For those of you following our story online, you’ll know that I’ve been without my camera for a couple of weeks. (Hence, the reason why I haven’t been posting pictures.) Something went wrong with my PowerShot S1 IS in September and after a little research, I discovered that the problem was a manufacturing defect that would be fixed for free even though the warranty had expired. So, I called Canon and received the necessary paperwork for submitting my camera for repair.
While talking to the customer service representative, I was offered the opportunity to upgrade my camera to the next model for $135. To me, that wasn’t a good deal because the next model was 3 years old (my camera was about 3-1/2 years old). Needless to say, I opted for the free repair. And I mentioned in the follow-up customer service survey that the deal really wasn’t all that good for an upgrade since there are two more recent models after the one they offered me.
The UPS man picked up my camera on Tuesday, October 2, and I received confirmation of receipt on Monday, October 8. The information said that the camera was covered under the free repair and they were waiting on a part to arrive. However, there was no estimated time of arrival for the part.
Yesterday (October 17), the FedEx man delivered a box. I was excited because I thought it might be my camera. The labeling was non-descript so I sliced into the box. Inside was a Canon box with a sticker. The sticker said “PowerShot S3 IS – refurbished.” (My camera was a PowerShot S1 IS.) My initial thought was “Hmmmm…They must recycle boxes.” I opened the box to find a NEW camera, not my camera!!!
Apparently, 15 days is too long in Canon’s opinion for someone to be without her camera. So, for my inconvenience and due to the fact that the necessary part was not available and they had no time of availability, they upgraded my camera for me free-of-charge (not even shipping costs)!!! I’m now the proud owner of a refurbished, less than two-year-old camera (this model hit the market in Feb. 06)! Big deal? YES! These cameras are still available in stores and cost about $300. Talk about a HUGE blessing! 
Related posts:
I love cameras and I love this story! I also LOVE that you researched the warranty information out. Things like that remind me of how much like your mom you are. Isn’t that something she would do??? I think so! Happy Shooting!