PC Store story

[spawn_x]

What is the name of your state? CA

Simple story:

1. Aunt buys computer with 2 year extended warranty to "repair computer if anything goes wrong" as was explained to us.

2. Computer dies.

3. Store tells us that it was a "power surge" and showed us in a new contract they recently got that REPAIRS are not covered, and only 1000 dollar gift card is issued. Laptop cost 1650, + 350 for warrant. A comparable laptop costs more than 1000 dollars.

4. There was no "power surge", the adapter (AC to DC laptop converter) is working perfect, meaning higher than the 13.3 (or whatever) volts NEVER went through it.

5. Store leaves us with no further options.

Can a claim be filed in small claims court against them? If they dispute the court's decision can it go to superior court and will we have to have a lawyer?

Anything we can do without involving a lawyer on our side? A letter to Consumer Affairs is on the way explaining the situation..

Thank you.

 

[d.w. wilson]

OK, I am not an authority on this but you have taken the correct first step by going to Consumer Affairs. Once, while in Ca. i called them on an auto. problem and sent a demand letter to the dealer. The problem was resolved within a week - in my fovor.
(To contact Consumer Affairs in Nevada is a waste of time)

If you were firm, forward, and totally honest with C.A., they will give you their best assistance. Then, if the store hesitates, go to Small Claims. Be sure to carefully select the correct wording on the filing. (I didn't and it has cost a lot of time - no big deal)

You don't "need" a lawyer for Small Claims. I don't expect it to go any farther than that, especially since you have a very good C.A. -at least they used to be. Play nice with them, they are your Ace-in-the-hole.

Good luck. Hope I'm right!

 

[attyhcl]

although not familiar with california law, you may also want to look into their consumer fraud statute, which, in many states, carries double and treble damages...good luck to you..

 

[ashima]

Hi
I am in Arizona and in almost similar situation with DELL notebook. The only difference is that it didn't work from the start. I have no idea of US law as I am new. Where should I go?
I will really appreciate you response. My email address is ashima_nikhil@hotmail.com
Ashima

 

[spawn_x]

we'll need a bit more detail on the problem and what dell ISN'T doing.