Reseller trying to give back repaired MacBook Pro as new

N44T wrote:

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Also, if they send me back the marked one claiming its new, is there anyway I could know?

Thanks

If the replacement computer has the same serial number as the originally received computer, it is the same computer.

I want to know if I am in the right requesting a refund here?

Yes. Apple's sales and return policies (in the US, that is) explicitly state that you may request a full cash refund within 14 days of purchase, provided you return the Mac in the same original condition in which it was received. You should have requested that vs. agreeing to a replacement, which complicates the answer somewhat. Since you know a bit about UK consumer law confirm yours is similar or identical.

A new macbook pro should come pristine out the box right? not with any marks on?

Yes.

Also, if they send me back the marked one claiming its new, is there anyway I could know?

Possibly, but if you are literally unable to distinguish the difference between what they send you and a new Mac, then it's probably not worth attempting to find out. Its battery cycles should be in the low single digits; usually it's 1 or 2. If it's a dozen or so, it's been used.

If you bought DIRECT from Apple (not from any Reseller), standard Apple policy in the US and MOST countries (except in the Far East) is that you can return or exchange for any reason for Full Value with 14 days after receipt.

If you bought from a Reseller, who is free to set their own policies as well as their own prices, the Reseller's policies apply, and you will have to deal with the Reseller.

However, knowing the Apple policy may help you negotiate a better arrangement with the Reseller.

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If you take the Reseller's point of view, their arrangement is likely typical of Most wholesale arrangements: No givebacks for any reason -- that's why they are a Reseller and get a discount. They likely do not want your exact specification computer for their inventory, tying up company Capital. If you FORCE them to eat it, they will likely fight you.

On the other hand, IF you can SETTLE for a financial adjustment, or some free accessories, the whole business might be able to be resolved quickly and easily.

The best you can do is contact Apple directly, and ask. They could certainly apply pressure to authorized resellers. I know it has been done before.

Contact Apple

Of course none of us can provide any assurance of any action Apple may decide to take, and they will not publicly divulge any such information.

Try to see the Reseller's point of view. Everyone wants you to be a happy buyer if possible. But if it seems impossible, they will just show you the door.

Another rule I am sure they know:

a happy buyer tells three others.

an unhappy buyer tells NINE others.

With the threat of "Take it back",

... you may be able to coax other goods or services or cash-back out of them.

I want to know if I am in the right requesting a refund here?

We are all other users here and cannot give you legal advice, nor can we give you an official answer from Apple.Having said that, there are specific consumer rights in the EU which you can avail yourself of. You need to deal with the seller who is an independent third party.

There is a very popular authorized reseller in the US notorious for doing things similar to what you describe, or worse. Its initials are synonymous with Big Box and complaints are rampant.

The money saved vs purchasing directly from Apple is insignificant and often nil.

<< All I want it for them to abide by the law and give me a refund or send a replacement >>

All THEY want is for the Sale to "stick" and for you to be quiet and not cause them trouble.

What if they offered you US$100 cash back to take it the way it is now?

What if they offered you a free extended warranty, a US$400 value?