Return Worthy? Or just deal with it?

[kensir]

Ok, so I've got my replacement MBP. The only thing wrong with the first one was the wireless issue with my 2Wire router (something that is now positively defined as a software issue).

So, not only was that an entire waste of return-processing hell... but my replacement laptop has the same problems and some new ones too.

The laptop doesn't seem to close all the way, and it seems like the screen bows upward, when latched shut. The left/right side don't make even contact with the other half of the laptop, and the latch isn't even completely shut, allowing for some slight movements. Also, there is an occassional problem with the "Ctrl" key where it seems to get slighty stuck down, and causes the computer to think its being pressed when it's not. And I'm noticing now that there are several keys that aren't "flush". They seem to tilt downward in one way or the other. This includes the "Fn", "Alt/Option", "N", "Delete", and "End >" keys. If that weren't enough, the battery doesn't sit flush, and moves up and down in the battery bay.

If I were to return it, I'm basically going to just demand a refund and buy them instore. That way, I can open it right there and determine if it is acceptable. I previously ordered online with a custom model (160 GB harddrive) which made the return process so terrible.

So, should I risk more problems (screen, keys, etc.) with a new MacBook Pro, stick with the one I've got and suck it up, or simply demand a refund and purchase one in store (only a 120 GB hard drive).

 

[jtrwallace]

You should have gone with the in-store first. That's always my choice as you can inspect it right then and there. I will agree that the uneven latching is a problem. The keys, I've never seen that problem except maybe on my PowerBook the CMD key may have dipped down in the bottom left corner but I might be psycho too, who knows. Battery moving? Never heard of that either. So you've got three pretty serious problems. You know, now that I've kinda heard a lot of stories, it seems that the people who order theirs online always get the ****** ones. I've never bought one online and mine have always been flawless. Hmm..... if I were you, I'd take it to the store, tell them the casing unevenness is unacceptable and they will gladly give you a new one.

 

[dcv]

If I were to return it, I'm basically going to just demand a refund and buy them instore. That way, I can open it right there and determine if it is acceptable.

You have to buy the machine first, they won't just open boxes for you. Of course you can open the box in store and return/exchange it straight away if there is a fault, but they will not allow you to pick and choose. I can see why, but it's kinda annoying when you've already had a batch of faulty machines

 

[miniConvert]

Don't worry about the uneven lid. None of them, or at least very few, are perfect and the metal casing will gently bend over time anyway.

The keys sound a bit annoying, though. If they prevent you from using your machine without annoyance (a key being stuck down possibly would) then I guess you should return it.

FWIW I've only ever had one problem with a BTO machine bought online, and Apple collected it free of charge and refunded me in full. I then ordered again (figured it would be better to start over than confuse things with replacements) and received a perfect unit. From what I've heard on here, I don't think your in store experiences will be a whole lot better!

 

[kensir]

Here's what I've decided:

I'm going to go to the Apple Store to have one of the genius' assess the machine and determine that I need a refund. After the return (hopefully instore..) I'll purchase the MBP that is available in-store (sacrifice the 160 GB for 120 GB of HD space... I have a 320 GB External anyway).

Does anyone know if I can return right there in store? Or do I have to do the 10-day shipping game again? (Again this is just a straight up return... then a seperate purchase of the one in-store)

Also, will this effect my rebate for the iPod I got?