Warranty Repairs

[Kypdurron5]

Has anyone successfully returned a mod-chipped console for in-warranty repair/service (after removing it, of course)? I've started to get some noticeable artifacts in most of my games...especially RE4 and Scarface. The consensus opinion seems to be that certain Wii batches are prone to overheating which in turn damages either the VRAM or GPU permanently. It's definitely there, and definitely not interference. Overall, people are reporting that the problem is gone with the replacement consoles they get from NOA.

My concern; I can remove the modchip without a problem, but any keen eye will be able to tell the console has at least been opened. I haven't lost any parts (screws, stickers, etc.) but some of the stickers are little crinkled on the edges and some of the screws are ever-so-slightly stripped. Furthermore, I'm using a cyclowiz with a switch, and where I have the switch mounted (in one of the vent holes) you'll definitely see some roughed-up plastic. The console works great aside from the annoying patterns of red/green pixels, but I don't want to resign myself to living with it while I'm under warranty if I can get it fixed. Also: should I do the advanced replacement where they send you one first, or should I do it the regular way and just send in my console first? Thanks.

[Brownflem]

We accept the fact that we void the warranty when we mod the Wii. You can always try to act dumb I guess..

[moneydog96]

It never hurts to try. The worst they'll do is send it back and charge you for shipping. Since I mod my consoles I go ahead and buy the store warranty at Best Buy. I've used that to replace many problematic consoles.

[pasith]

I sent my Wii back because of a botched mod job. I told them the truth. They repaired it with no questions asked. Cost me $95 plus shipping cost. It must have been more cost effective to replace the unit because they gave me a completely new machine. Make sure to remove your chip before sending back. Took about 3 weeks for the entire process.

If you search Nintendo's site, they actually still have repair service for every system that they have ever made. I definitely respect that.

You can also check with modchipman.com. They claim to be able to repair all sorts of Wii problems.

Hope this helps.

[Kypdurron5]

We accept the fact that we void the warranty when we mod the Wii. You can always try to act dumb I guess..
Yes, we do accept that possibility. However, the Wii does not actually have a warranty (cannot-remove-without-destroying) sticker....so a fairly clean install and remove should be virtually undetectable. Furthermore, I wonder what their criteria is regarding suspicions of tampering....it's not like they can say "We THINK you might have opened the console so we won't repair it under warranty." They have to either point to specific evidence, or else just take my (our) word for it. I was just wondering if anyone had successfully (or unsuccessfully) had a post-mod-chipped console repaired under warranty, although it IS good to hear that an out-of-warranty repair might only run $95.

And keep a lookout for the pixel issues I’ve mentioned; if your console is affected you might not want to wait until it’s out of warranty to do something about it. Furthermore, try not to keep your consoles in enclosed entertainment centers where they might be more prone to overheating.

[73arm3]

I took mine back to the shop (GAME) ..and told them they sold me a faulty Wii and that I have tried exchanging it for months, an everytime I call, you say you have none available.

I went on to say that this is unacceptable as I have had a broken Wii for months now (7 to be exact), and the 4 shops I visited all say they have no stock...the guy took my number and phoned me back 2 days later....exchanged wii for for a new one.

Mine started getting the artifacts onscreen and had a wiikey installed...uninstalled the wiikey and reinstalled in my new one.

Im in the Uk, and most game stores were always out of stock...so you can blag a few months on your warranty by saying you kept trying to exchange but store never had any available.

[pasith]

I'd suggest sending it back to nintendo. You'll sleep better at night doing the honest thing.

[Kypdurron5]

I'd suggest sending it back to nintendo. You'll sleep better at night doing the honest thing.
What is that in response to? I really don't see what ethical dilemma exists here.....