User profile for user: jeepme
jeepme Author
User level: Level 1
17 points

iMac denied trade-in and returned completely inoperative

So I sent my 2020 iMac in hoping to get the measly $455 trade-in. Trade in was denied based on "LCD display burn in damage" something I have discovered happens to a very large percentage of trade-ins which makes me think the whole trade-in program is bogus and solely intended to make upgrades more desirable but that isn't the subject here.


I asked for my iMac to be returned and then made attempts to sell it. I have an offer on the table for $1000 so I decided I best pull the machine out and give it a look over. It won't start. I press the power button and get nothing. I've researched the web for things to do and I have done every one I have found:


  1. press power for 10 seconds - nada
  2. unplug for 15 seconds, wait 5 seconds, press the button (SMC reset) - nada
  3. double checked memory to make sure the cards are seated properly - nada
  4. power cable and power supply verified - nada
  5. there are no peripherals connected aside from keyboard and mouse


Anyway, I am perplexed why this machine was returned to me inoperable. First of all, any assistance getting this puppy going so I can sell it would be most appreciated. Secondly, do I have any recourse with Apple?


Thanks for any help,


...john...

iMac (2017 – 2020)

Posted on Mar 22, 2025 11:33 AM

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User profile for user: rkaufmann87
rkaufmann87
User level: Level 10
146,734 points

Mar 22, 2025 5:53 PM in response to jeepme

John,


We are all end users just like you and cannot do anything to assist. I know it's too late now, however if you were aware of issues with the trade-in program in order to protect yourself you should have documented your iMac running perfectly with the following:


  1. Shoot photos that date and time stamp the computer while it is running and operating perfectly the same day you ship it in. That way you have documented the computer was fine the date you shipped it in.
  2. Shoot multiple photos of the computer from various angles to show there is no cosmetic damage anywhere, again date and time stamp as indicated in step 1.


Without any of this documentation, honestly you don't have a leg to stand on as you have ZERO proof the computer was okay prior to you shipping it back to the trade-in center. It's simply a matter of he said - she said.


If you want to take this up directly with Apple please call AppleCare and request to speak to a customer advocate. Be calm, patient and have all of your documentation available prior to making the call. AppleCare Contact Info


Good luck.

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User profile for user: jeepme
jeepme Author
User level: Level 1
17 points

Mar 22, 2025 6:50 PM in response to rkaufmann87

Thank you so much for your reply most appreciated. I am totally guilty of trusting that all would turn out well and should have maintained some proof that it was operational prior to shipping.


As it turns out - and I have no idea why - the computer did finally start and boot up normally. I cannot explain this phenomenon except to say the first session when it wouldn't boot up was almost immediately after I unpacked it from the packaging it was shipped to Apple in. I waited about 2 hours, tried again and voila it worked.


One of the mysteries of life.


Again thanks so much!


...john...

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iMac denied trade-in and returned completely inoperative

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