Dear Eurisko, I'm also sorry to learn of your experience. In such circumstances in the past I have used the weight of the "Sale of Goods Act, 1979" to assist me in dealing with uncooperative shops/ distributors / manufacturers. Sony sell their technology as a "preemium product" - as such it must perform suitably. The SOGA states that product must be of "satisfactory quality". The public do not appreciate that this gives them some protection against failure for up to 6 years in England, Wales & N. Ireland (5 years in Scotland). I would suggest that your Vaio fails this test of quality / reliability so the seller is in breach of contract if the item is less old than the periods stated. You may have to bear some cost, or repair (on sliding scale) for "wear and tear". Its always worth discussing this with the Trading Standards. The threat of a summons in the Small Claims Court (the ultimate sanction) puts the fear of God into reluctant parties. Some examples: My microwave cooker failed after 3 years; shop said "sorry, no can do". I responded as above - they phoned Head Office for advice - I received new replacement. My German car developed fault on Stability Programme 1 tear out of wattenty - repair cost £1580!. I told dealer / manufacturer customer service to "go to hell and do not pass go, this is a generic fault as notified on forums - not up to acceptable quality ... I expect a part not subject to wear and tear to last lifetime of car...see you in Court, by the way all telephone conversations I've shared with you and your staff have been recorded". Result: free repair, manufacturer bore total cost. Fight your corner, my friend. Use SOGA, forums, clubs and associations as your leverage. Tell reluctant suppliers that you will "Foul Mouth" (American term) them at every opportunity and hit their sales, and to "Have a Nice Day!" Also deal directly with senior management (find names from receptionist when you call), take their names, take notes, be reasonable, be firm / controlled but not abrasive but lay out your case and explain what they have to lose. Also tape record the conversation ("in the Public interest") if possible, but do not let on until you reach impass - you will be amazed at how people fail to deliver promises / be evasive / pass the buck / deny the Law. They will do anything to avoid that being made public, especially now sales are difficult. Your case may result in me not purchasing Sony Tablet in favour of iPad - see what I mean; they're already 500 quid down and counting. Good Luck.