Ockie
12-04-2010, 10:13 AM
Just a footnote....if you use a MTN sim in the modem, the warranty will not kick in and if something goes wrong with the modem Vodacare will not book the unit in.
View Full Version : Using a competitor SIM in a Vodacom device voids your warranty
morkhans
12-04-2010, 10:51 AM
Just a footnote....if you use a MTN sim in the modem, the warranty will not kick in and if something goes wrong with the modem Vodacare will not book the unit in.
VodaCare: Did you ever use a MTN SIM in the device?
Client: No.
VodaCare: Here is your ref.
Problem solved ;)
Besides, we all know voiding the warranty purely based on the SIM used is a cheap shot. I don't understand how companies get away with blatant anti-competitive behaviour like that.
VodaCare: Did you ever use a MTN SIM in the device?
Client: No.
VodaCare: Here is your ref.
Problem solved ;)
Besides, we all know voiding the warranty purely based on the SIM used is a cheap shot. I don't understand how companies get away with blatant anti-competitive behaviour like that.
Ockie
12-04-2010, 11:01 AM
VodaCare: Did you ever use a MTN SIM in the device?
Client: No.
VodaCare: Here is your ref.
Problem solved ;)
Besides, we all know voiding the warranty purely based on the SIM used is a cheap shot. I don't understand how companies get away with blatant anti-competitive behaviour like that.
HEHE...does not exactly work like that. When we book in a phone, the IMEI gets checked against the warranty database. If the modem was never used with a Vodacom SP sim, then the system will not accept the booking. If the IMEI was not used with a Vodacom SP sim within the last consecutive 90 days, then the warranty will go pending and the system will not accept the booking. You can of course pop in a Vodacom SP sim and leave it in over night. This will then reinstate the warranty....BUT, if something goes wrong with the unit and it is unable to connect to the network to register the IMEI, then you are buggered.
Client: No.
VodaCare: Here is your ref.
Problem solved ;)
Besides, we all know voiding the warranty purely based on the SIM used is a cheap shot. I don't understand how companies get away with blatant anti-competitive behaviour like that.
HEHE...does not exactly work like that. When we book in a phone, the IMEI gets checked against the warranty database. If the modem was never used with a Vodacom SP sim, then the system will not accept the booking. If the IMEI was not used with a Vodacom SP sim within the last consecutive 90 days, then the warranty will go pending and the system will not accept the booking. You can of course pop in a Vodacom SP sim and leave it in over night. This will then reinstate the warranty....BUT, if something goes wrong with the unit and it is unable to connect to the network to register the IMEI, then you are buggered.
ginggs
12-04-2010, 11:03 AM
Just a footnote....if you use a MTN sim in the modem, the warranty will not kick in and if something goes wrong with the modem Vodacare will not book the unit in.
You had better be joking. :mad:
You had better be joking. :mad:
Ockie
12-04-2010, 11:12 AM
You had better be joking. :mad:
*runs as fast as his little legs can carry him*
Sorry guys, but this has always been the case. The warranty terms was also published on the Vodacom website...trying to find it on the new site, but cant. urg
*runs as fast as his little legs can carry him*
Sorry guys, but this has always been the case. The warranty terms was also published on the Vodacom website...trying to find it on the new site, but cant. urg
morkhans
12-04-2010, 11:27 AM
HEHE...does not exactly work like that. When we book in a phone, the IMEI gets checked against the warranty database. If the modem was never used with a Vodacom SP sim, then the system will not accept the booking. If the IMEI was not used with a Vodacom SP sim within the last consecutive 90 days, then the warranty will go pending and the system will not accept the booking. You can of course pop in a Vodacom SP sim and leave it in over night. This will then reinstate the warranty....BUT, if something goes wrong with the unit and it is unable to connect to the network to register the IMEI, then you are buggered.
It's like a car manufacturer voiding your warranty because you used BP instead of Shell.
It's like a car manufacturer voiding your warranty because you used BP instead of Shell.
Ockie
12-04-2010, 11:39 AM
It's like a car manufacturer voiding your warranty because you used BP instead of Shell.
Me and my big mouth. *sigh*
Sorry guys...but that is just how its always been....and rather you be aware of it than not.
Me and my big mouth. *sigh*
Sorry guys...but that is just how its always been....and rather you be aware of it than not.
morkhans
12-04-2010, 11:45 AM
Me and my big mouth. *sigh*
oc, we always appreciate the input, so thanks for pointing out.
Sorry guys...but that is just how its always been....and rather you be aware of it than not.
Which doesn't mean it can't be challenged and changed. This is anti-competitive and bad for the consumer.
oc, we always appreciate the input, so thanks for pointing out.
Sorry guys...but that is just how its always been....and rather you be aware of it than not.
Which doesn't mean it can't be challenged and changed. This is anti-competitive and bad for the consumer.
Ockie
12-04-2010, 12:01 PM
I am not saying this is the reason why, but I think Vodacom SP is so strict with this to help keep service levels up and to give our active clients better service. Consider this scenario:
You book your phone in and you are a paying client with a active account. Another client who bought his phone from a Vodashop but is using a MTN/CellC sim in it books his phone in also. Now you have ot wait longer because his also needs to be repaired? I dont think that is fair. But like I said...you can have the warranty reinstated by simply putting in a VSP sim and leave it for a couple of hours for the IMEI to register again in the warranty database...but there is the risk of the phone not being able to connect to the network due to the fault and then the warranty database will not update.
You book your phone in and you are a paying client with a active account. Another client who bought his phone from a Vodashop but is using a MTN/CellC sim in it books his phone in also. Now you have ot wait longer because his also needs to be repaired? I dont think that is fair. But like I said...you can have the warranty reinstated by simply putting in a VSP sim and leave it for a couple of hours for the IMEI to register again in the warranty database...but there is the risk of the phone not being able to connect to the network due to the fault and then the warranty database will not update.
morkhans
12-04-2010, 12:09 PM
At the end of the day whether you subsidised the device on contract or bought it cash. Vodacom supplied you the device. Which provider you use the device with should be your choice and should not affect the warranty or service level you receive. Using your analogy above you could even go so far as to say someone with a higher contract spend should get more priority than a pre-paid user, rocky ground you find yourself on there...
Ockie
12-04-2010, 12:12 PM
True. Well, the 1st year manufacturer warranty will still be there...but then you have to take it to the manufacturer.
xrapidx
12-04-2010, 12:14 PM
They told me the same thing when I bought my R170 cellphone. I can't think its legal though.
Ockie
12-04-2010, 12:17 PM
You must use our wonderfull network and give us more money...then we fix it for you OK?! :-) *kidding*
xrapidx
12-04-2010, 12:19 PM
LOL - well I certainly won't be using MTN or CellC... even if you guys don't want to give me a HD2.
Strangely - the guy actually told me when I was buying a CellC phone R170 phone, then saw it was also available on VC.
Strangely - the guy actually told me when I was buying a CellC phone R170 phone, then saw it was also available on VC.
VodacomData
12-04-2010, 04:35 PM
You know our network is the best:)
morkhans
12-04-2010, 04:39 PM
You know our network is the best:)
And also the most expensive to use ;)
And also the most expensive to use ;)
xrapidx
12-04-2010, 04:52 PM
You know our network is the best:)
Network - maybe, sales - not. :)
And also the most expensive to use ;)
Not if you take into account MTN billing errors :p
Network - maybe, sales - not. :)
And also the most expensive to use ;)
Not if you take into account MTN billing errors :p
morkhans
12-04-2010, 04:58 PM
Network - maybe, after-sales - not. :)
There, fixed it for you.
There, fixed it for you.
xrapidx
12-04-2010, 05:03 PM
There, fixed it for you.
Pre-sales too - they wouldn't help me with an HD2.
Pre-sales too - they wouldn't help me with an HD2.
Ockie
12-04-2010, 05:48 PM
Network - maybe, sales - not. :)
I actually offered that Vodacom clone me and put little Ockies in every Vodashop to pump up the service...but they did not bite. Something about my personality they did not like! pft. What do they know hehe.
I actually offered that Vodacom clone me and put little Ockies in every Vodashop to pump up the service...but they did not bite. Something about my personality they did not like! pft. What do they know hehe.
Sponge Bob Square Pants
12-04-2010, 07:32 PM
If your vodacom purchased handset is within its 1st year warranty and if you where using a competitors network.All you need is the proof of purchase.The 90 day rule only applies to the second year warranty.You can call 0821944(vodacare customer care line) free from any vodacom cellphone during office hours to confirm
evilstebunny
13-04-2010, 05:22 PM
You know our network is the best:)
USED TO BE. Maybe.
USED TO BE. Maybe.
Ockie
13-04-2010, 06:09 PM
USED TO BE. Maybe.
not what my corporates saying that has lines with both networks. porting yet another MTN line over to us tomorrow. *shake my bum bum*:D
And no...I dont give corporates special treatment. When I was working in a retail store I would always do my best for clients.
not what my corporates saying that has lines with both networks. porting yet another MTN line over to us tomorrow. *shake my bum bum*:D
And no...I dont give corporates special treatment. When I was working in a retail store I would always do my best for clients.
EchoZA
13-04-2010, 06:36 PM
Try that with an iPhone :p and you get the run around, each party passing the proverbial buck to the other party!
EDIT : I have been with VC for a long time now (on the same number, and with other accounts) Longest running number with them goes back to 1998 :)
EDIT : I have been with VC for a long time now (on the same number, and with other accounts) Longest running number with them goes back to 1998 :)
Ockie
13-04-2010, 06:38 PM
Try that with an iPhone :p and you get the run around, each party passing the proverbial buck to the other party!
Cant help it if Apple thinks their sh+t dont stink and we not allowed to open the phone for repair. tsk tsk tsk
Cant help it if Apple thinks their sh+t dont stink and we not allowed to open the phone for repair. tsk tsk tsk
JimM
14-04-2010, 09:20 AM
How do networks get away with this? Can you imagine buying a new car and being told you can only use one fuel brand and if that fuel brand is not detected in the tank you then have no warranty??
I'm sure this unfair practice will fall away once the new trading laws come into force! Along with self renewing gym contracts that tie you in for another 12 months even though you didn't sign for another 12 months!
Most pre-pay adverts state: "comes with free Vodacom (or whatever network) SIM pack" therefore by this statement, they have sold you a cellular handset and as such the manufacture or their agent must repair the handset. Vodacom may be able to wiggle out of the two-year warranty because this is not manufactures warranty!
Of course then it'll be returned as "water" damage! Another SOB used by all SA networks or should I say some of their rogue technicians!
I'm sure this unfair practice will fall away once the new trading laws come into force! Along with self renewing gym contracts that tie you in for another 12 months even though you didn't sign for another 12 months!
Most pre-pay adverts state: "comes with free Vodacom (or whatever network) SIM pack" therefore by this statement, they have sold you a cellular handset and as such the manufacture or their agent must repair the handset. Vodacom may be able to wiggle out of the two-year warranty because this is not manufactures warranty!
Of course then it'll be returned as "water" damage! Another SOB used by all SA networks or should I say some of their rogue technicians!
Keeper
14-04-2010, 09:29 AM
Haha I see Vodacom is starting to get worried about some of their users inserting MTN/Telkom SIMs into their modems
Ockie
14-04-2010, 09:36 AM
How do networks get away with this? Can you imagine buying a new car and being told you can only use one fuel brand and if that fuel brand is not detected in the tank you then have no warranty??
Do you take your BMW to a Caltex filling station to be serviced or repaired? Not exactly the same thing is it. Running all the Vodacare centres must cost a pretty penny I am sure, and the Vodacare channel was put into place to service Vodacom Service Provider Company clients. If you insist on using MTN or any other sim in your Vodacom phone, then the manufacturer will then have to honour the warranty.
Do you take your BMW to a Caltex filling station to be serviced or repaired? Not exactly the same thing is it. Running all the Vodacare centres must cost a pretty penny I am sure, and the Vodacare channel was put into place to service Vodacom Service Provider Company clients. If you insist on using MTN or any other sim in your Vodacom phone, then the manufacturer will then have to honour the warranty.
rorz0r
14-04-2010, 10:00 AM
Don't see anything wrong with this. It's like buying a BMW through caltex and BMW gives you a 5 year guarantee but if you're always using caltex and it breaks at 6 years they will repair it for you. If you went off and started using shell then you're stuck or maybe you must go ask shell to repair it.
xumwun
14-04-2010, 10:09 AM
Just make sure to put the vodacom sim into the modem for a bit every month or so then you should be fine.
Sponge Bob Square Pants
14-04-2010, 08:10 PM
The problem we have in South Africa is that the Handsets manufactures don't have the resources to open repair centres everywhere.And they leave their problems to the cellphone networks.
Vodacom and MTN actualy doing us a BIg favour by having repair centres throught SA.Vodacom has 43 Vodacares and MTN has about the same.
The cellphone networks are not responsible for repairing your cellphone its your handset manufacturer.
So Now you know why if you buy a phone from Vodacom you must use Vodacom.Same with MTN and Cell C.Cell C does not have any repair centres.
Vodacom and MTN actualy doing us a BIg favour by having repair centres throught SA.Vodacom has 43 Vodacares and MTN has about the same.
The cellphone networks are not responsible for repairing your cellphone its your handset manufacturer.
So Now you know why if you buy a phone from Vodacom you must use Vodacom.Same with MTN and Cell C.Cell C does not have any repair centres.
xrapidx
14-04-2010, 09:44 PM
^^^ Thats not our problem - and they're also not doing us a favour, that's like me saying I'm doing them a favour by using their network.
If CellC doesn't have repair centres, do that not offer warranties?
Also, my phone has always had to go to Jhb from Cpt - are all these repair centres only in Jhb?
If CellC doesn't have repair centres, do that not offer warranties?
Also, my phone has always had to go to Jhb from Cpt - are all these repair centres only in Jhb?
BrandonH
14-04-2010, 10:13 PM
This type of behaviour from companies is fairly common I think.
For instance, Standard Bank will only pay staff salaries into a standard bank account. If you refuse to open a standard bank account then they will physically write you a cheque. All done so the staff don't go with their competitors. Vodacom thinks just because they put their name on the modem only they have rights to it, stupid, but expected.
For instance, Standard Bank will only pay staff salaries into a standard bank account. If you refuse to open a standard bank account then they will physically write you a cheque. All done so the staff don't go with their competitors. Vodacom thinks just because they put their name on the modem only they have rights to it, stupid, but expected.
Sponge Bob Square Pants
14-04-2010, 10:21 PM
How can you blame the cellphone network for your handset problems.The networks don't make phones,they only sell them.
You can only complain to your network if you have a network problem.
All Advanced repair centres are in JHB.It is not viable to put a ARC in every region.
Then you get customers saying Eish Vodacom giving me bad service because my phone is freezing".Next time I will try MTN".And when they have the same problem with MTN.They threaten to go to Vodacom and Cell C........The problem is the PHONE not network
You can only complain to your network if you have a network problem.
All Advanced repair centres are in JHB.It is not viable to put a ARC in every region.
Then you get customers saying Eish Vodacom giving me bad service because my phone is freezing".Next time I will try MTN".And when they have the same problem with MTN.They threaten to go to Vodacom and Cell C........The problem is the PHONE not network
xrapidx
14-04-2010, 11:23 PM
How can you blame the cellphone network for your handset problems.The networks don't make phones,they only sell them.
You can only complain to your network if you have a network problem.
All Advanced repair centres are in JHB.It is not viable to put a ARC in every region.
Then you get customers saying Eish Vodacom giving me bad service because my phone is freezing".Next time I will try MTN".And when they have the same problem with MTN.They threaten to go to Vodacom and Cell C........The problem is the PHONE not network
If Vodacom/MTN/CellC are offering warranty services, then its their own problem.
Game sell TVs, if there's a problem, you take it back to Game, you don't take it to the TV manufacturer.
You can only complain to your network if you have a network problem.
All Advanced repair centres are in JHB.It is not viable to put a ARC in every region.
Then you get customers saying Eish Vodacom giving me bad service because my phone is freezing".Next time I will try MTN".And when they have the same problem with MTN.They threaten to go to Vodacom and Cell C........The problem is the PHONE not network
If Vodacom/MTN/CellC are offering warranty services, then its their own problem.
Game sell TVs, if there's a problem, you take it back to Game, you don't take it to the TV manufacturer.
Ockie
15-04-2010, 07:52 AM
If Vodacom/MTN/CellC are offering warranty services, then its their own problem.
Game sell TVs, if there's a problem, you take it back to Game, you don't take it to the TV manufacturer.
Yes, and so you may. No one said you cant bring it to us. That is what the Vodacare channel is there fore. Provided the warranty on the phone is in place as per our Terms and Conditions.
Game sell TVs, if there's a problem, you take it back to Game, you don't take it to the TV manufacturer.
Yes, and so you may. No one said you cant bring it to us. That is what the Vodacare channel is there fore. Provided the warranty on the phone is in place as per our Terms and Conditions.
xrapidx
15-04-2010, 08:35 AM
Yes, and so you may. No one said you cant bring it to us. That is what the Vodacare channel is there fore. Provided the warranty on the phone is in place as per our Terms and Conditions.
Don't worry - have nothing against Vodacom (except sales :p) - just finding his argument that we owe the supplier something a bit off.
I don't think Vodacom (or any other SP) have a leg to stand on while the phone is under manufacturer warranty - after that is over, I'm quite happy with them only providing an extended service IF you use their network.
Thing is, what happens if I buy a modem (which I did) - and I only use it every now and then, the last time I used it was six months ago... ? I haven't been using it on another network, but I also haven't been using it.... and then something goes wrong? (I only use it when travelling, which fortunately I haven't had to do in awhile.
Don't worry - have nothing against Vodacom (except sales :p) - just finding his argument that we owe the supplier something a bit off.
I don't think Vodacom (or any other SP) have a leg to stand on while the phone is under manufacturer warranty - after that is over, I'm quite happy with them only providing an extended service IF you use their network.
Thing is, what happens if I buy a modem (which I did) - and I only use it every now and then, the last time I used it was six months ago... ? I haven't been using it on another network, but I also haven't been using it.... and then something goes wrong? (I only use it when travelling, which fortunately I haven't had to do in awhile.
Ockie
15-04-2010, 08:41 AM
Thing is, what happens if I buy a modem (which I did) - and I only use it every now and then, the last time I used it was six months ago... ? I haven't been using it on another network, but I also haven't been using it.... and then something goes wrong? (I only use it when travelling, which fortunately I haven't had to do in awhile.
The warranty is now Void and Vodacare will not book the unit in should something go wrong. When you use it again and it registers on the network, the warranty will be reinstated. But like I said before, if something goes badly wrong and the modem is unable to connect to the network, then the warranty database will not be updated and the warranty will stay void.
The warranty is now Void and Vodacare will not book the unit in should something go wrong. When you use it again and it registers on the network, the warranty will be reinstated. But like I said before, if something goes badly wrong and the modem is unable to connect to the network, then the warranty database will not be updated and the warranty will stay void.
xrapidx
15-04-2010, 08:44 AM
The warranty is now Void and Vodacare will not book the unit in should something go wrong. When you use it again and it registers on the network, the warranty will be reinstated. But like I said before, if something goes badly wrong and the modem is unable to connect to the network, then the warranty database will not be updated and the warranty will stay void.
Is that mentioned in the T&C of the 2yr warranty though? That the device has to be used every 3 months... so it doesn't really have anything to do with using another provider, its more about actively using the device on the VC network?
Is that mentioned in the T&C of the 2yr warranty though? That the device has to be used every 3 months... so it doesn't really have anything to do with using another provider, its more about actively using the device on the VC network?
Ockie
15-04-2010, 08:48 AM
Is that mentioned in the T&C of the 2yr warranty though? That the device has to be used every 3 months... so it doesn't really have anything to do with using another provider, its more about actively using the device on the VC network?
It is mentioned yes. I posted the full terms and conditions in a related thread a while ago, but cant find it. urg. Basically yes, but whether it is inactive or used on another providers network comes down to the same thing.
It is mentioned yes. I posted the full terms and conditions in a related thread a while ago, but cant find it. urg. Basically yes, but whether it is inactive or used on another providers network comes down to the same thing.
xrapidx
15-04-2010, 08:51 AM
It is mentioned yes. I posted the full terms and conditions in a related thread a while ago, but cant find it. urg. Basically yes, but whether it is inactive or used on another providers network comes down to the same thing.
Saying inactive isn't anti-competitive though :)
Saying inactive isn't anti-competitive though :)
Ockie
15-04-2010, 08:52 AM
Saying inactive isn't anti-competitive though :)
potato potaato :-)
potato potaato :-)
JimM
16-04-2010, 03:48 PM
I'm keen to see what the Consumer Protection Act does with this practice! I'm pretty certain it'll say you bought a cellphone, they sold it to you and so they must repair it!
All of the dodgy gym contracts will fall by the wayside, this has been pointed out by lawyers already!
All of the dodgy gym contracts will fall by the wayside, this has been pointed out by lawyers already!