Technician Visit Question

[Richfunb]

While watching this morning, both TVs suddenly went out with a 775 error message. I've been a subscriber for over 20 years and know how to trouble shoot errors. I checked the SWM and all connections (I had a steady green light), checked all cables inside and outside on the dish, and reset the receiver numerous times. No luck, still the 775 error. After trying a few more times to reset everything, I finally gave up and called DirecTV. The service rep said he could send out a technician but it would cost $99 unless I signed up for the Protection Plan. I know from reading your blog that the Protection Plan is a bad deal and told him so numerous times. He really was persistent but finally gave up and said he would send the technician tomorrow for $99.

My question is, does the $99 fee apply even if the problem is due to DirecTV equipment failure? The service rep said I would have to pay no matter what was the cause. Does this sound right?

 

[mdram]

yep
fee covers anything from pluggin in a receiver to replacing everything

 

[vazhog]

While watching this morning, both TVs suddenly went out with a 775 error message. I've been a subscriber for over 20 years and know how to trouble shoot errors. I checked the SWM and all connections (I had a steady green light), checked all cables inside and outside on the dish, and reset the receiver numerous times. No luck, still the 775 error. After trying a few more times to reset everything, I finally gave up and called DirecTV. The service rep said he could send out a technician but it would cost $99 unless I signed up for the Protection Plan. I know from reading your blog that the Protection Plan is a bad deal and told him so numerous times. He really was persistent but finally gave up and said he would send the technician tomorrow for $99.

My question is, does the $99 fee apply even if the problem is due to DirecTV equipment failure? The service rep said I would have to pay no matter what was the cause. Does this sound right?

Paying the $99 once is the way to go! Once the repair service is complete -you will have 90 days should the problem or problems reoccur without any additional service charge.
There Should be No extra Charge for replacing any Current equipment (should that be needed) Only possible Extra charge could be for DISH relocation (if that is your Issue) .

How many Times have you called for service? if once in a blue moon -then Not buying the PP is the way to go.

 

[Richfunb]

Paying the $99 once is the way to go! Once the repair service is complete -you will have 90 days should the problem or problems reoccur without any additional service charge.
There Should be No extra Charge for replacing any Current equipment (should that be needed) Only possible Extra charge could be for DISH relocation (if that is your Issue) .

How many Times have you called for service? if once in a blue moon -then Not buying the PP is the way to go.

This was my first service call in 4 years. It turned out that the problem was a bad spliter which the tech replaced. I'll pay the $99 since I seldom have a problem.