Seagate Technology
Warranty denied after drive dismantled and $1400 data recovery quoted

I was asked what was wrong with the external hard drive? I told them No power to the drive I was informed the drive data had been damaged and the price would be $1400 for data retrieval. I opened the case installed hard drive in my desktop computer and got the information within 10 min.

I have a Maxtor OneTouch III external hard drive that quit on me (still under warranty) I reported it to Seagate and was told that I have two options: 1st option - return damaged drive to have it exchanged (no data recovery). I asked about the data on the drive and was told that all the information has been damaged no security problem.

2nd option send the drive to Seagate for data recovery, I phoned Seagate data recovery and was asked what was wrong with the drive? I told them No power to the drive I was informed the drive data has been damaged and the price would be $1400 for data retrieval.

I thought about it for a few weeks and almost sent it to Seagate for data retrieval but I cannot afford $1400. I decided to go it alone I dismantled the drive and installed the drive into my desktop it took approx. 10 min. There was all my data. I informed Seagate that I wanted a free hard drive (under warranty) and was told because I dismantled the drive NO Warranty) All I wanted was a replacement drive, I have taken all the data off the drive so I can send it back and Seagate can see it's a board problem not the Hard Drive.

My problem is: $1400 for data recovery, I was told no security problem the data on the drive has been damaged, what a rip off these companies charging so much money for data recovery, Why cant you send the drive in to be checked out to make sure that it isn't a quick fix?

Email from Seagate:
Dear Steve,

We apologize for the inconvenience caused.

With regards to your concern, as per Seagate returns policy if the SeaShield cover or top cover, or any seal or label is removed or damaged the warranty of the drive is considered to be void and we would not be able to replace the drive.

For further queries you could always e-mail us or call us at 1-800-468-3472. We would be happy to assist you.

Regards,
Shannon
Seagate Warranty Support.

Steve
Winfield, British Columbia
Canada

Company: Seagate Technology
Country: USA
State: California
City: Scotts Valley
Address: 920 Disc Drive
Phone: 18004683472

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