[mpancha]

This kind of goes with my other thread about Pro Care...

I bought a MBP less than a month ago. I bought it from a retailer in Toronto who was having a promo of 24 months 0% interest on laptops. They offered a 3 year replacement plan, however I've dealt with this vendor before and when it comes to repairs, they aren't trustworthy and take way too long (even compared to the times I've experienced in the past with Apple). So, at this point, I'm wondering, how long after purchase do I have to purchase Apple Care?

[rehoot]

When I bought a Mac a few years ago, the sales guy said I could by Apple Care any time in the first year. It couldn't hurt to ask. I'm not sure of the details of your plan, but mailing your computer to Apple would probably take longer then taking it to the local place. Either way, back up your hard drive before taking it for maintenance.

Depending on the nature of your computer use, it might be good to have a spare computer that is good enough to take care of your essential needs. Perhaps an old G3 or other used computer. This would also mean that you would have to have an adequate backup procedure and a way to transfer needed files to the backup computer.

[mduell]

You can purchase the 2 year extension for AppleCare any time in your first year of ownership.

[mpancha]

cool, as long as I can buy it the first year that's fine.

There's an Apple Store (three actually) here in Toronto. But I bought the laptop from Futureshop (similar to Best Buy). Their repair policy is great on paper, but when its actually used, its horrible and service is horrible.

I still have my old iBook, I just haven't had time to see if I can revive it. I only bought the MBP b/c I couldnt' get the iBook starting for 2 days and a laptop is a necessity for my business. I have an external drive that is synced both nightly (partial sync) and completely every week, so worst case my OS is 1 week behind, and my documents are 1 day behind.

[rehoot]

Originally Posted by mpancha 

There's an Apple Store (three actually) here in Toronto. But I bought the laptop from Futureshop (similar to Best Buy). Their repair policy is great on paper, but when its actually used, its horrible and service is horrible.

OK, now it makes sense. I would avoid taking my computer to FutureShop too. If the computer is under warranty or the extended warranty (Pro Care), you could take it to one of the local Apple stores. The service might not be lightning fast at the local store, but it is better than FutureShop.