MP3 player faulty within a year, retailer responsibility?

[Willson]

My missus bought an MP3 player from Comet just under 11 months ago and it has stopped working properly.

I said she should take it back to the place she bought it from and get credit against a more expensive model (original was a bit cheap).

Anyways, Comet, instore and then the helpline have just palmed her off onto the manufacturer, saying they won't do anything, which means much more work for her (phoning the manufacturer, packaging, recorded delivery, waiting etc).

 

Now I thought, the retailer has responsibility within the year.

So, are they trying it on, or are they right in saying that they don't have to do anything?

 

TIA

[Paul]

I always thought that within the year and along with a receipt the shop/supplier were responsible?

[hiten55]

not always, the retailer has to abide by the manufacturers warranty terms. i.e with printers - manufacturers are happy to let retailers swap out a faulty printer within 28 days of purchase. after that the consumer has to take it up with the manufacturer directly. if the retailer takes it back after the 28day period, the manufacturer wont accept it back from them and so the retailer takes a hit. not very fair but that's the way it is - must be a reason behind it but i don't know what.

 

i dont think its the same with mp3's but it may be down to brands. Sounds like comet are stuck between a rock and a hard place - been there a lot of time when i was working a pc world. just remember one thing - its not the person behind the counter thats causing you grief - its the people above

 

i generally find if you stay calm and relaxed, the person behind the counter will help a lot more

[Willson]

Okay, thanks. Looks like she'll just have to go the manufacturer.

 

Cheers :-)