Returning custom computer from Online Store

[zip]

Okay, I went to get my computer tonight and they didn't have one in stock. Go figure.

I'm thinking about just getting a powerbook from the online store and upgrading the hard drive. I've looked at the Refund & Return Policy and it states:

"Please note that Apple does not permit the return of or offer refunds for the following products:

1. Product that is custom configured to your specifications "

Are they talking about not returning a computer because the customer realized he ordered the wrong specs? Or does it also mean if there are minor things wrong with the computer such as two or three dead pixels, sensitive trackpad, wobbling, etc, that the computer can't be returned? The computer isn't DOA, but I consider these annoying things and after all that $$$ want a perfect computer.

I would think Apple Care would cover such things, but I want to be sure.

 

[Mudbug]

your warranty still covers you from manf. defects the same on a custom machine as they do with an off-the-shelf variety. Problems (if they exist) will be addressed and fixed, but you can't order a custom machine, then turn around and say "nah, I just don't really want it."

 

[maclamb]

they are talking about any build to order BTO

 

[virividox]

you have to have good reason to return it, you cant just say, oh i dont really need a 80 gb drive give me the one with a 60. But if theres a bonifide problem then they will accept it and repair or replace it.

 

[Chip NoVaMac]

Originally posted by virividox
you have to have good reason to return it, you cant just say, oh i dont really need a 80 gb drive give me the one with a 60. But if theres a bonifide problem then they will accept it and repair or replace it.

From the stories I heard, they will repair it. They will only replace it if the repairs out strips what they feel the "value' of the product is.

 

[jesuisme]

Let me relate the experience I had with my PB:

I ordered a custom PB configuration online. When I got it, it had a stuck pixel. So I called Apple to try and get it fixed/replaced. The tech support guys gave me the "one dead pixel is within specs" speech. However, they suggested that I take the machine to my local Apple Store to see if they would fix it. When I got to the local store, they said they couldn't do anything because I had purchased a custom machine online. However, if I had purchased the machine at the local store and upgraded it, they would have probably swapped it out for me. This may have been "just a line", but in all cases complaining works best when you can get in someone's face

So, I would suggest going to the local store and customizing from there. Let me also add that I decided to live with the stuck pixel instead of returning the machine and paying the restock fee. I think I made an ok choice for me because I don't even know the stuck pixel is there unless I clear the desktop and look for it specifically. I think there is a post somewhere on the site that says about 70% of the PB's don't have any pixel issues, so take your chances. I really love the machine (and the iPod) and get lots of geek envy

 

[TheBunnellFarm]

You are right on track to question this, I learned the hard way,anything but a stock basic unit is considered custom and non-returnable, period. Don`t let anybody tell you differant.

Buy from a store if you can, there policys are more relaxed.

The other thing is to be very very sure of your model and configuration.

Tom

 

[absolut_mac]

Originally posted by TheBunnellFarm
You are right on track to question this, I learned the hard way,anything but a stock basic unit is considered custom and non-returnable, period.

I know that not all states have as strong consumer protection laws as we have here in California.

Regardless of what state you're in, or whether you buy a stock off-the-shelf unit or a souped up super-duper custom machine, the law states that the consumer is entitled to receive a fully 100% functional and working unit for his/her money.

Meaning that they have to repair a defective unit, or replace it with a comparable one, or issue you a 100% refund if the defect cannot be repaired by the fourth attempt.

This is getting a little bit stale now, this has got to be the 3rd or 4th thread on this issue in the past 2 weeks