T30 Display and warranty questions

[tfflivemb2]

I just picked up a T30 in great condition for a great price (and still under warranty), but I have few questions which I will list momentarily.

First, here is my problem. I think that the LCD cable that attaches to the back/bottom of the LCD might be loose. When pressure is added about an inch above the lower right edge of the display, up through about 2 inches from the top, the display either turns completely black or a lot of different colors like a piece of mosaic art. I discovered this while lifting the T30 with one hand under the front left corner of the base and one hand under and behind the right rear lower corner of the base and display...sort of cradling it like a new baby...

I think that this happened during shipping, because I am very confident in the selling party. The T30 was insured during shipment via USPS.

If it weren't the fact that this T30 is covered two different ways, I would just open it up myself, as I already have the the HMM.

Here are my questions:

1. Should I try to have it repaired through a USPS Shipping Insurance claim, which I have heard many bad things about.

2a. Should I just use the IBM warranty?
2b. Is this covered under IBM's warranty? I doesn't appear to be misuse, as the T30 is in immaculate condition. Although, I have never had a new enough Thinkpad that was still covered by warranty, so my experience with IBMs warranty is nill.

3. IBM's website indicates that the warranty expires on 12/28/05. I'm a little confused by the fact that their website makes it sound like I can extend the warranty. Is this possible?

Any input would greatly be appreciated.

[GomJabbar]

I would use the IBM warranty. I haven't needed the warranty myself, so I can't speak from experience, but since your warranty is close to expiration I would have them fix it just in case you have a bad system board or something.

[brainpicker]

1) I wouldn't bother with the USPS claim for these reaosns. They are tough to deal with and you will have to show some kind of damage to the shipping container (which preferably you would have brought to the attention of the deliverer at the time you signed for it). Without container damage they will try to show that the shipper did not follow proper packing guidelines which state you must have sufficient padding with no less than 2" of space between any surface of the shipping container and any surface of the contents. Even a simple, clear-cut case takes time, and you only have a few weeks of IBM warranty remaining should your USPS claim fail (which is likely).

2) Call IBM Support and tell them you just recently discovered this defect and how it occurs. Act as if you have been the owner of this laptop for a while, not like you just bought it and are trying to get them to fit what MAY have been caused by negligence of the previous owner (I stress MAY... not accusing here). I've never been turned down for any request with them when I'm honest and gentle in my complaint.

3) Yes, in many cases you can extend your warranty depending on different issues. I just did it on a friend's machine and it's easy. Send off an e-mail where it asks and include a phone number along with the model and serial number of the machine. You will receive a call back very quickly with an offer and options. That's all there is to it, and if you agree to the terms they will start when your current warranty expires.

Good Luck,
Yak

[kyrotech]

use the IBM warranty asap

[tfflivemb2]

Thanks for the input.

I guess I just needed to hear it from someone else.