Gateway Parts

Fixing Laptop Computer Power Supply- what is the most parts could cost to fix?

I have bought my laptops for years from a local laptop retailer whom advertises free repair (excluding parts) for entire life of computer. Their laptops are definitely marked up quite a bit (even for identical models on the net: Asus, Microstar) but I have really enjoyed the piece of mind and have been a loyal customer until just recent. I now think there is a possibility the retailer is being dishonest with me and essentially have a hunch they are building a lot of their so called "no labor charge" into parts prices. Upon casual questioning of the assumed inflated amount (which I will not disclose in order to get an unbiased second opinion) I was told "the power supply part is not only quite expensive but that we also have to use real silver to solder to the mother board (Asus)". I was warily satisfied with the answer and let them fix it- but now I am left thinking should I continue to patron what seems to be a classic example of dishonest advertising and overall business model

Public Comments

1. I agree with you that this does seem a bit suspicious. But just to let you know, laptop parts and labor are definitely way more costly than they for desktops because laptop parts are built on a smaller scale (to fit inside and be lightweight) and sometimes repairs need to be done in a controlled environment so that particles from air (dust, oils, etc..) do not ruin the sensitive machinery inside a laptop. But from what you describe, it seems obvious to me that the retailer is being dishonest. Such power supplies will be expensive but not as expensive as the impression I am getting. Soldering only with "real silver" seems fishy too.