robd
Established Member
- Joined
- Nov 8, 2011
- Posts
- 2,205
Expensive day today.
Our three year old blood test machine ($18k) failed, outside its two year warranty (of course).
"Ok, s*** happens, how much to repair?"
"Standard minimum repair cost $4,644. Ninety day warranty on parts and labour - you pay shipping MEL-SYD-MEL. Or you can purchase an extended maintenance agreement for $6400 for four years."
"Take up the agreement and we'll replace your current dead machine with a brand new machine. You'll never see your old machine again."
"Or not, as you wish, and we'll fix your current machine (for at least $4644, but might be extra with parts once we have it back in the workshop)."
Hmmm... coriander thinks.... there's newer machines on market, maybe I just repair, sell it and move to an alternate brand machine.
"No problem, dr coriander, but be aware that we do not offer subsequent owner(s) a maintenance agreement, and the 90 day warranty on current repair applies only to current owner."
"Ok, what if I sell the practice - does maintenance agreement continue with new owner?"
"No. Read the "No assignment" bit in clause #3 - you will need to pay out full four years of agreement.
We *may* transfer the agreement to the new practice owner if you are retiring."
"Oh, can I have that in writing?"
"No. There *may* be an offer made. You have always been a good customer, so I wouldn't worry about it."
"Ok, so I keep the machine, but lease it to the new owner."
"Yes, as long as you abide by Clause #2 stating that you will be responsible for the use and maintenance of the machine and that it remains at current premises."
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Why do I feel that I've been royally screwed over?
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Yeah, they got you by the short ones.