iPhone 4: refurbished warranty replacements

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exigence Author

Level 1

22 points

iPhone 4: refurbished warranty replacements

I'm about to receive my second warranty replacement on an iPhone 4 originally purchased brand new in store.

iPhone #1 was obviously brand new.

iPhone #2, as I was told by the rep and as far as I could tell from the serial, was brand new.

iPhone #3, which I'll receive shortly, is refurbished judging by the serial number.

Granted, there were only small issues with the first two, but I'm a little annoyed about receiving a refurb in place of a new phone. Yes, I know this is perfectly acceptable and common practice across almost every manufacturer. Have been there before.

Is this worth trying to get a brand-new unit, or should I just shut up if the phone's solid and go with it? I fully plan on selling the iPhone 4 for its successor whenever that's released this Fall (or beyond), so any difference in potential sale price is also something to consider.

Posted on May 10, 2011 7:06 PM

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Answer 1

diesel vdub

Level 7

22,178 points

May 11, 2011 4:19 AM in response to exigence

The majority of warranty replacements are refurbs. Apple does not imply or promise that they will make any attempt to provide you with a new device as a warranty replacement.

Your original device has been used and therefore is not new. So what is wrong with getting a refurb as a warranty replacement? There will be no damage to the device (cosmetic or otherwise), it will essentially look "new".

Any potential buyer when you go to sell the device will have no idea if you bought it "new" from Apple, as a refurb, or second hand from the original owner.

Just accept the warranty replacement and move on with your life.

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Answer 2

K701

Level 1

5 points

May 11, 2011 5:41 AM in response to exigence

I wasn't keen on the idea of a refurbishment. The Apple Genius told me all refurbished units have replacement screens, backs, and batteries fitted and are put through more rigereous testing; therefore you should end up with a more reliable iPhone. I have had numerous replacements for various things- issues with refurbished I've had was a section of the front screen allowing light to escape and one with a poor performance battery (although was still within Apples bracket of it being ok)- both these issues could come with a new one. The refurbishment I have now is perfect (as was my very first iPhone before I updated to the latest 'improved' OS).

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