TLDR: 3rd occurrence of this fault. Sony terrible and deceitful; Richer Sounds replaced TV.
Third time I had this fault in 22 months. I bought the TV from Richer Sounds.
I refused a repair with Sony and had the case "escalated". I also reported it to RS and they said we’ll help if required, but must wait for Sony’s response.
Sony didn’t get back to me in the timeframe they gave.
Despite my instructions, Sony booked a repair.
The local subcontractor told me this, since they had ordered a new power board.
I called Sony, who said they had to go off the subcontractor’s recommendation, but would replace it if recommended.
The subcontractor said the TV is repairable (and admitted that recurrence is common), but Sony would not replace it if it can be repaired.
I told RS, who confirmed the number of previous repairs and and details with Sony.
RS told me that Sony will only repair if repair is possible (regardless of whether the repair has proven only temporary twice before).
RS offered a replacement TV from their range, with the option of adding money on top if my preferred TV costs more than the equivalent Sony model. Even my missing stand was less of an issue than anticipated (they charged a £30 fee—I was going to pay £40 for one on eBay if required)
I know my TV was a bad model/unit, but the deception and generally appalling service is what really struck me. I don’t like the whiny comments you see on support pages and forums with lists of Sony equipment—brand loyalty means nothing. Still, my disdain now is such that is that I will be selling my other Sony equipment except the—AV receiver, Walkman, headphones— and may never buy another Sony product. Conversely, I remain loyal to Richer Sounds.
