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    Best way to fix the laptop without warranty?

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by jin2112, Aug 20, 2005.

  1. jin2112

    jin2112 Newbie

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    ok..
    i bought thinkpad x23 from ebay paying only 400 bucks..
    few months later, my laptop started not to boot since it can't find hard drive..
    it seems like it's a mainboard problem.
    i am thinking about reparing my laptop but don't know what to do since it doesn't have any warrany.
    i am thinking about bringing my laptop to best buy so they can fix it. i think it will cost a lot of money if they replace my mainboard. i am also thinking about sending my laptop to ibm and i think this will cost a lot of money,too.
    is there any other options? what would you choose between those options?
     
    jin2112, Aug 20, 2005
    #1
  2. Andrew Baxter

    Andrew Baxter -

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    I don't think BestBuy is in the business of fixing ThinkPad machines, and a problem with the motherboard (sounds like the harddrive controller on the motherboard is shot) is going to be a big problem for fixing -- probably more than $400 to fix. I would try and get a quote from either IBM or a local qualified computer/notebook repair shop for what it'd take to replace the motherboard (it might be a wash to be honest).
     
    Andrew Baxter, Aug 20, 2005
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  3. dallasb

    dallasb Notebook Enthusiast

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    Stay away from Best Buy. :)

    Is the problem intermittant? Who made the hard drive? It is very possible that it is a drive problem and if that is the case it will be signifigantly cheaper to replace then the system board.

    Call IBM ask them if they can refer you to a local service provider that you can take your laptop too. Also ask if they offer out of warranty repair via mail-in and how much that typically costs.

    If you don't want to call IBM, look through your local yellow pages, there should be somebody in your area that does work on IBM laptops.

    If you are feeling particularly brave, grab the Hardware Manual and look up your notebook's systemboard FRU number. You could see if you can find the replacement part online and replace it yourself - it isn't especially hard if you take your time and are somewhat mechanically inclined.

    Good luck to you.
     
    dallasb, Aug 21, 2005
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  4. goga

    goga Notebook Consultant

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    From what you are saying, there is an HD problem, not a main board. Just get a new drive and stick it in there, ya'll be ok for a long time to come.
     
    goga, Aug 23, 2005
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  5. bootleg2go

    bootleg2go Notebook Deity NBR Reviewer

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    I agree,
    for sure don't be taking it to Bestbuy for repair. If it's not the hard drive, then send it back to IBM for service.

    jack
     
    bootleg2go, Aug 23, 2005
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