So my HD has completely failed. Need serious help

[intolaomair]

Hey guys,
I have a late 08 Intel Imac. 2.4ghz, 250gb hd.

Ive been having issues with imac for a while. it started with it getting really slow and unresponsive. Then upon disc utility check, My HD has alot of problems and needed to re-install OSX. I did that and the computer had been working fine for a while. Until today!

So I turned on the imac today for it to only shut down by itself during the grey startup screen.
The only way the computer would turn on is by inserting the mac osx disc in and holding down c. which only gives me the option to re-install mac osx.

Now leopard is being reinstalled as we speak. So what should I do guys? I know my disc is failing, however I am on budget.

Would it work, if I were to buy a external HD and install the OS on that? Any cons here?

 

[-FlyAuburn-]

Call and give them your story and talk about how you are on a budget. You never know what they might be willing to do. It is less than 2 years old so you might be surprised.

 

[spinnerlys]

If you install Mac OS X on an external HDD, make sure to get a Firewire 800 HDD, as Firewire 800 will give you the best speed, as USB 2.0 is slow (FW800 - 65 to 70 MB/s, USB 2.0 - 30 to 35 MB/s).

Also here are some guides for replacing the HDD yourself: http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Browse/iMac_Intel

Btw, don't you still have warranty?

 

[intolaomair]

Thanks for the reply guys.

Doesnt the warranty expire after a year? Ive had mine under 2 yrs now.
I can consider getting a firewire external HD.

 

[-FlyAuburn-]

Thanks for the reply guys.

Doesnt the warranty expire after a year? Ive had mine under 2 yrs now.
I can consider getting a firewire external HD.

Yes but I've read enough on these forums to know that every once in awhile, especially if it is under a couple years old, Apple will just offer to fix the problem. Couldn't hurt to try!