2 week old Inspiron 1525, C: drive error messages, and overheated

Well, I've had a few weird things go on with my new 1525. First off, I've had a couple of times when I've logged on to vsta that the touchpad goes crazy, the arrow goes all over the place and opens about 10 different programs...just by moving my finger across it.

Second, I've had an error message saying that the C: could not be found. I closed the lid on it, expecting it to go into standby. Instead, I open it up and notice that this sucker is hot, and the C: can not be found error message again.

I looked at the bottom of it, and even the windows vista sticker has what looks like a burn spot on it where it got so hot.

At this point, I'm thinking I need to send this baby back. My question is, did I just get a fluke, or are there chances that if I get another 1525 I'll have the same problems.

How big of a hassle is returning a laptop to Dell?

 

I had a Dell Inspiron 1525, and I didn't experience anything overheating. My recommendation is sending the unit back as from reading your post, it is defective.

The return process is okay, but DON'T let them con you into getting a replacement if you don't want to, otherwise get a new one. I would instead get the Studio 15 or 17, better anyways.

 

yeha. i think that ur laptop got rly messed up during build time or u got a rly bad piece. anyways, i think u have time to return, get full refund and buy a studio 15.

 

Have you tried reinstalling your OS? If this has been happening before, this might be caused by a bad install. If not, may be caused by virus or spyware (What sites have you or anybody who has access to your laptop been visiting for the past two weeks?).

I think the burnt part of your COA sticker that you are saying at the bottom of your notebook is the new COA design. Something like a hole in the middle.

I don't know about the heating issue, but unless your laptop freezes or turns off, I don't think that it's really an issue at all. The mouse jumping around and random opening of apps sounds like software issues to me , not hardware.

Mine heats up too especially when the cpu is loaded specially around the touchpad, but that's it.

 

I called Dell and told them what was going on, I received the return authorization and they emailed me the UPS return label.

Here is a picture of the COA sticker, you can see where it is discolored.


I would consider getting a replacement if a)I received a brand new laptop just like what was originally purchased. b) I bought this laptop on a tax-free weekend, therefore I would not want to have to pay sales tax on the replacement. Could that be done? If so, I might just opt for a replacement.

 

Well, the burnt part on your COA you're talking about is in fact the new COA from microsoft. Check this out for more info and pictures. http://www.microsoft.com/resources/howtotell/popup.aspx?displaylang=en&fid=21

I think if you go for a replacement, you're going to get a refurbished unit. So, I suggest you should just return it and then order another if your 30 days is not yet up, but if you had a discount before, I guess you'll gonna have to do with what is offered on their website. Discount or no discount you still have the rights to return or get it replaced if you want to. The best thing to do now is call customer service and ask for your options. Besides, there are newer models up on their site now. Have you seen the inspiron 13?