Faulty microwave

Q: I purchased a microwave oven and only after a few weeks it stopped working properly. When I took it back to the shop, the technician informed me there was something wrong with its heater and had to be repaired. Since then, the company has repaired the microwave oven three times and it is still not working properly. I have asked for a refund but the retailer is refusing. What should I do?

A: When we end up purchasing faulty goods, we are legally entitled to seek one of three forms of redress that the Consumer Affairs Act grants us. As consumers, we are entitled to seek repair, replacement or a refund. The law does not specify whether it is the retailer or the consumer who chooses the form of redress. However, if a repair is offered and accepted by the consumer, it should be carried out properly so the product starts functioning as it should. If not, and the same fault reoccurs, the buyer is entitled to seek another form of redress.

In your case, the repair was carried out for three consecutive times and the microwave oven is still faulty. At this point, you are entitled to either request a new oven or else your money back. If the seller refuses to give you the remedy you want, then you can register your case with the Consumer and Competition Division to try and reach an amicable settlement via mediation. If this also results unsuccessful, you can take your case to the Consumer Claims Tribunal.