've purchased over 30 macs in the last eight years, many refurbs. The only real lemon I ever bought was my daughter's (new, not refurbed) iMac that she got one Christmas. I should have pushed for a replacement for her, but never did. Lesson learned.
 

rozwell

macrumors regular
Original poster
Apr 17, 2004
242
1
So I came home tonight and being so desperate I tried it again. I kid you not, it started up, allowed me to transfer my files from an old machine and I am not writing this post on it. Its by far the most bizarre experience especially since I called local Apple Certified repair places and executive customer service. Lets hope it holds out!
 

mastershakess

macrumors 6502
May 14, 2008
498
3
Bel Air, MD
May still want to have it checked out, something may be loose from shipping.
If I were you I would ask to have the apple store take a look at it for you.

Best of luck!
 

zackkmac

macrumors 6502a
Jul 7, 2008
879
129
Denver
I ordered a refurb 24", got a DOA and had a replacement the day after I sent my old one with FedEx. So it shouldn't take long at all if you have to exchange it.
 
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