Date: 05/20/05 (Computer Help)    Keywords: no keywords

Hi all.

This question relates more to an external repair rather than a problem with operating. I hope this is allowed and that someone can help me:


I have an HP z4805 Notebook that I purchased at Best Buy (don't shoot me...I only work there ;) in August of 2004. I've been fairly gentle with it but a few months ago I noticed that gradually the AC Adapter was losing a secure connection to the power jack. As a result I had to start placing the power chord in precarious positions to maintain a connection and keep the battery charged. Looking inside, the prod to connect to the adapter looks tilted slightly to one side - not straight as it had been when I purchased it.

I looked at the tip of the AC Adapter at one point and saw that the end was starting to look scorched almost and thought perhaps it was just time for a new chord. HP sent me a new AC Adapter but the problem continued. Eventually it got to the point that even though the "battery power/charge" light was on, I was still receiving "Critical Battery" messages. So I arranged to have my computer sent off to be repaired.

I just received a call from HP stating that they can't do anything to the computer because they opened it up and found evidence of a liquid spill on the unit. First reaction: sheer fury. Not once has a drop of liquid touched my laptop while its been in my possession. Furthermore why can't they fix a power jack on the outside of the laptop regardless of what's wrong on the inside? Not only that, but they wanted $700 to fix the computer when it only cost $800 to purchase it.

Thinking about it further I realize that the liquid spill probably voids the manufacturer's warranty (although I'm still pissed off because I've never gotten the computer wet...) So I have to start considering repair options on my own. (Continued Below)



I basically need advice on what is and what is not acceptable in getting this issue resolved. I want to know what I can expect and approximately how much to pay...

My questions are:

1) In repairing the computer on my own, will an independent shop refuse to repair the jack on the outside of the computer if there is moisture damage inside? (If that moisture damage was pre-existing, it did not affect the computer's performance.)

2) Approximately how much does a power jack repair cost? If they must resolve the "moisture" issue, how much would that reasonably cost?

3) Any other advice or tips are always welcome.


Thank you in advance for your help.

I'm sort of "seeing red" at the moment, so if any part of this entry needs elaboration or clarification, please don't hesitate to ask.

X-posted to computerhelp and computer_help

Source: http://www.livejournal.com/community/computer_help/401340.html