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Edward of Revere MA (05/11/08)
sony kp46wt510 hdtv. convergence problem with red bulb. sony is aware of this but does not admit any responabilty. tv was purchased 9/21/03
repair estamate $731.54 half the price of the hdtv.
William of Fairfield CA (05/04/08)
The Sony KDFE50A10 (Grand Wega) projection Television we bought in November 2005 now has blue blobs in the bottom right hand corner of the picture and Sony, saying it is out of warranty, has refused to fix the television for us. This is an optical block problem according to the Sony repair person. The Sony customer service personnel are not customer service personnel but no people. The people I spoke with at Sony all just said no, it is out of warranty and your problem. The set was purchased at Costco and they have no repair service. So now I am stuck with a huge repair bill on an apparently poor quality television which I paid a premium price.
We paid approximately $2,500 for this television believing we were getting a premium television since we were paying a premium price. The repair cost will be somewhat more than $1000. The repair person indicated this is a common occurrence with Sony television sets and Sony has repaired other models at no cost to the owners but they refuse to fix this model.
Ross of Pahrump NV (05/04/08)
I purchased a 46 inch Sony projection television model KP-46WT510 less than four years ago. It cost almost $2000.00. Reecntly the D board failed. A VERY common problem with Sony Projection televisions I found. A bigger problem is that Sony does NOT stock, have or make a replacement. AND neither does anyone else. As my board cannot be repaired I have television that cost me about $500.00 a year to watch. I
have had many televisions throughout the years but NEVER one thatfailed so soon, and a company that did NOT have repair parts. AND Sony will NOT make any adjustments or stand behind this television in any way. Never again will I have a Sony of my ownnie....
I will now have to purchase a new television that will cost me over $1000.00. But you can bet it WON'T be a Sony...
Rusti of Santa Monica CA (04/26/08)
I purchased a SONY KDS55A2000 LCD 1080P HDMI Televison from Best Buy one year and 4 months ago for app. $2,500.00. When I purchased this TV at no time was I told that I had to replace the bulb to the tune of close to $300 after taxes & shipping every year. Any intelligent human being would not agree to this.
I find it hard to believe that a bulb can retail for $249.00 to begin with but even harder to believe that SONY and Best Buy would think there end user would be happy with this. I am outraged because I am left with no option other that to be extorted out of $300.00. I either pay this or throw away the $2,500 I spent on this set last year.
I am morally outraged at companies that feel they can rip off the consumer and get away with it.
Dana of Roanoke VA (04/16/08)
We purchased a 50 Sony vega in March of 07. Today the projection lamp went out. Its April of 08!!! 22 days past the warranty of one year and Sony refuses to help me! I have been brand loyal to Sony for years and I am so disappointed. Not to mention the customer service was a joke. They gave me the same run around that I have read in many of the postings here, when I could even understand what they were saying. Customer service is based out of the Phillipines???? They put you on hold and claim to consult other people I think in an effort to put you off. I will pay the $200.00 dollars for the lamp, and I will NEVER buy Sony again.
Geri of Detroit Lakes MN (04/13/08)
I purchased a 42 inch Sony model #KDF-E42A10 TV from Sears, spending $2,000. The set worked less than two years. Not purchasing the extended warranty I thought it couldn't be much to fix so I took it to a repair place, he checked it over and called me to see if I wanted to fix it as it would cost $758.00 as it needed an optical block which he said that Sony had a number of problems with this and replaced many of them but not on this particular model.
I then got on the phone to Sony at the above number and explained the situation, from then on all I got was the run around, I was talking to supposedly customer relations in the phillipeans, they informed me that TVs are not meant to last more than two years and I should have bought an extended warranty. Every time I asked a question he would put me on hold and I would assume ask someone else questions, when I asked to speak to his supervisor he said they were not in this office and I would have to write a letter to the executive review committee.
I then asked if I could speak to that department as the TV is at the repair shop and I would need to know if they would allow any compensation he then said he did not have a number for that, I then asked for a number to call in the U.S. he also said he did not have a number for that, I asked him his name he said he is not required to give his name, he tben gave me to someone else he said may help me, I asked her if she was his supervisor and she said yes, I then asked if she was in the same office and she replied yes, so I knew I was just getting the run around.
I guess I have no problem paying for the repair charge but I think when a TV that I paid so much for should last more than two years and they could furnish the part as they are known to have a problem with the optical board. This TV has hardly been used as there is no one home all day and out of town at least three months out of the year. Consequently the TV is still at the repair shop, which at this time I cannot afford to fix and certainly cannot afford another two thousand dollars for a new one. Could You please let me know what my options are in this matter or I'm just fighting a losing battle. Thanking you in advance for any information on this matter.
Katarzyna of Albuquerque NM (04/07/08)
I purchased the 53' Sony in September 2007 and have enjoyed the sound and picture of this television very much. However, just a few days ago the A-board fried while I was watching a program. The replacement part is going to be at least $1,000 and Sony is not willing to offer any relief on the cost of this piece. I have been loyal to Sony for many years, but will consider other brands on the next major purchase I make - which looks like its going to be another TV!
While the TV was great while it lasted the fact that the major board died after only seven months coupled with Sony's reluctance to even offer a discount on the part has left very dissatisfied. That was $3500.00 down the drain!!
Rich of Elk Grove CA (03/17/08)
About two years ago my wife and I purchased a Sony HDTV, model number KDF-E50A10. We spent over $2,000 on the unit. After about a year and a half and the warranty had expired, the picture became increasingly distorted with large purple blobs. I investigated the symptoms online and discovered the cause was a well documented flaw in the optical block. Replacement of this part costs around $1100. I contacted Sony customer service about the problem, and was told that since my warranty had expired, I would be expected to pay for the repair, despite the fact that Sony has known of the flaw for over a year.
My television picture is covered with large purple blobs, I cannot afford to have it repaired, nor can I afford a new HDTV. My wife and I are forced to watch this set as is. We had saved our money and waited for years to replace our old set. Now we're stuck with this situation.
Alfred of Lawrenceburg TN (03/12/08)
I own a 57 in tv projection screen, purchased Dec 03 and bought an extended warranty that expired Dec 07. The convergence went out in Jan 08, they refuse to fix this and one would think a tv would last 15 to 20 yrs. There are no Best Buys repair services in the area, and the closest sony repair is Decateur, TN , 50 miles away and they won't travel this far. I am a senior who can't move this thing. Sony has made a one time exception for $100 to buy a new tv or add this to the repair bill, such integrity and standing behind your product. We will never buy Sony again.
Damon of Houston TX (03/03/08)
Sony Repair Center had me send a Flash to them and charged me for the shipping and repairs prior to receiveing the flash. After it arrived they called me from the repair center to notify me that they do not repair flashes. I told them That this was a big scam because they wanted me to charge me for a new flash after I'd paid to send them my old flash. I have called customer relations and they have given me the biggest run around. They promised to call me back the next day after they looked into the matter.
Nelda of Heber Springs AR (02/18/08)
We purchased a Sony Grand Wega LCD projection TV in Jan., 2006. We have already had to replace the lamp at a cost of $387 and now it needs the optical assembly replaced at an estimate of $825. I contacted Sony and they refuse to do anything about it. After reading the complaints on the internet about Sony, I won't be buying anything else of their brand.
Peter of Georgetown OTHER (01/20/08)
Purchased a SonyKF-50WE620 rear projection TV in 2004 in Toronto Ontario. There are vertical lines in the screen and a green tinge to the picture. Was told the repair is more then the TV's worth and that it is quite common. I am going to buy another TV but definately not a Sony. Sorry to say that as their DVD and Audio equipment seems great. But they are really unhelpful regarding my problem. I am more dissapointed in their attitude then the actual problem. Things break down, but companies should take some action, should give credits towards future purchases or something. The cost of a new, equivalent TV will be around $2900.
Leon of Beech Island SC (01/12/08)
Approximately 3-4 years ago I purchased a Sony 65 rear projection TV. I recently had problems with the picture (convergence). I have a vast amount of repair experience and decided to make the repair myself. After removing the D board from the chassis, it was accidentally broken beyond repair. I contacted Sony for information on how to obtain a replacement board. The salesperson assured me that the board I needed was in stock and could be purchased for $185.50 plus shipping. After accepting all of my personal information, including charge card number and finalizing the purchase, the salesperson said she needed to contact the Technical services person to confirm the board was/is correct. She then stated she would let me talk to the Technician, who informed me that the board is no longer available and that there is no provision from Sony for replacing this part.
My understanding of consumer service from major manufacturers is that they are required to provide parts for their product for 10 years from the date of manufacture/sale. It has been less than five years since this TV was manufactured, and there is no longer a part to repair it. Therefore, a TV that should have a value of $800-$1000.00 is completely disabled due to a replacement D board being unavailable. I feel this is inherently unfair to the buying public and should be remedied. There are lots of consumers who purchased these products expecting many years of service with few repairs and certainly expecting the parts for the repairs to be readily available. I would like for Sony to offer a voucher with adequate value to replace the YV or offer a comparable TV at a fair price to compensate for this inconvenience.
William of Pahoa HI (01/02/08)
I purchased a Sony 32 or 34XBR910 HDTV from Sears in Hilo. We had the set for about a year when the thing wouldn't turn on immediatly. It would take a try or three with the remote to get it to catch and turn on. Progressively, it got worse. I didn't purchase an extended service agreement and If I did it would be out by now, anyway. We bought the set around Christmas of 2003. My complaint, after reading so many other such complaints, some having identical problems, is that why can't we expect such a major purchase to last 10 to 15 years without breaking? We have all had solid state tvs that still work even though they are way past their life cycle. But, does Sony feel that they can make money on the spare parts business? Since I don't feel I want to pay $500 or more for a repair, I asked Sony for a schematic so that I could try to fix the problem myself. The first response was to forward the issue to the Sony Hawaii Sales office. Their response was to take it to a repairman. The thing weighs over 200lbs, so moving it will be a major undertaking, too.
Jon of Glendale CA (12/19/07)
I purchased a Sony Vega 50 inch about three years ago. The lamp just went out and I had to spend $225 for the replacement lamp. I complained to Sony wondering if I had to replace the lamp every 3-4 years. No answer. They stated the new lamp I ordered only has a 90 day warranty. If it goes out again after ninety days, I will have to pay another $200.
Hilda of Porter Ranch CA (12/11/07)
We Purchased our 65 Sony TV from Good Guys on November 19, 2002, who are no longer in business. We also purchased a 5 years extended warranty from them. On May 15, 2007 our TV screen was turning red and bleeding around the corners of the screen, I called Sony and was referred to GE. I was then referred to Westwood electronics by GE, and they visited our home on several occasions and were never able to fix the problem. The year is almost to the end and our TV has never been fixed. GE also referred us to other repair service departments, and they were not able to fix it. Our warranty expired in October, and now GE is making up stories that they will not honor the warranty nor replace the TV. I have everything in writing, and I have complained to their legal department in writing as well as to Sony.
It is time for the public to see what kind of service GE gives and for them not to support then--especially their very rude customer service employees claiming they are the management. I have called GE several times with no answer. They should replace my TV or pay us back. I am tired of taking days off and having service techs come in and out of my house.
John of Mcdonough GA (12/10/07)
I purchased a Sony Grand WEGA LCD 60 TV in May of 2006 and twice thus far it has broken (Lamp block & GM board). This past October was the latest break-down. I had no problems getting it fixed the 1st time. However, now it seems no one at customer service either wants to do their job or they are just a bunch of idiots (you choose). It is now December 10th and I still have yet to reach a repair person because Sony keeps me going around in circles. I have spoken with and kept names, dates, and conversations.
Wendy of Brighton MI (12/09/07)
We purchased a $4000.00 WEGA 60 inch rear projection television 6/04. The projection block is failing and will cost $1500.00 to fix. Same story as others, is out of warranty. You think you are buying quality with this expensive of an item. Were considering fixing but notice the unrelated issues other owners are now facing. Have to ask, what is next?
Doug of Hopkins MI (12/05/07)
I purchased a $500 Sony Wega Trintiron 32 FD TV on December 3, 2005, Model KV-32FS120. After 2 years and 1 day the TV stopped. When it is turned on, only the timer blinks 5 times and no picture. I called Sony who informed me the warranty was expired and recommended a service shop. For $120 they will tell me it does not work and how much money it will take to solve the issue. It seems like a defect in the model. Higher quality and longer life is definitely expected from Sony and modern day electronic components. I strongly advise against purchasing Sony products. For now I'll watch my 17 year old Zenith.
Kevin of Kalamazoo MI (12/01/07)
Four years ago my wife and children saved their money to purchase a Sony 50-inch LCD wide screen T.V. for my Christmas present. The price with the warranty was $1500.00. Two months ago there was a loud buzz. Then the picture went out. We called the Sony Corporation service department. They gave us the information for a Sony repair person in the area. We called and found out that the repairs would be to costly. We were informed to put the T.V. on the lawn for trash pick up.
We called Sony Corporation back and we continue to be passed around to different people. We have been keeping a log of names, dates, and times. We are dealing with a new person as of 11-26-07. If this is not resolved in the next week, we are going to spread the word to our four hundred member congregation. We also plan to get the word to them through our newsletter.
Mayur of Lawrenceville NJ (11/25/07)
I purchased a $600 Sony Wega Trintiron 32 FD TV on July 2, 2005, Model KV-32FS120. After 2 years and 4 months the TV stopped. When it is turned on, only the timer blinks 5 times and no picture. Called Sony who said out of warranty and won't help. TV repairman says its a tube and circuit board problem and wants $450 to fix a $600 TV. I found many people with this same TV having the same problem after 1 or 2 years. It seems like a defect in the model.
I purchased A Sony dvd cam corder from Circuit City 2 days ago. I returned it because I have no trust in Sony products. Customer Service does not help. I won't suggest Sony products to anyone.
Jim of Silver Spring MD (10/23/07)
Purchased a Sony Wega 36 TV Model KD36SS130 for my mother's 80th birthday After 2 years of very light use it stopped working--no picture. Called Sony who said out of warranty and won't help. TV repairman says its a Flyback transformer and wants $450 to fix a TV that we paid $900 for. I found many people with this same TV having the same problem after 1 or 2 years. TV stops working. It sounds to me like a defect in the model.
Patricia of Crown Point IN (09/06/07)
We bought a 60 LCD Sony TV from Grants in 2003. The lamp bulb has gone out now for the second time. We paid 6000.00 for this TV. I complained to SONY, which was a waste of time. They told me whoever sold it to us should have told us that the lamp bulb would have to be replaced ever couple of years. At 300.00 to replace it every couple of years is utter insanity. I am sick to my stomach and will never buy a SONY product ever again.
Donald of Sparta TN (02/01/07)
On January 27, 2007 I purchased a television from the www.sonystyle.com website for $1267.60. I used my MasterCard to make the purchase. On January 30, 2007 Sony sent me an email stating that they were canceling my order. The email I received instructs me to re-order the television, however the price is now $2399.00.
I am sure that Sony would hold me accountable for any purchase agreement made online. I believe that an online purchase is a contract and should be enforceable by either party. Any business can change their prices anytime and that is fine, but once a purchase agreement is made with a customer, it should not be broken.
Larry of Gettysburg PA (12/18/06)
We purchased a Sony VEGA 36 TV (CRT) that turned out to be a BIG EXPENSIVE SONY LEMON!! 1 week after the lemons warranty ran out so did the picture, it wouldn't stay turned on for more than a minute! I called them and asked about possible assistance and was told that basically I was on my own, after all, this $3000.00 TV did last 1 year..
Are these things engineered to fail? after all this thing weighs 350 lbs ,, it sat in one spot for the entire year, it wasn't moved around or beat up or shaken and stirred, it was used for 20-30 hours a week ( a high estimate), my old 25GE lasted 20 years and was used in 4 different houses after being moved in the back of a pickup truck! I was so mad at sony that it sat for 6 months before I took it in for repairs,The bill was $600.00 and now it can only be turned on with the power button on the TV ,isn't that great ? a $3000.00 TV with a $100.00 remote and you've got to walk over to it ,to turn it on... anyway its been a little over a year since I got it back from the shop and now its acting up again! every 10 or 15 minutes it cuts off, it gets shorter all the time till eventually its every few minutes or less and then nothing at all ,,, and this time when it started doing the turn itself off crap I lost the color blue! there is no blue at all the picture sucks, There will never be another SONY product allowed in this house!!
This whole episode has caused us to lose faith in anything that sony makes and anything short of an apology and a new TV will never break our boycott. with the amount of money this piece of junk has cost I could be watching something real nice.
James of Hampton GA (11/04/06)
We purchased a SONY High Definition 50 inch LCD rear Projection TV from BEST BUY on August 7 2005. Within 40 days the tv was showing large discolored spots. Best Buy sent a technician to look at it and he confirmed the problem. He mentioned to me that the tv should just be replaced but BEST BUY wanted to see if they could fix it. They orderd the part and it came 2 weeks later. The Tech then came over and installed it. It corrected the spotting problems, but now had a new problem with shadowing. Another Tech from BEST BUY came to evaluate the problem and confirmed the problem. He also stated the the tv should be replaced but again, BEST BUY wanted to try to fix it.
They ordered the part and it came in about 1 week. The tech then came over and installed it. This however did not fix it. Now it had also reached 90 days from the purchase date so BEST BUY stated they no longer were responsible and that it was Sony's warranty I needed to use. I contacted Sony and they had me contact a repair company called QUALIX SERV. The Tech came to our house and confirmed the problem. He ordered a different part. The part came and he replaced it. Still no help. He left and came back about a month later with a different part. Again he replaced it and it did not fix the problem.
I called Sony again and told them it has been 8 times I have had Techs come to my house and the TV was still broken. They again referred me to the repair Company. I called them again and they sent out a differnt Tech. He came out to my house to confirm the problem and did not have any parts to change. He odered a part and changed it approx 2 weeks later. The TV was still not repaired and it actually picked up another new fault.
I called them 4 times and they finally agreed to replace the tv. I asked the woman on the phone what they were going to replace it with. She told me the exact tv and that it would be brand new. I specifically asked her if she was sure they still made this model and to make sure it was not a refurbished model. She assured me it was new and not refurbished. August 7th had now passed and the year it was under warranty had now no longer in place and they started to try to claim that the were done trying to correct this problem. I had a lengthy discussion with them and they finally agreed to uphold their side of the deal. They sent a replacement tv 1 month later. Sure enough, it had huge writing on the box stating REFURBISHED.
Again I almost lost my mind. The delivery men stated either I take it or I don't. If I don't, then Sony would no longer be responsible for providing me with a tv that worked.
James of Rochester, NY (10/26/06)
We purchased our Sony TV in Nov. of 2002 for $1900. It had the clearest picture we have ever seen.
Well, 6 months after the 3-year extended warrenty ($395) period ran out, the tv just stopped working. Diagnostic light was flashing 8 times(T8 transformer bad.) We took it to a Sony's authorized dealer that said it would cost $1200 to fix! They said three CRTs and a focus adjustment module need to be replaced.
They recommended we not get it repaired. 3 1/2 years and $2300 later and we have a huge boat anchor.
Charles of Boynton Beach FL (08/02/06)
Purchased a 50 LCD Projection TV Model KF-50XBR800. Replaced lamp after 2-1/2 years. After 3 years, would not turn on. Repair by Authorized Service Provider costs exceed $500 but still does not work. Sony refuses to get involved and keeps referring me back to service people who don't know what is wrong with set and cannot get any assistance from Sony. Service people want me to get Sony to do something, but Sony refuses.
Set originally cost $4,800 plus lamp $223 plus repairs $500.
Phil of Dana Point CA (07/29/06)
Sony projection tv starts fire that burns down house in Orange County California. Fire Investigator's report stated fire orgin was inside of tv, by the circuits. Sony denies any responsibilty
E of North York Canada (05/02/06)
3 year old 52" projection television is no longer operable. It requires repairs of over $1400 granted I purchase the warranty for it or the repairs will run close to $2000. Sony will do nothing other than offer a discount on another television which will cost over $2000 WITH the discount. So much for being a leader in electronics...defects are still in their inventory. Either way I go, Sony is still looking to make ANOTHER $1500 from me after selling me a lemon that cost me over $4000 3 years ago.
Mathew of Brooklyn NY (03/06/06)
I purchased a 50-inch Sony Wega LCD television in February. I replaced my cable box with a Hi-Def box and bought the $150 HDMI cord because the salesperson told me that this is the only way to have a clear screen. When I turned on the television all the channels, except 10 Hi-Def channels were blurry. I was never told that only the 10 channels that are transmitted in Hi-Def would be clear. The other 300 channels are unwatchable.
When I contacted PC Richards, they refused to exchange the television or provide me with a refund or store credit. They sent a technician to my home who told me without even touching the television, that this is the way these TV's are and until all the channels become hi-def, it will be blurry.
Rosie of Denver CO (02/20/06)
I am complaining about a Sony television I purchased about four years ago. When I bought the Sony I had heard nothing but good things about Sony products, so I figured it was worth the extra money to have a reliable, long-lasting television. Well, this one only lasted four years! I had a TV from K-mart that lasted three times longer than that! My complaint is just that....a complaint. I don't expect you to do any thing about it. I just think you should know about my experience. I was very, very disappointed. I had to buy a new TV this weekend, and it wasn't a Sony.
Ken of Attleboro MA (01/06/06)
I purchased this TV approx 3 years ago from the Sony Outlet in Plainville Massachusetts. A little over a year ago it started turning black (still had sound) It was under warrenty (purchased extended warrenty), A service man (from Public Sound) came and said it was fixed. A week later, it was doing same thing. They came back and took the electronics. A month later they came back and took the whole TV.
They had it for over six months. Brought it back and within a month it was turning black again. They came back and took the electronics again. They were here about a week ago and installed the electronics again, picture looked good but there was no sound. They left with the electronics again. Here I sit without my TV, wondering what can I do? My wife called Sony help and the Sony Outlet in Plainville they said they sold the warrenty and they they could not help us. I am very disappointed in the lack of service and support, and doubt if I will ever consider purchasing Sony products again.
Nancy of Bridgewater NJ (12/15/05)
On Sept. 18, 2005 we purchased a Sony, Model XDL-V32-XBR1, Flat Screen TV at Circuit City in Bridgewater, NJ. We paid $2,718.89 for the TV. On November 11, 2005 our TV malfunctioned and we called Circuit City. The person at Circuit City said we needed to call Sony. We did. Sony representative asked us to reboot the TV, which we did and the TV still did not work. Sony gave us a phone number of their service person in our area (EZ Way electronic Service - phone number 908-354-1600). I called them, they sent a technician out and he could not repair it and took it back to the shop. I was told I would have the TV back in 7-10 business days.
Since that time they have had to order 2 separate parts (the first one did not work). I spoke to them numerous times, the final time being today (12/15/05) and they do not have the second part they ordered and do not know when they will get it. Our new TV (which is fully paid for) is still not working. And, is still at the repair shop. Fran at Sony has just looked up my event number (E29359775) and told me that no one is even working on this. Now she just told me that they will overnight the part and the service company will have tomorrow. Tomorrow is Friday. Even if they do get the part i won't have the TV until next week (assuming they have ordered the correct part this time) Our check has been cashed by circuit city. They have our money but we have no TV.
Billy of Shreveport LA (07/31/05)
There is a 2" black line from top to bottom of my KE-42TS2U Plasma Serial No.s01-2029853-f TV. Its been in a Sony Authorized repair shop for over a montha and Sony keeps advising the facality to change boards and it still isn.t fixed. I have told Sony to take it back to the factory and send me a new one but no luck. Now they want to replace the "screen". I am so disapointed in Sony. Have always been a loyal customer and didn't buy the extended warrantee because of sony's reliability is all other Sony products. Even thought we bought the TV in Nov. 2003, we have not been home 365 days due to traveling in our Mtorhome. I talk to Sony customer relations but they tell me a different story than they are telling the repair facaity.
Daena of Virginia Beach VA (06/24/05)
I have a Sony 57" wide screen TV that was purchased in Oct of 2002. During the past 2.5 years we have had to do two repairs on it. The first one (in 2003) was in warranty (1 year manufacturer) the second one wasn't. We were told by a Sony customer rep that after the repair was made we could call Sony back and see if they would help with the cost of the repair. When I called Sony after paying to have an alignment done on my TV, they said there was nothing to do because the TV was out of warranty and it was not the exact same problem as before. That is not what I was originally told.
The repair cost $390.00.
Cori of Holmdel NJ (05/04/05)
We bought a Sony WEGA 60" tv in Feb. 2004. We bought it for a room that was being renovated, so the tv was in the box until Sept.2004. In March, the bulb in the tv exploded. I contacted Sony and they sent me a new bulb for $200. My husband and I installed the new bulb and we noticed the television picture appeared much sooner than originally was the case. When we first started using the tv it took a couple of minutes to warm up and show the picture (like a tv from the 1960's), but we thought it was normal. The picture was much brighter with the new bulb and we realized the old bulb was defective.
After some research we discovered there was a recognized defect with the old bulbs. This is one comment found on the internet: Pros: Picture Cons: Bulb problems Comments: Great TV, great picture, but I can't give it 5 stars because of the bulb problem. I spoke to a Sony tech support person who personally dealt with this problem during the first of the year (when the problem was really getting noticed) and is quite versed in the solution. There was a manufacturing defect in the first bulb used in the early sets (Philips bulb, Sony part # A1606034A). This bulb was known to cause a problem during lighting or ignition. It would cause the TV to 22buzz22 several times while turning the TV on. After 3 times buzzing, the TV would turn on the lamp light indicating a failure. This was on TVs that were only a few months old.
The replacement bulb, made by German company Osram, appeared to fix the problem. Soon after, they went back to a Philips bulb (Sony part #A1606034B; note the B). This is apparently the final solution. I received this new bulb last week and have used it in the TV for the last few days. Unlike the original Philips bulb, I can turn the TV on/off rapidly without problems. The original bulb would complain with a quick buzz when doing this repeatedly. My opinion: as long as you get the updated bulb (check if you can), you should be OK. AWESOME picture once all the kinks are straightended out.
I contacted Sony, for a refund since they sold me a defective bulb, and they denied knowing about any bulb problems. There are many websites referring to the bulb problem, and I was told by a Best Buy employee that there was a problem. Sony refuses to refund my money stating that the tv was in warranty until Feb. and the bulb exploded in March.
Sidinei of Rowley MA (04/05/05)
I bought a 65" tv a year ago and after been using the tv the picture begin to show some smalls squares on the bottom from one side to other, a talked to a friend and I found out that the squares came from a logo that staied on the picture for more than 12 minutes. but the thing is i didn't know about that and probabily 90% of the peoples does't know I paid $3,000 for the tv and will cost me $1,100 to fixed. tried to talk with SEARS where i bought but they said they could't do anything for me. i thing is a disrespect with the costumer, you buy such thing to last life time not 1 year. i'm very desapointed.
Stephanie of Rock Island IL (03/29/05)
I purchased a 27-inch flat screen television model KV29fs100. It has been a nightmare. It has been in service longer than I have owned it. It has had nothing but problems since I bought it. The color faded in and out. AVE Electronics who is my local service provider picked up the tv in January of 05. It is now April and I still do not have the television back. Sony said they were replacing the defective tv but that was a month ago and they keep telling me its coming every week and when that time comes they tell me its the following week. The did offer me a free movie for all my time.
I have taken off of work 5 different times to meet for this tv that everytime it came back was still broke, so AVE Electronics kept taking it right back. This happened 3 different times. All I wanted was my money back so I could go and purchase a new tv at my own convenience, since I am unable to miss work anymore for this issue. The deliver company that was supposed to be bringing the new tv, gave me a 2 day window between 8 and 5 that they will deliver it. I told Sony that was ridiculous, that there was no way I could make myself available for a tv that might or might not come after I have already taken off of work 5 different times. Sony told me it was out of there hands. No one can give me an exact date, or week for that matter when I can expect the tv. It has been the most frustrating experience I have ever been through as a consumer.
Karen of Denver (2/12/05):
I bought a Sony 32" Flat Screen High Definition television (SONKV32HS420) on June 12, 2004. On June 23, 2004, I called Sony Customer Service because the television started making a electrical popping sound and the screen would blink at this point. Customer service had me unplug the set for 2 minutes. He told me if it starts again to call TeleVue (they are authorized to work on Sony products) in my area and have them check it out.
The television worked fine until last month. It started the electrical popping again. I called Sony customer service on 1/24/2005 to see if they would pay for my labor with TeleVue because by now the labor warranty had passed. Also, on 1/23/05 the screen normally goes black when going from a commercial but this day it was a dark blue. And on the stations that had bars, top and bottom they were a dark blue instead of black. The picture itself was very bright.
Sony said they would call back on 1/25/05 and when they did they said they had already waived the labor cost for me. I told them that the television has never been serviced before for there to be a waiver of labor charges. I then spoke to Jim on 1/25/05 and he had me fax a copy my my purchase receipt and said he would call me back on 1/26/05. On 1/27/05 I called back and spoke to Chris because I had not heard from Jim. Chris said he would add a reminder note to have them call me.
On the same day John called me and said to have the television checked out with TeleVue and then call him back with an estimate and Sony would decide how much they should pay for the labor. TeleVue came out on 2/12/05 and said with his experience the arcing sound and the color change meant that the picture tube is bad. He called his office and was told that the estimate would be $454.00 to replace the tube. I then called John at Sony and left a voice mail with the claim number from TeleVue and the estimate for the labor cost.
I feel that since my television is less than 1 year old and I called from the very beginning to report a problem that I should not have to incur the cost to fix the television.
Robert of Clairton PA (12/29/04):
My Sony kv-27fs100 television is almost 2 years old and the remote works intermittently and I get a initialization setup window that I cannot get to go away. I have not contacted Sony on this matter due to the stories on how uncooperative Sony has been with people I have spoken with about problems with Sony products they have owned.
I spoke with a TV repair person, and he reminded me that repair parts are very expensive. At this point I have a $500 paper weight. I have unpluged the unit for fear of it possobly catching fire. This TV should have lasted a little more than two years.
Jeff of Alabaster AL (12/27/04):
I purchased a Sony Trinitron television in 2/04 and picked it up about April, 2004. In Nov. 2004 the tv went totally out. I took it to the repair service for Best Buy because I did not but a ext warranty. After 4 weeks I was told that the tv was fixed but when I turned it on for about 5 minutes it started flashing, changing colors and I got a gray screen with white lines.
I took it back the next day (12/27/04) and the repair service said that Sony has learned that at least six Trinitrons are doing the same thing. Even after the repair service put in a new tube it did the same thing.
Robert of Alexandria VA (12/23/04):
In August of 2004 we bought a new TV, the Sony KVS30HS420. We brought it home and it worked for 37 days. On the 38th day we turned the TV on and could not get a clear picture. I personally did the troubleshooting to determine if it was the signal from our satellite system, and it was not. That left me with one option -- the TV. Just to be sure, I checked with DirecTV and they walked me through the exact same steps that I took and it was determined to be a set error.
I called Sony and was directed to one of many local repair shops. I chose the closest one first. Since in-home service was not available in my area (I live in Washington, DC) they sent some people to come and pick up my TV. 3 weeks later I had heard nothing from the repair shop. When I called I found that they had had not even looked at it yet. Finally, when they did look at it, they claimed nothing was wrong with it. The set was sent back to me 4 days later making it in their possession for roughly 4 weeks.
Within 1 hour the picture was scrambled again. When I called to tell them the set was having the same problem I was told to "wait and let it warm up." It eventually came back, but then scrambled again 45 minutes later. Completely unacceptable. I called Sony back to complain about the service I received, they told me to try another repair shop. I called the next shop and they said they would pick up my TV in 2 days.
This repair shop (Commercial Television in Woodbridge, VA) then had our TV in the repair shop for another 4 weeks. During this time, even after calling to find out the status, we received no contact from them. Then one day the called to schedule a drop off date. After the TV was dropped off, I noticed that the TV was stuck in a zoom mode (the set is a native 16:9 so it gives a few modes to watch). In this mode the tops and the bottom of the picture are cut off. While watching things that come in widescreen format this is not a problem, but for watching any sporting event, or normal TV things at the top and the bottom of the screen are cut off.
After looking into this I found that the repair shop has had put in the wrong control board. I then had to contact Sony, who told me to contact the repair shop. I was told that I would not be able to get a new TV unless the repairshop said that the TV was unfixable. When I contacted the repair shop, they acted as if it was Sony's fault. The TV was picked up again, and has been in the shop ever since, making for a total of roughly 2 months. Sony refuses to replace the set even though it has shown to be defective and the repair shops they have directed me to have been unable to fix the problem.
After we bought this new TV we also bought DirecTV with the NFL Sunday Ticket. We held off on getting the HD receiver, thankfully. Since that is the only TV in our house, I have been paying for service that I cannot use, this also means that the DVD club that we belong to is of no use either, as is my Xbox and all the games.
Daniel of Victorville, CA, writes:
I purchased a 32" Sony VEGA Trinitron Color TV on 8/12/00. On 10/4/00 it stopped working. When I called Sony they confirmed that it would need to be serviced. When I explained to them that it was less than two months old and I would rather have a new one so this wouldn't happen again they said I would have to speak to the place that I purchased it from.
I called Best Buy and spoke to the Asst. General Manager, Glen. He said that if I purchased Best Buys' extended warranty for $120. then they would send someone out to fix it. I then explained to him how old the TV was. I told him I didn't want a TV that was defective. He told me to call Sony and if Sony would send me something stating to give me another TV, then they would honor it.
I called Sony back and they said they couldn't but my warranty is good for 90 days. I asked them if it goes out again after the 90 days who is going to pay for it and they said I would have to.
I paid over $1,000 for a brand-new TV, and now all I have is a 163-lb paperweight. Even if I have it repaired, it could still go out again at any time since it already has a history of defects. This should not happen with a television that I was told was top-of-the-line.
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