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shiff · Feb 28, 2006, 07:21 PM

Anyone know of any options for a "Complete Care" warranty on Apple Powerbooks? Normally I purchase my machines from Compusa which provides a blanket warranty against everything and that includes accidental damage. I know Dell provides that as well which is really nice in case I drop it or something, well, accidental happens. I understand these things cost more and am fine with that since I keep my laptops 3-4 years so the warranty cost is worth it over time.

Now you may ask, why didnt you just buy it from CompUsa again?? Well, I was in the mood to buy a new powerbook, and an Apple store was opened 10 minutes from home and a very cute sales lady was involved, and the rest is history.. I walked out with a new powerbook...

I have insurance and things like that, but it was so nice when I purchased other boxes from Dell and for 2-300 bucks, I could step on the box and get a new one with no questions asked. I, obviously prefer Apple, but would love to know if there are any third party offerings that any of you here have used and trust. I am not trying to start a Dell vs Apple debate as I was only comparing the services offered and not the machine quality between the two.

Thanks.

b33faroni · Feb 28, 2006, 09:00 PM

Well applecare will give you better service (in my experience) then most other companies but does not protect any accidental damage, and even will refuse to fix problems if there is a dent on the machine (heard many people say this). I know someone who got a Compaq and the power cord was accidently pushed into the computer and his Compusa warranty covered it. Heh, damn those cute ladies always getting the best of people

mduell · Feb 28, 2006, 11:21 PM

Ask your homeowners or renters insurance company about it. Your policy may or may be able to cover accidental damage to your PowerBook.

As for CompUSA's extended warranties, watch out; I've heard of nothing but bad experiences with them.

jamito · Mar 1, 2006, 12:19 AM

My local insurance agent said that I could cover a laptop against any accidental damage, along with theft, fire, etc for $2.20/year for every $100 covered. Not cheap, but I think it came out less than safeware. However, I would still need apple care for warranty service (if something fails on it).

pete · Mar 1, 2006, 11:06 AM

The absolute best deal is, if you can, buy your laptop using a good VISA card and get VISA performance guarantee. If you do this, your first year of Apple warranty is doubled for free and after that, after the second year, you can buy an extended warranty that covers exactly the same thing as the Apple warranty originally did. You DON"T need to send your computer to VISA or any second-rate service provider, but rather have the choice to go to whatever authorized apple service provider you want to, including Apple itself. In my experience, it's amazingly reliable and professional and there virtually no rhassle involved. Your repair it and get reimbursed within a week by faxing them or sending them the receipt for the repair.

If I remember correctly, the cost for a $2000 laptop for an additional 2 years beyond the free second year is around $180, but you have to check on Visa's sight. I think you can get four years altogether, including Apple's first year, VIsa's free second and the optional extended one.

I have had lots of experience with this program and it has all been positive. Highly recommended!

And no, I don't work for VISA : )

pete · Mar 1, 2006, 11:07 AM

Didn't read your post properly. Did you buy it with a credit card?

shiff · Mar 1, 2006, 11:12 AM

Oh yes. Any big purchase I make is with a credit card. However, I paid cash for dinner with the cute sales lady that sold me the laptop. It is true, a powerbook can do anything.

Barefoot Matt · Mar 1, 2006, 01:49 PM

Pete, do you know if that Visa warranty extension would extend an AppleCare purchase as well, or if it just deals with the standard warranty?

pete · Mar 1, 2006, 04:57 PM

I can't imagine that it would extend and extended warranty since applecare, in itself, does not have a warranty.

Shiff, if you haven't done so already, check with your credit card company if your card is eligible....

Apple Stores have really become friendly these days. I remember buying a pair of very expensive underwear after the very very attractive and superfit sales girl showed me how nice they were by unzipping her pants and showing me that she too wears them! (male underwear).