Hi there The information I'm providing below is not legal advise, instead my own knowledge coupled with common sources of information. Similar to my previous post, Dell has an obligation to its consumers to provide goods that are both fit for purpose and of merchantable quality. When purchasing an item from Dell (or an authorised retailer) you and the company form a contract. Once this contract has been completed, Dell has certain statuatory obligations to the consumer regarding the quality and purpose of its products. Whilst companies will try to convince you otherwise, statuatory warranties in many countries provide for the return and refund of money for faulty goods. What do I mean by faulty goods? If your product is not of merchantable quality, is not fit for purpose, doesn't match the description you were given or has defects, you are entitled to a refund (at least under Australian law). A product should be free of defects when purchased, and, unless you have expressly agreed to acknowledge the faults with the item, the manufacturer should give you a refund if the issue is recognised within a short time after purchase. Because your item doesn't match the description you were given (whether it be on the Dell website, the store model I assumed you looked at or any situation where the laptop displayed gave a representation of what you were purchasing), it is possible you have recourse under fit for purpose guidelines. With respect to your issue with you not being covered because you bought it from a retailer, this is absolutely incorrect. Manufacturers, for their part, aren't always sure of their obligations when it comes to warranties. More importantly, a Dell customer service consultant is unlikely to be aware of the company's full statuatory obligations. My first step would be to approach the retailer with the issue. Whilst they may redirect you to the manufacturer, it is NOT your problem to discover who has to refund you the money/provide recourse for your issue. If going to the retailer does not fix the issue, your primary recourse is to approach the consumer watchdog in your nation. In singapore, the Consumers Association of Singapore might be your first port of call. They might advise you of your statuatory rights within your nation and provide you with the most equitable method of recourse. I do hope some of this helps.

Sorry about my post above, seems to have all squished it in without paragraphs for some reason.

 

The moral of the story is if you have a consumer issue in this instance, first approach the retailer and inform him of his obligation, or alternatively utilise the services of the  "Consumers Association of Singapore" http://www.case.org.sg, which deals solely with Consumer-Business relations and consumer rights.  They charge a small fee however I'd suggest it worth if they feel they can provide you with a solution.

 

 

*I Am not advertising any company/body.  I in fact live in Australia and simply find the topic quite interesting.  I feel consumers rights are often overlooked by manufacturers and retailers with fancy disclaimers and other jargon.  It is always important to be aware of your statuatory rights.

I think I will approach the retailer that sold me the XPS next and see what they have to say. I think though that they will tell me to contact Dell..haha the typical ping pong strategy.