Dell is now using proprietary parts
Dec 19 '04
The Bottom Line Since you will be unable to get some needed parts for Dell computers without purchasing through Dell, AVOID at all cost.
A few years ago, I purchased my second Dell computer. They had such a good reputation that included outstanding support. 13 months after purchasing the unit, it broke. Tech support tried fixing the problem over the phone, no luck. And, best of all, since the unit was 1 month out of warranty, I would have to pay for any needed repairs. They suspected the processor had went out on the unit and it would cost about $450.00, plus shipping, to get a new one. And, if that wasn't the problem, that didn't matter.
I work at a local college and asked one of our tech support specialist if they would be able to fix it. He thought he should be able to, so I gave him the unit.
The following is the key to this review and something EVERYONE should be aware of.
After getting the unit, the tech support specialist discovered that Dell is now using proprietary parts! Yes, you read that correctly, you can only get some parts for a Dell computer by purchasing them through Dell! This means you are at their mercy on price!
This type of computer manufacturing went out in the early 90's! Everyone knew back then that Compaq was that way, this is why no one had one! They no longer do this, yet Dell feels they should.
So be aware! You may save a bundle buying that Dell computer with all the specials they run, but if something ever needs replacing and you don't have a warranty, you are going to pay through the nose! Did I fix it? Nope! Trashed it. Just not worth spending $450.00 on a computer when a new one can now be purchased for that much or a little more, and it would be more computer.
Oh, and don't be fooled by Dell's commercials with those neat tech support people waiting around to talk with you and answer you call on the first ring. First off, their tech support has been out sourced to India, as many others are now doing. And you always wait in cue for someone to be available, who you might or might not be able to understand.
Corporate America even went so far as tell Dell that if they didn't pull tech support back across the ocean to the US, they would stop purchasing their units. Dell now offers tech support, US based tech support, for their corporate customers. But if you watch TV, you'd think you'll be getting that same kind of service. That isn't so, so don't fall for it!
For any consumer buying a Dell, you're in for high prices for replacement parts because you have to buy from Dell, and tech support from across the sea! In other words, save your money and but something cheaper that YOU or any tech can work on and get parts locally!
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