Sony MP3 player faulty - Comet won't help

[jad]

In December 2006, bought a SONY Mp3 player in Comet. Cost was £39.99

In September, it stopped working - the display was blank, and no sound either.

They insisted sending it away to, they claim, Sony for repair or authority to replace.

Last week, they finally advised me that the unit has been damaged due to water damage, and will not be replaced or repaired.

Firstly, it's not been near water, so how they can claim that I dont know.
Secondly, they now want to charge me £32 to post it back to me faulty.

They flatly refuse to now refund the purchase price, or replace with an equivalent model - even at the same or cheaper price.

Any ideas on what I should do next ?

Thanks
Jon

[gyzmo]

As it is over 6 months it is for you to prove that the goods do not conform to the contract. the specific section dealing with quality and durability (s. 14 of SoGA) states that expectations of a reasonable person, bearing in mind the price (where relevant) and reasonable expectations of that person should be considered.

You could dispute the report (you will need a copy) and possibly take the issue to court. You will need to consider:
a. your chances of winning
b. The costs involved (and time) in disputing the report
c. The cost of the product
d. whether or not c is worth a & b.