hey all,
I bought a PDP-5071hd from best buy (with a 12% coupon) sunday at the new price...only to see prices at online place drop within 24 hrs. Amazon's latest price is a couple hundred dollars less now with free shipping and no tax (which tacks on almost another couple hundred).
Couple of questions, should I go back to Best buy and try to price negotiate? I'm still well within my return periond.
Also, if I were to return and buy from Amazon...when I bought it I had to leave the box there to get it in my car...does that matter for returns? of course I still have my receipt.
I've been around long enough to know prices fall, but I don't usually expect the sting to come within hours of a purchase. One side of me just says to forget it...PDP purchase has been too much of a time sink already and other areas in my life need tending.
I should mention I frickin love this tv.

COSTCO Question - what is the Sharp Model LC40C37U? is it their version of the 37D40U?

TIA

Yes that is the costco version. I bought the 45" and the model numbers were changed the same way. YOu can go to the Sharp website and they will have the costco model number as well as the non costco number and when you compare the sets you can see that they are the same. The only difference is that the costco model has silver on the bottom and the non costco is all black.

Not going to mention the price but check out Circuit City for there price andfinancing options on the VIZIO. I think it is one of the best deals out there.

Just got back from BB and was able to snag one of the panasonics 42" plasma at the special price. I got there at 4:30, waited a half hour . There were no tickets handed out for this item back where i was in line so i thought i was out of luck. I got in the store and went straight back to Magnolia area and asked are there any left and they said just get in this line ( there were four people ahead of me) and it went very smoothly. They actually had a lot of them , at least fifty people were able to buy them. Delivering it next thursday and now i have to decide whether to keep the 45" Sharp LCD or the 42" Panasonic. The panasonic would be $900 less (got a great deal on the Sharp at Costco) and so i am leaning that way- i just hope there wont be any glare issues.

Yes that is the costco version. I bought the 45" and the model numbers were changed the same way. YOu can go to the Sharp website and they will have the costco model number as well as the non costco number and when you compare the sets you can see that they are the same. The only difference is that the costco model has silver on the bottom and the non costco is all black.

THANKS!!! Now - it looks like I'm narrowed down to 2 sets - the Sharp - or the 37" Vizio. Just need to decide if the Sharp is worth 300 more.

Some posts removed
No price or sale talk please, folks.
Thanks all

Just curious, why the prohibition on discussing prices?

I am officially done buying TVs at Costco. I have bought and returned three TVs now.

1st - Panasonic 42" Plasma EDTV - Severe underscan causing line at top of screen - returned after 11 months, could not stand it anymore.

2nd - Sony 40" LCD - Crooked mounting holes for TV pedestal caused the TV to sit crooked unless propped up by folded business cards.

3rd - Panasonic 42" Plasma HDTV - dead pixel.

It is my opinion that Costco sells B grade Televisions, while the big box stores get the A grade sets. A guy I work with, who used to be a manager at BJs confirmed that they buy the electronics that the manufacturer deems not good enough for the big box stores.

I do enjoy the Costco return policy, but to me it is like buying a Kia instead of a Honda. Yes you save $$$ and get a longer warranty. What good is a long warranty when you are always using it?

After carrying three TVs back to Costco with me my wife is ready for a divorce :D

Today I picked up a 42" Panny HD th-42px60u from PC Richard a large local NJ chain, we will see if their stuff is any better than Costco.

Just curious, why the prohibition on discussing prices?




This a privately run operation and that is part of the rules..You will find..above..a list of sponsers from whom you can make purchases. You may discuss prices in your private messages to each other.

Just curious, why the prohibition on discussing prices?

Because that do not want this place to turn into one big price discussion, which it already kinda has unfortunately. Go to ************** if you want to talk price, they love that stuff there.

[QUOTE=Argetni]I am officially done buying TVs at Costco. I have bought and returned three TVs now.

1st - Panasonic 42" Plasma EDTV - Severe underscan causing line at top of screen - returned after 11 months, could not stand it anymore.

2nd - Sony 40" LCD - Crooked mounting holes for TV pedestal caused the TV to sit crooked unless propped up by folded business cards.

3rd - Panasonic 42" Plasma HDTV - dead pixel.

It is my opinion that Costco sells B grade Televisions, while the big box stores get the A grade sets. A guy I work with, who used to be a manager at BJs confirmed that they buy the electronics that the manufacturer deems not good enough for the big box stores.

I do enjoy the Costco return policy, but to me it is like buying a Kia instead of a Honda. Yes you save $$$ and get a longer warranty. What good is a long warranty when you are always using it?

After carrying three TVs back to Costco with me my wife is ready for a divorce :D

Today I picked up a 42" Panny HD th-42px60u from PC Richard a large local NJ chain, we will see if their stuff is any better than Costco.[/QUO



+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Costco carries a full range of tvs. They carry some of the very best tvs. In their store, they carry many upscale products. Why blame Costco for poor quality control on those tvs? Direct your comments to the manufacturers.

argetni,

That is a horrible generalization. Some of the TVs Costco sells are junk and/or last year's model (or monitors that aren't technically TVs).

But some of the stuff is just fine and actually the EXACT same thing you can find at BB/CC (especially from Costco's website).

Just picked up the Vizio VP42HDTV. NICE!

I bought a 50" Panasonic from Circuit City in Jackson, Mississippi 2 weeks ago today. Circuit City ran a Friday and Saturday only ad with the set $519 less than I paid.

My wife drove down to the same store today (120 miles 1 way) to collect the difference in price. She was told that they do not price match on Black Friday items. When she got home and told me what they said I called the store. I was told the same thing -- no match on Black Friday pricing. I explained to the clerk that the item was not Black Friday only but Saturday as well. I was put on hold then disconnected.

I called back and was transferred to some other dept and was disconnected again. I called back the third time and asked for the manager. I was told that the manager was with a customer, but he told the clerk there was no price matching for the holidays. My response was that today is not a holiday. Their reply was that there is no price matching for the holiday season.

Have any of you ever heard of such a policy?

If this is their policy I suppose I can return my set for a refund then buy a new one at the discounted price.

Any other suggestions?

Have any of you ever heard of such a policy?

If this is their policy I suppose I can return my set for a refund then buy a new one at the discounted price.

Any other suggestions?

I've been given the run around like this before chasing after a rebate problem. I eventually reached "corporate" and resolved the problem. Perhaps that would help.

I suggest if you call again to bring it to their attention that you have the option of returning it and then buying at the lower price. That may save you a trip.

Have any of you ever heard of such a policy?

If this is their policy I suppose I can return my set for a refund then buy a new one at the discounted price.

Any other suggestions?

Just stay on their case. I find it funny that CC runs advertisements boasting about their pricematch gurantee and won't honor this sale. If they don't honor Black Friday matches then they should at least honor the Saturday sale (which happens to be the same price).

I bought a 50" Panasonic from Circuit City in Jackson, Mississippi 2 weeks ago today. Circuit City ran a Friday and Saturday only ad with the set $519 less than I paid.

My wife drove down to the same store today (120 miles 1 way) to collect the difference in price. She was told that they do not price match on Black Friday items. When she got home and told me what they said I called the store. I was told the same thing -- no match on Black Friday pricing. I explained to the clerk that the item was not Black Friday only but Saturday as well. I was put on hold then disconnected.

I called back and was transferred to some other dept and was disconnected again. I called back the third time and asked for the manager. I was told that the manager was with a customer, but he told the clerk there was no price matching for the holidays. My response was that today is not a holiday. Their reply was that there is no price matching for the holiday season.

Have any of you ever heard of such a policy?

If this is their policy I suppose I can return my set for a refund then buy a new one at the discounted price.

Any other suggestions?

Circuit City has a 30 day return policy. Tell them you want to return it and re-purchase the exact same panel at the sale price. You don't even have to bring in the panel....just the receipt. Kinda a round-about way of getting a pricematch, but it will work.

Newbie checking in with 2 questions:

Does Costco carry the Sony KDL-46V2500 in their stores?? Not on their website....

Does the Panny $200 rebate apply to TVs that I bring to my house myself? Costco near me has the Panny 50PH6U and I can bring it home with me...

I'm partial to Costco because of their return policies...

Thanks!

Newbie checking in with 2 questions:

Does Costco carry the Sony KDL-46V2500 in their stores?? Not on their website....

Does the Panny $200 rebate apply to TVs that I bring to my house myself? Costco near me has the Panny 50PH6U and I can bring it home with me...

I'm partial to Costco because of their return policies...

Thanks!



Costco carries the Sonyv25..same as the v2500.

As far as I can see, delivery is delivery...I would certainly get the form and go for it. Install can be as simple as ..sitting a tv on a tabletop/shelf. And, buying from Costco is a wise move. Costco has a reasonable price on the Panny 600u by the way.

Costco carries the Sonyv25..same as the v2500.

As far as I can see, delivery is delivery...I would certainly get the form and go for it. Install can be as simple as ..sitting a tv on a tabletop/shelf. And, buying from Costco is a wise move. Costco has a reasonable price on the Panny 600u by the way.



Richard,

Do you know if Costco is going to carry the 40in version 2500? Or, alternatively, the xbrs?

I'm looking for a 40 1080p LCD, and if I spring for the xbr, I'd prefer it to be from Costco because of some QC issues.

If anyone else has heard anything, I'd really appreciate any info.

Thanks!

Matro

Richard,

Do you know if Costco is going to carry the 40in version 2500? Or, alternatively, the xbrs?

I'm looking for a 40 1080p LCD, and if I spring for the xbr, I'd prefer it to be from Costco because of some QC issues.

If anyone else has heard anything, I'd really appreciate any info.

Thanks!

Matro



I would think the 40in v2500 could be a possibility; but would say no on any XBRs.
Just my opinion and nothing definitely to back it up. Just keep watching Costco store and web site. And write them an e-mail or 2 on what you want in store or online. I have several times. It can't hurt!

Thanks Richard. As far as the 46" Bravia v25, is that at the store or online only?

Same for the Panny Plasma 50"600U-is that at the store or online only?

The Panny 50" 6U is a great price at my local Costco, and if I can get the $200 rebate on top of that it is an awesome deal. Other than an SD Card and PC input the 6U and 600U I believe are the same....

Thanks Richard. As far as the 46" Bravia v25, is that at the store or online only?

Same for the Panny Plasma 50"600U-is that at the store or online only?

The Panny 50" 6U is a great price at my local Costco, and if I can get the $200 rebate on top of that it is an awesome deal. Other than an SD Card and PC input the 6U and 600U I believe are the same....


46 inch Sony v25..in store..There are a few other additions to 600u but nothing all that important. The 6u, 60u, and 600u are all the same basic display.

Thanks Richard. If you don't mind me asking which Costco are you near????

Looks like the plasma Panny is a wee too tall for my space when you factor in the ventilation requirements so it looks like the Sony will be the one......

Do you recall how much the Sony is approximately? Please PM me...Thanks again!!!

I'm going to be buying a 50" plasma. Just a few weeks ago, Costco online listed both the Pioneer 5070 (which I was planning to get) for about the same price as the Panasonic 50PX600u. While the Pioneer's price dropped a little, the Panasonic is now $700 LESS than the Pioneer. For two tv's that each get a lot of great reviews, the prices are sure separating, and now I'll reconsider the Panasonic.

(I didn't post actual prices, so hopefully this doesn't violate posting rules???)

I'm looking at the same two sets. Could not find a thread that compared them or evaluated their respective merits. What have you found?

I'm looking at the same two sets. Could not find a thread that compared them or evaluated their respective merits. What have you found?



They will both give you an excellent picture on the screen. Quality of images will depend on the quality of incoming source material.The 2 sets among best available and full controls. At same price, perhaps the 5070..but at $700 less the Panny all the way unless you like to part with money easily. There is also a $200 rebate form for consumer Panasonics til first of 07. You can find their specs and features..on web sites and many other places.

[QUOTE=MorningHill]Looked at the Panasonic claim form for the 5 year warranty and the e-mail their marketing director sent out to their dealers. Both say they are extending their current one year warranty. If the one year warranty doesn't provide for on site service, I'm not going to count on on-site service. Still looks like a heck of a deal.[/QUOT


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

And, if I buy a commercial Panny, I shall expect on-site (in home) service. Again, best to get these things in writing and not listen to nor accept (as fact) opinions/comments of others. Even Panasonic, in this case, did not get their information correct. They have a conflict in their own information. Anyway, I agree, enough talk on this matter. On to other subjects.

Aside from the lack of a tuner, is there any reason to prefer the 50" commercial Panny vs. the Panny 600? thanks

Question - in order to return a tv to Costco I assume you need all the original packing. Does anyone know if this is the case? I ask because I live in a 900 sq foot condo in the city of Boston and I have absolutely no room to store the large box these tv's come in. I am considering buying the Panny 600U there instead of BB largely in part due to their excellent return policy (not looking to exploit it), but it may all be moot seeing as how I'll need to throw away the box.

Two days ago I wrote to Costco but have not received a response yet.

Question - in order to return a tv to Costco I assume you need all the original packing. Does anyone know if this is the case? I ask because I live in a 900 sq foot condo in the city of Boston and I have absolutely no room to store the large box these tv's come in. I am considering buying the Panny 600U there instead of BB largely in part due to their excellent return policy (not looking to exploit it), but it may all be moot seeing as how I'll need to throw away the box.

Two days ago I wrote to Costco but have not received a response yet.



It is always nice to have the packing material but, if you do not, I still believe Costco will accept the return.

[QUOTE=richard korsgren]

Aside from the lack of a tuner, is there any reason to prefer the 50" commercial Panny vs. the Panny 600? thanks


You will get same quality picture from both sets. The uk9 also lacks speakers and a few other (minor) things. A big reason to prefer the commercial unit, it is less expensive. And many like the looks of the commercial unit..plain and simple. One day, the 600u may be somewhat easier to sell but should not really enter into this discussion. Bottom line..to save money..buy the commercial unit if you do not need the extra items. Right now, you also get a 5 year on site warranty for commercial unit. Plus, there is also a $100 rebate. Consumer sets offer $200 rebate for delivery/install.

Question - in order to return a tv to Costco I assume you need all the original packing. Does anyone know if this is the case? I ask because I live in a 900 sq foot condo in the city of Boston and I have absolutely no room to store the large box these tv's come in. I am considering buying the Panny 600U there instead of BB largely in part due to their excellent return policy (not looking to exploit it), but it may all be moot seeing as how I'll need to throw away the box.

Two days ago I wrote to Costco but have not received a response yet.

All you ned is your receipt and your Çostco card. I have seen many tvs, couches et al being returned wthout any packaging. I have taken back power tools and all they ask is to drain the gas outside somewhere first. No box needed.

Shelly

Question - in order to return a tv to Costco I assume you need all the original packing.
You don't need the original packaging.

You need the remote, user manual and any cables or connectors that came in the box. In other words, you need everything but the box and packaging materials.

Hi
Anyone know which 50" HD Plasma monitor Fry's is advertizing on the last page (upper right) of their 11/25 flyer?

Thanks

Circuit City has a 30 day return policy. Tell them you want to return it and re-purchase the exact same panel at the sale price. You don't even have to bring in the panel....just the receipt. Kinda a round-about way of getting a pricematch, but it will work.

Yup, funny how stores never seem to understand that there's an automatic price guarantee for the length of their return period...

You don't need the original packaging.

You need the remote, user manual and any cables or connectors that came in the box. In other words, you need everything but the box and packaging materials.

I agree with all of the above....but my return absolutely required the remote and power cable. I had forgotten the remote and had to return the next day and start the whole process over. My return did not include the manual or any cables except the power cable. I even forgot the side speakers and they didn't ask for them...

[QUOTE=cooper33]


You will get same quality picture from both sets. The uk9 also lacks speakers and a few other (minor) things. A big reason to prefer the commercial unit, it is less expensive. And many like the looks of the commercial unit..plain and simple. One day, the 600u may be somewhat easier to sell but should not really enter into this discussion. Bottom line..to save money..buy the commercial unit if you do not need the extra items. Right now, you also get a 5 year on site warranty for commercial unit. Plus, there is also a $100 rebate. Consumer sets offer $200 rebate for delivery/install.

The reviews I've seen state that the commercial unit has a better picture. It has a lot more features to adjust the picture as well. The inputs are different, requiring a purchase of RCA connectors. Check out cnet. They review the TH-50PH9UK as well as the TH-42PX60U.

I checked Costco for pricing on the Panasonic TH-42PH9UK and didn't notice the $100 rebate. Is it already factored into the final price? I'm confused about the $200 rebate for delivery/install. Does it only apply to commercial sets? I'm interested in either the 9UK, 6U, or 600U. According to Costco, for the 6U and 600u, "Standard shipping via furniture carrier is included in the quoted price." If I ordered either the 6U or 600U from Costco would I get the $200 rebate, considering that Costco is not an "authorized" dealer? I read somewhere that the rebate is 'up to' $200. So if shipping is deemed to be $50, you only get $50.

Any concrete info on the $200 rebate would help me tremendously. I'm trying to stay around the 1K price range. I'll continue looking myself and will post if I find the answer. :)

[QUOTE=richard korsgren]

The reviews I've seen state that the commercial unit has a better picture. It has a lot more features to adjust the picture as well. The inputs are different, requiring a purchase of RCA connectors. Check out cnet. They review the TH-50PH9UK as well as the TH-42PX60U.

I checked Costco for pricing on the Panasonic TH-42PH9UK and didn't notice the $100 rebate. Is it already factored into the final price? I'm confused about the $200 rebate for delivery/install. Does it only apply to commercial sets? I'm interested in either the 9UK, 6U, or 600U. According to Costco, for the 6U and 600u, "Standard shipping via furniture carrier is included in the quoted price." If I ordered either the 6U or 600U from Costco would I get the $200 rebate, considering that Costco is not an "authorized" dealer? I read somewhere that the rebate is 'up to' $200. So if shipping is deemed to be $50, you only get $50.

Any concrete info on the $200 rebate would help me tremendously. I'm trying to stay around the 1K price range. I'll continue looking myself and will post if I find the answer. :)





$200 rebate is on consumer sets. You get the check from Panasonic after filling out the form you can download. It is for delivery and install. Install can be a wall mount or as simple as placing the tv on a stand. The $100 rebate (at time pf purchase) and the 5 year on-site warranty is from Panasonic. These 2 bonuses are for the commercial panels. For the commercial panel you can buy extra blades if needed. As the set comes, you have component (red, green, blue) and a vga input. The consumer set comes with just about all the inputs anyone would need.

Yup, funny how stores never seem to understand that there's an automatic price guarantee for the length of their return period...


Yeah, well that doesn't work for me. I tried the exact same thing today at sams and they wouldn't do a paper return.

I may end up getting a new plasma instead of the lcd I got.

At the Costco in North Miami, they have someone come out from the electronics dept. He then asks for all of the manuals. He looks to make sure that every single item that came with the tv has been returned. Then they give you the third degree as to why you are returning it. Then they check your account to see if you returned before. They make it as difficult and uncomfortable for you as possible. I have seen them refuse returns for not having all of the manuals. I have seen them threaten to cancel your membership if you have returned more than once. This must be the worst Costco in the country.

Just ordered the 32" Sceptre 1366x768 LCD. $200 off and free shipping. Has everything I want for a bedroom TV.

I have the same idea. I got it from Costco a few days ago, at its [EDIT] price. I mainly will us this for XBOX 360/gaming.

I got the 42" Vizio Plasma for the living room to watch TV and DVDs. At [EDIT], I could not pass it up. I should had gotten two for that price.

Question about the Costco return policy. Do you have to be a member only at the time of the purchase or at the time of return? If you have to be a member at the time of return, do you have to have uninterrupted membership (i.e. the same membership as the one you bought the TV on)?

Thanks.

I would say..it would be somewhat unfair for customer to drop membership and, then, join again if you wanted to return an item. I can not speak for Costco.

Question about the Costco return policy. Do you have to be a member only at the time of the purchase or at the time of return? If you have to be a member at the time of return, do you have to have uninterrupted membership (i.e. the same membership as the one you bought the TV on)?

Thanks.

I was a member but my membership had lapsed. When I ordered on line I plugged in my lapsed member number and they took it as if I was a paid up member. I have since returned this TV and bought another one so they got their membership dues and I got a nice deal on a Sony 46"...

Does anybody know if Coscto Warehouses are going to change the price or model on the Panasonic's? (6U vs. 60 or 600) I'm used to them having good deals, but lately, they have models with less features at higher prices. I'm ready to buy (early Christmas present?), and really have had great success over the years, but it looks like I might be going elsewhere this time.

Any word on new models hitting the warehouses anywhere?

Does anybody know if Coscto Warehouses are going to change the price or model on the Panasonic's? (6U vs. 60 or 600) I'm used to them having good deals, but lately, they have models with less features at higher prices. I'm ready to buy (early Christmas present?), and really have had great success over the years, but it looks like I might be going elsewhere this time.

Any word on new models hitting the warehouses anywhere?


With Panasonic, the only new model hitting the stores will be the commercial 50 inch 1080p display at $6000. New models generally come out in the summer. I would imagine prices will be changing somewhat on the Panny models as with other models. Just watch at the stores and online. Remember, Costcos' warranty is worth around $600 I would estimate. Actually, tvs are a great buy from now til first of 07.

Does anybody know if Coscto Warehouses are going to change the price or model on the Panasonic's? (6U vs. 60 or 600) I'm used to them having good deals, but lately, they have models with less features at higher prices. I'm ready to buy (early Christmas present?), and really have had great success over the years, but it looks like I might be going elsewhere this time.

Any word on new models hitting the warehouses anywhere?


With Panasonic, the only new model hitting the stores will be the commercial 50 inch 1080p display at $6000. New models generally come out in the summer. I would imagine prices will be changing somewhat on the Panny models as with other models. Just watch at the stores and online. Remember, Costcos' warranty is worth around $600 I would estimate. Actually, tvs are a great buy from now til first of 07.

Yeah, I know that the 1080P's are out, and Costco may get them. I think I'm just ticked that BB and CC have the 60U $300 cheaper, and I think it retails for $400-500 more. I wish they would either drop the price or get the other models (which they have online) at their current price. I'm willing to spend a little more, but I think that the current situation is a little much.

Does anybody know if Coscto Warehouses are going to change the price or model on the Panasonic's? (6U vs. 60 or 600) I'm used to them having good deals, but lately, they have models with less features at higher prices. I'm ready to buy (early Christmas present?), and really have had great success over the years, but it looks like I might be going elsewhere this time.

Any word on new models hitting the warehouses anywhere?


You can find those models (and others) at the Costco online store. Many of them have the price of shipping included in the price listed on their website. In other words... you don't have to settle for just the 6U if you don't want to. Go to their website and order from there.

Of course.. you can find lower prices listed elsewhere, but without that great Costco return policy. Which means... how much is that return policy worth to you?

Question - in order to return a tv to Costco I assume you need all the original packing. Does anyone know if this is the case? I ask because I live in a 900 sq foot condo in the city of Boston and I have absolutely no room to store the large box these tv's come in. I am considering buying the Panny 600U there instead of BB largely in part due to their excellent return policy (not looking to exploit it), but it may all be moot seeing as how I'll need to throw away the box.

Two days ago I wrote to Costco but have not received a response yet.

At my local Costco, all I needed was the manual(s), remote and receipt. ...was asked the reason for the return (no longer satisfy with the product.....period).

Costco's return policy (guarantee) is absolutely HUGE to me, that's why I'm torn - i.e. how much $$$ is it worth. I just checked their site to see if anything had changed with regard to shipping. Still $99-165. Did see that the price online for the 6U dropped (through tomorrow), but 3-4 weeks for delivery (dropped curbside for $100).

If I order tires online from Costco, they'll ship to your preferred warehouse free. Wish they'd do the same for the TV's.

Trying to figure if I should get the 60U from BB with an extended warranty for almost the exact price as a 6U from Costco.

Beware of Costco policy change that have already gone into effect or will be by the begiining of the new year. 30 days return only!

Beware of Costco policy change that have already gone into effect or will be by the begiining of the new year. 30 days return only!

Hadn't heard about this one. Have to keep that in mind. Source?

I'm not in a huge hurry (but boy do I want one). Think I'll wait until just before Christmas to make a decision and hope that a bit of a price war breaks out (yeah, right :rolleyes: ). Maybe one of the big retailers doesn't sell quite as many as planned and needs to create space for new inventory.

I can dream.

I have a friend that works for a panel maker in Taiwan and they are in talk with Costco to carry there products. The sunject of returns was brought up since my friend knows about the current policy and he was told that the policy is changing after the New Year to 30 days. It seems that this policy is already actually going into effect now. See here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8998440#post8998440

Look for the post by "dearsmiths"

I have a friend that works for a panel maker in Taiwan and they are in talk with Costco to carry there products. The sunject of returns was brought up since my friend knows about the current policy and he was told that the policy is changing after the New Year to 30 days. It seems that this policy is already actually going into effect now. See here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8998440#post8998440

Look for the post by "dearsmiths"
I'll keep a sharp eye out. I know of a few manufacturers that have decided not to deal with Costco due to concerns over the cost of the return policy. I figure they'll have to put some limits/controls on it - I know I'd be an upset owner if I took back a 2 year old TV. Actually, I'd probably be out of business.

Hopefully they'll do like they have with computers, and make it 6 months.

Yeah, I know that the 1080P's are out, and Costco may get them. I think I'm just ticked that BB and CC have the 60U $300 cheaper, and I think it retails for $400-500 more. I wish they would either drop the price or get the other models (which they have online) at their current price. I'm willing to spend a little more, but I think that the current situation is a little much.

In my area, I was at CC yesterday looking at the 60U. Their price had dropped (according to them) for a short time special promotion. The sale price they posted was the same as Costco's 6U. The beginning price at Costco was considerably less than the beginning price at CC. However, 11/27/06 is the last day for the lower price at Costco. I bought mine today and am very satisfied. By the way, the Costco here is still promoting their "unlimited return" policy. I will be keeping an eye on this, but I would think that those who buy prior to any change in policy shouldn't be affected. But hey, I could be wrong. I wonder...if Costco drops their "unlimited return" policy....will Sam's Club drop their unlimited policy also??

Costco's return policy (guarantee) is absolutely HUGE to me, that's why I'm torn - i.e. how much $$$ is it worth. I just checked their site to see if anything had changed with regard to shipping. Still $99-165. Did see that the price online for the 6U dropped (through tomorrow), but 3-4 weeks for delivery (dropped curbside for $100).

If I order tires online from Costco, they'll ship to your preferred warehouse free. Wish they'd do the same for the TV's.

Trying to figure if I should get the 60U from BB with an extended warranty for almost the exact price as a 6U from Costco.


I bought the 6U yesterday at my local Costco for the same $ as the online 3 day sale price. Check out your local stores, you may get to save the shipping.

I bought the 6U yesterday at my local Costco for the same $ as the online 3 day sale price. Check out your local stores, you may get to save the shipping.

I checked out Costco online and saw no 3 day sale price, just a $300 off coupon valid for orders placed November 14, 2006 through December 3, 2006. Is that the sale price you guys are referring too?

I also notice that Costco no longer shows the 600U available online. :( It was there yesterday.

After reading so many negative comments about the Sony 46XBR2 LCD TV here,
I decided to head to Costco and get the Panasonic 50PX6U( sale until 11/27)
The TV is for my mother's house.

I talked extensively with the guy in charge of the electronics section. I've known
the guy for a few years, having purchased various electronics items at the same
Costco.

When asked about the current Costco return policy, he said nothing has changed
and probably won't. However, he said "you should really look into some sort
of extended warranty on this Panasonic plasma" and I somehow felt that he
also gave me a wink at the same time. Was he hinting that something is about
to change? :confused: There were three 50PX6U plasmas as of Sunday afternoon.


I'm now wondering if I should get it from Costco, since BB has the 60U at the
same price. If I'm going to get an extendeded warranty, I might as well buy
it from BB and get their extended warranty, no?

Last, but not least... if I do end up getting the 50PX6U from Costco, is there a way
for me to get the $200 delivery/install rebate from Panasonic? Can I just aske my
friend to write me a receipt for helping me carry the 50PX6U inside and placing
it on the TV stand? :)

Hi,
Reason for this post: Share my(and a friend's) experience because i was kind of worried and could not find anything significant about "plasma returns to Costco" on the internet. I will first share a friend's experience and then my experience.

First , my friend's experience: His pioneer plasma broke about 6months after he bought in (June 2005), he took it back to a Costco Warehouse somewhere in/near Danville ,CA, The store manager refused to accept it back and gave him a 1hr lecture. The store manager pulled out his entire purchase history and spoke XYZ things to him. My friend asked the store manager to give in writing that he will not honor the Costoc return policy which the store manager refused, after about a hour of deliberatiion he "finally" agreed to accept the plasma and said that "This is the first and last time i will accept such a return from you".


My experience:
Details of "my" plasma purchase.
Model : PDP-4345HD ( the one with media receiver and swivel base)
Purchase date: June 2005
Return date: Nov 2006
Period: ~ 17months
Place of purchase: CostcoOnline ( over the internet)
Place of return: Warehouse, Sunnyvale,CA

Reason for return: Plasma stopped powering on, a search of this forum reveals a lot of people have the same problem with almost all plasmas from Pioneer.

After a sleepless night, i took it to the Sunnyvale,CA warehouse for the return during the opening hours. The person who usually happens to be incharge of the TV section happend to be near the "returns line" or probably may have been asked to come there when one of the persons behind the counter saw me bring the plasma in. He came and began checking the boxes that had the remote , maunuals, media receiver etc. asked me what was wrong and i told him the truth and he immediately responded "These are just crap , there have been too many returns on these and the warehouse have stopped carrying them at all. Its ok, i will tell the guys that it is ok to return.". He walked to the counter told both the guys something and walked off the area. I stood in the line till it was my turn, the person behind the counter took the CostcoOnline receipt jabbed in teh lots of buttons, asked a supervisor to come to enter password and again both jabbed a lot of buttons. Then pulled a orange card , asked for my credit card and refunded back to the credit card.

Points to note: The person who checked the plasma did NOT know that i was returning a CostcoOnline order and that it was ~17months old, primarilily because he never asked me and i never told him. One of the persons behind the counter knew that i was retuning a CostcoOnline purchase because i had originally walked in and enquired to him about he procedure involved in returning a plasma (to that he had told me to just bring the plasma with the original receipt in). However, at the time of return it was the other person who actually helped me out.


M.IMP: For Pioneer and Panansonic plasmas sold by costco ,you will find the following note on each and every product page, note the line having 'not at authorised dealer' thing.
"This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an "authorized" dealer of the merchandise."
Based upon this particular note the store manager should not have given my friend a hard time especially considering his plasma broke within the typical 1yr warranty period. However, my friend had purchased the plasma from the warehouse and therefore was not aware of the above note on the CostcoOnline website. However, the note does NOT indicate the time frame but implies that Costco will accept a return atleast if something really goes wrong within the manufacturer's warranty period.


Another note: At the time of original purchase i had enquired to a Costco employee (who introcuded himself as somone responsible for the Plasma section at the warehouse) about the return policy and warranties to that he said " If you return within 2yrs, we will take it back , beyond 2yrs we will make a judgement call based upon your purchase and returns history".

Hope this post helps people in deciding upon their purchases/returns @ Costco.

Please feel free to ask any questions

check out my post on returns @ costco before you decide, i am going the BB way

After reading so many negative comments about the Sony 46XBR2 LCD TV here,
I decided to head to Costco and get the Panasonic 50PX6U( sale until 11/27)
The TV is for my mother's house.

I talked extensively with the guy in charge of the electronics section. I've known
the guy for a few years, having purchased various electronics items at the same
Costco.

When asked about the current Costco return policy, he said nothing has changed
and probably won't. However, he said "you should really look into some sort
of extended warranty on this Panasonic plasma" and I somehow felt that he
also gave me a wink at the same time. Was he hinting that something is about
to change? :confused: There were three 50PX6U plasmas as of Sunday afternoon.


I'm now wondering if I should get it from Costco, since BB has the 60U at the
same price. If I'm going to get an extendeded warranty, I might as well buy
it from BB and get their extended warranty, no?

Last, but not least... if I do end up getting the 50PX6U from Costco, is there a way
for me to get the $200 delivery/install rebate from Panasonic? Can I just aske my
friend to write me a receipt for helping me carry the 50PX6U inside and placing
it on the TV stand? :)

Beware of Costco policy change that have already gone into effect or will be by the begiining of the new year. 30 days return only!

I don't see that. If they go to 30 days they would have to lower their prices to match the competition. That's the only way!!! Noone will buy from them with 30 days and prices above what you can get even at CC or BB.

I am willing to bet that return policy will not change. They have very large markups that certainly cover all returns. Let me illustrate how I understand it. 52 D62 is many hundreds above the rest. Even if one 'bad' Costco member returns his set 3-5 sales of the same tv cover the loss on the returned set. I am willing to bet that returns are relatively rare. I would guess less that 1 out of a hundred. So by keeping their prices high and letting people return they make a killing on those TVs. I just can't see it any other way. Their ptofit margins are very high on hdtv tvs. This is how they can afford to take those returns back. Simple economics. If they go to 30 days they will kill their TV business.

Another note: At the time of original purchase i had enquired to a Costco employee (who introcuded himself as somone responsible for the Plasma section at the warehouse) about the return policy and warranties to that he said " If you return within 2yrs, we will take it back , beyond 2yrs we will make a judgement call based upon your purchase and returns history".

Hope this post helps people in deciding upon their purchases/returns @ Costco.

Please feel free to ask any questions
yet ANOTHER response at variance from the official Costco policy. its just like ive said before, different people at different warehouses make up their own rules...there is no such thing as a 2 year time limit at this present time. period. but again, YMMV at any given local Costco and whatever they feel like making up as their own policy. At that point you have to take it up with corporate.

I drafted a friend with a van yesterday to help me return my year old Sony 50" A10 to the big "C" and lug home a 50" Panny 6U. I gave him $30.00 for gas and a case of Bud for his trouble.

The funny thing is that this guy actually owns his own delivery/courier service. He mostly does time sensitive document deliveries (court orders , title work for lawyers .. etc) but occasionally has delivered things like copy machines , boxed P.C.'s and such to his clients.

I asked him what the job( delivering the new T.V. from the store to my house , unpacking and setting it on the stand )would be worth if he were to do it for his customers and he said ~ $250.00. He figured it was a two man job and the use of the truck for 2 hours ( I live 15 miles from the store) .

He is preparing a bill for me today.

Here we go again..bashing Costco. Why do we have to do this, I wonder? I will leave the thread, again, for awhile til you get thru this episode. It is just not fair to be spreading rumors because it tends to confuse new buyers into the market. When, and if, the return policy at Costco is changed, we will all know about it at about the same time. Until then, it is plain dumb to keep bringing up this subject. In my opinion, this is worse than discussing prices on avs. But, I realize no one else sees it this way.

Yet more evidence of what a buyer's market we are in.

CC 's amswer to BB's 60 day price guarantee: 125% price matching. Find it within 30 days at a lower price and CC will give you 125% of the difference.


-glenn

Beware of Costco policy change that have already gone into effect or will be by the begiining of the new year. 30 days return only!

Hmmm...I don't think Costco is an authorized reseller for Pioneer, Sony, or Panasonic. If this is the case, then why would anyone want to buy from Costco if their return policy is only 30 days, since the Manufacturer's Warranty will be VOID.

I would think that Costco's return policy would be at least EQUAL TO that of the Manufacturers Warranty.

Question about the Costco return policy. Do you have to be a member only at the time of the purchase or at the time of return? If you have to be a member at the time of return, do you have to have uninterrupted membership (i.e. the same membership as the one you bought the TV on)?

Dunno, but keep in mind that the membership fee is 100% refundable at any time.

Beware of Costco policy change that have already gone into effect or will be by the beginning of the new year. 30 days return only!

That would be news to me.

I returned a year old Sony 50" A10 that just popped its' third bulb.

I had all of the original packaging , lugged it back to Costco and received a FULL refund -- including tax.

I was asked 3 questions-- 1) what is wrong with the set . 2) why was I returning it to this store instead of the store where I had originally purchased it ( the answer is that the original store is ~ 30 miles away from my home and the store that did the return ~ 15) 3) would I like a Costco debit card or the refund issued to my AMEX card.

The whole transaction took about 20 minutes with no hassles.

Here we go again..bashing Costco. Why do we have to do this, I wonder? I will leave the thread, again, for awhile til you get thru this episode. It is just not fair to be spreading rumors because it tends to confuse new buyers into the market. When, and if, the return policy at Costco is changed, we will all know about it at about the same time. Until then, it is plain dumb to keep bringing up this subject. In my opinion, this is worse than discussing prices on avs. But, I realize no one else sees it this way.

With respect to Woodrow who isn’t crazy about Costco return posts on this thread, I need to make the following point:

(Richard) I don't think the last few posts can be classified as Costco bashing. There have been sporadic reports of Costco stores giving people a hard time on flat panel returns and since a lot of the decision making seems to depend on the individual store manager, it's fair to say that returning a large flat panel to Costco after 30 days is not guaranteed to be a hassle-free customer service affair, as the pretty friendly sign hanging over the return desk suggests.

I am one of the biggest Costco fans out there (shop there min. twice a week) but I am NOT going to get my panel from Costco because their pricing is not competitive and their return policy is no longer reassuring to me (the only way I will shop somewhere is if I am showered with customer service).

Now, I have no doubt I COULD return a flat panel to Costco any time, even after 5 years. The way their return policy is worded, THEY HAVE A LEGAL OBLIGATION to accept the return. They guarantee satisfaction-if I am not satisfied, even after 5 years, even because my wife is starting to look like my mother-in-law when I watch the family videos on the panel :eek: , the law is on my side because they used an ambiguously-worded return policy to entice me to buy. All you need to do is what the poster above did, namely ask the store manager to put in writing that he is refusing your return. Then suggest that your next stop will be the local small-claims court house where for $80 you can file a slam-dunk claim. Finally, get the manager’s name and inform him that a phone call to Corp for an official complain followed by a posting on Google-indexed newsgroups (with details including store’s name and location, manager’s name etc) are on the way.

All Costco can do is threaten to revoke your membership (they won’t unless you are a habitual and blatant return-policy abuser). Why? Because they need your membership, they are publicly traded and they play the numbers game.

After much study and discussion I bough the Sony 46 V25 from Costco. I got it on Black Friday for a reasonable price.

I am very happy. It has a wonderful picture and so far it's been just great. Even Sports and fast moving shows have been perfect.

I am glad I went Sony LCD as I have no refection issues.

As reported the Sony takes time to change from video to video.

I also got the new 75 Sony DVD and that works very well also.

It took me 2 days to get all the componets and wall installation.

My wide is happy.

I am happy. :)

If I ever have an issue I expect Costco will be there to resolve.

I am running on factory settings and I like what I see.

The way their return policy is worded, THEY HAVE A LEGAL OBLIGATION to accept the return.

I was just wondering about that as well... There are two large signs next to the
return desk at my local Costco. One says computers have a 6-month return
period. The other one says "30 days" for other merchandise. On Costco's
websites, it does not show "30 days" anywhere. (but does show the 6-month
for computers)

If I take Costco to small claims court, can't they just show the judge the "30 day"
sign next to the return desk? I don't know how I can dispute that sign, since I
have personally seen it for at least the last two years... :confused:

On the other hand, if someone joins Costco and only buys a $3000 plasma TV
and nothing else for the next few years. Assuming he keeps paying the $50
per year membership fee and still buys nothing else from Costco... not even a
hotdog.... won't he/she essentially be paying the $50/year as some sort of
extended warranty fee?

Which of the following two choices is better?


(1) buy a $2000 plasma TV from Costco and hope they'll take it back
if something goes wrong in the next 3 to 5 years? (may or may
not work, depending on which Costco I take it back to... or I can
just try one after another) This is not really guaranteed in writing.

(2) buy the same TV for $2000 at BB, pay $300 for 4-year service plan,
which will cover any problems... if the TV suffers from 3+ problems,
aske BB to issue store credit towards a new TV... (this is obviously
guaranteed on the printed service plan policy)

That's one reason we decided not to wait for the Sharp 46" to show up at Costco. The price difference between Costco and local retail on the 52" is much more than what a extended warranty would cost so we figure that would be the case if they do get the 46" in the future. I'm willing to pay a couple hundred bucks for the Costco protection but since that may change in the near future, I would rather live with an extended warranty.

That's one reason we decided not to wait for the Sharp 46" to show up at Costco. The price difference between Costco and local retail on the 52" is much more than what a extended warranty would cost so we figure that would be the case if they do get the 46" in the future. I'm willing to pay a couple hundred bucks for the Costco protection but since that may change in the near future, I would rather live with an extended warranty.

makes sense... :) I think the Costco managers have too much discretion as to
how each store is operated... Take for example, my local Costco... I've always
gotten refunds in cash, even if I originally paid for it with AmEx. I bought a
portable GPS unit a couple of weeks ago, paid with Delta AmEx. Changed my
mind a few days later and I returned it unopened. The lady just gave me
a cash refund... (which mean I still got the Delta miles...) No other Costco
that I know of will give you cash refund if original payment was credit card...

I believe i have received cash refunds in the past at Sunnyvale,CA costco too.

makes sense... :) I think the Costco managers have too much discretion as to
how each store is operated... Take for example, my local Costco... I've always
gotten refunds in cash, even if I originally paid for it with AmEx. I bought a
portable GPS unit a couple of weeks ago, paid with Delta AmEx. Changed my
mind a few days later and I returned it unopened. The lady just gave me
a cash refund... (which mean I still got the Delta miles...) No other Costco
that I know of will give you cash refund if original payment was credit card...

I've just started working at a Costco and I am in the Major Sales Dep, so I have to sign off on returns if they were purchased in our dept (tv's, computers, ipods etc).
Right now, our tv's are covered under our 100% guarantee so if you aren't 100% satisfied then you can return it for a full refund. However we do make judgement calls on the condition of the item and the age of purchase. So if you bring in a plasma with a cracked screen (because you through your Wii mote into it) then expect to answer some questions and be turned down. I had to sign off on a pioneer elite plasma (1yr old) return the other day when it was clear that the member just wanted a new 1080p set. It's kind of frustrating but we aim to keep our members happy so please don't abuse it.

I'll try to find out if anything is planning on changing for the new year.

I believe i have received cash refunds in the past at Sunnyvale,CA costco too.

I work for one in the midwest and we give members the option of store credit, cash, or credit returned on their AmEx

Which of the following two choices is better?


(1) buy a $2000 plasma TV from Costco and hope they'll take it back
if something goes wrong in the next 3 to 5 years? (may or may
not work, depending on which Costco I take it back to... or I can
just try one after another) This is not really guaranteed in writing.

(2) buy the same TV for $2000 at BB, pay $300 for 4-year service plan,
which will cover any problems... if the TV suffers from 3+ problems,
aske BB to issue store credit towards a new TV... (this is obviously
guaranteed on the printed service plan policy)

Your example makes sense....however, there is a problem with your #2 section...$300 for a 4 year service plan which will cover any problems. From what I read, that plan does not burn-in or pixel burnout. Checking the CC warranty plan which is $499.99 for a 3 year plan...it specifically excludes "burned phosphor (including image ghosting) and pixel burnout. Further, both plans talk about customer misuse/abuse as reasons for denying a claim. Finally, when I was at CC looking at the Panny 50" Plasma, they did say that they had a plan that did cover "burn-in and pixel problems". However, that plan is much more expensive than the normal $499.99 3 year service plan. That is why I bought my Panny Plasma at Costco yesterday.

I had to sign off on a pioneer elite plasma (1yr old) return the other day when it was clear that the member just wanted a new 1080p set. It's kind of frustrating but we aim to keep our members happy so please don't abuse it.

I'll try to find out if anything is planning on changing for the new year.

Thanks!

Is is safe to assume that I'll be subjected to TSA-like scrutiny if I want to return
a 4-year-old plasma with a clear defect to Costco? (even if the exterior is in mint
condition with zero scratch and zero dust, still in like-new original packaging?)

All this talk about Costco potentially changing their return policy confuses me. If I choose to buy a tv there today, and part of my decision to buy there is based on their return policy, how can they change it tomorrow and get away with that? Wouldn't I be grandfathered in or whatever?

I guess not, but that just seems wrong to me. I was all set to spend an extra $500 on a tv there this week but now I'm not sure what I'm going to do...

All this talk about Costco potentially changing their return policy confuses me. If I choose to buy a tv there today, and part of my decision to buy there is based on their return policy, how can they change it tomorrow and get away with that? Wouldn't I be grandfathered in or whatever?

I guess not, but that just seems wrong to me. I was all set to spend an extra $500 on a tv there this week but now I'm not sure what I'm going to do...


If you read through the many pages of this thread, you'll find people warning repeatedly about the costco return policy going away on date x, y or z. All of these dates have come and gone and the return policy has stayed the same. I spoke with my local costco last week and was told they'll happily accept a returned tv after 2, 3, 4 or 5 years, but if I walk in with a tv I bought 10 years ago they'll inform me that i've gotten my moneys worth and show me the door.

Wasn't this thread going to be closed down a couple of weeks ago because the sole topic being discussed was the big C's return policy? I remember when companies used to stand behind the products they sold, now everyone seems amazed if someone is. There must be some intellectuals in the audience that would like to discuss the technology they sell rather than only discuss the policy.
Thanx in advance!

Wasn't this thread going to be closed down a couple of weeks ago because the sole topic being discussed was the big C's return policy? I remember when companies used to stand behind the products they sold, now everyone seems amazed if someone is. There must be some intellectuals in the audience that would like to discuss the technology they sell rather than only discuss the policy.
Thanx in advance!

Thanks!

Is is safe to assume that I'll be subjected to TSA-like scrutiny if I want to return
a 4-year-old plasma with a clear defect to Costco? (even if the exterior is in mint
condition with zero scratch and zero dust, still in like-new original packaging?)

I would hope that Costco is obligated to accept a return on a defective set after 4 years. I'll exclude burn-in, which I believe falls under user abuse, regardless of how it occurs. Even if the user follows all the recommendations on the Panasonic site (100 hour break-in period, no more than 15% 4:3 content, no more than 10% video games). Over 4 years you would pay $200, which is comparable to the BB extended warranty.

I am considering buying a plasma myself soon and have to decide between Costco or BB/CC. Statistically, the chance of having issues is low, but I want to be covered wherever I buy.

I was just wondering about that as well... There are two large signs next to the
return desk at my local Costco. One says computers have a 6-month return
period. The other one says "30 days" for other merchandise. On Costco's
websites, it does not show "30 days" anywhere. (but does show the 6-month
for computers)

If I take Costco to small claims court, can't they just show the judge the "30 day"
sign next to the return desk? I don't know how I can dispute that sign, since I
have personally seen it for at least the last two years... :confused:

On the other hand, if someone joins Costco and only buys a $3000 plasma TV
and nothing else for the next few years. Assuming he keeps paying the $50
per year membership fee and still buys nothing else from Costco... not even a
hotdog.... won't he/she essentially be paying the $50/year as some sort of
extended warranty fee?

I don't recall the exact wording (I'll check it out tomorrow when I visit Costco) but I believe they say something along the lines of "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" but they also have an open-ended 100% satisfaction guarantee. It's certainly ambiguous enough to let the customer assume that it's open-ended (thus the need for an explicit 6-month limit on computers). If it's ambiguous, it's used to entice sales and it cannot also be used to refuse a return. Now, if the screen is cracked or there are wires hanging from it, you can't exactly claim you are not satisfied since the set was obviosuly abused or otherwise physically damaged in the hands of the customer but, short of extremes, the worst they can do is get the store manager to be all jerky and hostile and threaten to revoke your membership (again, he won't unless you are a blatant repeat abuser since he'd have to refund your membership fees at its entirety, not pro-rated and also lose the membership. Numbers get tabulated and sent to corp which HATES losing revenue and memberships).

Personally, if I were Costco I would keep the open return policy but only offer store credit after 60 days (so you have to spend the money in the store).

I don't recall the exact wording (I'll check it out tomorrow when I visit Costco) but I believe they say something along the lines of "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" but they also have an open-ended 100% satisfaction guarantee. It's certainly ambiguous enough to let the customer assume that it's open-ended (thus the need for an explicit 6-month limit on computers).

Confirmed. I bought my VX32L at Costco tonight and paid specific attention to that sign that references 30 days. What it says is that it is "helpful" if the return is being made within the first 30 days. Nothing more than that.

I was there last week and was planning on buying the panasonic 42" plasma. I asked the salesperson about the return policy and he said "We prefer you bring it back within 30 days but are generally lenient upto 1 year".



I don't recall the exact wording (I'll check it out tomorrow when I visit Costco) but I believe they say something along the lines of "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" but they also have an open-ended 100% satisfaction guarantee. It's certainly ambiguous enough to let the customer assume that it's open-ended (thus the need for an explicit 6-month limit on computers). If it's ambiguous, it's used to entice sales and it cannot also be used to refuse a return. Now, if the screen is cracked or there are wires hanging from it, you can't exactly claim you are not satisfied since the set was obviosuly abused or otherwise physically damaged in the hands of the customer but, short of extremes, the worst they can do is get the store manager to be all jerky and hostile and threaten to revoke your membership (again, he won't unless you are a blatant repeat abuser since he'd have to refund your membership fees at its entirety, not pro-rated and also lose the membership. Numbers get tabulated and sent to corp which HATES losing revenue and memberships).

Personally, if I were Costco I would keep the open return policy but only offer store credit after 60 days (so you have to spend the money in the store).

I don't recall the exact wording (I'll check it out tomorrow when I visit Costco) but I believe they say something along the lines of "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" but they also have an open-ended 100% satisfaction guarantee. It's certainly ambiguous enough to let the customer assume that it's open-ended (thus the need for an explicit 6-month limit on computers). If it's ambiguous, it's used to entice sales and it cannot also be used to refuse a return. Now, if the screen is cracked or there are wires hanging from it, you can't exactly claim you are not satisfied since the set was obviosuly abused or otherwise physically damaged in the hands of the customer but, short of extremes, the worst they can do is get the store manager to be all jerky and hostile and threaten to revoke your membership (again, he won't unless you are a blatant repeat abuser since he'd have to refund your membership fees at its entirety, not pro-rated and also lose the membership. Numbers get tabulated and sent to corp which HATES losing revenue and memberships).

Personally, if I were Costco I would keep the open return policy but only offer store credit after 60 days (so you have to spend the money in the store).



It is very simple. Costco would like you to return a defective product as soon as possible..within 30 days, if at all possible. It stands to reason, if you buy a product and get it home and it is defective, please take in back to a Costco store as soon as possible. There is no big mistery about it; I do not understand why we make this all so hard to understand. It is very simple, really..no hidden meanings or anything else. Costco really wants their customers to be satisfied. Could we please leave it at that. And get back to discussing tvs at various stores? Newcomers to this thread would certainly appreciate this. In your idle talk, you have already scared away a few. And I feel confident Costco does not need any of us telling them how to run their very successful operation. They appreciate your business and want to make shopping at their stores a happy and satisfactory experience. It is really very simple. Let us try and keep it that way. More talk about tvs, please. And I make comments herein because someone should 'defend' Costco from some of the idle chat displayed here. New comers may get the wrong idea about shopping at Costco, etc. I will be most happy not to say anything else about the return policy of Costco. As of now, nothing has changed at Costso. Could we leave it at that? And I would be pleased to get off this subject.

I've just started working at a Costco and I am in the Major Sales Dep, so I have to sign off on returns if they were purchased in our dept (tv's, computers, ipods etc).
Right now, our tv's are covered under our 100% guarantee so if you aren't 100% satisfied then you can return it for a full refund. However we do make judgement calls on the condition of the item and the age of purchase. So if you bring in a plasma with a cracked screen (because you through your Wii mote into it) then expect to answer some questions and be turned down. I had to sign off on a pioneer elite plasma (1yr old) return the other day when it was clear that the member just wanted a new 1080p set. It's kind of frustrating but we aim to keep our members happy so please don't abuse it.

I'll try to find out if anything is planning on changing for the new year.

Here's my 2¢.

Your company's current return policy is the best in the business, that's why Costco can afford to charge more per TV.

If a member wants to use that policy as a technology guarantee, that's his/her choice.

Per your company's website:

How do I return an item?
Costco.com offers convenient returns at any one of our Costco warehouses worldwide. To expedite the return process, please have your order confirmation email with you.

If you are unable to return your order at one of our warehouses, please email customerservice@costco.com for assistance with returning the product.

Please note that the return policy for all notebook and desktop computers is 6 months, from the date of purchase. After that time, all services and technical support will be subject to the applicable remaining manufacturers' warranty.

Shipping and handling charges will be included on all refunds.

That verbiage is covering cases where a manager's 'discretion' contradicts Costco policy, at least in cases where the item was purchased online.

If I was returning an item to Costco and I had any inkling that I was going to have to answer to more than one manager, or more than two or three simple questions total I would email the above address including specifics to my return and have the printed email correspndence in my hand when making the return.

There is a seller on Ebay that seems to deal exclusively with Costco's returned
items. I have personally bought several items from them and all came from
Costco. All had the exclusive Costco model number and a couple even still had
the Costco Item# sticker on the box. This seller has roughly 11000 positive
feedbacks, at 99.75 percent. The items range from cordless phones to large
screen TVs, and sometimes digital cameras.(which I bought)

I have spoken with the seller on the phone or email and aske them why all their
stuff originated from Costco's returned items... they don't seem too willing to
answer and always said "our items come from various merchants"

Is there any chance that Costco is using them as an outlet for returned items?

It is very simple. Costco would like you to return a defective product as soon as possible..within 30 days, if at all possible. It stands to reason, if you buy a product and get it home and it is defective, please take in back to a Costco store as soon as possible. There is no big mistery about; do not understand why we make this all so hard to understand. It is very simple really..no hidden meanings or anything else. Costco really wants their customers to be satisfied. Could we please leave it at that. And get back to discussing tvs at various stores? Newcomers to this thread would certainly appreciate this. In your idle talk, you have already scared away a few. And I feel confident Costco does not need any of us telling them how to run their very successful operation. They appreciate your business and want to make shopping at their stores a happy and satisfactory experience. It is really very simple. Let us try and keep it that way. More talk about tvs, please.

You say you want to talk tv's? It so happens that many of your dozens & dozens of posts in this thread talk about Costco policies & rebates and not about tv's. Are you the unofficial official spokesman for Costco or what? Jeez...ease up on the insipid posts and stick to the topic yourself...

Sorry about the rant and off my soapbox... I just purchased my second Vizio LCD (the all new 32") at Costco over the weekend and I asked the manager about returning my 46 Vizio LCD which is experiencing a minor issue that Vizio customer service has not taken care of yet. Of course the answer was they would welcome the return regardless of the outcome with Vizio.

Has anyone come up with a good custom picture setting for the VX32L? I can't get the 32 to come close to the picture quality of the 46 and I've yet to see a calibration on the VX32L thread. I'm getting alot of pink & red push in facial tones.
Thanks...

Just got my third price reduction from C___co on my Panny 50_6U. What a store!

Well, didn't purchase from Costco, but did get a price-adjustment at BB on Friday on the Panny Th42PX60U I'd bought a week before. Ain't life great??!!:D

It is very simple. Costco would like you to return a defective product as soon as possible..within 30 days, if at all possible. It stands to reason, if you buy a product and get it home and it is defective, please take in back to a Costco store as soon as possible. There is no big mistery about it; I do not understand why we make this all so hard to understand.

Richard, I'll be brief so you can understand without any misconceptions. The ONLY reason one should buy a panel from Costco is because of the liberal return policy which effectively acts as an extended warranty. Otherwise, Costco's panels are OVERPRICED compared to BB/CC and GROSSLY OVERPRICED compared to on-line.

So, unless I know 100% that I will be able to return a defective panel to Costco WITHOUT ANY HASSLE WHATSOEVER (aka 100% satisfaction guaranteed) and for AT THE VERY VERY LEAST 3 YEARS from purchase, buying from Costco is the wrong move financially.

The problem is that lately some Costco managers are trying to have the cake and eat it too-namely use the liberlal return policy to entice buyers but then try to weasle out of it when it's time to honor it. Can't have it both ways and savvy consumers WILL CALL YOU ON IT. Ask me if you still have a question.

Richard, I'll be brief so you can understand without any misconceptions. The ONLY reason one should buy a panel from Costco is because of the liberal return policy which effectively acts as an extended warranty. Otherwise, Costco's panels are OVERPRICED compared to BB/CC and GROSSLY OVERPRICED compared to on-line.

So, unless I know 100% that I will be able to return a defective panel to Costco WITHOUT ANY HASSLE WHATSOEVER (aka 100% satisfaction guaranteed) and for AT THE VERY VERY LEAST 3 YEARS from purchase, buying from Costco is the wrong move financially.

The problem is that lately some Costco managers are trying to have the cake and eat it too-namely use the liberlal return policy to entice buyers but then try to weasle out of it when it's time to honor it. Can't have it both ways and savvy consumers WILL CALL YOU ON IT. Ask me if you still have a question.

um, you think costco's plasma's are overpriced compared to bb/cc?? the panasonic 50px600u is in the mid 2000's on their website...if you go to bb/cc the same exact model (50px600u) is in the low 3000 range, so i really don't think your "argument" makes any sense. and of course you will be able to find some plasmas cheaper at online stores, but have you seen the feedback on these stores? they are generaly crooks who sell something really cheap, then call you a week after you place the order to tell you it is ouf ot stock and try to get you to 'upgrade' to a different item. anyways, costco keeps reducing prices on their panels when iff bb/cc have the same REGULAR price on an item. i have only seen the exact identical plasmas for sale at bb/cc cheaper when they are having a special clearance or sale. when you compare their regular price to the costco regualr price, costco comes out cheaper every time.

and one more thing, some of the high-end plasmas can't even be found at the regular bb stores. i went into 4 bb stores to see if i could check out the panasonic 50px600u and each time the sales person brought me over to the 50px60u. each time i had to tell them it is the newest model that had come out in march and they said they don't stock them in reglular bb stores, only the ones with the new Magnolia centers (which are ridiculuously overpriced). i finally saw the panasonic i was looking for at a bb in the magnolia sales center and it was in the low 3000 range, which to me does NOT SEEM CHEAPER THAN COSTCO's Mid 2000 price!

so again, for you to say that buying at costco is quote 'the wrong move financially' is absolutely absurd. you can go buy your plasma at bb for a higher price and then have to add another four hundred if you want their extended warranty, or buy at costco for a cheaper price that includes the return policy/warranty....your logic is what doesn't make sense financially dude....

Richard, I'll be brief so you can understand without any misconceptions. The ONLY reason one should buy a panel from Costco is because of the liberal return policy which effectively acts as an extended warranty. Otherwise, Costco's panels are OVERPRICED compared to BB/CC and GROSSLY OVERPRICED compared to on-line.

So, unless I know 100% that I will be able to return a defective panel to Costco WITHOUT ANY HASSLE WHATSOEVER (aka 100% satisfaction guaranteed) and for AT THE VERY VERY LEAST 3 YEARS from purchase, buying from Costco is the wrong move financially.

The problem is that lately some Costco managers are trying to have the cake and eat it too-namely use the liberlal return policy to entice buyers but then try to weasle out of it when it's time to honor it. Can't have it both ways and savvy consumers WILL CALL YOU ON IT. Ask me if you still have a question.


My friend, I accept your words as your opinion..nothing more, nothing less. And I respect it. I have many reasons for shopping at Costco but I feel sure no one really cares what they are. One thing..love their chocolate chip cookies. Some of the tvs are priced less than other major chains. They are less on Panny 50 inch 600u than stores like BB, etc. But each individual has to make up his own mind. Many people prefer buying their displays from Costco..they move a lot of them. And, to me, the no time limit warranty is worth..say..$600. To others it is worth -zero-. We all have a difference of opinion here. And that is as it should be. I just bought a $1300 Nikon d80 camera (with 2 lens). Doing lots of looking around, this was one of better deals available. And, I sleep well at night, knowing I can get my full amount back if something goes wrong with the camera in the future. I have always had great experiences with Costso. They treat me more than fair and I try to return the favor. I took back a projector ($1100) after one year..a problem arose..no problem with returning it. Full refund in cash. . A number of people are abusing the return policy; the problem lies with these people and not with Costco. As these people 'push' Costco, of course Costco has to push back. It is a business, afterall. But you treat them fair and reasonable and they will respond. Costco has built a very good business by treating customers fair and, also, their employees. Now, if Costco only gets the Panny commercial 50" uk9 back online. Of course, with 5 year warranty..in home..this offer also becomes very attactive from an online sponser here. I am making no moves now; just waiting as prices decline.

Richard, I'll be brief so you can understand without any misconceptions. The ONLY reason one should buy a panel from Costco is because of the liberal return policy which effectively acts as an extended warranty. Otherwise, Costco's panels are OVERPRICED compared to BB/CC and GROSSLY OVERPRICED compared to on-line.

So, unless I know 100% that I will be able to return a defective panel to Costco WITHOUT ANY HASSLE WHATSOEVER (aka 100% satisfaction guaranteed) and for AT THE VERY VERY LEAST 3 YEARS from purchase, buying from Costco is the wrong move financially.

The problem is that lately some Costco managers are trying to have the cake and eat it too-namely use the liberlal return policy to entice buyers but then try to weasle out of it when it's time to honor it. Can't have it both ways and savvy consumers WILL CALL YOU ON IT. Ask me if you still have a question.

All I can say is that the price of the Panny plasma I bought at Costco last Sunday was exactly the same as CC and BB. Further, while the rptv microdisplays were a somewhat higher, they included stands in the price. That said, some of the other sets there were more expensive than those at CC and BB. For those who like to buy big ticket items online, you can save a lot of $$, but you have to be very careful who you buy from...lots of online retailer with not so good reviews. A question for you...and no offense intended...does your statement about Costco managers enticing customers come from personal experience with returns to Costco or from the posts in this or some other forum? I'm only interested in keeping informed. Thanks

A group reply here for brevity:

Richard: If you look at my posts above, I stated that I am a huge Costco fan, shop there routinely twice a week (and actually on my way there right now). I love Costco as much (if not more) than you, cookies, juicers, pistachios, filet mignon etc. I even own several thousands worth of COST (their stock). What you are describing is the Costco we have known and loved for years. Unfortunately, when it comes to flat panels specifically, the winds are changing. They are unable to sell cheaper so they use their generally excellent return policy to win sales but SOME (not all) store managers treat people returning panels badly. Sure there are habitual abusers and I am all for cutting those off. I would speculate that >95% of panel returns are for valid reasons and I loath seeing store managers treat people like crooks just because they return a broken (or underperforming) TV. Once again, either implement a carved-in-stone, clear as crystal policy (like the 6 month limit on computers) or accept all returns. The in-between murky ground, manager discretion, talking down on customers in public is NOT the Costco way we know and love and I am calling it out loud when I see it.

AKA Bud: I have never returned anything to Costco (member since 1989) except a pillow that gave me headaches and more recently a pair of pants. I have, however, witnessed (pants in hand) a store manager being rude to a panel returner whose English was not the best and was completely red in the face from humiliation in public (until I stepped in and put the manager back in his place that is-after which he promptly refunded AND apologized).

swedrows: The fact that BB/CC have systematic and pattern-like sales and specials eludes you. The fact that there exist very solid and honest on-line retailers also eludes you which might suggest me you are not well versed in finding good deals. I'd never buy retail from BB or CC. You need to find the deals and when you do you'll fare much better than Costco's price. Also note that BB/CC typically carry 40-50 models as opposed to the 9-10 panel selection found at Costco. K "dude"?

In conclusion, items from Costco backed by their excellent return policy, guaranteed with no hassles and with the great customer service we're accustomed to=BUY BUY BUY. Items from Costco whose return is now questionable=SHOP ELSEWHERE

...
I have, however, witnessed (pants in hand) a store manager being rude to a panel returner whose English was not the best and was completely red in the face from humiliation in public (until I stepped in and put the manager back in his place that is-after which he promptly refunded AND apologized)....
Everthing was fine until you said that somehow you are impowered to act as the Behavior Police. :rolleyes:

Everthing was fine until you said that somehow you are impowered to act as the Behavior Police. :rolleyes:

Your cynicism notwithstanding, I always lend a hand when it's right and just, especially when I see someone being taken advantage of. BTW, empowered, not impowered.

Since the discussion doesn't seem technical, I'll continue the trend with a question about dealing down the price at Best Buy (in Canada if that matters).

I am planning to go into BB and buy on my own credit card 2 Westinghouse 42" 1080p monitors and a cheap laptop, as well as probably bring a friend in to buy another 42" Westy.

Now, that means that I'll be spending around $5000 to $7000 dollars (after tax anyway). I asked one salesperson about dealing down on the price itself, and he said they normally cannot deal on prices, but if I am going to spend that much at once they are able to make exceptions.

Now my question is to you experienced people out there, how likely is it they will deal directly on the price (I don't want free Monster cables etc.)? Also, how much can they probably take off the price?

Along with that, if anyone has any general advice for me I'd like to hear it. Thanks.

Since the discussion doesn't seem technical, I'll continue the trend with a question about dealing down the price at Best Buy (in Canada if that matters).

I am planning to go into BB and buy on my own credit card 2 Westinghouse 42" 1080p monitors and a cheap laptop, as well as probably bring a friend in to buy another 42" Westy.

Now, that means that I'll be spending around $5000 to $7000 dollars (after tax anyway). I asked one salesperson about dealing down on the price itself, and he said they normally cannot deal on prices, but if I am going to spend that much at once they are able to make exceptions.

Now my question is to you experienced people out there, how likely is it they will deal directly on the price (I don't want free Monster cables etc.)? Also, how much can they probably take off the price?

Along with that, if anyone has any general advice for me I'd like to hear it. Thanks.

Unless you are prepared to name a target price and are prepared to walk out if you don't get the deal you want, don't expect much at a B&M store. At the very least, make absolutely sure you deal directly with the store manager and not the floor salesperson (ask to see him/her from the get go). Expect to hear how "slim" their margins are etc (they are not).

Since the discussion doesn't seem technical, I'll continue the trend with a question about dealing down the price at Best Buy (in Canada if that matters).

I am planning to go into BB and buy on my own credit card 2 Westinghouse 42" 1080p monitors and a cheap laptop, as well as probably bring a friend in to buy another 42" Westy.

Now, that means that I'll be spending around $5000 to $7000 dollars (after tax anyway). I asked one salesperson about dealing down on the price itself, and he said they normally cannot deal on prices, but if I am going to spend that much at once they are able to make exceptions.

Now my question is to you experienced people out there, how likely is it they will deal directly on the price (I don't want free Monster cables etc.)? Also, how much can they probably take off the price?

Along with that, if anyone has any general advice for me I'd like to hear it. Thanks.





It has been my experience to go about 15 percent off the 'selling price'. Most stores will take a deal that gives them 15 to 20 percent profit. And nearly all stores will deal..no matter what they tell you. Find the manager and make him/her a deal. You have nothing to lose..and you might gain.

Unless you are prepared to name a target price and are prepared to walk out if you don't get the deal you want, don't expect much at a B&M store. At the very least, make absolutely sure you deal directly with the store manager and not the floor salesperson (ask to see him/her from the get go). Expect to hear how "slim" their margins are etc (they are not).

I am prepared to walk, but I wasn't planning on naming a target price from the start. What kind of discount is reasonable for me to "demand" from them? I was thinking at some point about saying something like "...well the total for everything $5716, so let's make it $5000 and I'll buy right now.".

However I am not expecting a GREAT deal really, as I know these stores don't give them.

[QUOTE=brotherman]A group reply here for brevity:

Richard: If you look at my posts above, I stated that I am a huge Costco fan, shop there routinely twice a week (and actually on my way there right now). I love Costco as much (if not more) than you, cookies, juicers, pistachios, filet mignon etc. I even own several thousands worth of COST (their stock). What you are describing is the Costco we have known and loved for years. Unfortunately, when it comes to flat panels specifically, the winds are changing. They are unable to sell cheaper so they use their generally excellent return policy to win sales but SOME (not all) store managers treat people returning panels badly. Sure there are habitual abusers and I am all for cutting those off. I would speculate that >95% of panel returns are for valid reasons and I loath seeing store managers treat people like crooks just because they return a broken (or underperforming) TV. Once again, either implement a carved-in-stone, clear as crystal policy (like the 6 month limit on computers) or accept all returns. The in-between murky ground, manager discretion, talking down on customers in public is NOT the Costco way we know and love and I am calling it out loud when I see it.

AKA Bud: I have never returned anything to Costco (member since 1989) except a pillow that gave me headaches and more recently a pair of pants. I have, however, witnessed (pants in hand) a store manager being rude to a panel returner whose English was not the best and was completely red in the face from humiliation in public (until I stepped in and put the manager back in his place that is-after which he promptly refunded AND apologized).

swedrows: The fact that BB/CC have systematic and pattern-like sales and specials eludes you. The fact that there exist very solid and honest on-line retailers also eludes you which might suggest me you are not well versed in finding good deals. I'd never buy retail from BB or CC. You need to find the deals and when you do you'll fare much better than Costco's price. Also note that BB/CC typically carry 40-50 models as opposed to the 9-10 panel selection found at Costco. K "dude"?

In conclusion, items from Costco backed by their excellent return policy, guaranteed with no hassles and with the great customer service we're accustomed to=BUY BUY BUY. Items from Costco whose return is now questionable=SHOP ELSEWHERE[/QUO



We all know stores have some employees that are not friendly and first rate in their behavior. You will find employees such as these in every business. I am confident this is not the policy of Costco. All of us should know this. It is not good business. You have witnessed a few 'bad' empoyees and I have not. Let us leave it there.

[QUOTE=brotherman]A group reply here for brevity:

Richard: If you look at my posts above, I stated that I am a huge Costco fan, shop there routinely twice a week (and actually on my way there right now). I love Costco as much (if not more) than you, cookies, juicers, pistachios, filet mignon etc. I even own several thousands worth of COST (their stock). What you are describing is the Costco we have known and loved for years. Unfortunately, when it comes to flat panels specifically, the winds are changing. They are unable to sell cheaper so they use their generally excellent return policy to win sales but SOME (not all) store managers treat people returning panels badly. Sure there are habitual abusers and I am all for cutting those off. I would speculate that >95% of panel returns are for valid reasons and I loath seeing store managers treat people like crooks just because they return a broken (or underperforming) TV. Once again, either implement a carved-in-stone, clear as crystal policy (like the 6 month limit on computers) or accept all returns. The in-between murky ground, manager discretion, talking down on customers in public is NOT the Costco way we know and love and I am calling it out loud when I see it.

AKA Bud: I have never returned anything to Costco (member since 1989) except a pillow that gave me headaches and more recently a pair of pants. I have, however, witnessed (pants in hand) a store manager being rude to a panel returner whose English was not the best and was completely red in the face from humiliation in public (until I stepped in and put the manager back in his place that is-after which he promptly refunded AND apologized).

swedrows: The fact that BB/CC have systematic and pattern-like sales and specials eludes you. The fact that there exist very solid and honest on-line retailers also eludes you which might suggest me you are not well versed in finding good deals. I'd never buy retail from BB or CC. You need to find the deals and when you do you'll fare much better than Costco's price. Also note that BB/CC typically carry 40-50 models as opposed to the 9-10 panel selection found at Costco. K "dude"?

In conclusion, items from Costco backed by their excellent return policy, guaranteed with no hassles and with the great customer service we're accustomed to=BUY BUY BUY. Items from Costco whose return is now questionable=SHOP ELSEWHERE[/QUO

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

We all know stores have some employees that are not friendly and first rate in their behavior. You will find employees such as these in every business. I am confident this is not the policy of Costco. All of us should know this. It is not good business. You have witnessed a few 'bad' empoyees and I have not. Let us leave it there.

We all know stores have some employees that are not friendly and first rate in their behavior. You will find employees such as these in every business. I am confident this is not the policy of Costco. All of us should know this. It is not good business. You have witnessed a few 'bad' empoyees and I have not. Let us leave it there.

Amen!

A group reply here for brevity:

swedrows: The fact that BB/CC have systematic and pattern-like sales and specials eludes you. The fact that there exist very solid and honest on-line retailers also eludes you which might suggest me you are not well versed in finding good deals. I'd never buy retail from BB or CC. You need to find the deals and when you do you'll fare much better than Costco's price. Also note that BB/CC typically carry 40-50 models as opposed to the 9-10 panel selection found at Costco. K "dude"?

In conclusion, items from Costco backed by their excellent return policy, guaranteed with no hassles and with the great customer service we're accustomed to=BUY BUY BUY. Items from Costco whose return is now questionable=SHOP ELSEWHERE

I am well aware that BB/CC have systematic and pattern-like sales, yet most of these sales for plasmas have not matched prices for Costco, as I pointed out in my original post, yet which you seem to have ignored for convenience. Please show me a sale at BB/CC for Panasonic plasmas that match costco's prices before making a statement that Costco's plasmas are overpriced when compared to BB/CC. Costco has the 50px60u ON SALE for about $500 cheaper than BB/CC SALE PRICES. Their current REGULAR price on the 50px600u is $400-$500 cheaper than BB/CC SALE PRICES on the same model.

Also, solid and honest online retailers do not have the specific plasma i mentioned for cheaper than costco carries it for. The cheapest is $100 more than what costco offers it for at an "honest" online retailer. I do alot of research and searching around online when I am ready to make purchases, especially when it deals with electronics so I know how and where and when to look for deals. I was responding to your generalized comment that Costco's plasma's are overpriced when compared to BB/CC.

AND AGAIN, YOU MAKE A STATEMENT WITH NO BACKING. BB/CC do NOT CARRY 40-50 plasma models. That is about the combined total of plasma AND lcd's. If you actually go to the BB/CC websites, you would see that BB carries 25 models of plasmas and CC carries 19...Costco carries 21...hmm, seems to be similiar doesn't it? It seems that FACTS SEEM TO ELUDE YOU. enough said. I have backed up my comments with specific examples to verify my statements, yet you have made generalizations that have proven false...good argument

Now, I just need Costco to get the commercial 50" Panny back in stock and $200/$300 off previous price. I hope mention of price in this manner is ok.

After Costco reported it's last quarterly earnings the CEO did an interview and in the interview it was stated that Costco marks up all name brand merchanise 14% and all Kirkland merchandise 15%. No exceptions. So you can figure what the profit is on each item. If they are charging more, then they may be paying more. Don't forget CC and BB sell many more tv's and probably pay less for them.

I am well aware that BB/CC have systematic and pattern-like sales, yet most of these sales for plasmas have not matched prices for Costco, as I pointed out in my original post, yet which you seem to have ignored for convenience. Please show me a sale at BB/CC for Panasonic plasmas that match costco's prices before making a statement that Costco's plasmas are overpriced when compared to BB/CC. Costco has the 50px60u ON SALE for about $500 cheaper than BB/CC SALE PRICES. Their current REGULAR price on the 50px600u is $400-$500 cheaper than BB/CC SALE PRICES on the same model.

Also, solid and honest online retailers do not have the specific plasma i mentioned for cheaper than costco carries it for. The cheapest is $100 more than what costco offers it for at an "honest" online retailer. I do alot of research and searching around online when I am ready to make purchases, especially when it deals with electronics so I know how and where and when to look for deals. I was responding to your generalized comment that Costco's plasma's are overpriced when compared to BB/CC.

AND AGAIN, YOU MAKE A STATEMENT WITH NO BACKING. BB/CC do NOT CARRY 40-50 plasma models. That is about the combined total of plasma AND lcd's. If you actually go to the BB/CC websites, you would see that BB carries 25 models of plasmas and CC carries 19...Costco carries 21...hmm, seems to be similiar doesn't it? It seems that FACTS SEEM TO ELUDE YOU. enough said. I have backed up my comments with specific examples to verify my statements, yet you have made generalizations that have proven false...good argument

I did not say "Plasma". I said "Panel". Your homework is now to figure out the difference.

here's a question.

( and thanks, Richard for your help with my last question )

A year ago i bought a digital camera. I brought it out with me on halloween, and broke the LCD. very much my fault, with no warranty, so Im in the market for a new one.

Now, i can the camera from BB, where I originally got it, and for approx 90 bucks, get 4yrs accidental breakage coverage. Thus, if i had bought this, i'd have been handed a new camera.

But, Costco has the same camera, 30 bucks less than BB. The camera was clearly broken by me, not defective. Do you think Costco would replace that? I wouldnt expect them to.

And, as a result, will most likely buy the camera + warranty for a 120 dollar premium from Best Buy.

so - my question - does Costco have an additional warranty for this?

Since the discussion doesn't seem technical, I'll continue the trend with a question about dealing down the price at Best Buy (in Canada if that matters).

I am planning to go into BB and buy on my own credit card 2 Westinghouse 42" 1080p monitors and a cheap laptop, as well as probably bring a friend in to buy another 42" Westy.

Now, that means that I'll be spending around $5000 to $7000 dollars (after tax anyway). I asked one salesperson about dealing down on the price itself, and he said they normally cannot deal on prices, but if I am going to spend that much at once they are able to make exceptions.

Now my question is to you experienced people out there, how likely is it they will deal directly on the price (I don't want free Monster cables etc.)? Also, how much can they probably take off the price?

Along with that, if anyone has any general advice for me I'd like to hear it. Thanks.
Don't know if this will help you or not, but.....when shopping for my new tv last week, I went to BB. I picked out the model I was interested in and talked to the department manager....I asked him if the price posted was the best he could do. He went to his computer and came back with a figure that was 10% off the already lowered in-store "special" price. I left BB and went to CC to compare prices. At CC I found that their in-store price was identical to the BB 10% off price that the BB manager gave me. Now maybe you could do better considering the amount you are going to spend. Good luck.

Since the discussion doesn't seem technical, I'll continue the trend with a question about dealing down the price at Best Buy (in Canada if that matters).

I am planning to go into BB and buy on my own credit card 2 Westinghouse 42" 1080p monitors and a cheap laptop, as well as probably bring a friend in to buy another 42" Westy.

Now, that means that I'll be spending around $5000 to $7000 dollars (after tax anyway). I asked one salesperson about dealing down on the price itself, and he said they normally cannot deal on prices, but if I am going to spend that much at once they are able to make exceptions.

Now my question is to you experienced people out there, how likely is it they will deal directly on the price (I don't want free Monster cables etc.)? Also, how much can they probably take off the price?

Along with that, if anyone has any general advice for me I'd like to hear it. Thanks.

I tried to do the same thing and went to CC and told the sales person that I had budget of 4k and pointed to the LCD TV, DVD recorder and TV stand I wanted and told him that if he can get them for me at that price, then I will take them. Even will open a CC account. But he said that he can't make any special deals since they don't work on commission.
BB was similar and only said that they price match CC but can't give me any discounts even if I talked to the manager. The out of the door price I was looking at was about 10% off the total price.
Kinda worked for me since now the TV and DVD recorder prices came down few hundreds. Still will try to get a good deal :)

here's a question.

( and thanks, Richard for your help with my last question )

A year ago i bought a digital camera. I brought it out with me on halloween, and broke the LCD. very much my fault, with no warranty, so Im in the market for a new one.

Now, i can the camera from BB, where I originally got it, and for approx 90 bucks, get 4yrs accidental breakage coverage. Thus, if i had bought this, i'd have been handed a new camera.

But, Costco has the same camera, 30 bucks less than BB. The camera was clearly broken by me, not defective. Do you think Costco would replace that? I wouldnt expect them to.

And, as a result, will most likely buy the camera + warranty for a 120 dollar premium from Best Buy.

so - my question - does Costco have an additional warranty for this?




Costco has no warranty besides their no time limit..satisfaction..warranty.

By the way..I have 2 private messages ..but, for some reason can not answer them..something do do with invalid name. Sorry

here's a question.

( and thanks, Richard for your help with my last question )

A year ago i bought a digital camera. I brought it out with me on halloween, and broke the LCD. very much my fault, with no warranty, so Im in the market for a new one.

Now, i can the camera from BB, where I originally got it, and for approx 90 bucks, get 4yrs accidental breakage coverage. Thus, if i had bought this, i'd have been handed a new camera.

But, Costco has the same camera, 30 bucks less than BB. The camera was clearly broken by me, not defective. Do you think Costco would replace that? I wouldnt expect them to.

And, as a result, will most likely buy the camera + warranty for a 120 dollar premium from Best Buy.

so - my question - does Costco have an additional warranty for this?

NO. I asked their membership desk the same question. Via phone and in person.

Is Costco a Panasonic authorized dealer or reseller?
(for the purpose of getting the AX100 projector rebate)

Thanks!

Is Costco a Panasonic authorized dealer or reseller?
(for the purpose of getting the AX100 projector rebate)

Thanks!


Well, would certainly say Costco is a reseller. And you have nothing to lose by trying to get rebate. Deadline is 30 Nov as you know.

I have seen a number of posts regarding the Costco return policy. I do not believe there are any changes planned in the policy for 2007. At a recent stockholder meeting there was mention of the policy and Costco said they had no changes planned for the policy. Overall they think this helps sales overall. Of course there are people that want to take advantage of this, however they continue to offer the return policy. Also if it changed in 2007 as long as you buy before the policy change they would have to honor the returns.

I think the extra piece of mine should help those on the fence. If I saw a super deal at Best Buy or CC I would buy it but for me Costco is a great seller.

Rob

By the way Costco is now an authorized Sony online dealer. So I guess you get the Sony warranty.

By the way Costco is now an authorized Sony online dealer. So I guess you get the Sony warranty.



You would get the Costco warranty..no time limit..much better.

You would get the Costco warranty..no time limit..much better.

But isn't the length of time you are a Costco member a de facto time limit? For someone who may not renew their Costco membership at some point, that could be a factor. For example, once my daughter is out of diapers sometime in the next 6-12 months, I think we'll have a hard time justifying our membership fee - the store is far enough away and we'll shop there infrequently enough that it probably won't be worth it at that point.

NO. I asked their membership desk the same question. Via phone and in person.

thanks for the help.

that's a shame, but it is an odd instance and I didn't expect them to cover it. I've always bought warranties for portable items ( walkmen, ipods ) but didn't on the camera for some reason. That the warranty specifically covers accidents that are my fault makes it very appealing for things that are prone to being dropped.

I'd find it more difficult to justify a 500 warranty for a TV, but might pay 250 for one through sonystyle if i hadnt bought my TV at costco.

Richard, I'll be brief so you can understand without any misconceptions. The ONLY reason one should buy a panel from Costco is because of the liberal return policy which effectively acts as an extended warranty. Otherwise, Costco's panels are OVERPRICED compared to BB/CC and GROSSLY OVERPRICED compared to on-line.

Well, they may or may not be overpriced. But without their return policy, you may or may not have a warranty at all. As Costco says in its TV listings, "This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an authorized dealer of the merchandise."

Richard, I'll be brief so you can understand without any misconceptions. The ONLY reason one should buy a panel from Costco is because of the liberal return policy which effectively acts as an extended warranty. Otherwise, Costco's panels are OVERPRICED compared to BB/CC and GROSSLY OVERPRICED compared to on-line.

Well, they may or may not be overpriced. But without their return policy, you may or may not have a warranty at all. As Costco says in its TV listings, "This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an authorized dealer of the merchandise."

If I cut out the UPC code from my TV box for a rebate can I still return the tv to Costco? I want the rebate but I'm not sure I would send it in if it means I can't return the tv.

Also, does Costco price match for 30 days or something so you don't have to go about returning your old unit? If they do do they price match other stores as well?

If I cut out the UPC code from my TV box for a rebate can I still return the tv to Costco? I want the rebate but I'm not sure I would send it in if it means I can't return the tv.

Also, does Costco price match for 30 days or something so you don't have to go about returning your old unit? If they do do they price match other stores as well?



If you need the UPC code, cut it out..not to worry about returning set to Costco.

For the most part, Costco does not price match. Their prices are pretty well set for a given period of time.

I was talking to a guy in my local Costco the other day. We were looking at HD LCD sets and he decided to get the Sharp 37" LCD. He had a full credit in his hand for a four year old Quasar 27" set that had gone bad. Costco took it back and gave him the credit without question. I didn't ask him whether getting the credit was his preference, since he was going to buy a replacement set, or at Costco's insistance but I'll bet that he could have gotten a cash refund if that was his wish.

Did anyone notice that Samsclub carried the Sharp 52" lcd for about 2 days. Does anyone know why it's no longer seen online? Did they sell out in 2 days?

I visited couple of Bestbuy in my local area and asked them what they prefer, ALL of them say SAMSUNG LCD. I don't know why, is it because to push sales that they have a partnership with SAMSUNG and NFL ? What are your thoughts?
They all recommend LCD over Plasma because they said plasma have the burn in effect.when your playing games. i though that problem was solved already

Bestbuy's here in WI are all saying "dude the samsungs are the best, all my friends have them". They also push the Samsung Bluray stuff like crazy. Anything samsung is hands down better than anything else according to them

In the "elitist" Magnolia area at a local bestbuy, you won't find a single LCD TV. Wall to wall of the highend Pioneer and various other brand plasma screens.

They say the same thing at my Best Buy, but only on the main floor. In the Magnolia section the guys prefer the Pioneer plasmas by quite a large margin, followed by the Panasonics.

But for some reason I always hear the guys in the blue shirts saying LCD is the way to go, and that the Samsungs are the best. This is a BB location in San Diego, CA... I don't get it.

sportwarrior14 - Is that the BB on Mira Mesa Blvd ? or Mission Valley next to Hooters?

the BB guys are definately pushing the samsungs for some reason. same thing here

I am also getting the Samsung LCD pitch at my local BB...but I do admit that picture stood out to me...they had Discovery HD playing on all the tv's...the Samsung justed "popped"...it looked so good. They said they are not on commission...I wonder if they are supposed to push the Samsung.

Walking into the store i already had made my mind on what Tv i wanted (TH42PX60U) for xbox360 and TV( HD) and movies, but until i saw the Samsung LN-S4051D my jaw dropped.
Looks so good but i'm thinking its the BLACK Glossy boarder it has. What do you guys think i should go with Panny or Sammy

They are definitely pushing it for some bonuses and paybacks. Be very slow to believe a salesman. (hehe, I am one.... so I know what's going on.)

If I cut out the UPC code from my TV box for a rebate can I still return the tv to Costco? I want the rebate but I'm not sure I would send it in if it means I can't return the tv.

Also, does Costco price match for 30 days or something so you don't have to go about returning your old unit? If they do do they price match other stores as well?
I was told by Costco that the box was not needed for a return/refund...hence they don't need the UPC. The only price matching I've heard of by Costco is with CompUSA...however, I don't know that for a fact.

As an experiment, you could go back 1 or 2 months from now and ask what HD TVs they recommend at several BBs. Then do it again every 1 or 2 months. Don't be surprised to see other companies pushed on different months. Depends on which big company has made the best deal with CC that month.

Walking into the store i already had made my mind on what Tv i wanted (TH42PX60U) for xbox360 and TV( HD) and movies, but until i saw the Samsung LN-S4051D my jaw dropped.
Looks so good but i'm thinking its the BLACK Glossy boarder it has. What do you guys think i should go with Panny or Sammy


Both are great...I agree the Samsung with the Black Glossy border looks good. I thought the Samsung had a great picture...but I am going to compare again before I buy.

Yea its so obvious. Not to mention they are always exclusively ADVERTISING the Samsungs on all the TVs there.

They are definitely pushing it for some bonuses and paybacks. Be very slow to believe a salesman. (hehe, I am one.... so I know what's going on.)

Wow, this is the most ridiculous statement on here. You got a source to back that up buddy? BB/MHT get NO bonuses and no 'paybacks'. I wouldn't say that BB push Samsung or any other brand. Salespeople tend to like certain products and would recommend them. The Samsung LCD's are quite nice and made well. A salesperson wouldn't recommend a piece of crap.

I can safely tell you that BB does NOT direct ANY employees to push one brand over another. Not even in-house brands, which are more profitable than most.

Check your 'facts' before you start claiming senseless BS.

Yea its so obvious. Not to mention they are always exclusively ADVERTISING the Samsungs on all the TVs there.


I guess you convieniently forgot to see the LG, Panasonic, and DLP ads that show on those same TV's.

Bestbuy's here in WI are all saying "dude the samsungs are the best, all my friends have them". They also push the Samsung Bluray stuff like crazy. Anything samsung is hands down better than anything else according to them

In the "elitist" Magnolia area at a local bestbuy, you won't find a single LCD TV. Wall to wall of the highend Pioneer and various other brand plasma screens.


Hmm.. the Magnolia here has Sharp, Pansonic, Sony, Hitachi, and Samsung LCD's all in it.

It's different with every BB you go to. The HT manager for the one I go to is a regular AVSer and tries to makes sure the employees don't spout off random facts and/or opinions that make absolutely no sense. The problem is that the company has hired its seasonal workers, and since most of them will be let go sometime in January, you can bet that they will look at you with a blank face when you ask them where the HD-DVD and Bluray players are.

Wow, this is the most ridiculous statement on here. You got a source to back that up buddy? BB/MHT get NO bonuses and no 'paybacks'. I wouldn't say that BB push Samsung or any other brand. Salespeople tend to like certain products and would recommend them. The Samsung LCD's are quite nice and made well. A salesperson wouldn't recommend a piece of crap.

I can safely tell you that BB does NOT direct ANY employees to push one brand over another. Not even in-house brands, which are more profitable than most.

Check your 'facts' before you start claiming senseless BS.

That's not what one of my friends said after he did the walk of shame and actually worked there.

They are strongly encouraged to sell higher margin items where ever possible, not to mention the extended warranty "pressure" they experience(and redirect towards the customer).

Not sure if this is influencing their recommendations of the Samsung LCD over other sets, but some things are definitely "pushed" harder on the salespeople than others.

Visiting couple of stores you see mostly Samsung TV everywhere used as personal monitors for computers to use the internet or even when showcasing a new DVD movie its a Samsung TV. Maybe thats just my area that sumsung is pushed the most. Anyone here see that as well ?

Did anyone notice that Samsclub carried the Sharp 52" lcd for about 2 days. Does anyone know why it's no longer seen online? Did they sell out in 2 days?

Dunno, but that's another reason for the generous return policies at Sams and Costco - if you see something you might want, better buy it right away because it might not be there tomorrow.

Just found this forum, and like what I've seen so far.

From my professional experience, this year, Samsung has stepped up their game a good bit. I would definitely say that Samsung has the best quality/value ratio of any display, whether it be DLP, LCD, or Plasma. Just a quick question... have you gone to any other stores and asked the salespeople what tv they prefer? I would imagine that Samsung would definitely be in the top 3 on anyone's list.

To RPS13: I have worked at Best Buy well over a year now. We are not comissioned, at all, and do not recieve ANY bonuses. Supervisors and up do get bonuses (quarterly i believe) if the store does well, but there is no pressure in selling any brand of tv where I work. And on selling higher margin items, who is pressuring them? It's gonna be the people who recieve bonuses for good profits. I could not say that I have ever been "pressured" to sell higher margin items or service plans, only recommended. Tell me if you find a retail store that is a non-profit organization! haha but as far as extended warranty, I believe in those things 100%. I buy them on anything that has one. So do most of my fellow employees. ESPECIALLY tv's. I've had to use mine on a couple of occasions, saving me about $900 worth of repairs. All that for spending an extra $200. Had a guy come in the other day with an old 40" projo tv, traded it straight up for a samsung 40" 1080p. ha!

sportwarrior14 - Is that the BB on Mira Mesa Blvd ? or Mission Valley next to Hooters?

Gandu - The Mira Mesa BB... The Magnolia guys seem pretty objective and helpful, but the floor guys in the blue shirts all push Samsungs... I've heard 4 different guys pushing them. Even the Panasonic 42PX60U display unit had a hand written sign on it that said "Interested in Panasonic? Ask an employee about our Samsungs!" and was signed by a manager... I have a Samsung 17" LCD HDTV Monitor that works real well, but I still don't trust Samsung all that much yet... I still lop them in with Sharp as a 2nd tier brand in my mind, for some reason.

Wow, this is the most ridiculous statement on here. You got a source to back that up buddy?
Don't be naive, buddy. Read some of the posts between your post to this one. And then read again between the lines if you still did not get awaken.

Gandu - The Mira Mesa BB... The Magnolia guys seem pretty objective and helpful, but the floor guys in the blue shirts all push Samsungs... I've heard 4 different guys pushing them. Even the Panasonic 42PX60U display unit had a hand written sign on it that said "Interested in Panasonic? Ask an employee about our Samsungs!" and was signed by a manager... I have a Samsung 17" LCD HDTV Monitor that works real well, but I still don't trust Samsung all that much yet... I still lop them in with Sharp as a 2nd tier brand in my mind, for some reason.


I have a feeling the reason BB are pushing the Sammys now is because they pushed most of their Pannys out on BF. With the prices they were offering, most the Pannys in the stores, as well as in their warehouses, are gone (for now). So now they have to push another brand...just a thought.

Wow, this is the most ridiculous statement on here. You got a source to back that up buddy? BB/MHT get NO bonuses and no 'paybacks'. I wouldn't say that BB push Samsung or any other brand. Salespeople tend to like certain products and would recommend them. The Samsung LCD's are quite nice and made well. A salesperson wouldn't recommend a piece of crap.

I can safely tell you that BB does NOT direct ANY employees to push one brand over another. Not even in-house brands, which are more profitable than most.

Check your 'facts' before you start claiming senseless BS.

Actually Best Buy Home theater sales gets a bonus if there department hits budget for the month

It's gonna be the people who recieve bonuses for good profits. I could not say that I have ever been "pressured" to sell higher margin items or service plans, only recommended.

That's pretty much what I said. Of course I didn't mean that the employees have sales quotas or get punished for not moving enough of a certain product, but from what I heard from my friend, every department has a few brands or items that they really "encourage" their salespeople to steer customers towards. They might very well be great products, but the original question was if BB salespeople are routinely "blind" to factors other than performance when making a recommendation, and my experience tells me no.

Extended warranties are a whole 'nother bag o' worms, but given the "bathtub effect" of electronics failures I've never bought one.

Well doesn't it makes sense that a company would want to sell alot of the product that brings them the greatest profit? In fact, name me a company that doesn't do this!

Having said that, most of the sales people at BB are not hard core enthusiasts about the products that they sell. For them, it's just a job; nothing more - and I don't say this as a knock against them. I think there are a lot of people in a lot of jobs that are just there for a paycheck.

If a guy in the a/v department hears or reads an article about Samsung being the best, he will tell people it's the best simply because he doesn't know better.

Err, umm, you have to *ask* if a big box store's sale's people are making genuine, honest recommendations!? :D

(...or *any* sales person, for that matter ;) ).

But seriously, all sales people are biased, and most of the time coached by the manufacturer's reps and/or store management as to what to push.

From my professional experience, this year, Samsung has stepped up their game a good bit. I would definitely say that Samsung has the best quality/value ratio of any display, whether it be DLP, LCD, or Plasma.

I think that's the point. Samsung is the largest electronics company in the world and they hace really stepped up their game and invested heavily in this technology. Walk into any store and the Samsungs look best. So, of course, the salespeople are going to make that recommendation.

The Midlothian, VA pushes Pioneer and LG plasmas, FWIW.

I think that's the point. Samsung is the largest electronics company in the world and they hace really stepped up their game and invested heavily in this technology. Walk into any store and the Samsungs look best. So, of course, the salespeople are going to make that recommendation.

Samsung has not received the greatest reviews in the electronics press for their TV's. I personally think the Sony's look better.....again, personal preference.

Samsung's may look best to you, but that's not everyone's opinion.

That being said, Samsung has done a great job with their marketing and sales.....they essentially have done what Sony did years ago.

Talked to a reliable source at Costco (Corp. Buyer) and he told me that Costco is planning a considerable flat screen sale in January that will last a week. I'll post more information when I get it.

I'm in the market to buy a plasma for my bedroom now, however I might wait and save a few hundred. It's hard to know how much you would even save waiting till Jan especially the way prices keep dropping.

Do check the Costco online price of Pioneer 5070. Now, $200 more downward and it will be time to buy for those who want a great set.

Recently I bought a plasma(TH42PX60U) tv from circuitcity(11/11/06) which is with a manufacture Model number TH-42PX60UP and serial No. MD62XXXXXX. My parents also bought one(TH42PX60U) from bestbuy almost at the same time (BF) with the Manufacture No. TH-42PX60UB and serial No. MA63XXXXXX. I was surprised that the size of boxes of two sets are totally different. The printing on the boxes are partially different. The weights of the two are also different(CC 43KG and BB 39KG). The ways to pack the contents are totally different. My questions are:
1. Were they assembled in the same plant?
2. Are the parts for both sets imported from panasonic JAPAN?
3. Which one was manufactured more recently?

Did anyone who also notices the differences give a guess?

Hello, I am a newbie when it comes to TV. So when I brought the Westinghouse LVM-42w2 at Bestbuy. I thought I was happy. I even bought the Performance Service Plan from them. But little did i know, Westinghouse's TV is notorious for their lockup issue. The TV would need to be unplugged for the surge bar at times when it was shutdown to restart.

Ok, so I call Westinghouse and they promised they would send someone out to fix it. After a month and a haft there was no one. Not even a phone call in return. I live in Richmond BC Canada and there aren't many tech support in this region I was told. They even encourage me to call IAI, which I did. I wasn't able to even get though to them. I don't even know if they are actually playing me.

Next, on to Bestbuy. I called their technical/customer support and was told that I am basically SOL for the first year. They told me that if they did any servicing on my TV it would void my warranty. And that an exchange wouldn't be possible. So now, I would have to say don't buy their Performance Service Plan since they wouldn't and can't do squat.

Don't get my wrong. I love my TV but the fact that both BB and Westinghouse's service's (or lack of service) sucks. Sorry for the long and runty post. I just wish people would know what they get into before taking a plunge like me.

I guess people should take a look before paying more for warranties.
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/personal-finance/news/november-2006/why-you-dont-need-an-extended-warranty-11-06/overview/extended-warranty-11-06.htm
http://www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/money/extended_warranties/index.html

Please feel free to share your TV's service experience and most of all where do you guys buy your TVs and which brand has the best service? For sure I am not buying from Bestbuy or Westinghouse again.

I too am in a similiar situation with BB. My philips plasma has gone on the fritz and they will not fix it....they said that I need to give 'ample' time for a part to come in. It has been 6 weeks and they basically told me "too bad." I am to the point that I am going to throw it out and just buy a new one....from ANYWHERE but BB

I asked this question twice in the other Costco thread and never got a response, so here goes again.

For the record, I would not use Costco's return policy for a "rental" or abuse the policy. I would, however, use it if my TV failed within a few years. A $4k set should not die that quickly, and of course I would not be satisfied with my purchase. I would essentially buy a TV from Costco and pay my yearly membership instead of buying a set and extended warranty from some other store such as Best Buy.

What I'm wondering about is this: can Costco change their return policy after you have already made the purchase and have the new policy affect your existing purchase? For example, you buy a set and 8 months later they change the return policy to mirror their policy on computers. (6 month return policy, if I recall) Since you purchased your set 8 months earlier, you can no longer return your set and are left without the old Costco guarantee acting as your extended warranty.

Anyone?

I work at Costco, and the answer to your question about the return policy is this. If the policy changes after you have bought your item, it will be grandfathered to the previous policy. Also, we are starting to see alot of upgraders ie renters, and the word coming down the pipeline is moving to a 6 month window with manufacturer covering remainder of warranty.

One of my local Costcos has a TH-58PX60U display model . My concerns are: 1) That it's a display model and 2) It wasn't broken in properly. The good news is that it's $200 off the non-display model price and there aren't any non-display models available within 200 miles. Should I go for it?

Also, I'm kind of new to the whole thing, but I'm looking for opinions as to whether or not a 58 would be a good choice for a viewing distance of 14'. I've been torn between the 50 and 58 and am wondering if it's worth the extra ~$1700 for the size increase. Thanks!

$200 discount off of regular pricing for a floor model doesn't sound like much. Your concerns are valid IMO.
I have a TH-50PX60U at 13' and that's probably pushing it.
But a 58" 60U at 14 feet should be O.K. for you.

THe problem is PQ and distances can be so subjective.

Its from costco so if there is a problem later on you can return it.

About the price, I won't be able to justify paying almost twice for an 8" increase in the size

I work at Costco, and the answer to your question about the return policy is this. If the policy changes after you have bought your item, it will be grandfathered to the previous policy. Also, we are starting to see alot of upgraders ie renters, and the word coming down the pipeline is moving to a 6 month window with manufacturer covering remainder of warranty.

I think 6-month return period is fair. I've been a member since the Price Club days. The biggest thing I've returned was a chest freezer that stopped working after several months. It's nice to know that I can always count on Costco.

Got a question... I've often wondered why Costco warehouse only takes American Express? Costco.com takes all the other major credit cards. If I buy a projector via Costco.com and charge it to my Visa card, what will happen when I have to return the projector to the Costco warehouse? Are they able to process a refund with a Visa card? Or will I be forced to accept twenty $100 dollar bills in
cash?(eventhough it's as good as money... ) :)

About the price, I won't be able to justify paying almost twice for an 8" increase in the size
BTW it is actually 34% more sq inches of viewing area.

I work at Costco, and the answer to your question about the return policy is this. If the policy changes after you have bought your item, it will be grandfathered to the previous policy. Also, we are starting to see alot of upgraders ie renters, and the word coming down the pipeline is moving to a 6 month window with manufacturer covering remainder of warranty.

That's 6 times better than everyone else - and they will probably do it without a hassle, but, that doesn't eliminate the need for an extended warranty. If I'm buying - I'll get mine before 1/1/07.

Are there going to be mfg warranty issues if COSTCO is NOT an authorized dealer?

Never buy a display model television. They are abused by customers and are rarely broken in properly. The opposite is happening, due to all the other tv's the set competes with and the bright lights in the store, the settings are turned up very high. Stay away from those tv's even if it's 50% off!

Are there going to be mfg warranty issues if COSTCO is NOT an authorized dealer?

As long as Costco isn't selling grey-market stuff, I don't think any manufacturer has the right to deny a legitimate warranty claim. No respectable manufacturer would treat their customers that way... I hope... :)

Thanks for the input on the display model folks. I actually went and looked at it tonight and there were signs of abuse (scratches...) on the set. Looks like I've got a long drive ahead of me :)

Do check the Costco online price of Pioneer 5070. Now, $200 more downward and it will be time to buy for those who want a great set.

And the new Continental OnePass price, still has the new Costco price beat by a rather substantial amount. Heck, even the old OnePass delivered price was almost $200 better than what the new Costco delivered price now is.

I don't recall the exact wording (I'll check it out tomorrow when I visit Costco) but I believe they say something along the lines of "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" but they also have an open-ended 100% satisfaction guarantee.


I went to a Costco last night and looked at the sign carefully. There's nothing that says "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" for returns. It says something like please return it within 30 days with original packaging and oriiginal receipt....

On the other hand, this sign is new. It replaced a older sign that was there before.(judging from the much larger of leftover glue surrounding the new sign) This particular Costco only opened within the last few months. I'll go to the "old" Costco that I usually go to this weekend to see what their "old" sign says.

as far as extended warranty, I believe in those things 100%. I buy them on anything that has one. So do most of my fellow employees. ESPECIALLY tv's. I've had to use mine on a couple of occasions, saving me about $900 worth of repairs. All that for spending an extra $200.

Add up what you'll spend on extended warranties over the course of your lifetime, and you could easily replace items that go bad after the mfg warranty expires.

I work at Costco, and the answer to your question about the return policy is this. If the policy changes after you have bought your item, it will be grandfathered to the previous policy.

Nice thought, not sure I'd bet the house on it though...

I think 6-month return period is fair.

Assuming you have the full mfg warranty, which Costco apparently thinks is questionable. Otherwise, a "fair" return period should at least equal the length of the mfg warranty.

I only wish that Costco has the unconditional lifetime guarantee of
Hammacher Schlemmer. Their policy is set in stone... well, actually in
black and white printed policy....
http://www.hammacher.com/order/ret_exch.asp?promo=LifetimeGuarantee

Last August, I returned a Sony shortwave radio that I bought from Hammacher
Schlemmer for $395 back in 1992. After 14 years, the circuit board a couple of
other components needed to be replaced, the parts and labor came to $298, :eek:
according to a Sony estimate that I received. I told Sony not to fix it and they
shipped it back to me.

I contacted Hammacher on the phone and explained the situation. The lady on
the phone told me to just ship it back. The whole phone conversation lasted less
than 2 minutes. She even apologized for the radio going bad.

I shipped it in the original Sony box, along with the original sales receipt from
1992(the paper had faded quite a lot, but still readable).

11 days later, I received a $395 check from Hammacher. Well... they didn't
refund the original shipping charges, but I let it go.... :) $395 was worth more
back in 1992 money... :)

Too bad Hammacher Schlemmer doesn't sell any flat screen TVs, like the Sony 46XBR2... :(

And the new Continental OnePass price, still has the new Costco price beat by a rather substantial amount. Heck, even the old OnePass delivered price was almost $200 better than what the new Costco delivered price now is.



Costco, generally, does not have rock bottom pricing. To my way of thinking, their no time limit warranty is worth..$500..at least. See what the cost of a..5 year warranty is at other stores...also, warranty from another store would probably not cover one or 2 pixels. If you want rock bottom pricing on an item, it is probably best to shop elsewhere. I like some peace of mine on a $3000 item. My money does not come that easily.

I only wish that Costco has the unconditional lifetime guarantee of
Hammacher Schlemmer. Their policy is set in stone... well, actually in
black and white printed policy....
http://www.hammacher.com/order/ret_exch.asp?promo=LifetimeGuarantee

Last August, I returned a Sony shortwave radio that I bought from Hammacher
Schlemmer for $395 back in 1992. After 14 years, the circuit board a couple of
other components needed to be replaced, the parts and labor came to $298, :eek:
according to a Sony estimate that I received. I told Sony not to fix it and they
shipped it back to me.

I contacted Hammacher on the phone and explained the situation. The lady on
the phone told me to just ship it back. The whole phone conversation lasted less
than 2 minutes. She even apologized for the radio going bad.

I shipped it in the original Sony box, along with the original sales receipt from
1992(the paper had faded quite a lot, but still readable).

11 days later, I received a $395 check from Hammacher. Well... they didn't
refund the original shipping charges, but I let it go.... :) $395 was worth more
back in 1992 money... :)

Too bad Hammacher Schlemmer doesn't sell any flat screen TVs, like the Sony 46XBR2... :(







On most items from this company you are, indirectly, paying a good amount for that warranty. We just got their catalog.

I went to a Costco last night and looked at the sign carefully. There's nothing that says "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" for returns. It says something like please return it within 30 days with original packaging and oriiginal receipt....

On the other hand, this sign is new. It replaced a older sign that was there before.(judging from the much larger of leftover glue surrounding the new sign) This particular Costco only opened within the last few months. I'll go to the "old" Costco that I usually go to this weekend to see what their "old" sign says.


Yes, this sign pertains to..returns..like you bought a product and got wrong size..
Someone gives you a gift (Christmas) and you would rather have something else. You make a 'return' and get a different item. These are returns and Costco would prefer you to do these returns in within 30 days. Makes sense to me.

Got a question... I've often wondered why Costco warehouse only takes American Express? Costco.com takes all the other major credit cards. If I buy a projector via Costco.com and charge it to my Visa card, what will happen when I have to return the projector to the Costco warehouse? Are they able to process a refund with a Visa card? Or will I be forced to accept twenty $100 dollar bills in
cash?(eventhough it's as good as money... ) :)

I just returned a hd dvd player purchased with Visa at costco.com. Indeed they gave me cash for my refund.

Shelly

And the new Continental OnePass price, still has the new Costco price beat by a rather substantial amount. Heck, even the old OnePass delivered price was almost $200 better than what the new Costco delivered price now is.

Do you have the catalog number for the Onepass? I see 03-1267 & 03-949 on their site, but not sure if its a 5070... Why is one 900 more? Tweeter had a good price on a Pioneer 50" around Thanksgiving, but it wasn't the 5070 - The speaker was not detachable.


Shelly,

Why did you return the HD-DVD player? I saw that online but missed the opportunity.

I just returned a hd dvd player purchased with Visa at costco.com. Indeed they gave me cash for my refund.

Shelly

Interesting.... so Costco is absorbing the Visa credit card processing fees? :)

My guess is that online they have to. Not everyone has a AMEX to use at Costco. Plus there is some profit from shipping. I know the prices are reasonable but lets face it Costco and other large chains have special pricing from carriers which gives them a profit margine on shipping costs. This all plays out due to increased volume.. I am hoping that after Christmas at least one of the stores will discount the VIZIO plasma again and have free shipping.

Shelly,

Why did you return the HD-DVD player? I saw that online but missed the opportunity.

I had a very loud hum through the 5.1 analogs into my receiver but no hum with my sacd/dvd-a player through 5.1. Just assumed the unit was defective and picked up an XA1 from Robert at VE.

But it, too had the hum although I was able to reduce it a lot to a more liveable level. But I knew it was still there.

Spent more than a week and more than a dozen hours troubleshooting, taking equipment out, taking cables out et al. Then I remembered that I had just a few months ago hooked up the cable coax to listen to fm. I had not hooked up cable to my system with the coax for more than a decade because of the ground loop it usually introduced.

But I had completely forgotten about it while trouble shooting. Once I disconnected the coax, hum went away.

But I now have the better player's backlit remote that actually works whereas I could not ge the A1 remote to moe left, right up or down without multiple presses, if even then.

But Costco did refund all including shipping and taxes.

Shelly

I went to a Costco last night and looked at the sign carefully. There's nothing that says "we suggest/prefer within 30 days" for returns. It says something like please return it within 30 days with original packaging and oriiginal receipt....

On the other hand, this sign is new. It replaced a older sign that was there before.(judging from the much larger of leftover glue surrounding the new sign) This particular Costco only opened within the last few months. I'll go to the "old" Costco that I usually go to this weekend to see what their "old" sign says.

Don't know about the new Costco you've been to but my local store's sign says that it would be "helpful" if returns were made within 30 days. Right next to that sign is the 100% satisfaction guarantee sign.

I think that Costco execs must've had a lot of debates internally about the return policy and decided:
a. The unlimited return policy makes more money than it costs (on everything but flat panels).
b. Flat panels are a loss-leader
c. Weed out repeat returns of panels by membership revocation (really only a deterrent-since they refund the full membership upon revocation, nothing stops the career abuser from starting a new membership under a relative's or friend's name).

In my opinion, the above makes PERFECT business sense. The only problem occurs when (very few) Costco stores have a bonehead manager with narrow vision who publicly displays animosity towards a customer returning a panel and thus poisoning customer confidence (customers witnessing, customers posting on the Internet, word of mouth etc).

At the end of the day, Costco is still THE place to shop everything and anything except perhaps flat panels (where they are still a solid candidate but not the only game in town like everything else they carry). As always "IM-not-so-HO". :D

Don't know about the new Costco you've been to but my local store's sign says that it would be "helpful" if returns were made within 30 days. Right next to that sign is the 100% satisfaction guarantee sign.

I think that Costco execs must've had a lot of debates internally about the return policy and decided:
a. The unlimited return policy makes more money than it costs (on everything but flat panels).
b. Flat panels are a loss-leader
c. Weed out repeat returns of panels by membership revocation (really only a deterrent-since they refund the full membership upon revocation, nothing stops the career abuser from starting a new membership under a relative's or friend's name).

In my opinion, the above makes PERFECT business sense. The only problem occurs when (very few) Costco stores have a bonehead manager with narrow vision who publicly displays animosity towards a customer returning a panel and thus poisoning customer confidence (customers witnessing, customers posting on the Internet, word of mouth etc).

At the end of the day, Costco is still THE place to shop everything and anything except perhaps flat panels (where they are still a solid candidate but not the only game in town like everything else they carry). As always "IM-not-so-HO". :D

I now have some firsthand experience with this. I returned a 42" plasma TV that I have owned for nearly 4 years. It has had a gradually increasing picture degradation over the past few months.

On one hand I did feel some guilt about returning a 4-year old TV, on the other hand this was a $3K purchase back then, and I don't think it's unreasonable to expect more than a 4-year lifespan. As others have pointed out, Costco does not offer any extended warranty options, the salespeople just say "you don't need an extended warranty, if it fails just bring it back".

So today I took them up on their offer. They did accept the return and gave me a full credit, refunded to the credit card I used for the purchase.

They did say that, without a receipt, they will only refund the price listed in the computer, which may be less than what the customer paid, in my case the price in the computer was the price I paid.

Now the negative part was several not-so-subtle comments from the manager such as, "don't you think 4 years is a reasonable life for a TV?", "we will do this for you this time but we can't exchange your TV for you every 4 years", "you should contact the manufacturer for warranty service" etc.

Now the problem I have with this is that their sign states, pretty clearly, "100% satisfaction, return items any time for any reason", but the manager's comments to me imply that they feel they have the option to deny a return pretty much at their discretion.

The manager was in no way impolite, but I was a bit taken aback by the lecture, to the point that I asked him something to the effect, "why does your sign say any item any time any reason if there are strings attached?". I got no straight answer to that one.

So now, I'm unsure whether to get my next plasma at Costco or not. I spend quite a but of money there, (the manager made that observation as well, making me wonder how this return would have been handled from a customer who didn't do much business there) and the return policy is one reason they get so much of my business. I have returned several items in the past, but nothing as big-ticket as a plasma.

The problem is, the remarks from the manager leave me a bit unsure of what I would run into in the future if I have issues with my next plasma or any other big-ticket purchase.

Costco, generally, does not have rock bottom pricing. To my way of thinking, their no time limit warranty is worth..$500..at least. See what the cost of a..5 year warranty is at other stores...also, warranty from another store would probably not cover one or 2 pixels. If you want rock bottom pricing on an item, it is probably best to shop elsewhere. I like some peace of mine on a $3000 item. My money does not come that easily.

I am well aware of what you think of Costco, seeing as how you keep telling people about it over and over again.... And how you also get upset when people question the possibility that their return policies may some day change for TV returns, even to the ridiculous point that you don't want to see such postings. But the price difference between what Costco is asking and what OnePass is asking, is right at your magic $500 mark. But seeing as how you love and brag about your EDTV plasma so much, and only talk dream pricing about "if" you were to buy something, I really don't see you buying a new plasma anytime soon unless they probably drop to $2000 or less for the major brands.

Do you have the catalog number for the Onepass? I see 03-1267 & 03-949 on their site, but not sure if its a 5070....

Just email them if you have questions about actual model numbers, they will get back to you rather quickly and tell you the actual number. And yes as for their # 03-1267, it is indeed the 5070

I now have some firsthand experience with this. I returned a 42" plasma TV that I have owned for nearly 4 years. It has had a gradually increasing picture degradation over the past few months.

[CHOMP]

Now the negative part was several not-so-subtle comments from the manager such as, "don't you think 4 years is a reasonable life for a TV?", "we will do this for you this time but we can't exchange your TV for you every 4 years", "you should contact the manufacturer for warranty service" etc.

Now the problem I have with this is that their sign states, pretty clearly, "100% satisfaction, return items any time for any reason", but the manager's comments to me imply that they feel they have the option to deny a return pretty much at their discretion.

The manager was in no way impolite, but I was a bit taken aback by the lecture [CHOMP]

So now, I'm unsure whether to get my next plasma at Costco or not. [CHOMP]

The problem is, the remarks from the manager leave me a bit unsure of what I would run into in the future if I have issues with my next plasma or any other big-ticket purchase.


Then from the manager's perspective, "mission accomplished." Without being rude, he let you know that returning your TV after 4 years was an abuse of their policy, that you won't be allowed to return another TV after 4 years, and that your business would no longer be welcome there if you tried. All of which is 100% the right business move.

What do you think that $3,000 TV is worth today? I bought a $3,000 TV about 4 years ago, and I wouldn't expect to get more than maybe $500-$600 for it today.

Assuming their cost was in the $2500-$2600 range, Costco just took a $2,000 bath on that TV. It takes a lot of 50 packs of toilet paper at $14.99 and 20 packs of Beef-A-Roni at $12.99 for them to make that 2 grand back.

I am well aware of what you think of Costco, seeing as how you keep telling people about it over and over again.... And how you also get upset when people question the possibility that their return policies may some day change for TV returns, even to the ridiculous point that you don't want to see such postings. But the price difference between what Costco is asking and what OnePass is asking, is right at your magic $500 mark. But seeing as how you love and brag about your EDTV plasma so much, and only talk dream pricing about "if" you were to buy something, I really don't see you buying a new plasma anytime soon unless they probably drop to $2000 or less for the major brands.




My friend, never said anything about the future with Costco warranty. I did say, if it changes, we will all know about the changes at that time. And it serves little to talk about any changes at this point in time. For now,and anyone who buys now, the warranty is in affect. Of course, each person should make up his mind where to make any purchases. I am all for that. Yes, I do believe the Panny EDTV panel, for me, was sort of a classic. it has perform flawlessly and well. And I shall take my time about 'upgrading'. I enjoy video at home but it is not a real big thing in our lives. Frankly, I am into audio (music) much more than video (tv). When I spend $3000 plus on anything, I do prefer a warranty. It just helps me sleep better at night. But, of course, we are all different in this respect. I would not enjoy buying a new Tv and, then, seeing a dead pixel..or 2..or 3..and not being able to exchange it for a non-defective panel. A warranty on a tv is just like any other form of insurance. It is best never to have to use that warranty but, so nice, if you have a problem, to have that warranty.

I have returned three TVs to costco

at

11months

2 months

7 days

no questions asked for any of them and the process took less than 5 minutes each time. I did not have the box for any onf them.

Then from the manager's perspective, "mission accomplished." Without being rude, he let you know that returning your TV after 4 years was an abuse of their policy, that you won't be allowed to return another TV after 4 years, and that your business would no longer be welcome there if you tried. All of which is 100% the right business move.

What do you think that $3,000 TV is worth today? I bought a $3,000 TV about 4 years ago, and I wouldn't expect to get more than maybe $500-$600 for it today.

Assuming their cost was in the $2500-$2600 range, Costco just took a $2,000 bath on that TV. It takes a lot of 50 packs of toilet paper at $14.99 and 20 packs of Beef-A-Roni at $12.99 for them to make that 2 grand back.
Actually, over 90% of Costco's bottom line (not revenue) is generated from membership fees. So revoking a membership is a rather serious business move for them b/c that's where the Company's EPS comes from.

Then from the manager's perspective, "mission accomplished." Without being rude, he let you know that returning your TV after 4 years was an abuse of their policy, that you won't be allowed to return another TV after 4 years, and that your business would no longer be welcome there if you tried. All of which is 100% the right business move.

What do you think that $3,000 TV is worth today? I bought a $3,000 TV about 4 years ago, and I wouldn't expect to get more than maybe $500-$600 for it today.

Assuming their cost was in the $2500-$2600 range, Costco just took a $2,000 bath on that TV. It takes a lot of 50 packs of toilet paper at $14.99 and 20 packs of Beef-A-Roni at $12.99 for them to make that 2 grand back.


Actually you have to keep in mind they make the policy we don't. While some may view this an abuse of their policy, the fact is all he did was follow the policy to the letter. They made the rules, we are just playing by them. If they feel they are being abused they will change the policy.

I hardly feel it is unfair to simply follow their rules.


Would I feel strange returning a four year old TV? Maybe but again they set up the rule I didn't.

Actually you have to keep in mind they make the policy we don't. While some may view this an abuse of their policy, the fact is all he did was follow the policy to the letter. They made the rules, we are just playing by them. If they feel they are being abused they will change the policy.

I hardly feel it is unfair to simply follow their rules.

Would I feel strange returning a four year old TV? Maybe but again they set up the rule I didn't.


What if he brought the TV back after 25 years ... in 2027 .... when 50" plasma TVs are selling for $49 ....? He'd still be following the rules/policy. Maybe he was only 99.99999% satisfied ... that's not 100%, so under the policy he can return the TV.

So, sure, he's following the "letter" of the policy, but he's not really following the spirit of it. The spirit of the policy is, rather than set some arbitrary length of time by which a customer has to return a product, they'll allow for unlimited returns to give customers a real sense of confidence that they're not gonna have to keep a lemon of a product, even if it takes them a while to figure that out. They count on people's inherent sense of fairness to kick in at some point to provide a de facto end of the "warranty."

And for those customers who demonstrate that they are missing that sense of fairness, Costco is perfectly welcome to not invite them back, just like a bar is free to bar a patron who, though legally drinking alcohol on the premises, shows that they are missing a sense of responsibility in their drinking.

So I'm not on some ethical soapbox - he was perfectly within his rights to return the TV. What I am saying is that it's hardly a surprise that the manager essentially warned him, politely, that he couldn't keep returning TVs after 4 years or his membership might be revoked. And for the original poster of this story to express resentment toward the manager seems naive and childish to me.

From MisterBeavers post....but as far as extended warranty, I believe in those things 100%. I buy them on anything that has one. So do most of my fellow employees. ESPECIALLY tv's. I've had to use mine on a couple of occasions, saving me about $900 worth of repairs. All that for spending an extra $200. Had a guy come in the other day with an old 40" projo tv, traded it straight up for a samsung 40" 1080p. ha!

Some years ago, I bought a analog 36" flat screen CRT when they were first introduced. I bought this set via my son who worked at BB while going to college. I got it as his employee price as I was "immediate family". I saved about $400.00 on the set. I also bought the extended warranty at my son's suggestion. I got the 3 year extended plan at my son's employee price which was 3/4 less than the normal retail price. That shows how much profit is made on extended warranty/service plans. I never had a need to use that contract on the set I bought, but at roughy $16 per year, it was a good deal. So, if that employee discount pricing is still in practice for service plans at BB, as an employee you would not have the cost factor that a normal customer would face. My point is that if you have a problem and need to use the warranty, it could be a benefit. However, I would be willing to bet that most extended warranties/service plans are never used and are merely a possible "peace of mind" issue for those customers who buy them...and a lot of profit for the store.

What if he brought the TV back after 25 years ... in 2027 .... when 50" plasma TVs are selling for $49 ....? He'd still be following the rules/policy. Maybe he was only 99.99999% satisfied ... that's not 100%, so under the policy he can return the TV.

So, sure, he's following the "letter" of the policy, but he's not really following the spirit of it. The spirit of the policy is, rather than set some arbitrary length of time by which a customer has to return a product, they'll allow for unlimited returns to give customers a real sense of confidence that they're not gonna have to keep a lemon of a product, even if it takes them a while to figure that out. They count on people's inherent sense of fairness to kick in at some point to provide a de facto end of the "warranty."

And for those customers who demonstrate that they are missing that sense of fairness, Costco is perfectly welcome to not invite them back, just like a bar is free to bar a patron who, though legally drinking alcohol on the premises, shows that they are missing a sense of responsibility in their drinking.

So I'm not on some ethical soapbox - he was perfectly within his rights to return the TV. What I am saying is that it's hardly a surprise that the manager essentially warned him, politely, that he couldn't keep returning TVs after 4 years or his membership might be revoked. And for the original poster of this story to express resentment toward the manager seems naive and childish to me.

25 years is absurd. lol. Too funny. I get your point though.

However, I think if a TV is legitimately defective, the buyer has a right to return it within 4-5 years. That 4-5 year period would be the same as the 1-2 year manufacturer's warranty plus a 3-4 year extended warranty if purchased at a retail chain or online. With the extended warranty, if the TV failed in 4-5 years the TV would be serviced. No one would fault the buyer for expecting the TV to be fixed, and if that were not possible, a refund. Correct me if I'm wrong, but since Costco does not service TVs the buyer has no other alternative but to get a refund/exchange. How is that abuse?

I think that a far as the Costco comments are concerned, it should be remembered that not everyone who shops at Costco goes there only to buy an expensive HDTV. They shop for other merchandise, produce, clothing, pharmacy items, etc. I don't have any hard statistics, but I would be willing to bet that the majority of shoppers at Costco (or Sams Club) will walk by the various HDTV displays, maybe glance at them and continue on with what they came to shop for. When I was there buying my HDTV, I stood in line with my boxed Panny plasma on a cart. Looking around at all the checkout stands, the lines were about 10 to 15 people deep at all the checkout stands and I was the only one with a tv on a cart. It would be interesting to know just how much Costco depends on HDTV sales in their business plan. My guess is that while they are big ticket items, HDTV sales don't account for a large amount of their overall sales and by extension...profit.

Now the negative part was several not-so-subtle comments from the manager such as, "don't you think 4 years is a reasonable life for a TV?", "we will do this for you this time but we can't exchange your TV for you every 4 years", "you should contact the manufacturer for warranty service" etc.

When I encounter this kind of attitude on any return issue, I just smile and keep my mouth shut until they have swiped the credit card, I've signed the credit slip, and the return process is complete.

Then I would have felt no guilt in politely debating the store manager about this issue. I don't know how old this person was (a lot of "managers" are often barely 20-somethings themselves), and that might have a lot to do with what I would say to the person.

Do I think four years is a reasonable life for a television set? NO! Perhaps the store manager has grown up in the disposable electronics era where things are engineered to last only as long as the next big trend arrives, and then it's time for the latest and greatest. Home computers are usually dinosaurs after four years, a television set should not be.

I have an RCA 20" that I purchased in 1987 which was a primary TV in an apartment back then but now serves quite nicely as a bedroom television. It still works absolutely fine. My Toshiba 32" set I am about to replace with my first flat panel set was purchased in 1997 and it still works reasonably well, as it should.

On both I spent well under $1000.

If I am slapping down $2-3K for a television set... ANY television set, I would certainly require it to last more than four years. A television set should not represent someone's second virtual car payment every month, with the expectation that every two or three years it's time to expect that set to fail and then purchase a new one. Even the projection TVs that people owned back in the 1980s would last longer than that.

I wish we had a Costco around here (although BJ's is not a bad second choice to have -- far better than the dreary Sam's Club). A major reason why people are willing to trust their electronics purchase to Costco is, no doubt, their warranty coverage. To offer something and then pull the rug out from under the customer is ridiculous. I'd ignore the guilt trip from the store manager, and then inform him if he has a problem with his own store's policies, take it up with someone at headquarters -- you'll continue to take advantage of -all- Costco has to offer until they change the policy, and you'll do so fairly and honorably.

Warranty return abusers are bottom feeders, and most stores inevitably change their warranty policies or extended warranty programs because of these people. Best Buy isn't going to hand you the latest and greatest iPod anymore just because last year's model is "broken." They changed their warranty program to put an end to that. People who abuse Costco's return policy to return a perfectly working set just to have the latest will inevitably cause them to slap limits on the program. If there is a legitimate technical issue, by all means you should bring it back. If the display set in 2006 in the store looks nicer than the one you got in 2003 and you think you deserve a new TV set accordingly, that's bottom feeding.

For customer relations purposes, they will likely grandfather in older customers, but I assure you if they wanted to simply announce a change in policies that impacts everyone, their membership terms and conditions no doubt have built-in clauses that allow them to do as they please, with your recourse being a full or pro-rated refund of your membership fees on your way out the door empty-handed.

What if he brought the TV back after 25 years ... in 2027 .... when 50" plasma TVs are selling for $49 ....? He'd still be following the rules/policy. Maybe he was only 99.99999% satisfied ... that's not 100%, so under the policy he can return the TV.

So, sure, he's following the "letter" of the policy, but he's not really following the spirit of it. The spirit of the policy is, rather than set some arbitrary length of time by which a customer has to return a product, they'll allow for unlimited returns to give customers a real sense of confidence that they're not gonna have to keep a lemon of a product, even if it takes them a while to figure that out. They count on people's inherent sense of fairness to kick in at some point to provide a de facto end of the "warranty."

And for those customers who demonstrate that they are missing that sense of fairness, Costco is perfectly welcome to not invite them back, just like a bar is free to bar a patron who, though legally drinking alcohol on the premises, shows that they are missing a sense of responsibility in their drinking.

So I'm not on some ethical soapbox - he was perfectly within his rights to return the TV. What I am saying is that it's hardly a surprise that the manager essentially warned him, politely, that he couldn't keep returning TVs after 4 years or his membership might be revoked. And for the original poster of this story to express resentment toward the manager seems naive and childish to me.








You make some valid points. I agree with there being an ethical limit to the time frame as I alluded to in my post. However, now my 100% satisfaction has been limited to 99.99999%?

My point is simply that if a store creates a policy they will be prepared for some people to use the policy. Following the policy the store created is not abuse, it's use. As you said if the store feels it's abuse, they should not have worded the policy the way they have. Of course it is also true if enough people "use" the policy in this way, the policy will change.

So on many levels I agree with you, but to call it abuse is not correct. A bar also, doesn't advertise 100% satisfaction. :D

Well fwiw, my wife and I just got back from our local costco. We had to return/exhcnage the 42" panny we bought a few weeks back (this was our 2nd return within 2 months). The people at the service counter gave us no problem. As we were picking up a replacement we spoke with one of the employees on the floor, they mentioned that changes are indeed coming in the return policy (wasn't specific as to what or when) because they're "not a rental company". This employee mentioned this offhand, having no knowledge of our return.

Following the policy the store created is not abuse, it's use.

You summed up in one sentence what hundreds of previous posts tried to illustrate.

If I were in upper management at Costco, and substantial abuses were altering bottom line profits, I would seriously consider implementing the following policy:

1. All purchases made prior to "X" date are exempt from this policy change, and are therefore subject to the "Satisfaction Guaranteed" policy.

2. All purchases made after "X" date INCLUDE a 4 or 5 year warranty (paid for by Costco) that replaces the "Satisfation Guaranteed" policy.

With Costco's leverage, I am sure that they could get a REPUTABLE third party warranty company to provide stellar service at a cost to them (Costco) of approximately $ 100-- $ 150 per unit. Even with this amount built-in to the price of the unit, Costco's retail price would still be lower than the vast majority of other B & M stores, considering that they choose to work at a lower profit margin.

Although I would technically be within my rights to do so under the present policy, I would not even attempt to return a 10 year old panel because "I wasn't completely satisfied" Give me a break------

costco should stop carrying tv/computer. all problems resolved.

I will go out of my way to buy a TV (and other electronics and non-electronic items) from costco due to the peace of mind of their return policy. If they dumped they policy, I prob wouldn't renew my executive membership.

You summed up in one sentence what hundreds of previous posts tried to illustrate.
Yeah, and many people are now intentionally misinterpreting what the "use" of the policy was originally intended to be used for. And they are now turning it into abuse, by using like nothing more than a source for free technology upgrades.

costco should stop carrying tv/computer. all problems resolved.

They still carry things other than tv/computers.

cheezz

Yeah, and many people are now intentionally misinterpreting what the "use" of the policy was originally intended to be used for. And they are now turning it into abuse, by using like nothing more than a source for free technology upgrades.
They are free to change their policy any time, yet they choose not to. What does that tell you?

Well I guess I have to share my story about returning a 7 year old grill to C__co, just to prove how amazing the company is. I bought the first model stainless Kirkland grill for $700 back in 1998. Had problems with electronic igniters and they were happy enough to send out new ones, plus sent a service tech at no charge. A year or so later, the cooking grids were starting to rust, so I called customer service and they sent me new ones. Then in 2005, the main burners (cast iron) were starting to rust through so I called customer service. They were no longer dealing with the company who made that product (DCS) and insisted that I bring the grill back to the store. I pleaded with them that returning the grill was a major hassle and all I wanted were the burners (I could have bought them online, but they were over $200 each). So I rented a truck and took this huge grill back to the store and they were more than happy to refund my full purchase price (I did have the original receipt). I took the money and bought the newest model stainless grill (that was twice the size) and have been happy ever since. I have bought and returned 3 faulty Vizio TVs (no questions) and now am very happy with my Panny 50. I would never consider buying anywhere, but C__co.

Well I guess I have to share my story about returning a 7 year old grill to C__co, just to prove how amazing the company is. I bought the first model stainless Kirkland grill for $700 back in 1998. Had problems with electronic igniters and they were happy enough to send out new ones, plus sent a service tech at no charge. A year or so later, the cooking grids were starting to rust, so I called customer service and they sent me new ones. Then in 2005, the main burners (cast iron) were starting to rust through so I called customer service. They were no longer dealing with the company who made that product (DCS) and insisted that I bring the grill back to the store. I pleaded with them that returning the grill was a major hassle and all I wanted were the burners (I could have bought them online, but they were over $200 each). So I rented a truck and took this huge grill back to the store and they were more than happy to refund my full purchase price (I did have the original receipt). I took the money and bought the newest model stainless grill (that was twice the size) and have been happy ever since. I have bought and returned 3 faulty Vizio TVs (no questions) and now am very happy with my Panny 50. I would never consider buying anywhere, but C__co.

Which Vizios did you get - what was the problem(s) with them?

I had the same experience with Vizio LCD TVs. I returned the 42 inch model for popping noises at startup (about 15 minutes worth) and shutdown. Returned the 46 inch for humming noise. Also bought a Panasonic Plasma (50 inch) and am very happy.

I'm guessing (hoping) the the Vizio LCD's were last year's model. The new ones seem to be much better!

Well in case you are planning on a VIZIO the 50P is at a great price at Costco.

I bought my Vizio 42 in August and 46 Inch in September, so I would be careful. Although by buying at Costco you can always take it back.. My 42 inch stared failing in about the 6th week of ownership.

I'll probably get the 37" LCD - before they change their return policy.

Just saw the price of the 50" Plasma. WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


If they have that price in the warehouse - might have to talk my wife into moving the 42" Sony LCD from our bedroom to the office (instead of the 37" Vizio) and getting the 50" Plasma for our bedroom.

Then from the manager's perspective, "mission accomplished." Without being rude, he let you know that returning your TV after 4 years was an abuse of their policy, that you won't be allowed to return another TV after 4 years, and that your business would no longer be welcome there if you tried. All of which is 100% the right business move.

What do you think that $3,000 TV is worth today? I bought a $3,000 TV about 4 years ago, and I wouldn't expect to get more than maybe $500-$600 for it today.

Assuming their cost was in the $2500-$2600 range, Costco just took a $2,000 bath on that TV. It takes a lot of 50 packs of toilet paper at $14.99 and 20 packs of Beef-A-Roni at $12.99 for them to make that 2 grand back.

You are absolutely right, I got far more back in my refund than the set was worth, even if it was operating properly. But there is no middle option. They could just as easily have a policy that pro-rates refunds based on age of the product, but they don't choose to do that. My choices were to pay for a non-warranty repair out of pocket or return the set.

Now I do want to mention that a couple of weeks before, while leaving the store, I stopped by the return desk to discuss my plasma problem with them. I said, "I have a plasma TV that I bought about 4 years ago and it's failing". The immediate response was "bring it back". No debate, no questions, no suggestion to contact the manufacturer about repairs, no comments about it's age, nothing but "bring it back".

So, yes, I do have a bit of a problem with that manager for his comments. The managers, the employees, and Costco corporate all need to be on the same page as far as the return policy. I don't agree with having a posted black-and-white UNCONDITIONAL return policy, then having the manager say "maybe", "if", "sometimes".

And as far as Costco "taking a bath" on returns, I'm not sure that's true. I would be very surprised if Costco's agreements with it's vendors don't require them to absorb all or at least a large part of returns. When I was doing my return one of the employees commented (to another employee) that they needed to be sure all of the accessories were there, since they couldn't get credit from their vendors on incomplete returns.

The managers, the employees, and Costco corporate all need to be on the same page as far as the return policy. I don't agree with having a posted black-and-white UNCONDITIONAL return policy, then having the manager say "maybe", "if", "sometimes".
There have been many posts where Costco employees have had different interpretations of their return policy. We need to keep in mind we're dealing with human beings here.

Imagine you're talking to a store manager that was just promoted, he's 100% gung-ho and wants Costco (and, specifically, his store) to make a lot of money. He's going to do whatever he can to discourage abuse of the return policy.

Now imagine you're talking to a middle-aged Mom working at the return counter. This Mom was just reprimanded for clocking in five minutes late for her shift. She couldn't care less if Costco makes any money, in fact she's thinking of quitting and looking for a new job. You walk up and ask about returning a ten year old set and she replies "Sure, bring it in, we'll refund your money." You walk away happy, while the Mom is thinking to herself "I'll teach that manager a lesson..."

You are absolutely right, I got far more back in my refund than the set was worth, even if it was operating properly. But there is no middle option. They could just as easily have a policy that pro-rates refunds based on age of the product, but they don't choose to do that. My choices were to pay for a non-warranty repair out of pocket or return the set.

Now I do want to mention that a couple of weeks before, while leaving the store, I stopped by the return desk to discuss my plasma problem with them. I said, "I have a plasma TV that I bought about 4 years ago and it's failing". The immediate response was "bring it back". No debate, no questions, no suggestion to contact the manufacturer about repairs, no comments about it's age, nothing but "bring it back".

So, yes, I do have a bit of a problem with that manager for his comments. The managers, the employees, and Costco corporate all need to be on the same page as far as the return policy. I don't agree with having a posted black-and-white UNCONDITIONAL return policy, then having the manager say "maybe", "if", "sometimes".

And as far as Costco "taking a bath" on returns, I'm not sure that's true. I would be very surprised if Costco's agreements with it's vendors don't require them to absorb all or at least a large part of returns. When I was doing my return one of the employees commented (to another employee) that they needed to be sure all of the accessories were there, since they couldn't get credit from their vendors on incomplete returns.

Didnt think there was such and interest in this topic. I'd like to address a few of the points people are making here.
1. For some vendors Costco has a policy in which they get a credit for the returned product PROVIDED it is in the mfg warranty period. If not, we take a bath on it and sell it to salvage companies for peanuts on the dollar. These companies have no choice what to pick, its all or none. For other vendors even if its in the warranty window we still take a bath.
2. One thing people are forgetting to mention about the extended warranties is this. If your telly busts 3.8 years into a 4 year warranty you ARE NOT going to get a nice new current technology model TV, what you are going to get is a COMPARABLE tv that will more than likely be priced far lower than what you paid for it. Just go and ask Future Shop about this, as it is how it works.
3. Returning a TV after 4 years is an abuse of the policy and manager's jobs are to let the member know that this is the case, but still give them their money back. You cant give an unconditional guarantee in this business and let the world know bring your dead plant back after 10 years.
4.Only 10% of members abuse our policy, so its the law of averages at work here.
5. Making sure everything is included in the box upon return is half smoke and mirrors. If you dont have the manual Costco doesnt owe you a dime as they are not getting everything back. It is a fine line that is walked with this return policy, and I think Costco is doing a great job at it. If they werent I'd be worried about the 22buck and hour I get to stock shelves.

it seems like the TH-50PX6U at costco is a fantastic deal. From all my research, it seems like the panel and pq is the same as the 600U and other 50 inch panasonic plasmas. I can live without SD and PIP.

is this truly equivalent in picture quality to the 600U? If so, and given the high rating of the 600U, I would think people would be raving about this deal. But I don't hear many threads on the TH-50PX6U.. anyways.. looking for feedback on the TH-50PX6U. thanks for all advice..

Like many others here I spent lot of time researching on my next TV. I've decided to take the plunge on Pioneer PDP 5070HD. Now into next step of getting one of that to my crib!

I liked the price offered at Amazon. Pretty close to the ones offered by the forum sponsors. But just when I ordered it was out of stock, now I'm in the queue with this back-order expected to be available late Dec.

I would love to grab this set from a local Costco. Two problem, (1) it is not available in any of the local Costco stores (SF-Bay area) (2) even with the recent reduced price, with tax & shipping it is quite a difference compared to Amazon & other online retailers.

Now I like to know how good is Amazon in filling back-ordered plasma TVs? Will it change the expected order date further? How good is their shipping service?

Thanks in advance!

They are free to change their policy any time, yet they choose not to. What does that tell you?
It tells me that sooner or later they probably will change it. They can't just continue refund money to people for them to upgrade their non defective TV's, just because they now want the latest and greatest. They are not a rent-a-center. And people in forums like this that try to promote such ideas for people to do things like that, don't help matters any either.

Like many others here I spent lot of time researching on my next TV. I've decided to take the plunge on Pioneer PDP 5070HD. Now into next step of getting one of that to my crib!

I liked the price offered at Amazon. Pretty close to the ones offered by the forum sponsors. But just when I ordered it was out of stock, now I'm in the queue with this back-order expected to be available late Dec.

I would love to grab this set from a local Costco. Two problem, (1) it is not available in any of the local Costco stores (SF-Bay area) (2) even with the recent reduced price, with tax & shipping it is quite a difference compared to Amazon & other online retailers.

Now I like to know how good is Amazon in filling back-ordered plasma TVs? Will it change the expected order date further? How good is their shipping service?

Join the Continental onepass program and buy a few items online at one of the various vendors that are in the onepass program in order to get at least 100 travel miles credit. Then order the 5070HD through the onepass program as it's a lot less money shipped from them, than either Amazon or Costco.

[QUOTE=jamieeva]it seems like the TH-50PX6U at costco is a fantastic deal. From all my research, it seems like the panel and pq is the same as the 600U and other 50 inch panasonic plasmas. I can live without SD and PIP.

is this truly equivalent in picture quality to the 600U? If so, and given the high rating of the 600U, I would think people would be raving about this deal. But I don't hear many threads on the TH-50PX6U.. anyways.. looking for feedback on the TH-50PX6U. thanks for all advice..[/QUOT
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++



++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++
Putting the few extra features aside (60u and 600u) the 6u is the same basic tv. It will give you same quality picture on the screen. The enclosures are somewhat different on the 6u, 60u, and 600u. Right now, at Costco, the 6u becomes a best buy. Say, in 3 years, the set has a dead pixel and you are unhappy, take it back for full refund.

There have been many posts where Costco employees have had different interpretations of their return policy. We need to keep in mind we're dealing with human beings here.

Sure, but we're also talking about a written policy that's prominently posted in their stores and on their web site. They're free to change this policy anytime, but they should not be free to violate it at their whim.

[QUOTE=jamieeva]it seems like the TH-50PX6U at costco is a fantastic deal. From all my research, it seems like the panel and pq is the same as the 600U and other 50 inch panasonic plasmas. I can live without SD and PIP.

is this truly equivalent in picture quality to the 600U? If so, and given the high rating of the 600U, I would think people would be raving about this deal. But I don't hear many threads on the TH-50PX6U.. anyways.. looking for feedback on the TH-50PX6U. thanks for all advice..[/QUOT
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++



++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++
Putting the few extra features aside (60u and 600u) the 6u is the same basic tv. It will give you same quality picture on the screen. The enclosures are somewhat different on the 6u, 60u, and 600u. Right now, at Costco, the 6u becomes a best buy. Say, in 3 years, the set has a dead pixel and you are unhappy, take it back for full refund.

Hi Richard,
The glass for the 60U and 600U are the same as is the video processing board. Main difference is the on board speakers and features in the 600U.
I think it is a great entry level system.

I had the same experience with Vizio LCD TVs. I returned the 42 inch model for popping noises at startup (about 15 minutes worth) and shutdown. Returned the 46 inch for humming noise. Also bought a Panasonic Plasma (50 inch) and am very happy.

Bought the 50" Vizio plasma at C___co online in August. Went to my local location yesterday and told them that I have 2 dead pixels. They took my membership card and printed out the receipt and said bring the unit back and we'll give you store credit for the full purchase price (including shipping). A great thing in that all the prices have dropped 200-400 bucks in the last 4 months.

Now I'm considering the Panny 50" or the Samsung 5033. The Samsung has more features (RGB, PiP for example) but I've heard good things about the panny 6U. Any thoughts or suggestions?

This will be wall mounted and I notice the inputs on the panny are on the back instead of under the unit. This could also pose a problem.

Say, in 3 years, the set has a dead pixel and you are unhappy, take it back for full refund.
Richard, according to anecdotes from posters here as well as general sentiment of several people posting here this would be viewed as abuse and would potentially get you a public lecture from a Costco manager (not to mention your Costco membership flagged).

Richard, according to anecdotes from posters here as well as general sentiment of several people posting here this would be viewed as abuse and would potentially get you a public lecture from a Costco manager (not to mention your Costco membership flagged).





...and, according to 3 Costco store managers I have spoken with, it would not be abuse and they would be pleased to refund my money if I was not 100 percent satisfied..with my purchase from Costco. I shop at a Costco store most every week..know many of the employees by name. And I enjoy the shopping experience..as well as the chocolate chip cookies. I had a problem with a projector/screen (in about 14 months), took it back, and got full refund..no problems whatsoever. Other people believe what they want. I feel very confident shopping at a Costco store. I have the executive membership and, in affect, my yearly charges..are zero..getting 2 percent back on purchases. I just bought a $1300 Nikon d80 camera at Costco..with 2 nikkor lenses. Other stores you pay same for one lens. And I have a 'lifetime' warranty. I may even buy a car thru Costso..altho..not a lifetime warranty on that purchase..but a very good price. Hey, we all have our favorite shopping places..no big deal..I happen to like Costco.
Other people have their favorites and that is perfectly ok. I would shop at Costco even without the great warranty. To me, that is another plus.

I just ordered the Pioneer 5070 plasma last week from Costco online. Actually, I ordered it on Thursday, then on Friday morning I had noticed that the price had dropped $300 overnight, so I cancelled and re-ordered. Anyway, the web site says it takes about 20 business days to deliver it. My guess is that is a somewhat inflated and conservative estimate. Those of you that have ordered large flat panels from Costco online, how long did the delivery actually take? Was it anywhere near the stated 20 business days (3-4 weeks)?

--Raleigh

I think that a far as the Costco comments are concerned, it should be remembered that not everyone who shops at Costco goes there only to buy an expensive HDTV. They shop for other merchandise, produce, clothing, pharmacy items, etc. I don't have any hard statistics, but I would be willing to bet that the majority of shoppers at Costco (or Sams Club) will walk by the various HDTV displays, maybe glance at them and continue on with what they came to shop for. When I was there buying my HDTV, I stood in line with my boxed Panny plasma on a cart. Looking around at all the checkout stands, the lines were about 10 to 15 people deep at all the checkout stands and I was the only one with a tv on a cart. It would be interesting to know just how much Costco depends on HDTV sales in their business plan. My guess is that while they are big ticket items, HDTV sales don't account for a large amount of their overall sales and by extension...profit.

I will bet anything TVs are less than .001 of their sailes. People shop Costco for food and other houshold items. In lines you rarely see TVs of computers. Mostly it is full carts of food. I shop Costco all the time and electronics is a small percentage of their sales.

There have been many posts where Costco employees have had different interpretations of their return policy. We need to keep in mind we're dealing with human beings here.

Imagine you're talking to a store manager that was just promoted, he's 100% gung-ho and wants Costco (and, specifically, his store) to make a lot of money. He's going to do whatever he can to discourage abuse of the return policy.

Now imagine you're talking to a middle-aged Mom working at the return counter. This Mom was just reprimanded for clocking in five minutes late for her shift. She couldn't care less if Costco makes any money, in fact she's thinking of quitting and looking for a new job. You walk up and ask about returning a ten year old set and she replies "Sure, bring it in, we'll refund your money." You walk away happy, while the Mom is thinking to herself "I'll teach that manager a lesson..."


Very wrong logic. Costco people are very much happy to be there. They have highest salaries in the industry and benefits. Rarely they leave Costco and they all pretty much love working there. There had been few specials about Costco on TV and this is a part of their success.

I recently bought a digital camera through Costco's web site and was concerned that the model would be upgraded this February. Knowing their policy and not wanting to abuse it I called and told them I was hesitant and asked what they recommended. The sales rep told me to just bring it back if they did and I could repurchase the new one. I think I could now do that guilt free.

Does anyone here know if they have any "price protection" policy if they drop a price? I am considering the Sony 46" LCD but currently their price is $550 over Amazon...that seems like a lot for the peace of mind of their return policy. However the price will probably drop in the next month or 2. If it does will they credit my account the difference? I realize that theoretically I could bring the TV back for a full refund and rebuy at the new lower price but don't really want to go through that. Was wondering if they had an adjustment period.

I was told by the Membership associate, that the "30 day" sign was for price guarantee....Costco lowers the price, they'll refund you the difference. I do understand your theoretical point however.

Finally picked up the Panny 6U at my nearby Costco on saturday. They had reduced the price to the same as their online price (and no shipping charges). Got it set up with no problems. Hooked it up to my DirecTv (SD DVR) and immediately turned all the settings down for the breakin period.

I was surprised. Pleasantly surprised. The picture, while not great, was a whole heck of alot better than what I was expecting. Of course, it varied widely by channel, with the locals being consistantly crappy. Some of the premiums weren't bad at all. Started to look at a couple of DVD's, and I can already see the promise of this display.

It was almost too good. I had to confirm a few times that the settings were still down where I set them - I thought maybe they got reset somehow.

Can hardly wait until the breakin period is over and I can fiddle with the settings with AVIA & DVE.

Oh, one bad point. It is definitely sensitive to reflections. Already moved a few things, and my wife says she will consider painting the opposite wall a darker color.

3. Returning a TV after 4 years is an abuse of the policy and manager's jobs are to let the member know that this is the case, but still give them their money back. You cant give an unconditional guarantee in this business and let the world know bring your dead plant back after 10 years.

Then don't offer an unconditional guarantee. In NY State, unlimited means unlimited, and our former Attorney General (now Governor-elect) sued merchants who offered "unlimited minutes" or "unconditional guarantees" who attempted to redefine what the word "unlimited" meant. Some tried to attach "reasonable" to that definition without explicitly disclosing it to consumers, others said "unlimited" in the bold print and then tried to take that away in the small print without being specific.

In every case, the merchant lost and settled the case. In New York, if it says "unlimited" or "unconditional" that is exactly what it means, and there can be no limitations placed on that unless they are explicitly and clearly disclosed in advance. That's why a lot of merchants aren't using those words in their marketing, especially in this state. A Costco manager can say whatever they like to an end customer, and as long as the money is refunded, there is no problem -- they can even cancel and refund the membership. But if Costco refused a refund in NY claiming an undefined limit was reached, if the consumer contacted the state Attorney Generals office, that consumer will end up receiving a full refund after the first letter goes out.

One unrelated case involved a voice over IP phone provider which offered unlimited calling, right up until the point the customer's account was suspended because he went over an undefined limit. Not only did the consumer end up with a full refund of that month's service, the state Attorney General forced the provider to refund 100% of what was charged since the day the consumer signed up (at least six months worth) as a punitive penalty for violating the state's consumer protection laws.

Back to the matter at hand, I agree that return abuse is bottom feeding and those who do it are scum. But merchants should never promise something they aren't willing to deliver. To do so invites marketing departments to find new ways of promising things they need not worry about delivering.

Then don't offer an unconditional guarantee. In NY State, unlimited means unlimited, and our former Attorney General (now Governor-elect) sued merchants who offered "unlimited minutes" or "unconditional guarantees" who attempted to redefine what the word "unlimited" meant. Some tried to attach "reasonable" to that definition without explicitly disclosing it to consumers, others said "unlimited" in the bold print and then tried to take that away in the small print without being specific.

In every case, the merchant lost and settled the case. In New York, if it says "unlimited" or "unconditional" that is exactly what it means, and there can be no limitations placed on that unless they are explicitly and clearly disclosed in advance. That's why a lot of merchants aren't using those words in their marketing, especially in this state. A Costco manager can say whatever they like to an end customer, and as long as the money is refunded, there is no problem -- they can even cancel and refund the membership. But if Costco refused a refund in NY claiming an undefined limit was reached, if the consumer contacted the state Attorney Generals office, that consumer will end up receiving a full refund after the first letter goes out.

One unrelated case involved a voice over IP phone provider which offered unlimited calling, right up until the point the customer's account was suspended because he went over an undefined limit. Not only did the consumer end up with a full refund of that month's service, the state Attorney General forced the provider to refund 100% of what was charged since the day the consumer signed up (at least six months worth) as a punitive penalty for violating the state's consumer protection laws.

Back to the matter at hand, I agree that return abuse is bottom feeding and those who do it are scum. But merchants should never promise something they aren't willing to deliver. To do so invites marketing departments to find new ways of promising things they need not worry about delivering.


Costco's policy is this: If you are not happy with ANYTHING that Costco sells, you may return it no questions asked for a full refund. Period. In any State.

That being said, I would not feel right returning a perfectly good working TV a couple of years later just so I can upgrade to a new one. That's complete bottom feeding.

If I was having alot of trouble or the thing conked out within the warranty period, say a year, then I would be ok with a return.

I'm thinking that most folks who buy from Costco are not bottom feeders and Costco is able to have and continue this wonderful policy because the scum are in the noise.

Can anyone comment on the 42" Sceptre LCD on sale at Costco online until the 10th? The price looks great and my 4 TEENAGERS would love me if I got the family something like this for the holiday.
Sorry, I know nothing about HDTV's and have just joined this forum.
Many thanks

I just ordered the Pioneer 5070 plasma last week from Costco online. Actually, I ordered it on Thursday, then on Friday morning I had noticed that the price had dropped $300 overnight, so I cancelled and re-ordered. Anyway, the web site says it takes about 20 business days to deliver it. My guess is that is a somewhat inflated and conservative estimate. Those of you that have ordered large flat panels from Costco online, how long did the delivery actually take? Was it anywhere near the stated 20 business days (3-4 weeks)?

--Raleigh

I just bought the Panny 50PX6U online a week ago (last Tuesday). Once I completed the online order I was distressed to see the 20 day delivery window, so the next day I decided to pick it up myself at the local Costco (in Waltham, MA). Sure enough, I got a call from the shipping company yesterday saying it was ready for delivery.

So the 20 day window wasn't really the case for me.

Costco's policy is this: If you are not happy with ANYTHING that Costco sells, you may return it no questions asked for a full refund. Period. In any State.

That being said, I would not feel right returning a perfectly good working TV a couple of years later just so I can upgrade to a new one. That's complete bottom feeding.

If I was having alot of trouble or the thing conked out within the warranty period, say a year, then I would be ok with a return.

I'm thinking that most folks who buy from Costco are not bottom feeders and Costco is able to have and continue this wonderful policy because the scum are in the noise.

What if the thing conked out in 2 years, outside the standard 1 year warranty window. Would you return it without feeling you are a bottom feeder?

Finally picked up the Panny 6U at my nearby Costco on saturday. They had reduced the price to the same as their online price (and no shipping charges). Got it set up with no problems. Hooked it up to my DirecTv (SD DVR) and immediately turned all the settings down for the breakin period.

I was surprised. Pleasantly surprised. The picture, while not great, was a whole heck of alot better than what I was expecting. Of course, it varied widely by channel, with the locals being consistantly crappy. Some of the premiums weren't bad at all. Started to look at a couple of DVD's, and I can already see the promise of this display.

It was almost too good. I had to confirm a few times that the settings were still down where I set them - I thought maybe they got reset somehow.

Can hardly wait until the breakin period is over and I can fiddle with the settings with AVIA & DVE.

Oh, one bad point. It is definitely sensitive to reflections. Already moved a few things, and my wife says she will consider painting the opposite wall a darker color.
I have the same Panny (bought from Costco) as you and have found that the SD stations are very good. Right now I'm watching Call Me Claus on Lifetime via Dish Network...it's an SD signal...and I find no fault with it. I can say that while researching this set prior to buying, I viewed it at CC where they had Comcast as the source for all their displays. I had the manager switch from an HD channel to an SD station for comparison as I do watch a lot of SD. I noticed that when he selected an analog station from Comcast (channels from 69 down), that the PQ was watchable but overall not good. However, when he moved up to the digital SD channels, the PQ was very good. On another note, I've found that the tv defaults to Vivid when playing a DVD. Anyway, I've had this set going on 2 weeks now and have been doing the 100 hour break in. Looking at the Panasonic site, after the intial 100 break-in, they recommend an additional 900 hours of break-in at 50% reduction of Picture and Brightness. That's an additional 18 weeks of break in at my usage rate. Anyway, I am very happy with this set.

I was discussing this with a co-worker today.

Her family purchased a Panasonic plasma from Costco last year. It suffered
4 different breakdowns during the first 12 months and all were fixed by Panasonic
under the factory warranty. It recently developed another problem which caused
the entire screen, including the on-screen menus, to look fuzzy or out-of-focus.
Panasonic did send a tech out and he concluded that the repair will cost several
hundred dollars, with no guarantees.

Should they take the thing back to Costco? They no longer have the original
remote, the box, and the manuals. But they do still have the original receipt,
as well as the three Panasonic repair receipts, all taped to the back of the stand.

I was discussing this with a co-worker today.

Her family purchased a Panasonic plasma from Costco last year. It suffered
4 different breakdowns during the first 12 months and all were fixed by Panasonic
under the factory warranty. It recently developed another problem which caused
the entire screen, including the on-screen menus, to look fuzzy or out-of-focus.
Panasonic did send a tech out and he concluded that the repair will cost several
hundred dollars, with no guarantees.

Should they take the thing back to Costco? They no longer have the original
remote, the box, and the manuals. But they do still have the original receipt,
as well as the three Panasonic repair receipts, all taped to the back of the stand.

Sounds like a lemon unit. Unfortunately, unlike cars, there is no lemon law for these consumer goods. If a unit is under warranty, the manufacturer is entitled to repair or replace. If out of warranty, then it is up to the consumer to fund the repair or replacement of the unit.

And that's why Costco's warranty is great. It currently does not give any time restrictions. They are a business though, and the returns must dent away at their profit margin, so I wouldn't be surprised if they went away with their unlimited no questions asked warranty. Business models do have to evolve, just like the products they represent.
.

I was discussing this with a co-worker today.

Her family purchased a Panasonic plasma from Costco last year. It suffered
4 different breakdowns during the first 12 months and all were fixed by Panasonic
under the factory warranty. It recently developed another problem which caused
the entire screen, including the on-screen menus, to look fuzzy or out-of-focus.
Panasonic did send a tech out and he concluded that the repair will cost several
hundred dollars, with no guarantees.

Should they take the thing back to Costco? They no longer have the original
remote, the box, and the manuals. But they do still have the original receipt,
as well as the three Panasonic repair receipts, all taped to the back of the stand.

A similar thing happened to me with a Sony 50" A10. The original bulb blew after ~ 2months of ownership. The replacement blew ~ 6months later. Both replacements were covered under warranty. The second replacement let go ~ a month after the warranty expired. I was quoted a price of $ 349.00 from Sony for a new bulb.

I returned the set to Costco and picked up the Panny 6U.

Costco Rule: any discussion touching on Costco will eventually devolve into an argument over what constitutes abuse of its return policy :)

Moderator, would you consider opening a seperate thread for Costco Warrenty discussion so this thread could return to a meanful diverse discusson per the thread title?

The thread is also for support and support issues, so the return policy/warranty, is also per the thread title.