It finally happened to me. I dropped the watch from a whopping 2ft up, cracking the screen from top to bottom. I was pissed, but it really doesn’t seem to affect the functionality that much for me.
The crack is perfectly vertical so it doesn’t really obscure the screen too much. I also don’t ever use the thing in the water. Can I just continue using it in the cracked condition without fear of it filling up with sweat, or should I be thinking about going for the $99 replacement with a refurb unit option? Has anyone gotten theirs replaced fo free? Since I bought it at REI would there be a chance that they would accept a return/replacement on it since I’m not satisfied with the durability (it seems like it should be able to withstand a fall from 2ft).
Kind of a tangential question: why can’t product designers incorporate more durable/shock resistant materials into the pieces of electronics units that are most likely to be damaged/scratched/dinged? Why not use a thin rubberized coating on the bezel of the 310?
if you’re within warranty, Garmin will replace for free. I imagine if you were within warranty you would have already done that. When I cracked mine I didn’t replace right away and even though I didn’t swim in it, it either got sweat or moisture inside and the timing/tracking results began getting all sorts of screwed up. I assume this was because of some issue with moisture and not just the cracked screen. I refurb’d it for $99 and it was extremely quick. 3 or 4 days total turn-around time and my new unit is as good as brand new. That’s what I would do if I were you. I don;t know much about REI but I can’t imagine them accepting the reason for return as valid. I do agree with you that a small rubber bezel would solve a lot of these concerns, but then someone on here would likely complain about the non-aero design and the drag caused.
Return Every Item (REI). that is your best bet. They’ll give you gruff, but technically, they have to take it back per their policy. It’s rife with abuse no doubt, but they stand behind their stuff 100%.
REI will take it. Garmin Customer Service is top notch as well, so you are covered in any case. Your credit card may insure it as well, but usually only 90 days to a year.
My story of REI abuse: I bought a pair of expensive flip-flops there, but they had an air bladder that wheezed when I walked. While sitting by the front door waiting for their return, my wifes new puppy chewed on them. They still gave me full credit towards new sandals.
Kind of a tangential question: why can’t product designers incorporate more durable/shock resistant materials into the pieces of electronics units that are most likely to be damaged/scratched/dinged? Why not use a thin rubberized coating on the bezel of the 310?
There’s a little watch company called timex. They make GPS watches using the same sirf chips. They’ve been making watches for a long time.
I’d like to have an idea what to expect. Why drive to the store or spend time on hold only to find out what someone on here who has been in the same situation can answer for me?