X220 IPS display: ghosting + white splotches = no warranty repair by Lenovo

[grisjuan]

Hi,

The IPS display in my x220 has a few white blotches. It also exhibits the common image retention / ghosting issue that has been well documented on these forums.

I sent it in for depot warranty service. The service center said the white splotches are pressure damage therefore the entire LCD is no longer covered and they will not replace it under warranty.

1. I'm very careful with the machine and do not believe I inflicted any "pressure damage" on the screen. Have any of you ever convinced Lenovo that something like this was not your fault?

2. I really doubt the alleged pressure damage caused the image retention. It feels like they are hiding behind a technicality to avoid doing the repair; i.e. they say there is physical damage so the entire warranty on the display is void for all issues even those unrelated to pressure damage.

Any suggestions? Or should I just give up and move on?

Thanks!

[Lem0nade Retired Support Specialist]

Hello Grisjuan,

I can make no guarantees, but can you please private message me your Serial Number and any case numbers or service order numbers you may have.

Thank you

[thetool]

I have this as well, both the blotchy white dots and the (temporary) ghosting. I think it's quite common on the IPS from what I've heard, and definitely not a user fault. I just chose to ignore it.

[grisjuan]

Interesting! I've heard a lot about the ghosting from people on these forums but not as much about the white spots.

[werder]

The white blotches/spots are a common problem with X220/230 IPS panels. My guess is that Lenovo's design for the screen is faulty so that even normal handling can flex it enough to cause those pressure points if the display happens to be on the lower end of their spec. Either that or its just a manufacturing error, I wouldn't know.

Mine (X230) also has them without me abusing it. I wanted to get it repaired onsite under warranty (I have TPP) but the support person handling the ticket already hinted at that it most likely wouldn't be covered in which I'd have to pay for the technician in that case.

In http://forums.lenovo.com/t5/X-Series-ThinkPad-Laptops/X220-IPS-display-problem-weird-bright-spot-on-... Mark_Lenovo asked for pictures and I sent them (~3 months ago). Never heard back. I sent him a new PM asking for an update and other stuff about a month ago but he hasn't replied to that either up to now.