Google Pixel RMA question

Steven Reece Lewis on 02/03/2022 - 21:43

Hi Ozbargaineers,

So my pixel 4A 5G started having charging issues. Had to unplug and replug the cable multiple times to get it to charge. The battery also started draining while put into deep sleep. Long story short, decided the phone was faulty.

As the device was purchased directly from Google store, I did their advanced replacement where they send you a replacement device and put a hold of the original RRP ($799) on your card and ship you a replacement device. You have 3 weeks to ship your original device back. I have received the new device (it is brand new).

However, my original pixel has started functioning normally again. No more charging issue or battery drain for the last 48 hours. Something was clearly wrong with the USB C port. It is clean and dust free. I now have to send back my "faulty" device. There is a clause that states that if damage is found to not be covered by warranty they'll charge me the full $799.

I am worried they'll receive my pixel and conclude there is no damage to the device or that it came into contact with water or something. Not sure what to do now. Have opened the new replacement phone box. Anyone have experience with this process? Any advice on what I should do? Send it back with the battery completely drained and cross my fingers? Or will I be completely fine and not be charged? Its possible the issue is intermittent?

Mobile Google Mobile Phone Android

Comments

  • datafellows on 02/03/2022 - 22:33
    +3

    Contact them again, maybe you can offer to send the new replacement phone back. I don't think they care if you opened the box.

  • JimmyF on 02/03/2022 - 23:11
    +1

    There is a clause that states that if damage is found to not be covered by warranty they'll charge me the full $799.

    I've done this before with Google and they mean physical damage, aka broken screen, been dropped etc.

    Some people do a 'warranty' claim for broken screens etc. In your case, if none of this applies, just put your phone back into the box and send it back to them. They remove the hold and everyone goes on about their day.

  • deme on 02/03/2022 - 23:38

    However, my original pixel has started functioning normally again.

    Hold on for a moment, I've had this issue and it'll start sucking again soon.

    • Steven Reece Lewis on 02/03/2022 - 23:40

      That's what I thought. I can't risk it doing again at a later date. Could be foreshadowing some bigger issue. Think I'll just send it back to them and take photos of it with the IMEI showing in the screen so they see it's in excellent condition otherwise.

      • deme on 02/03/2022 - 23:46

        Long story short, decided the phone was faulty.
        Did they determine they device was faulty or you?

        The battery also started draining while put into deep sleep.

        You might not know what deep sleep state is or that batteries lose charge just sitting there.

        But even in EM3/4 it'll use power just not much.

        Something was clearly wrong with the USB C port. It is clean and dust free.

        Just to check the obvious, it was clean before right?
        If so you have nothing to worry about just send it back and you'll be fine.

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join