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Stupid Sony Vaio.. Stupid Harvey Normans

  • 23-01-2008 9:48pm
    #1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26


    I bought a Sony Vaio from Harvey Norman.. Have a feeling they pulled a swift one, but nothing can be done about that.

    Its no use for what I need it for really, they obviously had no clue when they were recommending it, but aside from that, it just doesn't work.

    I have just made a list of all the problems.
    1.It takes ages to load. Sometimes it doesn't at all.

    2.Its slow and unresponsive and crashes a lot.

    3. I keep getting the blue screen, telling me there's a hard ware error, and then it shuts down, before I finish reading the screen.

    4. The internet works for a short period and then crashes. Its not just my home broadband, it also happens in college. this problem disapears when I run it in safe mode

    5. The function buttons don't always work.

    6.It doesnt always detect hardware. I have a lot of problems with my ipod. It also keeps asking me do I want to format my memory stick, but said stick is fine with other computers.

    7. Dvds and cds are jumpy.

    8. When you view the problem list, its full of unexplained errors, a few hundred windows crashes etc. Also, you have the hope instilling phrase, "No available solutions"


    It has 3 years warranty. I dont want it fixed, I want cash. Can I get a refund, allowing that I got it in September, on the grounds, that it wasn't merchantable quality, OR Fit for purpose?


Comments

  • Closed Accounts Posts: 480 ✭✭Barlow07


    marthahen wrote: »
    I bought a Sony Vaio from Harvey Norman.. Have a feeling they pulled a swift one, but nothing can be done about that.

    Its no use for what I need it for really, they obviously had no clue when they were recommending it, but aside from that, it just doesn't work.

    I have just made a list of all the problems.
    1.It takes ages to load. Sometimes it doesn't at all.

    2.Its slow and unresponsive and crashes a lot.

    3. I keep getting the blue screen, telling me there's a hard ware error, and then it shuts down, before I finish reading the screen.

    4. The internet works for a short period and then crashes. Its not just my home broadband, it also happens in college. this problem disapears when I run it in safe mode

    5. The function buttons don't always work.

    6.It doesnt always detect hardware. I have a lot of problems with my ipod. It also keeps asking me do I want to format my memory stick, but said stick is fine with other computers.

    7. Dvds and cds are jumpy.

    8. When you view the problem list, its full of unexplained errors, a few hundred windows crashes etc. Also, you have the hope instilling phrase, "No available solutions"


    It has 3 years warranty. I dont want it fixed, I want cash. Can I get a refund, allowing that I got it in September, on the grounds, that it wasn't merchantable quality, OR Fit for purpose?

    I'd never buy a Lapop or PC from harvey normans or PC world, tesco, there just cheap and you get for what you paid for im afraid. I would bring it back and explain that you had enough and want your cash back.

    What is the spec you have on your laptop, how much memory is on it?, windows vista? etc.


  • Moderators, Music Moderators Posts: 25,872 Mod ✭✭✭✭Doctor DooM


    marthahen wrote: »
    I bought a Sony Vaio from Harvey Norman.. Have a feeling they pulled a swift one, but nothing can be done about that.

    Its no use for what I need it for really, they obviously had no clue when they were recommending it, but aside from that, it just doesn't work.

    I have just made a list of all the problems.
    1.It takes ages to load. Sometimes it doesn't at all.

    2.Its slow and unresponsive and crashes a lot.

    3. I keep getting the blue screen, telling me there's a hard ware error, and then it shuts down, before I finish reading the screen.

    4. The internet works for a short period and then crashes. Its not just my home broadband, it also happens in college. this problem disapears when I run it in safe mode

    5. The function buttons don't always work.

    6.It doesnt always detect hardware. I have a lot of problems with my ipod. It also keeps asking me do I want to format my memory stick, but said stick is fine with other computers.

    7. Dvds and cds are jumpy.

    8. When you view the problem list, its full of unexplained errors, a few hundred windows crashes etc. Also, you have the hope instilling phrase, "No available solutions"


    It has 3 years warranty. I dont want it fixed, I want cash. Can I get a refund, allowing that I got it in September, on the grounds, that it wasn't merchantable quality, OR Fit for purpose?

    Its got Vista on it. Thread name should be "Stupid Vista." :)

    You can't demand a refund, they need a chance to repair or replace first I am afraid.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 5,115 ✭✭✭Pacifico


    Barlow07 wrote: »
    I'd never buy a Lapop or PC from harvey normans or PC world, tesco, there just cheap and you get for what you paid for im afraid. I would bring it back and explain that you had enough and want your cash back.

    What is the spec you have on your laptop, how much memory is on it?, windows vista? etc.

    There are very few 'cheap' Sony Vaios around....


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26 marthahen


    sadly I learned that the hard way!

    Its a sony vgn n38e/w,
    T2130 Dual core processor,
    1024mb memory,
    120 gb hard drive,
    vista home premium,
    15.4 inch xblack screen,
    2 usb ports,
    3 memory card slots,
    wireless,
    and standard ethernet connections


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 19,396 ✭✭✭✭Karoma


    Restore to factory settings and test it.

    If it crashes again, take a note of the actual errors if you want to troubleshoot. Otherwise, we can only assume and to be honest, there's a good chance it's user error. If you don't like that - post in Consumer Issues.


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  • Moderators, Music Moderators Posts: 35,945 Mod ✭✭✭✭dr.bollocko


    It actually sounds to me like your laundry list of complaints could be a single hardware issue with the laptop rather than Sony making an awful product (perish the thought, think of the children). Possibly the heat synchs or cooling fan not working correctly.. Does it get very hot? Also could be a hard-drive on its way out? Anyone else think so?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26 marthahen


    Karoma wrote: »
    Restore to factory settings and test it.

    If it crashes again, take a note of the actual errors if you want to troubleshoot. Otherwise, we can only assume and to be honest, there's a good chance it's user error. If you don't like that - post in Consumer Issues.

    I thought it was me at the start, but having already resetted it, im sure now that its not.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 19,106 ✭✭✭✭TestTransmission


    u cud just ring vaio support after doin a full restore and tell them the issues.
    it'd be worth checking out if there is a bios update available for the fan.
    Regarding the refund,when did u buy it?did it occur in the first 6 months,then u may be able to get a refund,however u'd ave to rule out any type of software issue first but it does sound like it's the hdd


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 662 ✭✭✭JæKæ


    It actually sounds to me like your laundry list of complaints could be a single hardware issue with the laptop rather than Sony making an awful product (perish the thought, think of the children). Possibly the heat synchs or cooling fan not working correctly.. Does it get very hot? Also could be a hard-drive on its way out? Anyone else think so?

    Unlikely on a brand new laptop, unless it was damaged in transit. I reckon Vista may be the problem. All the problems happen within the OS


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26 marthahen


    jackncoke wrote: »
    u cud just ring vaio support after doin a full restore and tell them the issues.
    it'd be worth checking out if there is a bios update available for the fan.
    Regarding the refund,when did u buy it?did it occur in the first 6 months,then u may be able to get a refund,however u'd ave to rule out any type of software issue first but it does sound like it's the hdd


    I got it in september


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 19,106 ✭✭✭✭TestTransmission


    save all ur data.do a recovery..check it out for a few days,,see what happens.
    Then bring it to the shop,they will probably not offer u a replacement but a repair,they'll just contact sony.Let them repair it,if an issue arises again,i would then ask for a replacement as the problem has arose within 4 months of purchasing it.
    I used to work for sony,the issue u have wasnt that uncommon(or i can say that) :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26 marthahen


    jackncoke wrote: »
    save all ur data.do a recovery..check it out for a few days,,see what happens.
    Then bring it to the shop,they will probably not offer u a replacement but a repair,they'll just contact sony.Let them repair it,if an issue arises again,i would then ask for a replacement as the problem has arose within 4 months of purchasing it.
    I used to work for sony,the issue u have wasnt that uncommon(or i can say that) :)

    What are the chances of them just giving us a refund


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 19,396 ✭✭✭✭Karoma


    jackncoke wrote: »
    save all ur data.do a recovery..check it out for a few days,,see what happens.
    Then bring it to the shop,they will probably not offer u a replacement but a repair,they'll just contact sony.Let them repair it,if an issue arises again,i would then ask for a replacement as the problem has arose within 4 months of purchasing it.
    I used to work for sony,the issue u have wasnt that uncommon(or i can say that) :)

    No. You can't say the truth. You probably signed the same NDA I did. "There are no known issues." ;)

    marthahen already wiped it clean and it happened again.
    You are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund under the law. Which applies and when is difficult to say and depends on each situation. I'd recommend bringing someone stubborn with you back to the store and demanding a refund. You'll most likely have to agree to at least one 'repair' - they may find no fault.

    In the meantime, while you wait 10-15 years for the 'repair', contact one of these and ask for advice: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/categories/consumer-affairs/consumer-protection/consumer-rights/consumer_protection_organisations


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26 marthahen


    Karoma wrote: »
    No. You can't say the truth. You probably signed the same NDA I did. "There are no known issues." ;)

    marthahen already wiped it clean and it happened again.
    You are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund under the law. Which applies and when is difficult to say and depends on each situation. I'd recommend bringing someone stubborn with you back to the store and demanding a refund.

    Ill bring Daddy so, he bought it for me on laser, (I didnt want to be carrying the cash around)

    Ok thanks everyone!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 19,106 ✭✭✭✭TestTransmission


    off topic,when did u work for sony?do i know u?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 24,980 ✭✭✭✭phog


    For more info see here

    "Under the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980, anything you buy from a retailer must be:

    - of merchantable quality
    - fit for its normal purpose, and reasonably durable
    - as described, whether the description is part of the advertising or wrapping, on a label, or something said by the salesperson.
    When you buy goods from a retailer, you make a contract with him. He agrees to provide certain goods to you for a certain price. If your purchase turns out to be faulty, the retailer, not the manufacturer, is responsible to you and must sort out your complaint. You are entitled to a refund, a replacement or a repair."


  • Moderators, Education Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 35,125 Mod ✭✭✭✭AlmightyCushion


    After four or five months I'd seriously doubt you would get a refund. They will most likely try and repair it first.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,471 ✭✭✭majiktripp


    After four or five months I'd seriously doubt you would get a refund. They will most likely try and repair it first.

    I agree, they will try and repair it firstly before entertaining the idea of a refund and even at that I don't know if they'd refund you the full value of the laptop after 5 months of ownership.
    Did these problems occur straight away when you bought it or only just recently? How many times have you been in touch with Harvey Normans / Sony about the issue?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,006 ✭✭✭✭The Muppet


    Why was it not returned within the first month ? They would have had to refund you if it had. I would be surprised if you get a refund after 4 months. How much ram is in it, Vista is dog slow on anything under 1 GB.

    The rest of you problems could be for any number of reasons and do not necessarily meant that the laptop is faulty.


  • Moderators, Regional Midwest Moderators Posts: 11,183 Mod ✭✭✭✭MarkR


    I worked in sony for my sins as well. Backup date, Format and reinstall, if it's still not working you can call harvey norman, but they'll probably just send it off to sony.

    Choppy playback can be a problem if you are playing a dvd on battery power with battery saver mode on.


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  • Closed Accounts Posts: 633 ✭✭✭IncredibleHulk


    1024mb memory,
    not enough RAM for vista premium that will contribute to slow performance


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26 marthahen


    We brought it in, and they kept it for a few days, the conclusion was, as it was a display model, the fella who wiped it and reinstalled windows messed up.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 342 ✭✭masterwriter


    marthahen wrote: »
    We brought it in, and they kept it for a few days, the conclusion was, as it was a display model, the fella who wiped it and reinstalled windows messed up.
    Are you getting a replacement? Were you told it was a display model and subject to reinstallation?


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 117 ✭✭axel90


    The comment saying not to buy from harvey norman as it is cheap is mentally retarded!!! They buy from the same suppliers as everyone else, and in alot of cases drop the prices to below cost in order to get customers through the door. I know a former staff manager of sony center who got his vaio from hn as the discount was greater than that of the staff discount he got!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,169 ✭✭✭rednik


    A couple of years ago I was looking to buy a Vaio,went to Harvey Normans with the model no I wanted. Spoke to a shop assistant in the computer section,told him I was looking for a Sony Vaio. He then took me to the TV section to show me the LCD range of TVs. I looked at him turned around and legged it.


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