Anyone know anything about EU consumer law?

[OvertiredandConfused]

My iPad, which i purchased via Vodafone, in January 2012, has developed an irreparable fault. After queuing for 45 minutes (after my appointment time) at the genius bar today, I now know that.

I also know that, had I bought it direct from Apple, they would be obliged to replace it - they helpfully told me that. They also told me that they would replace it if Vodafone took it back to them.

However, Vodafone refuse to even discuss it with me. They have refused to pass me on beyond the call centre and refused to give me a name and address to write. Obviously,I can find this myself.

Apparently, it's EU consumer law that has created this right - this explains it quite well and the Directive number is 1999/44/EC.

Before I go charging in, wondered if anyone could tell me if this still stands.

[prh47bridge]

The EU law was widely misunderstood. Most of the reports I have read in the press get it completely wrong. In the UK this EU directive does not give you any additional rights. Your Sale of Goods Act rights are better than those offered by the EU.

Your rights are against the seller, in this case Vodafone. As the iPad is over 6 months old it is up to you to prove that the problem is due to faulty design or manufacture rather than misuse or ordinary wear and tear. You have the right to a repair or replacement, although Vodafone can choose which to give you. If they cannot do either you have the right to a reduced price or your money back less an amount for the use you have had.

I would suggest that your next step is to write to Vodafone demanding that they repair or replace the iPad. Note that if you paid for it by credit card your credit card provider is jointly responsible with Vodafone so if Vodafone won't co-operate you can try asking for a refund from your credit card.

[Rockchick1984]

My DH's iPhone (bought via O2) developed a fault after around 18 months. O2 were useless so I went into an Apple store who just replaced it there and then with no issues. May be worth a try?