Magellan RoadMate 1200

Pros: Worked well WHEN IT WORKED

Cons: Customer service center is from another continent

Summary: I bought this unit on Black Friday at a good price from Circuit City. I was pleased with its performance until the DC power cord failed, less than 60 days from purchase. I contacted Magellan by phone using the info on their web site. I gave ALL the info they asked for, explained the problem, and was given a "case ID number." I was told that they would replace the cord at no charge since it was still under warranty, but it was not available and was backordered, and to call back in two weeks. I asked if I couldn't just leave my shipping address, and was told that I had to call back. I called back with my case number, and was given another Q & A experience... Why did they bother to give me a case number the first time!? I was handed off to another person. Still no replacement cord. This time they asked for my address to ship it to. I've sent emails detailing what happened and what I needed and requested an update. This jem of an email response came in just yesterday:

Dear xxxx,

A new Email case xxxxxx has been Created.
CaseID: xxxxxx

Regards,
Magellan Email Support Team.

"Support Team!?" I'm not feeling any support! Do you see any support there!?

There was no information in response to my request for specific info framed in specific question format... I got for my trouble a "New Case ID". Anyone know how to navigate the road with a "New Case ID?"

If I could find an accountable Magellan person to contact who was located on this continent, I'd be happy to contact he/she and discuss the experience, and the wonders of Case ID xxxxx.

I tried to get a replacement power cord that works for this unit from Radio Shack... They tried to help me, but didn't have anything compatable. I have a useless piece of technology that should NEVER have been put on the market without the requisite customer and product support a product should have before its launched. There aren't even parts or accessories listed on the web site! I can't fathom what sort of decision logic table the suits of this outfit used at the meeting when they decided it was a good idea to launch this product without properly supporting it.

I will take a chance as another consumer commented here and see if I can find a power cord that works from ebay as I will be needing the unit for about many estimates I anticipate I will drive to over the next 6 weeks for my business, which is why I bought the unit to begin with.

I have learned my lesson in that from now on for such purchases I will come to cnet to weed out the thumbs downs and find the thumbs ups. "Bang your head against a wall in 300'..." Are we there yet!? GASP...