Plasma TV faulty under Empire Direct warrranty - What are my options?

IT_Troll

Hi,

In June 2007 I purchased a Panasonic Plasma TV from Empire Direct which came with a 5 year warranty for EdExtra members. The TV has suddenly developed the dreaded green line fault which I understand is a known weakness with the panel in this particular model. The only fix is to fit a whole new panel.

As Empire Direct are no more I contacted Panasonic. They have offered to "assist with the repair cost" if I first obtain a repair quotation from an authorised service centre. Reading the experiences of others, Panasonic will often cover some or all of the parts costs, leaving the labour costs to the individual. The trouble is the service centre want £75 to diagnose the fault and quote for the repair. I am reluctant to pay this just to find out how much more the repair will cost me and to what extent Panasonic will assist.

I did purchase the TV package (including EdExtra card and 5 year warranty) using a credit card and so would a better option be to invoke Section 75 and the Sale of Goods Act with my credit card company? If so should my claim be based on the TV having an inherent manufacturing fault, the goods not lasting a reasonable length of time, or the failure to provide the warranty service? If it makes a difference, the warranty is itemised on my receipt but it is listed as having zero cost.

I have never gone down this route before so any advice would be much appreciated.

Anihilator

Under te SOGA/Credit card route you would still need to prove the fault with a report and they could offer just a partial refund.

The TV is over 2 years old. I don't think Panasonic are being too unreasonable here given they have no legal obligation to help and the SOGA would probably not offer anything extra from the retailer.

bitemebankers

The extended warranty you took out - is it insurance backed? Have you got any information on it?

roddydogs

If you paid by CC, the Card company is liable for the warranty, but i should imagine it will be a lot of "Hassle"

IT_Troll

Thanks for the replies guys.

I have a single A4 sheet (back of the receipt) which details the T&Cs of the extended guarantee. It list the usual inclusions and exclusions of the plan. The last paragraph states:

"Your free of charge promotional product guarantee is administered by Empire Direct PLC..."

No mention of any insurance backing. If the warranty is free with the purchase of the TV how do I stand with regards to SOGA?