Unlocking T-Mobile moto x from sale - Moto X Q&A

I was considering unlocking my gf's T-Mobile Moto X but some of the disclaimer language gave me pause.
"You have only yourself to blame. Once you get the unlock code, your device is no longer covered by the Motorola warranty; in other words, please don't blame us if things go wrong, even if they appear unrelated to unlocking the bootloader."
In actual practice, how strict are they about this if it is clearly a hardware defect (eg: screen burnout) ? Does anyone have experience or insight they can share?
Thanks!
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

bobloblaw1 said:
I was considering unlocking my gf's T-Mobile Moto X but some of the disclaimer language gave me pause.
"You have only yourself to blame. Once you get the unlock code, your device is no longer covered by the Motorola warranty; in other words, please don't blame us if things go wrong, even if they appear unrelated to unlocking the bootloader."
In actual practice, how strict are they about this if it is clearly a hardware defect (eg: screen burnout) ? Does anyone have experience or insight they can share?
Thanks!
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's void and done. It isn't like HTC when they say it only voids the warranty if it gets bricked or something like that. If you unlock it and try to return/RMA, you cant. When you provide the serial number, it wont let the reps issue an RMA. I learned this the hard way. I unlocked my tmobile one and it began creaking a lot on the back panel, but they couldn't do anything about it since I unlocked the bootloader. It sucks that the TMO and the Developer edition models are exactly the same, but the warranty doesnt get voided on the DE model.

aooga said:
It's void and done. It isn't like HTC when they say it only voids the warranty if it gets bricked or something like that. If you unlock it and try to return/RMA, you cant. When you provide the serial number, it wont let the reps issue an RMA. I learned this the hard way. I unlocked my tmobile one and it began creaking a lot on the back panel, but they couldn't do anything about it since I unlocked the bootloader. It sucks that the TMO and the Developer edition models are exactly the same, but the warranty doesnt get voided on the DE model.
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply though that does suck. So then, are there any other options or workarounds. Is Pwnmymoto still an option for custom Roms as described here: http://www.androidpolice.com/2013/0...nd-maxx-makes-flashing-custom-roms-a-reality/
I'm doing a lot of reading and trying to get a handle on all this, but I've been on Samsung phones since the original galaxy so this is all new to me. Are there any up to date comprehensive guides that I should dig into regarding my options for custom roms?
Thanks again.
Edit: apparently pwn is no longer an option as described in the link above. There's a ton of conflicting Information since 4.4 dropped. Seems like I have a ton of research to do.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

bobloblaw1 said:
Thanks for the reply though that does suck. So then, are there any other options or workarounds. Is Pwnmymoto still an option for custom Roms as described here: http://www.androidpolice.com/2013/0...nd-maxx-makes-flashing-custom-roms-a-reality/
I'm doing a lot of reading and trying to get a handle on all this, but I've been on Samsung phones since the original galaxy so this is all new to me. Are there any up to date comprehensive guides that I should dig into regarding my options for custom roms?
Thanks again.
Edit: apparently pwn is no longer an option as described in the link above. There's a ton of conflicting Information since 4.4 dropped. Seems like I have a ton of research to do.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow... really? I was within my 14 days so I returned the phone even with the unlocked bootloader. That's really strange. there must be something you could do about a hardware defect. Just because a company makes you sign away your rights does not mean that the agreement is valid. Just as when you sign liability waivers for certain things, the agreement is just to discourage you from trying to sue, etc.
I know that in Europe you can't just void an entire warranty for unlocking a bootloader. Something software related could be voided, but a non-related hardware defect could not be claimed void because of the bootloader. Kind of like how on cars, you cannot void an entire warranty for having an aftermarket part, if that part cannot cause whatever defect you are trying to claim.

Related

Warranty question

Someone on the internet says unlocking bootloader will only void the software warrranty.
I would like to know if this is true, thanks.
I'm fairly certain that the screen you see after issuing the "fastboot oem unlock" command clearly states that your warranty (for the phone as a whole) is void if you proceed with the unlock process.
HTC has reportedly, in some cases, honored the warranty for failed hardware despite the unlocked bootloader, but I don't think it's a sure thing.
There are a lot of things people say on the internet. Very little of it is true.
(except for this post, of course)
The HTC warranty statement for the Nexus One also clearly states that your entire warranty is void if you unlock the bootloader. As already said, you have to expressly agree to this provision in order to unlock ...so yes, they CAN deny coverage even if unlocking the bootloader didn't screw up your phone.
This has been asked before and answered by many, a search would go a long way. With that said some have had success with HTC honoring the warranty and others have not. I guess it's just the luck of getting the right rep on the phone, good luck
Had my Nexus replaced due to hardware issue with the trackball, and told them up front I had an unlocked bootloader. Rep said send it in, and if they didn't cover it they would charge me for a repair. They shipped the new phone and when I called back the rep said they were sending a replacement due to manufacturing error. Don't know if this is how they always roll, but made sense to me.
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Sent via the XDA Tapatalk App

[Q] WHY can't the Nexus One bootloader be re-locked?

I understand that currently it cannot be relocked on it has been unlocked. But I would like to know why if anyone knows?
Would it be possible in the future?
And is there anyone working on this now?
There is no real reason to want to work on figuring it out.
The only reason would be to cheat on your warranty. And HTC is actually honoring all the hardware related warranty cases.
So no good reason to re-lock, and thus no real reason for devs to work hard on figuring it out.
Mine can be
Obviously that doesn't help you much though. To be able to lock it again, you need to know how to set S-OFF, which is something that (as it stands) can't be done.
Just wondering but if HTC honors the warranty on a phone with unlocked bootloader, why do the 2 different guides to rooting say one will void warranty (unlocking bootloader) and one will preserve the warranty (the one-click app)?
By law HTC can refuse to support but they are supporting for some strange reason. The disclaimers are there to warn that HTC could stop supporting at any time if they see unlocked bootloaders.
I think re-locking the bootloader is quite possible... the only problem at this point is... we don't know how... it could be a software or hardware hook, but ATM, no one knows...
And I don't believe anyone is eagerly trying to find this since HTC seems to be honouring hardware warranty even with unlocked bootloaders...
It is the price of doing business
Once the boot-loader is unlocked you can do things to your phone like over-clock the cpu or run the flash at super-bright for hours. In other words, you can do things that could damage your phone that would not be HTC's fault ... therefore they shouldn't be held liable.
So instead of just locking the phone down like most of the phones out there, HTC/Google give you a choice: Stay stock or unlock with one command. If you choose to unlock they they don't have to honour their warranty because you could be doing bad things to your phone.
The fact that they give us the choice is one of the reasons I bought this phone. The fact that they are honouring the warranties even when you unlock is extra nice of them.
Long story short: Unlocking is a sign that you've been messing with your phone and that is all it is. It is irreversible by design and there is no reason to reverse it.
It is not irreversable by design, HTC can do it.
Besides, unlocking the bootloader is not a pre-requiste to any of the things you listed above anymore (aside from FRG33 users, anyway).
Rusty! said:
It is not irreversable by design, HTC can do it.
Besides, unlocking the bootloader is not a pre-requiste to any of the things you listed above anymore (aside from FRG33 users, anyway).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My money is on a special hardware device that HTC uses that force-flashes the entire rom on the phone. With out the special hardware, I am betting there is no way to do it.
But like others said, who cares. There is no point in putting effort in to something so irrelevant.
That's what I assumed, 'til I noticed my phone was S-OFF after being repaired.
Looks like something along those lines, just got my device back yesterday from having the power button fixed and its locked again. now that we have one click root i can now load CM6 without unlocking it again.
Clarkster said:
...The only reason would be to cheat on your warranty. And HTC is actually honoring all the hardware related warranty cases...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They aren't honouring it for me, my mic and speaker have ceased to work, and they have flat out refused to even deal with me, because I have an unlocked bootloader
Yeah thee only reason would be to cheat my warranty. but im glad to here that HTC has been honoring a lot of your guy's warranty's anyways.
To be honest a lot of manufactures dont fix the product, they just give you a new one anyways. so they made not even notice. right now im having a hardware issue with the trackball (i bought it on eBay :[ ) and i want to send it in but idk if i should??
mezhopking said:
They aren't honouring it for me, my mic and speaker have ceased to work, and they have flat out refused to even deal with me, because I have an unlocked bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to hear, for me it never came up as a question. With you, since both are broken they probably assumed it was caused by software and wrote you off.
I would say keep trying they should be at least let you send it in, and then let you know if it truly is out of your warranty and give you a price to fix.
New phone :d
Called HTC and got some of the best customer service of my life. Told them my trackball wasnt working properly anymore and they are sending me a brand new phone with next day shipping. Never asked once about it being unlocked.
So it seems as you guys are right, as long as it isnt an issue that could be caused my unlocking and messing with you phone they will still honor your warranty.
BEST THING THO...I get to keep the battery, and i bought my phone used for 450 and now im getting a brand new phone
Just so you know OP. I unlocked my Boot loader, but my phone had hardware problems. So I called them, they said they would send out a replacement, next day I cancelled it for reasons I am not going to get into detail over. Well they replacement arrived and my card hold was realized, so I got two nexus's Think I am going to call them and still send the bad one back anyways though.
Moral HTC is has superb warranty!

[Q] HTC One Warrianty void if bootloader is unlocked?

I have owned almost all nexus devices and some samsung, but i fall in love with the One. I read through some forum topics and the HTCDEV site and none of it was clear. If i unlock the bootloader all warrianty is void? I hope i am just misunderstood something. Unlocking the bootloader was never a problem with nexus or samsung devices why htc is making such a fuss about it? Please someone tell me i just misread stg.
vick33 said:
I have owned almost all nexus devices and some samsung, but i fall in love with the One. I read through some forum topics and the HTCDEV site and none of it was clear. If i unlock the bootloader all warrianty is void? I hope i am just misunderstood something. Unlocking the bootloader was never a problem with nexus or samsung devices why htc is making such a fuss about it? Please someone tell me i just misread stg.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just like when you root warranty is void same with all manufactures
vick33 said:
I have owned almost all nexus devices and some samsung, but i fall in love with the One. I read through some forum topics and the HTCDEV site and none of it was clear. If i unlock the bootloader all warrianty is void? I hope i am just misunderstood something. Unlocking the bootloader was never a problem with nexus or samsung devices why htc is making such a fuss about it? Please someone tell me i just misread stg.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure about nexus, but I assure you it is exactly the same with Samsung. I have owned many Samsung phones in the past. Unlocking your bootloader, on practically any manufacturers device will void your warranty. The HTC One Development edition ships with an unlocked bootloader, maybe try that?
Sent from my HTC One using xda app-developers app
skinsfanbdh said:
just like when you root warranty is void same with all manufactures
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is not true.
Nexus devices can be restored to factory settings with showing no signs of modifications. I have got nexus 7 replaced with faulty usb, and galaxy s3 with screen problems all had custom firmware before. Yes there you will have a yellow triangle, if you used no stock kernel, but you can easly remove that, going back to manufacturer state. And i asked asus if open bootloader is a problem for RMA as i cannot relock with the faulty usb they said why would it be?
sad to hear htc is different.. I want that one, but this is giving me second thoughts...
vick33 said:
That is not true.
Nexus devices can be restored to factory settings with showing no signs of modifications. I have got nexus 7 replaced with faulty usb, and galaxy s3 with screen problems all had custom firmware before. Yes there you will have a yellow triangle, if you used no stock kernel, but you can easly remove that, going back to manufacturer state. And i asked asus if open bootloader is a problem for RMA as i cannot relock with the faulty usb they said why would it be?
sad to hear htc is different.. I want that one, but this is giving me second thoughts...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is true. Just because you can revert it doesn't mean it's not originally voided. If say your LED screen died and you sent it for warranty and you had no way to run triangle away due to that and they saw it, you would be getting a bill.
The only way to save your warranty on this device is s-off and that's not yet available.
If you don't like it go to the Samsung S4 which has such a locked down bootloader only one dev has achieved it and still hasn't released how he did it. So no root at all over there.
Sent from my HTC One using xda app-developers app
Your entire warranty is NOT voided due to unlocking or rooting. What DOES happen is your placed under more scrutiny and you have voided the warranty to things you can adversely affect.
For instance:
You rooted and your camera ceases to function or your LED flash dies. Your covered. I wouldn't recommend sending it in running a ROM, stock would ensure they can fix and test it.
Your rooted and your screen dies. You are covered.
Your rooted and the entire phone dies out of the blue. You would be under scrutiny regarding it and they would examine it to see if something you did caused the failure. If it is purely hardware related then you should be covered, otherwise your liable.
This same situation is what people who mod cars have had to fight against (and won). How does an exhaust modification cause a window failure? Or how does a custom head unit cause an engine failure.
There has to be a direct unarguable connection between your modification and the failure, I just had this happen with my Galaxy Nexus. It died completely and it was modified to high heaven. They knew it was unlocked but it wasn't the cause of the failure so it was fixed under warranty.
And BTW when you unlock your Nexus device it shows the exact same warning that the HTC unlocker software shows.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
altimax98 said:
.
And BTW when you unlock your Nexus device it shows the exact same warning that the HTC unlocker software shows.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does not true. Check the images i attached. And if you read through the google site on the nexus it does not say any connection between the warrianty and unlocking the bootloader. Seems like every htc owner thinks other manufacturers have the same policy on bootloaders...
and altimax98 i just read a thread that htc refused tu replace a screen with yellow spots because of unlocked bootloader here is the thread
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1631466
I would love the HTC One as it is the most beautiful device i have ever seen but to keep it stok to have warrianty...
vick33 said:
It does not true. Check the images i attached. And if you read through the google site on the nexus it does not say any connection between the warrianty and unlocking the bootloader. Seems like every htc owner thinks other manufacturers have the same policy on bootloaders...
and altimax98 i just read a thread that htc refused tu replace a screen with yellow spots because of unlocked bootloader here is the thread
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1631466
I would love the HTC One as it is the most beautiful device i have ever seen but to keep it stok to have warrianty...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dude you need to do more research. samsung.htc.motorola.apple.lg,and google all say the same thing rooting,installing custom firmware, and unlocking bootloader may void warranty. if its not a manufacture defect they wont replace it. ive owned all of them and the message is always the same. it would be crazy for a company to sell you something with warranty and say do whatever you want with it and we will warranty for you
skinsfanbdh said:
dude you need to do more research. samsung.htc.motorola.apple.lg,and google all say the same thing rooting,installing custom firmware, and unlocking bootloader may void warranty. if its not a manufacture defect they wont replace it. ive owned all of them and the message is always the same. it would be crazy for a company to sell you something with warranty and say do whatever you want with it and we will warranty for you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Um no it wouldn't. It would be crazy to sell a product and say you rooted that caused the defect. I have dealt with HTC and have sent many phones to them unlocked rooted with custom software and have not had any problem ever. Also please take a look at my signature had to make it to try and combat all the WRONG info out there. This is the USA we have rights when people care to inform themselves of them!
Also note how they always say "may void warranty" what they are really saying is if you do not know your rights we will be more than happy to screw you over as we are corporate and don't care about you at all.
nullkill said:
Um no it wouldn't. It would be crazy to sell a product and say you rooted that caused the defect. I have dealt with HTC and have sent many phones to them unlocked rooted with custom software and have not had any problem ever. Also please take a look at my signature had to make it to try and combat all the WRONG info out there. This is the USA we have rights when people care to inform themselves of them!
Also note how they always say "may void warranty" what they are really saying is if you do not know your rights we will be more than happy to screw you over as we are corporate and don't care about you at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly, they also use 'may void warranty' because there is no way they could make a comprehensive list of all the possible things that could void it. May is safety net of sorts to do exactly what nullkill said
skinsfanbdh said:
dude you need to do more research. samsung.htc.motorola.apple.lg,and google all say the same thing rooting,installing custom firmware, and unlocking bootloader may void warranty. if its not a manufacture defect they wont replace it. ive owned all of them and the message is always the same. it would be crazy for a company to sell you something with warranty and say do whatever you want with it and we will warranty for you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So i am happy that HTC does not manufacure my notebook ... As i could not live without root acces as a developer And all say the same thing? Where do you get that info i just read through the Nexus 4 warrianty manual plus checked the unlock screen again and it never mentions that i loose warrianty with unlock not in the 106 pages of the manual not on the unlock sreen i cared to paste in the previous post of me. So i think i did my part of research... you did not.. check 46 do you see any mention of the bootloader? check the unlock screen i pasted in the last post of me? Do you see any mention of voiding my warrianty? I dont... So please point me out where it is stated that unlocking the nexus 4 bootloader voids the warrianty!
http://www.lg.com/us/support-mobile/lg-LGE960
And i am sad because of that "may" i am not sure they can lawfully say that. May is not specific. In a contract you cant use the word may...
nullkill said:
Um no it wouldn't. It would be crazy to sell a product and say you rooted that caused the defect. I have dealt with HTC and have sent many phones to them unlocked rooted with custom software and have not had any problem ever. Also please take a look at my signature had to make it to try and combat all the WRONG info out there. This is the USA we have rights when people care to inform themselves of them!
Also note how they always say "may void warranty" what they are really saying is if you do not know your rights we will be more than happy to screw you over as we are corporate and don't care about you at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i dont think you understood what i was trying to say. i you do something that messes something up with the phone then its on you. if its something that fails on the phone that had nothing to do with custom software then they have to fix it. but you take the risk that if you brick it or something like that you foot the bill not the company.
skinsfanbdh said:
i dont think you understood what i was trying to say. i you do something that messes something up with the phone then its on you. if its something that fails on the phone that had nothing to do with custom software then they have to fix it. but you take the risk that if you brick it or something like that you foot the bill not the company.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But as i read through lost of thread seems like this is not the case. Sometimes htc refuses to cover obious hardware defects because of unlocked bootloader.. Yes you can kill harware with software but it is not that easy... yes you can overclock and you can raise the voltage, but if there is too much heat the cpu will starts throttling or even reboot, yes you can overvrite the bootloader with 0-s etc etc, but a simple root should not void your warrianty as it does not do on a notebook. my phone is faster then my wifes netbook why i cannot "own" the two devices the same way, both have cellular data and everything... almost same devices on harware side.
vick33 said:
So i am happy that HTC does not manufacure my notebook ... As i could not live without root acces as a developer And all say the same thing? Where do you get that info i just read through the Nexus 4 warrianty manual plus checked the unlock screen again and it never mentions that i loose warrianty with unlock not in the 106 pages of the manual not on the unlock sreen i cared to paste in the previous post of me. So i think i did my part of research... you did not.. check 46 do you see any mention of the bootloader? check the unlock screen i pasted in the last post of me? Do you see any mention of voiding my warrianty? I dont... So please point me out where it is stated that unlocking the nexus 4 bootloader voids the warrianty!
http://www.lg.com/us/support-mobile/lg-LGE960
And i am sad because of that "may" i am not sure they can lawfully say that. May is not specific. In a contract you cant use the word may...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
obviously you didnt read this manual you just want to sound smart, but here it is right at the begining and both of your picks say something about voiding the warranty
Only authorized personnel should service the
phone and its accessories. Faulty installation
or service may result in accidents and
consequently invalidate the warranty.
skinsfanbdh said:
obviously you didnt read this manual you just want to sound smart, but here it is right at the begining and both of your picks say something about voiding the warranty
Only authorized personnel should service the
phone and its accessories. Faulty installation
or service may result in accidents and
consequently invalidate the warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read and that is about hardware installation not software smart guy... i am not covered if i try to replace the screen at home... you clearly have problem of understanding written text. Read it more carefully out loudly then you may understand it
skinsfanbdh said:
i dont think you understood what i was trying to say. i you do something that messes something up with the phone then its on you. if its something that fails on the phone that had nothing to do with custom software then they have to fix it. but you take the risk that if you brick it or something like that you foot the bill not the company.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you are very correct.
vick33 said:
But as i read through lost of thread seems like this is not the case. Sometimes htc refuses to cover obious hardware defects because of unlocked bootloader.. Yes you can kill harware with software but it is not that easy... yes you can overclock and you can raise the voltage, but if there is too much heat the cpu will starts throttling or even reboot, yes you can overvrite the bootloader with 0-s etc etc, but a simple root should not void your warrianty as it does not do on a notebook. my phone is faster then my wifes netbook why i cannot "own" the two devices the same way, both have cellular data and everything... almost same devices on harware side.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can but people do not know and assert their rights. I don't bother telling HTC my devices are unlocked or rooted I just state the problem and steps I have taken to fix it like a factory reset or whatever. HTC and every other company would love to invalidate as many warranties as possible it saves them money but you have to know what your rights are to assert them. The idea that rooting or bootloader unlocking or changing software in any way voids warranty is just plain crazy and in the USA we are legally protected from such craziness.
nullkill said:
The idea that rooting or bootloader unlocking or changing software in any way voids warranty is just plain crazy and in the USA we are legally protected from such craziness.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I feel the same way as an electrical and software engineer, but seems like it is a lottery and it they refuse to repair you can try to threaten them by telling them you will go to court, but that is not how it should work. And it is not how it is working with nexus devices as i can tell from my own experience. Thank you for your answers you seem like someone realy into this topic It made me a little less frustrated, but i still not know if i will jump on the htc bandwagon or not... I will try to contact the local htc service next week and will ask their opinion on the problem.
I think the keywords are "May void your warranty" so HTC can decide whether or not to cover you. I have had HTC devices and it's always a risk a person has to take with unlocking the bootloader. HTC using "May void your warranty" simple covers them, so it's up to them if they will cover it or not.
vick33 said:
I read and that is about hardware installation not software smart guy... i am not covered if i try to replace the screen at home... you clearly have problem of understanding written text. Read it more carefully out loudly then you may understand it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
really? it says nothing about hardware or software it just says installation which if you have ever dealt with contracts before its vague for a reason. i thought you started this thread for help in resolving something. seems to me that you already know everything and started this thread to boost your ego. not for help and opinions from other members who have dealt with these companys numerous times before.
vick33 said:
I feel the same way as an electrical and software engineer, but seems like it is a lottery and it they refuse to repair you can try to threaten them by telling them you will go to court, but that is not how it should work. And it is not how it is working with nexus devices as i can tell from my own experience. Thank you for your answers you seem like someone realy into this topic It made me a little less frustrated, but i still not know if i will jump on the htc bandwagon or not... I will try to contact the local htc service next week and will ask their opinion on the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with you that it's crazy how these companies try and operate. On the Nexus side I am sure you can find reports of people sending in devices that were unlocked and them not honoring the warranty the thing that helped us (with samsung too) is we can remove all traces of what we did :highfive:. Which the fact we have to do that is a bit crazy. In a perfect world companies would honor consumer protection laws and they would be better enforced. I only know about this crap as I'm a cell phone addict longest I've had a device in the last 3 years is maybe 6 months I just can't help it. I'm trying to be good and stick with the ONE as HTC have always tended to be my favorite.
The reason I have faith in HTC is I sent a International HTC One X into HTC USA. First they didn't care it was a international model (try that with sammy and they will laugh at you). Second this was one of the very first One X's so it had the wifi/gps issue very very badly. It was originally a black unit but I didn't like that so I bought a white case and swapped it out. When doing that I discovered the attempted fixes to the wifi antenna. It looked like someone who was a hobbyist at best had solder little metal leads to make better contact with the antenna and it looked horrible. Well I sent that sucker in with the white case and what do you know HTC didn't say anything about the board being soldered on or the fact the case was white. I had told them the phone had been in for repair at carrier before and it helped but then the issue came back (I have no idea what happened to this phone as I was at least the 3rd person who it passed through it's now got a nice home with my friend still going perfect) and now it was acting up again. Not saying everyone will have this luck but if you are smart use your brain and know as much as possible it should help.

[Q] HTC Denying a warranty repair - advice

Hi all,
HTC have been denying me a warranty repair on my HTC One because I installed a custom rom (android revolution).
Now, the phone died in it's stock state. It had software errors (random car mode launching, going into landscape on the homescreen, rebooting apps) so I installed android revolution to see if it would fix it. It didn't, and it turns out the PCB Main board needs replacing. By this point, I couldn't revert to stock, so I checked the warranty info thoroughly which doesn't explicitly prohibit the unlocking of the bootloader.
3 months later, they are still refusing to repair my handset simply because it has a custom bootloader on. I've done my research and posted on their Facebook pages (can't link as I'm a new user).
And I got a call just telling me I was wrong, essentially. I posted another one today (can't get the link to it for some reason) but it's on HTC's and HTC Australia's main page.
Any thoughts or advice?
Cheers
gabjam said:
so I checked the warranty info thoroughly which doesn't explicitly prohibit the unlocking of the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See in red.
In orange is their explanation why they might void your warranty.
HTC is committed to listening to users and delivering customer satisfaction. We have heard your voice and starting now, we will allow our bootloader to be unlocked for 2011 models going forward. Please keep an eye on this website for more details on which devices will be adding this feature. We are extremely pleased to see the energy and enthusiasm from our fans and loyal customers, and we are excited to see what you are capable of. HTC eagerly anticipates your innovations.
It is our responsibility to caution you that not all claims resulting or caused by or from the unlocking of the bootloader may be covered under warranty. Please note that unlocking your bootloader does not mean that you will be able to unlock the SIM lock. Unlocking your SIM lock is at the discretion of your operator/carrier and is not part of the bootloader unlocking scope.
Our devices have been designed with our hardware and software specifications in mind and unlocking the bootloader will change the software and may cause unexpected side effects. It is impossible for HTC to ensure the proper functioning of your device after this. In the worst case scenario, it is possible that your device may be physically damaged due to overheating or the behavior of your device might be altered including, but not limited to, hearing aid compatibility (HAC) and specific absorption rate (SAR) values.
Some content on your device may also be invalidated and cannot be accessed any more because of invalid DRM security keys. This includes content that you may have purchased through a 3rd party vendor and through HTC. Furthermore, although you will still be able to receive updates to your device via FOTA (“firmware over the air”), we do not guarantee that updating your device via FOTA will not render your device unusable. Please understand that you will not be able to return your device to the original state and going forward your device may not be held covered under the warranty for all claims resulting from the unlocking of the bootloader. HTC bears no responsibility if your device is no longer usable afterwards.
HTC is committed to assisting customers in unlocking bootloaders for HTC devices. However, due to some of our carrier customers concerns, certain models with specific restrictions may not be able to be unlocked. Please refer to our list of supported devices to see if your device is eligible for unlocking the bootloader.
We strongly suggest that you do not unlock the bootloader unless you are confident that you understand the risks involved. This is a technical procedure and the side effects could possibly necessitate repairs to your device not covered under warranty. If you are still interested in unlocking the bootloader, and you understand the consequences both to your device and to your warranty, then you may refer to the following pages where we have provided the unlocking instructions.
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http://www.htcdev.com/bootloader
Its a well known fact that you must return your phone back to stock before sending your phone to repair under warranty. Also you shouldn't try to troubleshoot it yourself and take the risk to void the warranty if you still have one.
Its like opening a computer case to try to fix it yourself, then bringing back the computer to the store and asking them to repair it under warranty. They will see that little "void if removed" stickers is torn and will refuse to repair it, same for the "UNLOCKED" flag in the bootloader.
Sorry
Awesome thanks for your detailed reply!
I feel I'm a little in a grey area here as the hardware broke before I installed the ROM and much of their information relates to the warranty being voided if the ROM causes the damage. By the time I went to revert to stock the phone had deteriorated and wouldn't charge or connect to anything so I couldn't get it back in Stock condition.
The phrase 'resulting from or caused by' unlocking the bootloader seems to apply to damage caused by unlocking the phone, whereas mine broke under stock conditions. I was aware of the risks of unlocking the bootloader but as the problems initially manifested as software bugs my first thought was to change the software, by which point I couldn't revert back...
gabjam said:
Awesome thanks for your detailed reply!
I feel I'm a little in a grey area here as the hardware broke before I installed the ROM
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Click to collapse
but you can't prove them that the problem started before unlocking the bootloader but they can prove that you have unlocked it so the warning above apply. Sad story but its how big corporations protect themselves. Hardware damage can really happen when using custom software (e.g. overclocking the cpu too much using a custom rom/kernel) so they need a way to invalid the warranty in these cases.
---------- Post added at 07:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:33 PM ----------
gabjam said:
but as the problems initially manifested as software bugs
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Click to collapse
But unfortunately this issue was probably caused by a defective usb port, most likely the ID pin shorted somewhere and triggering car mode, like if the phone was inserted in a car dock or something like this.
Yeah it was caused by a defective USB port - but it was still charging and connecting at the time so I initially thought buggy software. The USB port then deteriorated.
It would be easier for all parties involved if they simply stated that while they allow unlocking the bootloader, it will automatically void your warranty. Rather than all the ifs and mays around their disclaimers at the moment which are open to interpretation.
Thanks for your replies guys. I appreciate your time.
alray said:
but you can't prove them that the problem started before unlocking the bootloader but they can prove that you have unlocked it so the warning above apply. Sad story but its how big corporations protect themselves. Hardware damage can really happen when using custom software (e.g. overclocking the cpu too much using a custom rom/kernel) so they need a way to invalid the warranty in these cases.
---------- Post added at 07:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:33 PM ----------
But unfortunately this issue was probably caused by a defective usb port, most likely the ID pin shorted somewhere and triggering car mode, like if the phone was inserted in a car dock or something like this.
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Just a thought - its easy to see how overclocking can damage the processing components or memory components etc, but realistically could they claim a custom rom could somehow damage the USB port?
gabjam said:
Just a thought - its easy to see how overclocking can damage the processing components or memory components etc, but realistically could they claim a custom rom could somehow damage the USB port?
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Overheating can damage any components including ports.
Make your phone full stock
Remove tempered
Lock bootloader not relock
For all of this you need S Off which may cost you $25
gabjam said:
Hi all,
HTC have been denying me a warranty repair on my HTC One because I installed a custom rom (android revolution).
Now, the phone died in it's stock state. It had software errors (random car mode launching, going into landscape on the homescreen, rebooting apps) so I installed android revolution to see if it would fix it. It didn't, and it turns out the PCB Main board needs replacing. By this point, I couldn't revert to stock, so I checked the warranty info thoroughly which doesn't explicitly prohibit the unlocking of the bootloader.
3 months later, they are still refusing to repair my handset simply because it has a custom bootloader on. I've done my research and posted on their Facebook pages (can't link as I'm a new user).
And I got a call just telling me I was wrong, essentially. I posted another one today (can't get the link to it for some reason) but it's on HTC's and HTC Australia's main page.
Any thoughts or advice?
Cheers
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Click to collapse
Hi,
I have a good track record for complaining and winning so this is how I would approach the issue.
Firstly find the CEO for your regional office's name and email.
When you have nothing to lose go straight to the top it normally gets the quickest response!
Firstly explain (in an email to CEO) how you are a loyal customer to HTC and love the brand because of the flexibility and customisation acheived through this brand like no other.
You have followed the unlocking process exactly as described on the HTC dev site in an attempt to resolve an issue with your phone that developed earlier while still stock.
You realise this was a mistake now but feel let down by the brand that is technically more foward thinking than any other on the market.
You accept liability that your problem could be affiliated to the modifications you have made and may have jepordised your warranty but feel in some way HTC are partly accountable.
You could use this scenario,HTC gave you the keys to the candy store for you to browse and sample at your own convienience,however if you over step the mark in the shop you could be arrested.
No where in their T+C's does it provide an acceptable line to cross which seems a bit unfair.
They have waved a carrot in front of your nose,but snatched it away when it suited them when in their opinion you over stepped their threshold...which do no know is!
Could the company compromise on this occasion and perhaps meet you half way with the repair and take some accountability?
You really love the product and want to remain loyal but truly hoped their customer service would mirror their 1st class product.
Quite often companies like this will waiver bills and repair costs if they think you will remain a loyal customer and spread their name around.
Just think if they wasted a few hundred £'s on you you might influence several people to buy their brand by reputation which is the best marketing tool for any up and coming company.
As i say i have taken this route before and been honest but also expressed my dissapointment in a mature way and had positive results in less than 24hrs.
you could get a good discount which is better than nothing at all and you have nothing to lose at the moment!
Shepps

question about geek squad insuance, and moto warranty

considering rooting (rooted every device prior), but have always had carrier insurance which included warranty as long as there's no liquid or physical damage.
Having bought this device full price, and the one year of geeksquad damage insurance, I was curious if they care about root / ROMs, or if they even ask about it.
Also, with Motorola. If let's say the speaker goes out, are ALL warranties voided by unlocking bootloader, or only software?
Thanks!
slaytanic said:
considering rooting (rooted every device prior), but have always had carrier insurance which included warranty as long as there's no liquid or physical damage.
Having bought this device full price, and the one year of geeksquad damage insurance, I was curious if they care about root / ROMs, or if they even ask about it.
Also, with Motorola. If let's say the speaker goes out, are ALL warranties voided by unlocking bootloader, or only software?
Thanks!
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Click to collapse
Why on earth would you buy a warranty on an item that was cheap to begin with? I honestly don't know why people waste their money on warranties at all.
edufur said:
Why on earth would you buy a warranty on an item that was cheap to begin with? I honestly don't know why people waste their money on warranties at all.
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Click to collapse
Because I wanted to, and can?. $60 to replace a phone if something happens instead of full price sounds nice to me. Thank you for your informative reply.
Bump
I would like to know this too. I remember reading a post somewhere that unlocking bootloader would void warranty for software defects, but hardware defects would still be covered. Hardware defects is what is holding me back from unlocking bootloader, as I usually unlock my phone right away.
I also heard that it is unlawful for companies to void your warranty. It would be great to hear from someone who is more knowledgeable about this.
That's literally what's holding me back right now. Lol. I've got all the stock software downloaded, and ready to go ?.
Bump
Bump.
Anyone?
jhedfors said:
I would like to know this too. I remember reading a post somewhere that unlocking bootloader would void warranty for software defects, but hardware defects would still be covered. Hardware defects is what is holding me back from unlocking bootloader, as I usually unlock my phone right away.
I also heard that it is unlawful for companies to void your warranty. It would be great to hear from someone who is more knowledgeable about this.
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Click to collapse
According to Motorola support: The warranty on our devices covers both hardware and software issues. If you unlock the bootloader and even if there was an issue before unlocking the bootloader, it will still void the warranty.
I will return my device!
Don't want that limitation

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