As i can't reply to the proper thread due to the 10 post limit, i'll have to write it here. After lurking the forums regarding the Failed bootloader error 0x04 issue, i'm pretty much condemned to submitting my TF201 Asus Transformer Prime to Asus to deal with it. I've been given the impression it'd cost over 200/300USD just to get the problem fixed due to a number of post here claiming about the requirement of sending the whole motherboard in for replacement.
Let me just debunk that, that is totally not true. True asus technical support branches are given tools to easily flash the whole firmware regardless of the "Hard brick" issue. So when i sent in my TF201 to get it fixed recently, it didn't take them long. Also, because it was still within the warranty period, i did not have to pay anything. However, i was told that it would cost around 25-30 USD for recovery services if it's out of warranty. ;D
So, why am i writing this? After reading the high costs of repairing the device, i was spooked into waiting for some messiah to bring in a solution to the problem. However, after talking to the support over the phone, i found out that i do not need to pay anything if i were to get them to inspect the device. Quotation will then be provided in order to proceed with the repairs. So, i thought to myself, why not? In other words, if you have access to a local asus technical support branch, head down and see what are your options. There's no harm in trying.
Also, a friend found this.
engadget.com/2012/04/24/transformer-prime-team-win-recovery-project/
Wow. Cool
Sent from my PG86100 using xda premium
Now all we need is a leak of these mighty recovery tools
phr0zenx said:
As i can't reply to the proper thread due to the 10 post limit, i'll have to write it here. After lurking the forums regarding the Failed bootloader error 0x04 issue, i'm pretty much condemned to submitting my TF201 Asus Transformer Prime to Asus to deal with it. I've been given the impression it'd cost over 200/300USD just to get the problem fixed due to a number of post here claiming about the requirement of sending the whole motherboard in for replacement.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't mention whether you had unlocked the bootloader or not?
brick repair 200$ 12/1/12
You must have been lucky, or perhaps it is the repair location.
I unlocked my tf201, installed clockworks, and bricked it. Would not get past the initial ASUS screen no matter what you did.
After reading your post, I hoped for the best and sent it into the Grapevine TX. repair center.
They sent me a picture of the web page saying ASUS knew it was unlocked, and offered to replace the main board for 200$.
Had they been able to reload the software for 25, I'd have paid, but 200$ is ridiculous, I'll go but a new Nexus.
Just another data point.
phr0zenx said:
As i can't reply to the proper thread due to the 10 post limit, i'll have to write it here. After lurking the forums regarding the Failed bootloader error 0x04 issue, i'm pretty much condemned to submitting my TF201 Asus Transformer Prime to Asus to deal with it. I've been given the impression it'd cost over 200/300USD just to get the problem fixed due to a number of post here claiming about the requirement of sending the whole motherboard in for replacement.
Let me just debunk that, that is totally not true. True asus technical support branches are given tools to easily flash the whole firmware regardless of the "Hard brick" issue. So when i sent in my TF201 to get it fixed recently, it didn't take them long. Also, because it was still within the warranty period, i did not have to pay anything. However, i was told that it would cost around 25-30 USD for recovery services if it's out of warranty. ;D
So, why am i writing this? After reading the high costs of repairing the device, i was spooked into waiting for some messiah to bring in a solution to the problem. However, after talking to the support over the phone, i found out that i do not need to pay anything if i were to get them to inspect the device. Quotation will then be provided in order to proceed with the repairs. So, i thought to myself, why not? In other words, if you have access to a local asus technical support branch, head down and see what are your options. There's no harm in trying.
Also, a friend found this.
engadget.com/2012/04/24/transformer-prime-team-win-recovery-project/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which service center did you go to exactly? I have sent mine in for RMA, and they keep trying to tell me they need to replace the motherboard. I know a decent bit about these things, and im pretty sure they are just getting rid of inventory and making more money (my quote was $180). I keep asking them if reflashing the firmware is a possibility, and they totally dodge the question. If I could contact the service center in Georgia (which is the nearest to me) and verify the 30 dollar charge, I would happily pay that price to fix the tablet!
Somebody needs to get on this quick. I've heard that this is the way they treat bricked primes in Europe. Just flash a new bootloader; service charge of a few dollars and out the door. Wish someone knew somebody inside Asus tech centers somewhere that could get us that software.
Sent from my large and in charge GN2 using Forum Runner
any updates to this? Flash bootloader service anywhere?
bootloader
bspratt said:
any updates to this? Flash bootloader service anywhere?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My transformer is at the Asus service center right now with hard brick "error unrecoverable bootloader (0x0000000)" I'm waiting for their call. I hope they can fix it. The main problem is that the bootloader is unlocked and of course I don't have any warranty. If they ask more than $100 for a software problem I'll be very disappointed in Asus. I'll write the result later.
motorom said:
My transformer is at the Asus service center right now with hard brick "error unrecoverable bootloader (0x0000000)" I'm waiting for their call. I hope they can fix it. The main problem is that the bootloader is unlocked and of course I don't have any warranty. If they ask more than $100 for a software problem I'll be very disappointed in Asus. I'll write the result later.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What was the result?
(Solved) TF201 Hard Brick
Thank God! I found this post it fixed my Transformer Prime I hard bricked it Saturday night trying out a kit kat rom that didn't take I didn't have my JB CyanogemMod zip with me so I tried to restore a back up no go. I tried everything then I found this post I had never tried to fastboot -i 0x0b05 erase misc check this out hope it helps someone else Thank You Jesus!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2179759&page=2
If this helps click on this link for free 15 gb of cloud storage plus an additional 5gb just for signing up
https://copy.com?r=2TgwBI
(Solved) TF201 Hard Brick
Asus is lying for something that is obviously a software issue and bilking $200 to $300 dollars out of people. I finally found a forum that had one or two steps I hadn't tried and it worked. They wanted me to create a RMA for $300 for something that only takes a download a 32 bit OS and fastboot to fix below is the life line that saved my Prime repost on any sights that don't have this it works. Thank God
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2179759&page=2
credzba said:
You must have been lucky, or perhaps it is the repair location.
I unlocked my tf201, installed clockworks, and bricked it. Would not get past the initial ASUS screen no matter what you did.
After reading your post, I hoped for the best and sent it into the Grapevine TX. repair center.
They sent me a picture of the web page saying ASUS knew it was unlocked, and offered to replace the main board for 200$.
Had they been able to reload the software for 25, I'd have paid, but 200$ is ridiculous, I'll go but a new Nexus.
Just another data point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Related
I got my Prime on January 16th, very happy and proud.
That was the only short period where I have been in that mood.
The more I used the Prime the more I could see that something was not as expected.
1) weak WiFi, compared to any other unit at home, and I have many and from different companies.
2) GPS did not work, (they did not have it removed from specs. yet)
3) Lot of waiting time to get ICS installed (because it was German and needs a specific firmware).
4) and most important thing, WiFi and BT does not work together, which in a tablet is like to say that "a car does not break unless you put your feet on the road to stop."
I have used HOURS on this tablet, troubleshooting, testing, reading, writing, tried 5 different firmwares, 2 different headsets, WiFi Channels, B,G,N. Reboots, resets.
Then 2 days ago, I decided to RMA mine, also after recommendaton by Gary, and ASUS Customer Service. (The latter.. in DK is poor as I never experienced before).
I have been told tuesday that I have to wait up to 48 hours, before getting ans answer, fine!.
Today at 11am the 48 hours were gone. I called and the first thing they asked me was:" what browser do you use"? I said why? I have Tablet's android, IE8 and IE9.. Why? "Ah because sometimes we have issues with RMA made on Explorer browsers."
So are you telling me that you do not receive the RMA, even though the side told me that "all was fine and was sent"?
After 10 minutes, the guy at ASUS CS found out, that nothing has been registered in their system, and he offered me to make a new one, directly.
I am so pissed of at this bunch of amateurs that I will NEVER EVER buy a nail from them.
They could not ask this question or make me aware of that issue, after I spoke to them 3 times the same day about it.
They are making fun of many and they are the less serious company I have ever handled with.
I work as Supporter.. I have some experiences with IT companies and suppliers.
This is the bottom level!
2 times I made the RMA and 2 times "all was fine according the site. I made it 2 times to be sure that I wrote the correct S/N number, as I was in doubt.
Gary if you read this, it's not excuse. Not your fault for sure, but this is out of line and I really believe that ASUS needs a HUGE Team Building, starting from your CEO and ending with you canteen people.
Tomorrow this "innocent" ASUS guy should call me to confirm the RMA is now created correctly. If this is not the case. All media in Denmark and Nothern Europe will read this and more.
Shame on ASUS, idiot me to handle with them!
sorry to hear about it. just keep on their case to make sure they get it done. good luck
If you want to contact Gary Key, PMing him is the method
Asus, And rep generally don't respond to thread on XDA or other forum, unless said topic is made by them.
And if they do respond, they will hardly respond to a thread with threats and insults.
Yelling and screaming at Customer service agent has been outdated 10+ year ago.
I mailed him and the Marketing Manager in Denmark.
Let's see!
bluewr said:
If you want to contact Gary Key, PMing him is the method
Asus, And rep generally don't respond to thread on XDA or other forum, unless said topic is made by them.
And if they do respond, they will hardly respond to a thread with threats and insults.
Yelling and screaming at Customer service agent has been outdated 10+ year ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PMed him twice...................still waiting !
bluewr said:
If you want to contact Gary Key, PMing him is the method
Asus, And rep generally don't respond to thread on XDA or other forum, unless said topic is made by them.
And if they do respond, they will hardly respond to a thread with threats and insults.
Yelling and screaming at Customer service agent has been outdated 10+ year ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've seen Gary post in quite a few threads that weren't his which had particularly nasty attitudes toward ASUS/him. That's really more his job around here than anything IMO
Anyway, yeah, ASUS doesn't seem as organized as they should be. Especially things which are electronically filed, the information should be available to any and all relevant employees immediately upon receipt. As soon as the shipping company updates that the package has been shipped from the user up until the point it's back in my hands, ASUS reps should be able to tell me exactly what's going on and where it is. Naturally they move things in batches, but however they keep up with it is atrociously behind the times or something.
bimbobo said:
Shame on ASUS, idiot me to handle with them!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe you'll feel little better knowing that ASUS Technical Support here in Poland is at the same or even worse level. I had no problem in registering my tablet for RMA but please be aware, that if you are going to RMA your Prime due to not working GPS it won't be repaired.
I decided to RMA me Prime at 9th of January and will never see it again because after one month since it has reached the Service Center in Czech Republic, ASUS Poland contacted me to say that GPS won't be fixed. They asked, if I want to start DOA procedure which should take about 3 weeks to get my money back.
We have 1st of March today and I'm still waiting... and what is really annoying, ASUS Poland is now unable to give me the exact date when my money will be returned!!!
My advice for you is to give up the RMA and request DOA, you'll save some time and health.
Gary won't help you here. I read at some thread here, that he has no way to contact with ASUS Europe. He has never replied to my PMs
Regards,
Pletwal
rdalev said:
PMed him twice...................still waiting !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah me too. No response and I'm in the USA. Pmd 2 weeks apart. I will enjoy owning my prime but definitely will not buy Asus again. No laptops, monitors, tablets or motherboards ........
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Most unfortunate. I don't mean to be rude when I sy this, but if you're an IT guy, why the hell would you be using IE?
That confuses me immensely.
Doktaphex said:
Most unfortunate. I don't mean to be rude when I sy this, but if you're an IT guy, why the hell would you be using IE?
That confuses me immensely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IE 9 is pretty good as long as you dont care about printing I am in the IT field and will use it from time to time but I do think overall Firefox is king
I'm sorry to read that you the "OP" is being ran through the ringer. I hope they get on track with your RMA. I have come to find that Asus outside of Taiwan sucks Donkey D. Asus Taiwan rocks!! They will bend over backwards to take care of their customers. If things don't work out in your favor, shoot a detailed email of your case, a long with a reasonable resoultion to Asus International.
jdbaker82 said:
IE 9 is pretty good as long as you dont care about printing I am in the IT field and will use it from time to time but I do think overall Firefox is king
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even IE 8 has this issue with certain printers. I'm actually just running into that issue with a customer, and they can not grasp the fact the IE is not the only portal to the internet...
Firefox is the most stable in my experience. Chrome and Maxthon are fast; Chrome's heavily unreliable and its cache likes to act weird over time, Maxthon I haven't used but for a few seconds so don't know its drawbacks.
Anyway...
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium via my tethered HTC Vision
..mail with UPS label arrived.
BUT it was WRONG, name and zip code to my house were not correct.
Called UPS, they could not change the info with the correct ones, and could not assure me that all could go well having the wrong address.
They suggested to call ASUS again and ask them for a new. I did it!
So now again new waiting time!
My trust in ASUS is gone, they do not do much to "re-gain it"
The unit will be sent to Chech Rep. for repair, and as I read, they probably do not fix WiFi/BT as "non faulty".
is this post a kind of therapy?
Enviado desde mi GT-I9000 usando Tapatalk
bimbobo said:
..mail with UPS label arrived.
BUT it was WRONG, name and zip code to my house were not correct.
Called UPS, they could not change the info with the correct ones, and could not assure me that all could go well having the wrong address.
They suggested to call ASUS again and ask them for a new. I did it!
So now again new waiting time!
My trust in ASUS is gone, they do not do much to "re-gain it"
The unit will be sent to Chech Rep. for repair, and as I read, they probably do not fix WiFi/BT as "non faulty".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, that really is impressively awful on their part. I hope you get all of this resolved in the end.
.. I thought that somebody else could be interested in knowing that ASUS is not trustworthy when things goes bad.
Service is as important as the "fancy" products you sell.
Plus I wanted to share the fact, that if you do not check, push and follow up what they do, you won't get help.
If the mods are not happy with this thread, they are allowed to close or delete it.
There are many Europeans in this forum, who cannot mail or call Gary and his team.
We in Europe are left on our own. All the messages I read from people in Europe here, seems to confirm that.
Anyway, sorry for bothering some of you.
bimbobo said:
.. I thought that somebody else could be interested that ASUS is not trustworthy when things goes bad.
Service is as important as the "fancy" products you sell.
Plus I wann saher the fact, that if you do not check, push and follow up what they do, you won't get help.
If the mods are not happy with this thread, they are allow to close or delete it.
There are many Europeans in this forum, who cannot mail or call Gary and his team.
We in Europe are left on our own. All the messages I read from people in Europe here, seems to confirm that.
Anyway, sorry for bothering some of you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think you need to apologise at all. ASUS on the other hand owe you a rather large apology.
It seems that using the big voice and words helps.
A manager from ASUS in Sweden called me on the phone, apologizing for all the troubles.
The short story is, that they offered to fully refund the product.
Why? Because there is a 10% risk that even sending this at the Repair Center will not sove the issue. He wouldn't and couldn't tell me more, but the story is that, for some "reasons" and even though the WiFi/Bt is now a known problem, they cannot be sure to fix it.
I referred to Gary's mail to me and here in this forum about a possible solution, but yet, he COULD NOT be sure that the replacing parts will do the job. (Metal backplate still jamming everything?? This is MY guess!)
So now ASUS is creating the second RMA label, I will send it to Chech Rep., I will await what happens, and I will contact this manager at ASUS SE when I get it back.
Solved? peace of mind and enjoying finally this device
Not Solved? Refund.
If you get a case manager ***** at them till they send you a free accessory I got a free mouse with my full tablet+ dock refund
Mouse should be here Tuesday
Sent from my PG86100 using Tapatalk
Wordlywisewiz said:
If you get a case manager ***** at them till they send you a free accessory I got a free mouse with my full tablet+ dock refund
Mouse should be here Tuesday
Sent from my PG86100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
*****ing is not what I wish, I like information, competence and support.
I have a tablet for 629€, with issues, they know it, and they should fix it.
I am not fishing about other stuff, just a working tablet.
All this caos is due to the fact that several people either know a little, or tell me different things about same question
Anyway. They will have another chance to act correctly, and I am in touch with a person, who can and will try to help.
Let's see how it goes in "Czech Rep. repair centre".
So, I emailed Asus because I was confused about how they could completely void our warranty because of an unlock. The part that confuses me is how they can void warranty even for a manufacturer defect or hardware fault when we only modified software. Also, I asked them why, if I warranty is completely void, we do not have access to NVFlash.
Here is the e-mail that I sent to Asus:
Hello,
I have a few questions:
1. If I use the Asus bootloader unlock tool to unlock my Transformer Prime, does it
void every part of the warranty?
2. If it does void every part of the warranty, wouldn't their be issues that would conflict
with the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?
3. If every part of the warranty is not void, what does it void exactly?
4. How come you will allow me to unlock my device and say that my warranty is void
but you will not give me access to NVFlash? I paid for this device. It is MY device. Give
me access to every feature on the device! Especially if you are saying that my
warranty is void!
I am emailing you because all of these questions are of major concern to myself and many others. Thank you for your time.
Here is what I got back from Asus:
Dear Mr. Lyon,
1) As stated for the Unlock tool:
"the Revised Product will no longer be covered under the warranty of the Original Product"
So yes, you void the warranty coverage.
2) No, there is no violation of the act, since it's a consentual agreement when you download and use the Unlock tool. No one is forcing youto unlock it, and you are aware beforehand that using it voids the warranty.
3) Using it voids all warranty coverage.
4) If an application no longer functions after unlocking, like NVFlash, you will need to discuss this with the developer. (NVIDIA)
Sincerely,
Chris A
Asus Customer Care Specialist
So, I wonder if NVFlash is really controlled by NVIDIA or if that is what Asus is saying so that people will bug NVIDIA about it. I know other devices have access to NVFlash but I don't know if any of them were unlocked with an unlock tool from the manufacturer. I just think that it is complete BS that we do not have access to something that could save a lot of us who have voided their warranty.
Anyway... Apparently we need to bug the s***t out of NVIDIA until they 1) make NVFlash available or 2) tell us that Asus has control over it and then we bug Asus for access to it.
UPDATE: Below is an e-mail that I have drafted about getting the SBK for NVFlash. Let me know what you guys think about it. If it looks good, everyone send it to Asus. If I missed something or need to correct something, please let me know. I am not a developer so I don't know exactly what is needed.
UPDATE2: I have been tweeting this to them twice a day and we need as many people as possible to tweet and post this on their Facebook and anywhere else they else they will see it.
@ASUS, still no word about NVFlash on the TF201!? Give complete unlock if you are going to void the complete warranty! #HalfassedUnlockTool
The problem is not that nvflash is *incompatible*, the problem is that we need specific information from ASUS to get nvflash working. This has nothing to do with nVidia
Diamondback said:
The problem is not that nvflash is *incompatible*, the problem is that we need specific information from ASUS to get nvflash working. This has nothing to do with nVidia
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is what I thought but wasn't sure if I was correct. What do we need from Asus to get NVFlash working? I am going to bug the S**T out of them until we get it. If I'm voiding my warranty to unlock this SOB, they better give me full access to everything.
Also, it seems to me that they are voiding the complete warranty because they know people in the dev community are most likely to return for all the issues like BT+Wifi, Wifi signal and GPS and we are also the most likely to unlock, in turn voiding our warranty.
lyon21 said:
That is what I thought but wasn't sure if I was correct. What do we need from Asus to get NVFlash working? I am going to bug the S**T out of them until we get it. If I'm voiding my warranty to unlock this SOB, they better give me full access to everything.
Also, it seems to me that they are voiding the complete warranty because they know people in the dev community are most likely to return for all the issues like BT+Wifi, Wifi signal and GPS and we are also the most likely to unlock, in turn voiding our warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Contact Gary Key, the Asus rep on this board.
We need the secure boot key(sbk) to get nvflash to work.
Nvidia supplied the version that supports tegra 3, Asus blocked functionality (all) to nvflash.
I'm pretty sure if they completely 100% unlock the boot loader nvflash could work without it, but I could be way off here.
di11igaf said:
We need the secure boot key(sbk) to get nvflash to work.
Nvidia supplied the version that supports tegra 3, Asus blocked functionality (all) to nvflash.
I'm pretty sure if they completely 100% unlock the boot loader nvflash could work without it, but I could be way off here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has anyone spoke Gary Key about this at all before? I will continue emailing Asus until they do something about this. If no one has contacted Gary about this yet, I will PM him and see if I can get him to check into this.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
Can some maybe draft an email that we all can send with accurate questions?
I understand enough to get myself into trouble....lol...so NVflash would be a god send to myself and others like me.
Idont completely understand why we cant get NVflash to work, but if someone can explain to me what i need to ask i would do my part and send some emails. Maybe we need to make our wheel squeak the most.
I have NO problem getting some beers in me and sending some emails...lol.
Di11igaf, and Diamondback could you guys explain a little bit in lay mans terms what i could ask?
Thanks guys...
-Jason
Mcoupe said:
Can some maybe draft an email that we all can send with accurate questions?
I understand enough to get myself into trouble....lol...so NVflash would be a god send to myself and others like me.
Idont completely understand why we cant get NVflash to work, but if someone can explain to me what i need to ask i would do my part and send some emails. Maybe we need to make our wheel squeak the most.
I have NO problem getting some beers in me and sending some emails...lol.
Di11igaf, and Diamondback could you guys explain a little bit in lay mans terms what i could ask?
Thanks guys...
-Jason
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 I think this would be a great idea.
Sent from my ICS lovin 3D!!!
If I've helped you in any way... hit the "Thanks" button.
Yeah, we should get something like a template and everybody sends to asus a nice email.
I think we should focus on the "if you're voiding my warranty because of a unlocker tool, i want full access to my device since asus don't support unlocked devices" part.
they should learn more from google and maguro.
I'm up for this as well but lack the technical expertise, however I do enjoy dealing with customer service reps
+1...i do not like to compromise either...
If I get a chance in a little bit, I'll attempt to write something up and post it and see what you guys think. I should be able to do when my wife goes to bed here shortly.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
I attached an e-mail draft that I just typed up to the OP. Look it over and let me know what you guys think. If there is something that I missed, should add or needs to be changed, please let me know.
We need the BCT, ODM and flash.cfg in addition to the SBK, so you may want to ask for those as well...
I personally think its crap considering they void your hardware warranty, my prime is screwed with a Defective Micro SD slot. I don't see HOW unlocking a boot loader affects the slot. My SD card doesn't click into the lock, no custom software caused this. Its a common problem also, Ive seen plenty of other people complaining about broken SD slots. I have not tried to contact asus yet, I figure there's probably no way to restore to factory boot loader state, and I'm pretty sure that unlock tool blacklist your serial.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
ear0wax said:
I personally think its crap considering they void your hardware warranty, my prime is screwed with a Defective Micro SD slot. I don't see HOW unlocking a boot loader affects the slot. My SD card doesn't click into the lock, no custom software caused this. Its a common problem also, Ive seen plenty of other people complaining about broken SD slots. I have not tried to contact asus yet, I figure there's probably no way to restore to factory boot loader state, and I'm pretty sure that unlock tool blacklist your serial.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I had to take a guess, someone in middle management was taking alot of heat for the prime and made a bad decision. "Look boss, now our losses are this much lower!"
The decision doesn't really make much sense to me, so I can only ASSUME it was a shortsided decision because someones career was on the line.
Edit: letter seems fine, but I doubt they care anymore. I feel like we have been written off. Its OK, I have squaretrade warranty and if this thing breaks I will get a Samsung tablet. Possibly Motorola if they get their act together. I am actually happy with my prime and its limitations, but I have also written Asus off which is too bad considering they were in my top 5 company list.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Namidairo said:
We need the BCT, ODM and flash.cfg in addition to the SBK, so you may want to ask for those as well...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll revise the email draft when I get home later and add those things.
Sent from my ICS lovin 3D!!!
If I've helped you in any way... hit the "Thanks" button.
ear0wax said:
I personally think its crap considering they void your hardware warranty, my prime is screwed with a Defective Micro SD slot. I don't see HOW unlocking a boot loader affects the slot. My SD card doesn't click into the lock, no custom software caused this. Its a common problem also, Ive seen plenty of other people complaining about broken SD slots. I have not tried to contact asus yet, I figure there's probably no way to restore to factory boot loader state, and I'm pretty sure that unlock tool blacklist your serial.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I assumed the magnusson act does come into play in some way. They say when you unlock you void your warranty, ok fine. But what if the product was broken before you even unlocked?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2 Beta-4
Thanks Lyon....I am in.
Lol....its amazing how much gets done when the ol lady goes to bed! I thought I was the only one!
This is crazy.....they give us a "key" to unlock our prime and void our warranty. But its only half assed! What's the big deal, if they let us unlock it....why not FULLY unlock the thing. Where is the **** block coming from? Asus, Tegra...what's the big deal, they let us in this far....
Coderedpl said:
This is why I assumed the magnusson act does come into play in some way. They say when you unlock you void your warranty, ok fine. But what if the product was broken before you even unlocked?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2 Beta-4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would anyone knowingly void their warranty on a defective product. If anyone were foolish enough to do that, well then, what can I say.
Proud Owner of a Transformer Prime on Tapatalk
so i have been thinking of unlocking the bootloader on my prime but didnt know if it was worth it. i was reading the warranty info: http://support.asus.com/warranty.as... Pad Transformer Prime TF201&os=&hashedid=n/a and i saw that it only covers defects in materials and workmanship. theres a part that says "We apologize for not be able to provide service for individual components (such as hard disk or CPU)" so does that mean if something happens to any of those things asus wont cover it or they just wont service it and i get a new one? what problems had you guys had caused by unlocking the bootloader if any, and what problems have you had that didnt have anything to do with unlocking the bootloadefr? and did asus cover those problems?so final question is it worth unlocking or is the warranty worth more? because asus customer service pretty much sucks. it took them 1 week to replay back to me with a useless answer when i needed help recovering deleted pictures. and every time i try to contact them thru live chat no one ever connects. so who recomend unlocking and why and who doesnt and why?
i have also seen people that have the problem where their screen craked. did asus replace your screen even if you were unlocked?
these forums get more views than replies. 194 views and no replies. does that mean everyone is on locked bootloader?
I would say that if you are afraid of paying for repair then never unlock your device unless you know how to fix it or have a backup plan. I personally got a 3rd party warranty for any hardware issues that happen that aren't normal for the Prime.
Is the prime better unlocked? Yes tremendously better.
Is the Asus Warranty worth not unlocking? No IMHO
I've seen too many hardware issues posted here to take a chance on unlocking as it voids the warranty. Most people I've seen are simply rooting their device. I'm waiting to see if Asus is going to give us NVFlash which would make it safer to play and a way to recover a bricked Prime.
i am rooted but locked.
RMA'ed twice since Dec when I bought it. I'll never RMA again and wait 2 months like the past 2 times. I chose to unlock recently when I got it back and it was the best decision I've ever made.
fcortes626 said:
these forums get more views than replies. 194 views and no replies. does that mean everyone is on locked bootloader?
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The reason that people aren't replying, is because this question has been asked and answered a dozen times already.
If you unlock your tablet's bootloader, you basically void your warranty.
Unless you know for certain that you never want to get an OTA update, or warranty repair again, don't unlock your Prime.
If you think you may have hardware issues in the future, and you don't want to buy a new tablet or pay to have them fixed, don't unlock your bootloader.
If all you bought the Prime for was playing around with custom ROMs, or if the only way Android has ever made you happy is through a custom ROM and you don't mind not having a warranty, then yes, go ahead and unlock your bootloader.
And yes. Asus knows when when a tablet's bootloader has been unlocked.
I've owned HTC, Samsung and Motorola Android phones and I've had negative experience with two out of 3 those vendors (more on that below). I'm now thinking of getting a newer phone quite soon (well, supposedly Google will be announcing 5 new Google-branded devices this Fall) and the warranty considerations are about the top of my list.
If you've had an experience (wherever positive or negative) with the warranty on your android phone, please post away and let me start the ball rolling. My goal here is to ideally find the manufacturer which would deal with end users directly on the warranty issues and would not shy away from the international warranty. I'll collect responses and then edit this post to reflect the actual warranty statements from the manufacturers rather than my own experiences.
[HTC] I've had a Google Ion device (given at the Google I/O conference) which was also sold known HTC MyTouch. I needed to flash Android 1.5 on it and bricked the phone. HTC spent about a month before they said they didn't have this IMEI in their database and would not offer *any* support (including paid) with that phone. What a bummer, I don't think I'd ever buy the HTC-made Google-branded phone.
[MOTOROLA] Had a problem with the phone not charging (when plugged to a computer) and I panicked and contacted Motorola. They ran the IMEI and suggested I go back to the provider (even tho I'm overseas and wouldn't be back home for a while they refused to accept the phone directly from me). Thankfully the phone charged just fine off the wall outlet, but what if I've had a genuine issue with the phone while overseas? Also, what if this had been a second-hand phone?
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Thread moved to Q&A due to it being a question. Would advise you to read forum rules and post in correct section.
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the best solutioin for ur problem is the following:
there are two different things
1. the warranty (it is given by the phone manufacture)
2. the service the seller gives to u
i would mention to find a seller wich has a own service station
cus if there are any problems u can bring the phone to them and let them check out whats wrong
I thankfully haven't had to make use of warranty thus far on my android phone (it's an HTC), but I'd say probably if you read some small text somewhere you'd find that the device you were given at Google I/O came without warranty or something like that. I'm sure on purchased devices, HTC will honour the warranty well.
Also, from what I've read, it's almost impossible to completely destroy an HTC phone with software (you should always be able to access bootloader via hardware button combo and from there reflash OS). So an HTC warranty is probably mainly useful for hardware problems.
Another thought worth mentioning is that many manufacturers will not honour warranties if the phone has been rooted or had the bootloader unlocked (at least, if they can tell )
SifJar said:
I thankfully haven't had to make use of warranty thus far on my android phone (it's an HTC), but I'd say probably if you read some small text somewhere you'd find that the device you were given at Google I/O came without warranty or something like that. I'm sure on purchased devices, HTC will honour the warranty well.
Also, from what I've read, it's almost impossible to completely destroy an HTC phone with software (you should always be able to access bootloader via hardware button combo and from there reflash OS). So an HTC warranty is probably mainly useful for hardware problems.
Another thought worth mentioning is that many manufacturers will not honour warranties if the phone has been rooted or had the bootloader unlocked (at least, if they can tell )
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That was i was thinking too but ive been resently involved into a discussion where a guy bricked his phone in a way he couldnt even get into recovery nor the bootloader
jiffer1991 said:
That was i was thinking too but ive been resently involved into a discussion where a guy bricked his phone in a way he couldnt even get into recovery nor the bootloader
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On an HTC? Was he trying to get S-OFF or something? (Perhaps I am misinformed about the brick-ability of HTC phones)
Guys, the thread is about the warranty, not the brickability of the HTC phones.
Regarding the warranty from the seller -- who gives a **** when I'm half a world away from the seller for 4-6 months?
stangri said:
Guys, the thread is about the warranty, not the brickability of the HTC phones.
Regarding the warranty from the seller -- who gives a **** when I'm half a world away from the seller for 4-6 months?
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Yes, sorry for going off topic there.
Anyway, I agree you should not have to rely on any warranty from the seller.
jiffer1991 said:
That was i was thinking too but ive been resently involved into a discussion where a guy bricked his phone in a way he couldnt even get into recovery nor the bootloader
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I dont know im just saying this because i want u to be careful
Can anyone help me out in this situation?
I sent in my touchpad to get repaired for cracks near the speaker but I had CM9 installed on it and it voided the warranty
My Touchpad was dead and I didn't have my charger for it so I couldn't wipe everything with webos doctor.
Today I got a letter in the post from SBE Ltd saying that my Touchpad couldn't be repaired the reason was ''Unauthorized software upgrade - Warranty void'' The faults found were Housing Rear - Cracked and Wrong Software version. The parts to be changed or repaired are replacement case and Software update
I was wondering if anyone could help me out in this situation. They want £294 for the Touchpad to be repaired because the warranty was voided and all they need to do is doctor it and replace the rear housing. They also are charging me if I want the Touchpad back unrepaired!
Is there anyway I can get my Touchpad repaired or sent back to me for free? I was thinking about playing dumb when I call them up but I don't know.
Please help me out
I think your options are very limited... if any.
There is a reason why devs make it clear in their statements that you are doing the modding at your own risk.
We all know that by modding and loading a custom rom you did not cause any physical harm to the device... it's the fall that broke it.
It's just that the OEMs (HP in this case) are using the "unauthorized software use" as an excuse to deny you the warranty service.
I personally do not agree with this policy but they set it up this way so they can wiggle out of warranty repair when ever possible.
I hope others have better news for you but I think you are SOL... Sorry...
cvcduty said:
I think your options are very limited... if any.
There is a reason why devs make it clear in their statements that you are doing the modding at your own risk.
We all know that by modding and loading a custom rom you did not cause any physical harm to the device... it's the fall that broke it.
It's just that the OEMs (HP in this case) are using the "unauthorized software use" as an excuse to deny you the warranty service.
I personally do not agree with this policy but they set it up this way so they can wiggle out of warranty repair when ever possible.
I hope others have better news for you but I think you are SOL... Sorry...
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Thanks for your reply.
I'll call up the repair company sometime this week.
I didn't even drop the Touchpad. It was always in the official case. I think it's a known hardware defect.
Shall I ring them up and deny ever installing any unauthorized software and act stupid?
sayeef said:
Thanks for your reply.
I'll call up the repair company sometime this week.
I didn't even drop the Touchpad. It was always in the official case. I think it's a known hardware defect.
Shall I ring them up and deny ever installing any unauthorized software and act stupid?
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You need to actually read your warranty, and tell them of your interpretation of it. Be forceful that un-authorized software is not stated in the warranty as being an exclusion.
I have attached a link to your warranty information here:http://www.hpwebos.com/us/support/contact/LimitedWarranty_HPwebOS2011.pdf
Put particular emphasis on these areas:
HARDWARE: HP warrants to the original purchaser
(“Customer”) that new HP branded hardware products will be
free from defects in workmanship and materials, under normal
use, for one (1) year from the original purchase date, and that
refurbished HP branded hardware products (marked and sold
as such by HP) will be free from defects in workmanship and
materials, under normal use, for ninety (90) days from the
original purchase date.
EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES: Should a covered defect occur during
the warranty period and you notify HP, your sole and exclusive
remedy shall be, at HP’s sole option and expense, to repair
or replace the product or software.
They may argue this:
EXCLUSIONS: This Limited Warranty does not apply (1) to
damage to the surface of the product, including cracks or
scratches on the LCD touchscreen or outside casing; (2) to
damage caused by misuse, neglect, improper installation,
storage or testing, unauthorized attempts to open, repair, or
modify the product, or any other cause beyond the range of
the intended use; (3) to damage caused by accident, fire, dirt,
sand, moisture or liquids, power changes, other hazards, or
acts of God; (4) to damage caused by use of the product with
any non-HP device or service if such device or service causes
the problem; or (5) if any HP serial number has been removed,
defaced or altered.
But you should argue this:
EXCLUSIONS: This Limited Warranty does not apply (1) to
damage to the surface of the product, including cracks or
scratches on the LCD touchscreen or outside casing; (2) to
damage caused by misuse, neglect, improper installation,
storage or testing, unauthorized attempts to open, repair, or
modify the product, or any other cause beyond the range of
the intended use; (3) to damage caused by accident, fire, dirt,
sand, moisture or liquids, power changes, other hazards, or
acts of God; (4) to damage caused by use of the product with
any non-HP device or service if such device or service causes
the problem; or (5) if any HP serial number has been removed,
defaced or altered.
Tell them to explain how an "un-authorized" operating system caused material defects in workmanship!
---------- Post added at 01:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:40 PM ----------
They may also argue that installing the "un-authorized" software does not constitute "normal" use. You should then argue what the interpretation of "normal" is. I would suggest that after discontinuing the product and support, and a large percentage of users running android on their Touchpad's, that normal use would be installing Android.
Thank you so much for pointing that out. I thought all hopes were lost.
Shall I try it with the Palm live chat first? I'm not very confident when trying to get my point across over the phone. (I'm only 15)
When or if I call them up, could you tell me what to say to them and how to start the conversation?
Sorry for so many questions.
How much are they charging to send it back without repairs? Its hard to believe they would charge you anything other than shipping costs.
I would start the conversation straight out saying that you do not understand why they are denying coverage based on "un-authorized" software... I would have them explain to you how this has caused damage to the device. Have them prove that your TouchPad became defective as a direct cause of the custom rom usage. If they point to the fact that this is was a "improper use" or "improper installation", I would argue that point as well... have them define what "improper" use means. To me, that implies using the device for purposes other than what it was originally designed for... as in tablet PC Vs... a frisbee.
The fact that you used the device as a tablet pc (as intended) but with a "improper installation", is fishy and sketch at best... ultimately, I would argue that the use of "improper installation" had nothing to do with a known manufacturing defect (cracked case).
And a trick I usually pull is if the guys/gal helping you seem uncooperative, ask for the supervisor or manager... often times, I find that they have the authority to make the call on cases such as yours where as the tech support person might have to clear their decisions with their manager. Basically, it would be harder for that manager/supervisor to give you the bad news (I hope otherwise) Vs. having another person tell you on their behalf.
Good luck...
I've just had an hour long chat with one of the reps on the live chat
http://pastebin.com/KJC3nLmT
They were no help at all
sayeef said:
I've just had an hour long chat with one of the reps on the live chat
http://pastebin.com/KJC3nLmT
They were no help at all
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They sure are a difficult bunch... it seems like they cannot be reasoned with at all!
It would seem that the implicit meaning of the conversation is that they don't care what you do software wise with the Touchpad, as long as it arrived in the repair facility with WebOS on it.
It seems like you are in a difficult situation with your device already being in for repair. What happened with the voice call escalation?
jsgraphicart said:
How much are they charging to send it back without repairs? Its hard to believe they would charge you anything other than shipping costs.
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£20 for the device back without repairs. Blasphemy.
cvcduty said:
I would start the conversation straight out saying that you do not understand why they are denying coverage based on "un-authorized" software... I would have them explain to you how this has caused damage to the device. Have them prove that your TouchPad became defective as a direct cause of the custom rom usage. If they point to the fact that this is was a "improper use" or "improper installation", I would argue that point as well... have them define what "improper" use means. To me, that implies using the device for purposes other than what it was originally designed for... as in tablet PC Vs... a frisbee.
The fact that you used the device as a tablet pc (as intended) but with a "improper installation", is fishy and sketch at best... ultimately, I would argue that the use of "improper installation" had nothing to do with a known manufacturing defect (cracked case).
And a trick I usually pull is if the guys/gal helping you seem uncooperative, ask for the supervisor or manager... often times, I find that they have the authority to make the call on cases such as yours where as the tech support person might have to clear their decisions with their manager. Basically, it would be harder for that manager/supervisor to give you the bad news (I hope otherwise) Vs. having another person tell you on their behalf.
Good luck...
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Thanks for the information. Much appreciated.
Can you look through my chat log with HP and tell me how I can improve?
Thanks
I didn't bother with the voice call escalation because I'm from the UK and the rep from Palm is from the US
I might call up tomorrow. Shall I call them both up (HP and the company that is repairing) or shall I only call up one?
Once again, thanks for everyone helping me out in a situation which I thought was impossible to get out of
This is unbelievable
What a bunch of pricks.
lifeisfun said:
This is unbelievable
What a bunch of pricks.
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I tried the web support and was drawn to a similar conclusion. It is easy for them just to say "no" and say it is because of policy; I'd say it is a standard answer.
Anything for them to get out of honoring the warranty... what a bunch of criminals. At least they will ship it back to you. The representative I spoke to said that sometimes it can take months for it to be returned!
I have dealt with tech/customer support such as this before. They are often given a script to read from and they are hard to deal with.
Your best bet... for now, would be to see if the phone support people (HP would be my guess) are little bit more understanding and reasonable. Like I said, ask for a manager/supervisor if the first person is not working with you.
At the end of it all, if you can get them to return the device to you at a reasonable cost (hopefully as close to free as possible) get the device to factory state and send it back for repair. But since they already have your device on record as "warranty voided", make sure that they will allow you free warranty service once WebOS is restored.
If this is still not acceptable, I would say, just live with the small crack. Afterall, if you have it under a cover, you will never even notice it. For the price you paid for the device, this might be too much of a hassle to deal with afterall.
Again, best of luck and I hope the phone support will be more reasonable then the live chat robots...
cvcduty said:
I have dealt with tech/customer support such as this before. They are often given a script to read from and they are hard to deal with.
Your best bet... for now, would be to see if the phone support people (HP would be my guess) are little bit more understanding and reasonable. Like I said, ask for a manager/supervisor if the first person is not working with you.
At the end of it all, if you can get them to return the device to you at a reasonable cost (hopefully as close to free as possible) get the device to factory state and send it back for repair. But since they already have your device on record as "warranty voided", make sure that they will allow you free warranty service once WebOS is restored.
If this is still not acceptable, I would say, just live with the small crack. Afterall, if you have it under a cover, you will never even notice it. For the price you paid for the device, this might be too much of a hassle to deal with afterall.
Again, best of luck and I hope the phone support will be more reasonable then the live chat robots...
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I'll ring them tomorrow when I come back from school.
I used the warranty check on the HP site and it says that my Touchpads warranty is active and it will expire on the 20th of September.
If I get my device back unrepaired, shall I try to get another repair started?
Well, that would be entirely up to you... If they get the device back to you before the warranty expires and you still want to deal with the hassle, I would say, sure.
But, before you give up... let's hope phone support can help to resolve the matter to your satisfaction first...
Your other option is to try and get the device back, revert it to stock and then re-submit it. Still no guarantee, since they will have it on file that you had a non-standard ROM on the device. That said, if it boots into WebOS and they can make the repairs to confirm functionality - this stint of non-standard OS may not crop up on their radar.
***
(In general)
The issue HP has presently is they can't guarantee service or repair if they fixed your hardware under a ROM which they didn't install. Theoretically, if they botched something in CW Recovery or the ROM (CM or otherwise not WebOS), you as the consumer would be all over HP to not just replace the gear, but attempt all wordly efforts to recover the loss of personal data or information. This is a no-win and high risk situation for HP on a per-consumer transaction. To avoid this risk, they'll cut the consumer off at every corner from tampering with what they as the manufacturer push to market or certify the product for.
The same holds true in any industry. When consumers push the product outside the realm of what the manufacturer installed/certified the product for - you won't get assistance or support under the warranty. If you install 33" tires on your truck, but it's only rated for wheels up to 30" - you won't get warranty support. If you put in an aftermarket engine - you won't get warranty support. If your PC is only rated up to Win XP, and you push it to Vista or Win 7 - you won't get warranty support.
Prickish or not, that's the reality of support versus consumer expectation.
--McBean
McBeanTIO said:
Prickish or not, that's the reality of support versus consumer expectation.
--McBean
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Unfortunately, that is the reality. I don't want to discourage anyone from attempting to have their hardware issues resolved by HP, but the first course of action (if possible) should be to restore to factory WebOS prior to contacting them for any support/warranty.
I thought US passed law saying software doesn't void hardware warranties... since it is same as rooting/jailbreaking and something was passed saying that it doesn't void the hardware part of it. I know you aren't in US but HP is, and it should still follow that rule
unless HP's UK branch operates under a different set of rules
tell them to send it back and superglue the cracks