Develop Bugs

[Q] For those who got replacement EVO's

If you have recently received a replacement EVO, did you get a NEW or Refurb'ed phone?
Did they send you one or did you get it at a Service Center?
TIA

Sprint replaced my Evo back in August with a refurb through advance exchange. However, refurb was just as shiny and nice as a new one. I do not have a Sprint corporate store anywhere near me so all of this was done in the 3rd party repair center who then pushed me off to customer service and then it took 4 days of argueing to get them to replace my phone. The screen was falling off it.

I filed a claim through Asurion and they sent me a brand new phone next day.

Thanks for the replies, keep them coming.
I want to know what Sprint is handing out as replacements for defective phones.
So far what I've seen is if you get a replacement at a store you get a refurb'ed phone. According to Sprint a refurb has a new outer case and the guts have been repaired.
I've had problems with all the EVO's Sprint has sent me when I am Roaming (we have a second home in the mountains), in that the phone gets 5 or 6 bars of antenna strength, but it won't make calls or get data service. Looks as if it is trying to connect to a tower that is not provisioned for Sprint use. My Blackberry and my wife's Hero only show 1 bar of antenna strength, and they both get phone and data services. I hate having a premium data service that doesn't work, Sprint says they will replace the phone again, I just don't want a refurb'ed phone, dunno why, I just don't. And I don't think a new phone would be any better.

ive gone through warranty hell with Sprint and am on my 3rd replacement in 3 weeks. All have been refurbs, however they said if I have problems with this one they will replace it with a new one.
However I had to discuss this with the manager.

Due to the popularity of the Evo, I doubt getting a "New In Box" replacement from Sprint will ever happen. If you are willing to shell out $100 and you have the phone replacement insurance, you can file a claim through Asurion and you will get a New In Box replacement within a couple days. I have had to do it twice now (yes I am clumsy and my kids don't help my cause ) and both times I got a brand new phone within 2 business days of filing a claim.

They will give you Refurbished Phones, ive gone thru 3 different Refurbished before they gave me a BRAND NEW ONE
First Refurb - Bad Antenna
Second Refurb - Bad Volume Keys
Third Refurb - Wouldn't Charge
4th Phone brand New - WORKS PERFECT

I just got a replacement but its so nice and shiny i don't care, everything works thats all i care about.

I got my replacement a day after I filed the claim, it was a refurb, but badly refurbished. Looked like glue had leaked out the side, volume button felt funny, so I called assurion or whatever it is, and they over nighted me a brand new EVO. Unexpectedly it was they're suggestion I didn't even have the chance to yell at them to send me a NEW one. Pretty impressed.
Now I see you are talking about getting one from a sprint store, I had to do that when my charging port went bad, that was a refurb, but looked and acted as brand new. Sorry for the confusion.

I
was issued a Refurb in great condition

I got a new one through the service center after waiting 3 days for it to come in.

Had a dead pixel after 20 days. They replaced with a brand new Evo, no questions asked. The store manager said they are replacing with new units, not refurbs, as of 2 weeks ago.

I'm a bit confused by what i am reading here. Does everyone get charged $100 regardless if you get a refurb or new unit if you are paying the $7 for the insurance? It sounds like some of you got new units without having to pay a deductible.
I'm not sure it would be worth it for me to keep paying for the insurance if there is a $100 deductible. I can pick up a used phone for around $350 on ebay now. Assuming the price drops in a few months, maybe i'll be able to get one for $250. Not sure it's worth paying $7 a month plus $100 to get a used phone. After a year, it would have cost me $184 which is not bad but after 2 years it'll be $268 which definitely doesn't seem worth it at that point. not to mention I've already been paying the insurance fee for the last 2 years or so and never needed to make use of it.

Some are filing an insurance claim = $100 deductible. I'm asking about what you get under a warranty claim. No charge for that.

Jim M said:
Some are filing an insurance claim = $100 deductible. I'm asking about what you get under a warranty claim. No charge for that.
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oh - ok - my mistake, sorry about that. i thought this was all about the insurance.
How long is the warranty anyhow?

merkk said:
oh - ok - my mistake, sorry about that. i thought this was all about the insurance.
How long is the warranty anyhow?
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1 year from HTC. But Sprint will replace the phone for most hardware problems.

Jim M said:
1 year from HTC. But Sprint will replace the phone for most hardware problems.
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Hmm, maybe i'll cancel the insurance then just for the next year. I guess i'll have to contact htc though since i bought the phone used off ebay so i'm not sure how that effects the warranty.
thanks

merkk said:
Hmm, maybe i'll cancel the insurance then just for the next year. I guess i'll have to contact htc though since i bought the phone used off ebay so i'm not sure how that effects the warranty.
thanks
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I'd say keep the insurance, it covers normal use, loss and damage.

Do not drop your insurance on a phone you bought off Ebay,......NEVER..having it is what saved me. I did not have to pay 100 though.

00_MACKIE_00 said:
Do not drop your insurance on a phone you bought off Ebay,......NEVER..having it is what saved me. I did not have to pay 100 though.
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Well the phone is pretty much in perfect working order. There's one small defect on the top corner of the phone (which the seller mentioned) that doesn't seem to have any impact on the functions of the phone.
If there were no deductible, i'd keep the insurance. but a $100 deductible doesn't really seem worth it. What I've already paid over the last 2-3 years plus the $100 deductible is more then what it would cost me to buy a new phone. And that'a assuming i'd even get a new phone and not a refurbished one. I didn't realize there was a $100 deductible until someone mentioned it earlier in this thread. Which is my own fault for not reading the fine print.

So, would someone explain the full extent of Sprint's insurance to me?

I pay the $7 per month, and I want to eventually trade in my 002 EVO for a newer model before I upgrade to something better (talking months and months from now). I want to know basically what will get me a new EVO and how much it will cost me. I already have the light leakage around the bottom buttons, and I know most would see that as a huge flaw. Any input is appreciated.

Why don't you just go into a Sprint store now and trade the phone in for a newer hardware version. That's what I'm going to do since my camera lens cracked and the horrible light leakage. It IS a big deal to me because I watch a lot of movies at night on my phone.
If you claim insurance on your phone you should let them know of the issue with the light leakage (or any other issues) so you can send your phone back in to them. If you are intending on keeping the phone and selling it that would be considered fraud but it's your choice.

gqstatus0685 said:
Why don't you just go into a Sprint store now and trade the phone in for a newer hardware version. That's what I'm going to do since my camera lens cracked and the horrible light leakage. It IS a big deal to me because I watch a lot of movies at night on my phone.
If you claim insurance on your phone you should let them know of the issue with the light leakage (or any other issues) so you can send your phone back in to them. If you are intending on keeping the phone and selling it that would be considered fraud but it's your choice.
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So I just walk in and let them know that I want a fixed device? And I intend to keep the new one for a couple weeks before selling it. I just won't want to sell off one of the launch models with the problems associated with that.

what's the diff between the launch and current models besides the light leakage?

If it's anything like other cellular insurance claims you won't be able to keep the "defective" phone. But if you did file a claim you would be subject to the deductible, 50-100 dollars I believe?

cesjr02 said:
If it's anything like other cellular insurance claims you won't be able to keep the "defective" phone. But if you did file a claim you would be subject to the deductible, 50-100 dollars I believe?
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No, no. I don't want to keep my 002. I want to exchange it for a newer version that will sell for more when I upgrade. I just wanted to know what it took to get them to swap it out.
--
Sent from my HTC Supersonic.

I've been dealing with Sprint for a long time and I have abused their insurance policy as well so let me give you the breakdown for it.
First off, what the Sprint Total Equipment Protection Plan (TEP) is not. It is NOT an upgrade plan. Meaning you can't go in and ask them to swap your phone out just because you want to. There are ways to get "free" upgrades, but I won't go into that. Which brings me to my next point.
Sprint will only swap out your phone if there is something wrong with it. In other words, if its Sprint/HTC's fault or it is not working properly for some reason and it is NOT YOUR FAULT. Defects, software failures(MAJOR), etc. When you tell them what is wrong with your phone, be as DETAILED as possible. They will always reset your phone to factory defaults and try to reproduce the issue. If they can't reproduce the issue, they will return it and say its working fine now. If they reproduce it, they will try to repair it. If they can't repair it, they will order you a replacement. THIS IS FREE
ALSO NOTE: This is Sprint's general policy. There are exceptions, and depending on the person you get, they might be able to do more for you. But this is what you should expect!
If there is damage due to a drop, water damage, or anything that is YOUR FAULT, they will tell you to go through Asurion. Sprint's insurance carrier or w.e the terminology is. This is when you have to dish out the $100 copayment. Only do this if you messed up big time by cracking your screen, dropped it in the toilet (EWW), etc.
Now some extra tips: You want to call Sprint's customer service first. Tell them about your problems, go through their "troubleshooting". If they fix the issue, great! If not, then after you are done, make sure they note your account that you called regarding the issue so when you go into the Sprint store they will have your information. BE POLITE! Trust me it goes a long way.
When you get in the Sprint store, go to their repair center. Tell them you called Sprint's customer care and was told to come in. Give them EVERY SINGLE problem associated with the phone. If it is a defect such as the light leakage, make sure they know that it is a known issue and to check their database. I recently lost 4G cause I lost my RSA keys (stupid WIMAX Radios). I unrooted and went into a Sprint store and just basically said, My 4G isn't working. They did their usual checks. Made sure it wasn't rooted, latest update, factory reset, update profile, etc. They couldn't fix it so they ordered me a replacement phone and i got it the next day.

Just to add:
It really depends on how helpful their repair department / manager is. Some will swap out your phone without an issue even if you walk in and say "I want a new phone because this one isn't as bright as my friends."
Others will make the whole process feel like you are pulling teeth! It depends on the person. I suggest if you get this type of person, ask for their supervisor or if they are the supervisor, go to another Sprint store. But also think about what you are asking for. If your phone "feels" different in your hand than your friend's Evo, they will almost NEVER replace your phone. Cause come on. That's just unreasonable. But if there's light leakage, major lag, your battery dies in 2 hours, 4G / 3G, etc doesn't work. Your phone reboots over and over AND ITS NOT YOUR FAULT, then they will try to fix it or get you a replacement.

sekigah84 said:
Just to add:
It really depends on how helpful their repair department / manager is. Some will swap out your phone without an issue even if you walk in and say "I want a new phone because this one isn't as bright as my friends."
Others will make the whole process feel like you are pulling teeth! It depends on the person. I suggest if you get this type of person, ask for their supervisor or if they are the supervisor, go to another Sprint store. But also think about what you are asking for. If your phone "feels" different in your hand than your friend's Evo, they will almost NEVER replace your phone. Cause come on. That's just unreasonable. But if there's light leakage, major lag, your battery dies in 2 hours, 4G / 3G, etc doesn't work. Your phone reboots over and over AND ITS NOT YOUR FAULT, then they will try to fix it or get you a replacement.
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I would add, That this guy is right with everything he is saying.. It depends on the person.. Which is weird because they should have proper guidelines... But obviously they can alter them because I have walked in before and got a new phone just because I didn't like it (got a new one) and then the opposite..

Didn't Sprint recently overhault their replacement policies, though? What was all of that about free replacements if you pay the $7 fee for bascially anything except water damage?

TheBiles said:
Didn't Sprint recently overhault their replacement policies, though? What was all of that about free replacements if you pay the $7 fee for bascially anything except water damage?
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It hasn't changed. They didn't explain it in full.
The $7 basically covers repairs in store and any non-fault issue your phone is having. If you broke it all on your own, you have to pay the $100 deductible. So you dropped your phone down a flight of stairs and the screen cracked. Now as for the camera lens cracking, you can say its cause the damn camera lens protrudes out and you put it down and it cracked. They know about this already and its just a design flaw. Hence why people are getting replacements because of that.
What did change a while back was it used to be $50 per claim. Now they jacked it up to $100. It used to be a great way to get cheap phone upgrades as long as Asurion ran out of replacement phones or your phone is so old they don't support it anymore. In that case they would give you the next best thing.

Sekigah, you couldn't be further form the truth. Here are the official guidelines, as of Oct 23rd:
The only reason to put in a claim with Asurion and pay the $100 is for the following:
Liquid damage
fire damage
loss/theft
complete board destruction
- For complete disclosure, complete board destruction is classified as the motherboard being in 3 or more pieces, however extreme trauma to the phone will force you to go through Asurion. If your motherboard is actually visible, but it;s in one piece, it should be replaced free of charge in store. This depends on the tech, the store, and the manager, but knowing the guidelines helps you out.
Now fixed in store, for free:
Broken hinges, housing damage, broken antennas, shattered screens/LCDs
And finally, if you do NOT have TEP: Don't bother coming in claiming manufacturers warranty, because we will send you right to the manufacturer. Any repairs done in store, or replacements that have to be ordered, and you do NOT have TEP, cost $35. No ifs, ands, or buts. This is payable either when you phone is fixed, or before the phone is ordered for you.
As far as the above example: If you dropped your phone down the stairs and you have TEP, the phone is still relatively in one piece, but the screen is shattered? Your phone gets repaired/replaced for free.

entropism said:
Sekigah, you couldn't be further form the truth. Here are the official guidelines, as of Oct 23rd:
The only reason to put in a claim with Asurion and pay the $100 is for the following:
Liquid damage
fire damage
loss/theft
complete board destruction
- For complete disclosure, complete board destruction is classified as the motherboard being in 3 or more pieces, however extreme trauma to the phone will force you to go through Asurion. If your motherboard is actually visible, but it;s in one piece, it should be replaced free of charge in store. This depends on the tech, the store, and the manager, but knowing the guidelines helps you out.
Now fixed in store, for free:
Broken hinges, housing damage, broken antennas, shattered screens/LCDs
And finally, if you do NOT have TEP: Don't bother coming in claiming manufacturers warranty, because we will send you right to the manufacturer. Any repairs done in store, or replacements that have to be ordered, and you do NOT have TEP, cost $35. No ifs, ands, or buts. This is payable either when you phone is fixed, or before the phone is ordered for you.
As far as the above example: If you dropped your phone down the stairs and you have TEP, the phone is still relatively in one piece, but the screen is shattered? Your phone gets repaired/replaced for free.
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TEP is the $7/month, right?
Edit: Just checked, and it is:
Total Equipment Protection - $3 insurance premium & $4 service/repair $7.00
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Correct. Though technically it's $4 and $4, with $7 being the package price.

entropism said:
Sekigah, you couldn't be further form the truth. Here are the official guidelines, as of Oct 23rd:
The only reason to put in a claim with Asurion and pay the $100 is for the following:
Liquid damage
fire damage
loss/theft
complete board destruction
- For complete disclosure, complete board destruction is classified as the motherboard being in 3 or more pieces, however extreme trauma to the phone will force you to go through Asurion. If your motherboard is actually visible, but it;s in one piece, it should be replaced free of charge in store. This depends on the tech, the store, and the manager, but knowing the guidelines helps you out.
Now fixed in store, for free:
Broken hinges, housing damage, broken antennas, shattered screens/LCDs
And finally, if you do NOT have TEP: Don't bother coming in claiming manufacturers warranty, because we will send you right to the manufacturer. Any repairs done in store, or replacements that have to be ordered, and you do NOT have TEP, cost $35. No ifs, ands, or buts. This is payable either when you phone is fixed, or before the phone is ordered for you.
As far as the above example: If you dropped your phone down the stairs and you have TEP, the phone is still relatively in one piece, but the screen is shattered? Your phone gets repaired/replaced for free.
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http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=819504
http://www.phonenews.com/sprint-tepsr-changes-next-week-13303/
I didn't get any updates in the mail from Sprint on this cause I have TEP so this is news to me. Thanks for the update. I stand corrected. This makes the $7/mo charge worth it.
So take the mindset I had and just pretend that everything but dropping it in the toilet and setting it on fire or losing it is free. The latter costs $100 LOL
More or less, if its damaged beyond repair = Asurion and almost everything else = free repair if under TEP and $35 if not. Thats sexy.

Yes, as long as your phone isn't in three pieces and you have TEP, it is free. Now they get to bring in the $$ cause more people will but the insurance. And most people don't ever use it. In fact, until I got the Hero last year I had never used my insurance. Now I have used it twice. Once with busting the speaker and once with my Evo because it would not stop rebooting. Didn't pay anything. I felt like I got special treatment because I had insurance.
Sent from my iPhone with the bigger Gee Bees.

From my own experiences...
With sprint's insurance a lost phone and $100 will get you a refurbished POS that will most likely be much worse than the phone you have now, complaining about it after you get it is futile as well. I lost one phone in ten years and I was furious at the phone they gave me. It came with a busted speaker and a glitchy screen.
I got rid of their insurance and am going through best buy atm. Supposedly, as long as you keep all the pieces, you will get a brand new one if you ever break your phone. I'm not sure if it covers lost phones though.

Actually, if you get a bad phone from asurion, it has a one year warranty, so have them replace it.
Best buy will not simply give you a new phone, they ship it to their center and repair it (over the course of 2 weeks) while you wait.
As for not knowing the new policies, it was mailed to everyone inside your bill a few months back.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App

Asurion/Samsung Cracked outer repair

I filed for a claim 8/03/2012, and it has been on back order ever since. I have a cracked glass that's usable, and can barely be seen. Every thing functions as it should, and I was thinking just get a repair, but went the insurance route. After waiting until Tuesday I called Samsung to see what the repair cost for a cracked glass was, and I found out that they charge $178.50 to repair and to next day air there and back included in that cost.
I called Asurion to cancel and go the Sammy route because I was tired of waiting, and the chance that I could get a used refurbed GS III also help me to come to this decision. They won't cancel, and even though I was never sent the phone they tell me that I can not cancel once I put in a claim. Now this is rediculous in my eyes, what do you guys think. I am going to cancel my TEP and not worry after this is over because I get a years warranty from Samsung, and never had to use insurance ever since being with Sprint, and for 11.00 monthly plus 150.00 deductible I think Sammy repairing is cheaper if you have a case "which I didn't at the time that I dropped it 2nd day BTW" and need a crack repair.
I am not worrying about theft, and on my second line want a Nexus when it comes out at years end possibly, and my luck with holding onto and maintaining a phone is stellar so far minus this incident.
You can get cracked glass repaired for 28.00 more and no TEP cost if you go the route that I am going now because of this.
Back ordered still and patiently waiting!

Did you miss the part about NON-REFUNDABLE DEDUCTIBLE.
When you receive the replacement, just ship it back to them. You're still out the $150 though.

Sunsparc said:
Did you miss the part about NON-REFUNDABLE DEDUCTIBLE.
When you receive the replacement, just ship it back to them. You're still out the $150 though.
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Yeah dude, it says something along the lines of THIS CANNOT BE UNDONE right before you click the button.

shiftr182 said:
Yeah dude, it says something along the lines of THIS CANNOT BE UNDONE right before you click the button.
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Sunsparc said:
Did you miss the part about NON-REFUNDABLE DEDUCTIBLE.
When you receive the replacement, just ship it back to them. You're still out the $150 though.
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It also says they will ship the phone within 7-10 business days which they have not....it is still back ordered. Therefore the deal can be canceled. In fact I let them know this tid bit, not only that it's not in the insuring clause of the contract therefore that non refundable crap is ambiguous, and any ambiguity in a contract where money is exchanged is null and void and all benefits go to the consumer.
The CS supervisor spent an hour trying to find the non refundable in the insuring clause and did not. They said they will call me when they find it However; they will not because that insuring clause is only a few paragraphs. Just to let you the unknowing know that every contract has a binder, and in that binder there must be clear concise wording of what will happen for the consideration "money". This is called the insuring clause or agreement in this case. If that clause does not have such wording the contract cannot have non refundable added when customers click buy.
They tried to stick me with paying overage for roaming last year while I was in Florida roaming, but I didn't let them. I told them that on their web site, and all printed literature including the contract it states unlimited roaming. They alerted me that it says it in small print in the back of the contract about limited roaming. I then pointed out to them the laws that protect the consumer from deceptive unclear contracts like that. I told them I could use all the unlimited data that I wanted until they cleared up the wording in that contract, and then issue the new contract to everyone stating the new terms with no ambiguity. They backed off. Then the next month they changed the contract to state that roaming is limited to 300 minutes on another network other than Sprint.
You all should know the laws and read contracts so that "you" don't get screwed. All this to say they can't make a contract and then change it when you are paying or it is null in void in a court of law, and you get a refund. Also this subject really is about letting you all know that for 178.50 you can get a cracked screen repaired shipped and picked up next day by Samsung.
If I pay 11.00 a month to now have been waiting since August 3, 2012 to now I could have had my phone back from Samsung with out having to worry if it is someones used refurbished phone. This would only cost me 28.50 more than my deductible which sent a bell ringing in my head that said I don't need insurance if the repair is 178.50 with out a monthly fee of 11.00. Why pay 132.00 a year and 150 deductible when you can pay yourself and pay Sammy to repair it properly. Since I am no worried about dropping or losing my phone I have decided to drop TEP.
Dropping the TEP for less costly repairs from Samsung, and next day service seems like a better deal for me......I leave this information for you to decide. Some of you may decide 11.00 monthly for possible refurbished phone is ok. Some of you may think that I may lose my phone so I need insurance. Some of you may say TEP is no big deal and go the route that I am going for such a small fee.

I agree...but what if your phone gets lost or stolen? If half the things covered by your insurance are things that you aren't worried about then yes it makes perfect sense that you may not need the insurance...but keep in mind not everybody is interested in throwing away lost/stolen coverage..or water damage...or shock damage beyond just a simple broken screen...or all the other things insurance covers. I'm glad you got lucky and only had minor damage that was repairable by Samsung....this time.
Backorders can be frustrating...hell if anything it makes me feel better when they don't have a large refurb pool of my phone to draw on...it means people have been very happy with the device so far and there hasn't been a lot of buyer's remorse or minor issues resulting in a ton of refurb devices. But this seems like you've freaked out and wasted a lot of your time and energy because you don't want to wait on a backorder...not to mention the large amount of stress it sounds like you're putting yourself through. Is it really worth it when you essentially as you said have a still usable phone and just have to wait a little while?

ghsthntr said:
I agree...but what if your phone gets lost or stolen? If half the things covered by your insurance are things that you aren't worried about then yes it makes perfect sense that you may not need the insurance...but keep in mind not everybody is interested in throwing away lost/stolen coverage..or water damage...or shock damage beyond just a simple broken screen...or all the other things insurance covers. I'm glad you got lucky and only had minor damage that was repairable by Samsung....this time.
Backorders can be frustrating...hell if anything it makes me feel better when they don't have a large refurb pool of my phone to draw on...it means people have been very happy with the device so far and there hasn't been a lot of buyer's remorse or minor issues resulting in a ton of refurb devices. But this seems like you've freaked out and wasted a lot of your time and energy because you don't want to wait on a backorder...not to mention the large amount of stress it sounds like you're putting yourself through. Is it really worth it when you essentially as you said have a still usable phone and just have to wait a little while?
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All too true, but I make sure that my phone is protected from rain at all times. I have a case and a secure leather case to slide it in. I make sure I put it in a car cradle when driving. I won't worry about lost or stolen because I secure it at all times. Remember also that insurance is actuarial based on probability, and they bet you the average person won't lose or break it as much as you think that you may. So my only fear for insurance was cracking or dropping. I have a case, and I am not worried about that any more since the cost is less than having a TEP plan.
The only thing that irks me is the lies that I have been told while it was still back ordered. Yes it still works, but after trying TEP I find the service lacking, and more costly than Samsung repairing it. Not to mention the fact that at one point I get someones refurbished phone in the future. Now I may be lucky to get a new phone but in the future I may not. I now still may get a new phone who knows. I am not worried about breaking or lost/stolen or water damage....my only fear was a cracked screen since Sprint has decided not to repair them thus far.
Again you decide with the cost being so low from Sammy for repair or go Asurion!

the sprint TEP is a total rip off.. i can't believe it's $11/mo now with a $150 deductible.. i remember when i got my touch pro 2 (which was a $500 device at the time) i was only paying $4/mo + $50 deductible.
either there was a huge increase in fraud where people were constantly sending claims that forced sprint/asurion to increased the insurance, or sprint just got greedy and wanted to make a profit from the insurance program.

tft said:
the sprint TEP is a total rip off.. i can't believe it's $11/mo now with a $150 deductible.. i remember when i got my touch pro 2 (which was a $500 device at the time) i was only paying $4/mo + $50 deductible.
either there was a huge increase in fraud where people were constantly sending claims that forced sprint/asurion to increased the insurance, or sprint just got greedy and wanted to make a profit from the insurance program.
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Any device $549.99 or higher MSRP has the $11 monthly plus $150 deductible, has nothing to do with fraud.

I never really got why people think so badly of refurbs...all phones become refurbs the second they're out of the box. I feel like the vast majority of devices that get returned and turn into refurb units are perfectly harmless things like easily replaceable components on otherwise perfectly fine phones (like your broken screen), buyers remorse returns, morons that swear their phone is broken when they're just doing something wrong or lying about how they're using the phone, or lazy sprint reps that could easily fix whatever the problem is but don't and just replace it instead.
I suspect a very small percentage of refurb units are genuine lemons or have defective hardware that has escaped detection...you probably have the same odds of getting one of those new out of the box.
As we in this community are well aware....most of the time issues with phones lies in the software not the hardware. That doesn't change with a refurb.

tft said:
the sprint TEP is a total rip off.. i can't believe it's $11/mo now with a $150 deductible.. i remember when i got my touch pro 2 (which was a $500 device at the time) i was only paying $4/mo + $50 deductible.
either there was a huge increase in fraud where people were constantly sending claims that forced sprint/asurion to increased the insurance, or sprint just got greedy and wanted to make a profit from the insurance program.
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Well do you think they offer insurance to break even ? Thanks for the laugh
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

i've been waiting on a replacement for about 2 weeks now. cracker screen. thinking about sending it to samsung since i reported the phone stolen threw asurion. didnt tell sprint anything.

If you reported it stolen through them it reports to sprint as well.
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

This happened to me but is because we do not read the fine print. MONEY IS NOT REFUNDABLE PERIOD. i lost my GS3 and reported it, after an hour i got a call from my wife that she found the phone and i called asurion to cancel my report and refund my deductable, they say it was not possible. Well i got a new GS3 from asurion $150 deductable. Sold my bad esn one on ebay for $420. much better deal if u ask me.

tft said:
the sprint TEP is a total rip off.. i can't believe it's $11/mo now with a $150 deductible.. i remember when i got my touch pro 2 (which was a $500 device at the time) i was only paying $4/mo + $50 deductible.
either there was a huge increase in fraud where people were constantly sending claims that forced sprint/asurion to increased the insurance, or sprint just got greedy and wanted to make a profit from the insurance program.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint as an agent for Asurion is making money regardless of any fool that thinks they are not. A Corporate store Tech told me for some reason they told them they were not going to repair screens any more all of a sudden. Why replace a screen for when you can get $150.00

ghsthntr said:
I never really got why people think so badly of refurbs...all phones become refurbs the second they're out of the box. I feel like the vast majority of devices that get returned and turn into refurb units are perfectly harmless things like easily replaceable components on otherwise perfectly fine phones (like your broken screen), buyers remorse returns, morons that swear their phone is broken when they're just doing something wrong or lying about how they're using the phone, or lazy sprint reps that could easily fix whatever the problem is but don't and just replace it instead.
I suspect a very small percentage of refurb units are genuine lemons or have defective hardware that has escaped detection...you probably have the same odds of getting one of those new out of the box.
As we in this community are well aware....most of the time issues with phones lies in the software not the hardware. That doesn't change with a refurb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's because ever "refurb" that I got in the past was pure utter garbage.....never ever functioned properly.

xjayman said:
Well do you think they offer insurance to break even ? Thanks for the laugh
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wake up, make money but to stop making 35.00 repairs to charge 150.00 is a rip off Mr. Millionaire.
QWIKSTRIKE said:
Sprint as an agent for Asurion is making money regardless of any fool that thinks they are not. A Corporate store Tech told me for some reason they told them they were not going to repair screens any more all of a sudden. Why replace a screen for when you can get $150.00
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

lol sprint got greedy and wanted to make profit on insurance
of course you numb skull. they are bleeding money. they eat 400 bucks when you buy the phone, and you want them to subsidize your insurance too?

no need to be a douche bag. sprint insurance was $3/$4 for many years with $50 deductible on $500 devices. obviously it wasn't about profits back then, but it doesn't mean the rate has been hiked to $11/mo and $150 deductible because they want to make profit.. it's been widely known the reason for the increase is more related to the amount of insurance scam and fruad.. as in people filing fraudulent claims simply to get a new phone.

They're in business to make money...don't buy it if you think it's a rip off, I don't
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

tft said:
no need to be a douche bag. sprint insurance was $3/$4 for many years with $50 deductible on $500 devices. obviously it wasn't about profits back then, but it doesn't mean the rate has been hiked to $11/mo and $150 deductible because they want to make profit.. it's been widely known the reason for the increase is more related to the amount of insurance scam and fruad.. as in people filing fraudulent claims simply to get a new phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If that was truly the case they would not have stopped capable techs from making glass replacement repairs. Wake up man...I found an official outer glass for 25.00 yet I send a perfectly good phone in for $150.00, when a;; it needs a 25.00 repair. Insurance has never replaced any thing completely unless it was a total loss because to do that is costly. You break a window in the car insurance companies are "NOT" going to give you a new car, but they will give you a new glass. However to not repair a 25.00 screen and collect 150.00 then do the 25.00 repair and resell that phone for 150.00 is a steal for them.......wake up!

Squaretrade Warranty Tale #2

I was pretty pleased with Squaretrade when I had my Note 1, as the turnaround was incredibly fast and the repair work was really well done.
Picked up a new warranty for my Note 2 and sadly had to use it rather quickly after getting the phone.
November 27 I filed a claim with Squaretrade for my broken screen. Dumb mistake, set it on my wallet and it eventually hit the kitchen floor. Really didn't seem like much of a drop, but the cracks were there and I figured I might as well file the claim. Now I wish I waited. Had 2 large cracks on the phone and a small chip on the bottom right of the glass.
Everything went off without a hitch, they emailed me the 2nd day UPS label, and off it went. They received it on the 29th with the standard (potentially) "fixed and returned" within 5 days message. It's been 11 days now. I called last week Friday and was told that they were waiting for a digitizer that was to arrive that day and would have my phone out that night. Was pretty happy with that and waited to receive an email with a tracking number. Nothing.
Back on the phone with them today and I'm getting the same story just different ship date. They received the part on Friday, and would hopefully have it repaired and shipped out tonight. It's a cellphone shop and repair depot (Cellular Fantasy in LA, CA), so I'm wondering if they are just backed up with repairs or they don't work weekends? I was also advised that if I want a tracking number I need to call them tonight to ensure it actually went out this time.
So overall I'm probably looking at 13-14 days without my phone. Had I known about the delay, I probably would have waited a month considering the phone actually functioned like normal despite the large cracks.
Anyway, just putting this out there for anyone on the fence about a Squaretrade warranty. I will update with pics of the repaired phone once I finally receive it.

sodomanaz said:
I was pretty pleased with Squaretrade when I had my Note 1, as the turnaround was incredibly fast and the repair work was really well done.
Picked up a new warranty for my Note 2 and sadly had to use it rather quickly after getting the phone.
November 27 I filed a claim with Squaretrade for my broken screen. Dumb mistake, set it on my wallet and it eventually hit the kitchen floor. Really didn't seem like much of a drop, but the cracks were there and I figured I might as well file the claim. Now I wish I waited. Had 2 large cracks on the phone and a small chip on the bottom right of the glass.
Everything went off without a hitch, they emailed me the 2nd day UPS label, and off it went. They received it on the 29th with the standard (potentially) "fixed and returned" within 5 days message. It's been 11 days now. I called last week Friday and was told that they were waiting for a digitizer that was to arrive that day and would have my phone out that night. Was pretty happy with that and waited to receive an email with a tracking number. Nothing.
Back on the phone with them today and I'm getting the same story just different ship date. They received the part on Friday, and would hopefully have it repaired and shipped out tonight. It's a cellphone shop and repair depot (Cellular Fantasy in LA, CA), so I'm wondering if they are just backed up with repairs or they don't work weekends? I was also advised that if I want a tracking number I need to call them tonight to ensure it actually went out this time.
So overall I'm probably looking at 13-14 days without my phone. Had I known about the delay, I probably would have waited a month considering the phone actually functioned like normal despite the large cracks.
Anyway, just putting this out there for anyone on the fence about a Squaretrade warranty. I will update with pics of the repaired phone once I finally receive it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had horror stories with SqureTrade and my Samsung Galaxy 10.1 Tab. There was a well known issue with displays on that device with what looked like wet spots (Newton Ring). Sent back my device a total of three times, and always came back with a replacement screen that had the same exact problem. Wrote Squaretrade corporate of the issue, and they never replied. I am not sure that I will use or recommend SquareTrade again.
I never considered using them for a cell phone, as the turnaround times with no cell phone are not acceptable for me.

Milkman00 said:
I had horror stories with SqureTrade and my Samsung Galaxy 10.1 Tab. There was a well known issue with displays on that device with what looked like wet spots (Newton Ring). Sent back my device a total of three times, and always came back with a replacement screen that had the same exact problem. Wrote Squaretrade corporate of the issue, and they never replied. I am not sure that I will use or recommend SquareTrade again.
I never considered using them for a cell phone, as the turnaround times with no cell phone are not acceptable for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, when I did my Note 1 claim, there was an option for waiting for a replacement to be sent and mail back the old phone (though I opted for repair which was quick). Was really hoping this was going to be the case this time, but I understood because this was a new phone that it was going to need servicing rather than replacement. The turn around is pretty unworkable for me with my job and will make me think twice next time. I'm just hoping they do a good job as this wait has been maddening.
For your situation, did you try leaving a review on Reseller Ratings? They seem to respond to complaints there. http://www.resellerratings.com/store/SquareTrade/sort/likes

sodomanaz said:
For your situation, did you try leaving a review on Reseller Ratings? They seem to respond to complaints there. http://www.resellerratings.com/store/SquareTrade/sort/likes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would have thought writing corporate would have done it, BUT what the heck, I will give this a shot.
Thanks

Thanks for posting your story, and I'll be interested to hear your updates. I read your original review of Squaretrade, and your story actually motivated me to get coverage of my Note 2. Well, it was also significantly cheaper to insure it through Squaretrade than through AT&T or Best Buy ($90 for 2 years and $100 deductible is reasonable). I know Squaretrade doesn't cover lost or stolen devices, but that's not why I wanted insurance.
When I first bought coverage, the Note 2 wasn't an option on the website yet. I called customer service and was connected to a well-spoken rep within 30 seconds. He was extremely helpful and recorded my device info and confirmed coverage right on the spot and sent a confirmation email. This was far better customer service than I've ever had when dealing with AT&T.
In the end though I hope to never need to use the insurance *fingers crossed*
Couple questions: Now that you're having your Note II repaired, do you need to purchase coverage again, or do you continue to have coverage but would need to pay another $100 deductible if you file another claim in the future? Also, how stingy are they with the name on the purchase receipt? Although I bought my Note 2 with my debit card, the name on the email receipt was the primary account holder on my family's wireless plan (my father, same last name). I wonder if this may be an issue if I ever file a claim.

UCLAKoolman said:
Couple questions: Now that you're having your Note II repaired, do you need to purchase coverage again, or do you continue to have coverage but would need to pay another $100 deductible if you file another claim in the future? Also, how stingy are they with the name on the purchase receipt? Although I bought my Note 2 with my debit card, the name on the email receipt was the primary account holder on my family's wireless plan (my father, same last name). I wonder if this may be an issue if I ever file a claim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You still have coverage for a repair, but if they send you a reimbursement check, your warranty is done. As far as I understand, you are covered for up to the cost of the device. So if I'm not mistaken, the cost of repairs is deducted from that price (~$600) and continues to dwindle upon each use. Only problem I can see with that is they determine the pricing and never tell you the costs. So this repair + parts might be $300, so if I really have a bad accident causing the device to die in the future, I might be refunded $300 (really $200 after deductible). And ya, you will have to pay another deductible.
The warranties are easily transferable for the life of the warranty, so I don't think you'll run into any problems with names on receipts and such.
My main reason for going with Squaretrade is just like yours: price. AT&T is $200 or $250 for deductible on top of their $7 a month. That's quite a lot for an item that always drops in value as weeks go by and newer, fancier phones come out.

best buy is $240 for two years ($10/mo)and no deductible. not necessarily $240 either. $240 is only if you have the phone that long. its only $180 if you have it for 18 mos...
UCLAKoolman said:
Thanks for posting your story, and I'll be interested to hear your updates. I read your original review of Squaretrade, and your story actually motivated me to get coverage of my Note 2. Well, it was also significantly cheaper to insure it through Squaretrade than through AT&T or Best Buy ($90 for 2 years and $100 deductible is reasonable). I know Squaretrade doesn't cover lost or stolen devices, but that's not why I wanted insurance.
When I first bought coverage, the Note 2 wasn't an option on the website yet. I called customer service and was connected to a well-spoken rep within 30 seconds. He was extremely helpful and recorded my device info and confirmed coverage right on the spot and sent a confirmation email. This was far better customer service than I've ever had when dealing with AT&T.
In the end though I hope to never need to use the insurance *fingers crossed*
Couple questions: Now that you're having your Note II repaired, do you need to purchase coverage again, or do you continue to have coverage but would need to pay another $100 deductible if you file another claim in the future? Also, how stingy are they with the name on the purchase receipt? Although I bought my Note 2 with my debit card, the name on the email receipt was the primary account holder on my family's wireless plan (my father, same last name). I wonder if this may be an issue if I ever file a claim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

best buys warranty is $10/month or $170 for 2yrs, does not cover lost or stolen, and No deductible.
If something were to happen within the first 7 months where they wont fix, send refurbished phone, or give you credit towards a new phone. Which has happened to my brother you get the prorated amount back from them. He got back $170 from his Black tie plan and they also let him pick any phone that was the same price of the dell streak ( $600 at that time). So he got new phone and the money he paid for the black tie plan back since you get a discount if you purchase 2yrs upfront. Not bad deal if you ask me and with the note2 it seems to be one of the few phones that will last 2 yrs at least or with how fast these phones are coming out you will be covered through the black tie protection.
It beats AT&T's insurance plan including several other out there right now, besides there is no B&M store to bring your device to when you need warranty service and no one to yell at in person when something isn't right.

It seems that best buy's insurance would be a slightly better deal if you ever need to file a claim. However I would rather only pay $90 for two years and pay the extra $100 if something breaks down the line. Considering I used my last iPhones case less and never had an incident, hopefully the same will go with my Note. $90 for two years peace-of-mind is basically what I bought.

Got my phone back this morning. I called last night for a tracking number and they said I would get an email within an hour with the information. Unfortunately it never came. Went to work this morning a bit annoyed as I didn't get an email, but received a call that I had an overnighted UPS box waiting for me at home.
Looks like new, so I won't bother with pics. They did all sorts of diagnostics and included screenshot proof (3 pages) of each test they ran. Only thing I am curious about is the battery test conclusion. Since the phone was barely in its second week of use, it was graded as Good rather than Excellent. Just curious what they would consider to be excellent since this is pretty damn close to brand new.
Anyway, besides the long wait (due to being a new phone) and lack of communication towards the end, I am pretty happy with the service. Screen protector and case now applied so hopefully I can keep from paying out another deductible.
*edit* Just a fun side story, but I went to AT&T to get a new micro sim set up, and I was asked to browse around as I waited for someone to be available. Was a bit odd since the store was practically empty besides the 9 employees. A plain clothed Samsung rep was at the store and asked if I was buying a Samsung phone as I was looking at the cases. After informing him I was just waiting for a new sim to put in my Note 2 he spent the next 15 minutes showing me all sorts of features of the phone. Must have been bored as I mentioned a few times I already owned one so selling me further on the features wasn't going to do much. Probably wanted to practice his sales pitch.

Back from the dead.
Dropped my phone yesterday while on the treadmill. It fell, got pulled by the aux cable, then fell a full foot from where it detached. I was thinking, "damn, glad I have a screen protector and case on it." Well, the glass is intact, but it's bleeding internally. Screen is getting worse and worse. Another $100 down the drain to squaretrade.
Or so I thought!
I called them and told them I really didn't want to wait as long as I did last time. They told me I had the option of finding a local shop to repair it at no additional deductible. All I have to do is pay for it, fax them the receipt, and I will be reimbursed as long as it doesn't go over $599. Took all day but found a shop that could have the part in by tomorrow and repaired same day for $360. Fingers crossed. Still impressed.

Sounds like you need an Otterbox Defender case.

scitech09 said:
Sounds like you need an Otterbox Defender case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya, I ordered the Commuter. Don't want to go through this again.

sodomanaz said:
Well, when I did my Note 1 claim, there was an option for waiting for a replacement to be sent and mail back the old phone (though I opted for repair which was quick). Was really hoping this was going to be the case this time, but I understood because this was a new phone that it was going to need servicing rather than replacement. The turn around is pretty unworkable for me with my job and will make me think twice next time. I'm just hoping they do a good job as this wait has been maddening.
For your situation, did you try leaving a review on Reseller Ratings? They seem to respond to complaints there. http://www.resellerratings.com/store/SquareTrade/sort/likes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sodomanaz. I wanted to let you know that I finally got around to posting on resellerratings, and THAT seemed to get their attention. They seem to be wanting to resolve my problem now.
Thanks for the advice.

Milkman00 said:
sodomanaz. I wanted to let you know that I finally got around to posting on resellerratings, and THAT seemed to get their attention. They seem to be wanting to resolve my problem now.
Thanks for the advice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's awesome.
For me I just got my phone back today from a local shop. He fried the first screen and had to order another so I had to wait another few days. Shop has sworn never to touch another note 2 though haha. Works flawlessly now and with the commuter, though huge, feels secure like it did when I had one on my note 1.
Anyway submitting my receipt today for reimbursement. Fingers crossed it goes smooth. Gotta say that this warranty has paid for itself multiple times and the lack of deductible on this fix was over the top.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using Tapatalk 2

[Q] Destroyed Screen

I wont go into details, but honestly first time i've ever completely destroyed a phone.
Short story, fell out of my pocket getting into vehicle.
I've always had insurance and still do, so I took it in to a Sprint store to get it looked at.
Initially the lady that I first went to, saw my phone looked up my account, and said ok its still in warranty, so I'll get you a replacement.
Then some dude came over and told her that she cant do that, and to get it serviced through their equipment protection plan.
Is there anyway this can get fixed without paying the replacement fee/copay?

Sawdizzle said:
I wont go into details, but honestly first time i've ever completely destroyed a phone.
Short story, fell out of my pocket getting into vehicle.
I've always had insurance and still do, so I took it in to a Sprint store to get it looked at.
Initially the lady that I first went to, saw my phone looked up my account, and said ok its still in warranty, so I'll get you a replacement.
Then some dude came over and told her that she cant do that, and to get it serviced through their equipment protection plan.
Is there anyway this can get fixed without paying the replacement fee/copay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish there was, been in this exact same situation and thought the same thing. Unfortunately Sprint doesn't do that anymore and you do have to go through their equipment protection plan.
Sorry

Nickitt said:
I wish there was, been in this exact same situation and thought the same thing. Unfortunately Sprint doesn't do that anymore and you do have to go through their equipment protection plan.
Sorry
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bummer, it sucks. It was just a freak thing that both mine and my girlfriends SIII screens broke in the same week. Trying to avoid the $300 for both to be fixed. I'm chatting with Samsung now to see if there is anything they could do for me.

Sawdizzle said:
Bummer, it sucks. It was just a freak thing that both mine and my girlfriends SIII screens broke in the same week. Trying to avoid the $300 for both to be fixed. I'm chatting with Samsung now to see if there is anything they could do for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was going to say, that will probably be honestly your only hope. You may get lucky and try a different Sprint store. Anything is worth a try at this point it sounds like.

Nickitt said:
I was going to say, that will probably be honestly your only hope. You may get lucky and try a different Sprint store. Anything is worth a try at this point it sounds like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. Will do.
I'll report back on my findings... *if there are any that is lol*

Good luck dude! Hope for the best, expect the worst.

Sawdizzle said:
I wont go into details, but honestly first time i've ever completely destroyed a phone.
Short story, fell out of my pocket getting into vehicle.
I've always had insurance and still do, so I took it in to a Sprint store to get it looked at.
Initially the lady that I first went to, saw my phone looked up my account, and said ok its still in warranty, so I'll get you a replacement.
Then some dude came over and told her that she cant do that, and to get it serviced through their equipment protection plan.
Is there anyway this can get fixed without paying the replacement fee/copay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What exactly got damaged on the phone? If the screen was cracked then due to the policy change about 2 years ago you'll have to go through insurance not sprint. They now consider that physical damage that's not repairable in store. Your out of luck.
I don't remember but is the insurance deductible really 299? In November I chose best buy insurance instead of sprint due to always having issues at sprint. The third party centers were better in my area than the actual retail store but sprint decided to shut down the third party center here. Oh well.
Sent from the Great Galaxy Note 2 using Tapatalk 4

yankees45us said:
What exactly got damaged on the phone? If the screen was cracked then due to the policy change about 2 years ago you'll have to go through insurance not sprint. They now consider that physical damage that's not repairable in store. Your out of luck.
I don't remember but is the insurance deductible really 299? In November I chose best buy insurance instead of sprint due to always having issues at sprint. The third party centers were better in my area than the actual retail store but sprint decided to shut down the third party center here. Oh well.
Sent from the Great Galaxy Note 2 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The whole thing is busted, the screen is completely trashed, outside casing is beaten up and effed, missing the screen glass in the corners of the screen, and the back will not snap on in places. I have insurance, Just with bad timing I would need to replace both mine and my girlfriends as she had broken her a few days later. Hence the $299 I was saying $150 per phone for the deductable.

Sawdizzle said:
The whole thing is busted, the screen is completely trashed, outside casing is beaten up and effed, missing the screen glass in the corners of the screen, and the back will not snap on in places. I have insurance, Just with bad timing I would need to replace both mine and my girlfriends as she had broken her a few days later. Hence the $299 I was saying $150 per phone for the deductable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best thing is to pay for insurance replacement. It's better to get a new one then try to repair. Unless sprint will order a replacement at no charge which will be almost impossible. Good luck
Sent from the Great Galaxy Note 2 using Tapatalk 4

Sawdizzle said:
I wont go into details, but honestly first time i've ever completely destroyed a phone.
Short story, fell out of my pocket getting into vehicle.
I've always had insurance and still do, so I took it in to a Sprint store to get it looked at.
Initially the lady that I first went to, saw my phone looked up my account, and said ok its still in warranty, so I'll get you a replacement.
Then some dude came over and told her that she cant do that, and to get it serviced through their equipment protection plan.
Is there anyway this can get fixed without paying the replacement fee/copay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I will NEVER buy my devices from Sprint. I always buy at Radio Shack because you can destroy your phone, walk in the store and walk out with a brand new one and not a refurbished piece of **** that Sprint makes you pay $50 more bucks for.

Sawdizzle said:
.... I was saying $150 per phone for the deductable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to hear about your situation. I don't know of any tips to help.
On a side note, this is why I don't get the insurance. I think it's a total rip off for the most part. People pay around $7 to $10 a month, which works to around $168 to $240 over two years. Not the issue. But then you have play additional $100 to $150 dollars deductible. This works out ok earily in the life cycle of the phone, but towards the end, it's the same cost for a new phone out of contract. And you don't get a choice on the deductible like with car insurance. I think a more reasonable deductible is $50 with the same insurance rate.
Granted, I don't know the numbers of how many broken phone claims the insurance company or Sprint get. It's possible, people, in general, are reckless with them and are having to replace them like underwear. My guess, probably not, and it's just easy money for the most part.