Is Dell Complete Care Warranty worth it?

[Cyber0066]

Title pretty much says it all. The warranty does boost the laptop price up a bit ($400 after taxes). But it says it covers against pretty much anything. So I have a few questions

1. Let's say you get a 3 year warranty. What's to stop consumers from "accidentally" pouring wine all over the key board just before the 3 years is up? Or "accidentally" drop the notebook? etc?

2. Do they give you a brand new one? If so, wouldn't this warranty be abused so much?

3. Does the regular warranty cover wear/tear? ie. let's say the screen starts getting flimsy from opening/closing.

[Brandon]

1. Nothing.

2. They will try and replace parts to make it work, and if a new computer is nessary... I'm guessing when most parts need to be replaced you will just get a new laptop.

3. Wear and tear is iffy. But generally you can get it replaced, just give a reason why said part is not working properly.

Keep in mind that they still stock older parts from older models of their computers, so even on the last day, you will still just get a replacement of the exact laptop/desktop you have the warranty on if it's replaced.

And if you work for a company that uses Dells or know someone you can get an employee discount (either thru Dell, or a company that exclusively uses Dell) you can get a big discount on CompleteCare. For me, it was $40 a year, but the company I work for has over 30000 employees worldwide and has a worldwide Dell contract for laptops/desktops (now some printers and servers). Either way, it will still be cheaper than as configured as an option on their website.

[Cyber0066]

I just did a search on the EPP program. Seems like a few universities just list the EPP code right there. Is it okay if your a student? Or do you have to be faculty? And do you have to order it through the university or can u have it shipped to your own address? Any other sort of confirmation that the dell reps ask for?

[Brandon]

I never had any official verification, but I got it shipped to my workplace anyway as I knew nobody would be at home during the day when it would be shipped. Also, I'm in the IT department and have dealt with our sales rep in the past (even though I am not in the purchasing process). So I guess he already knew for sure that I worked there.

:)