Are warranty repairs and replacements covered by Apple Authorized Service Providers?

Question

My Mac is sick and needs to be repaired. Its still under warranty, so if whatever is wrong with my Mac is a defect, it will still be covered if I go to an Apple Store. However I have to make an appointment for service at an Apple Store and that takes a long time!

I want to bring my Mac to GeekSquad, an Apple Authorized Service Provider. I am concerned that they might charge me for warranty repairs whereas Apple would not.

Please share any insight or advice? Thanks!

Answer 1

As a former Geek Squad Agent, I can tell you right now that they WILL charge you for repairs, especially since you (presumably) did not purchase your computer from Best Buy.  The reason is that even though they are an "authorized repair center" they would still have to ship your laptop to Apple for parts if there is a defect, which costs money.  Also they would likely try to charge you for diagnostics and whatnot.  After all, you didn't purchase your product there.  Besides, sending a laptop out to be fixed usually takes 2-3 weeks.  How long will the appointment take?