Apple Announces iMac 1TB Seagate Hard Drive Replacement Program [Updated]

By

imachddrecall

Apple has announced that a “very small number” of 1TB Seagate hard drives used in 21.5-inch and 27-inch iMac systems may fail under certain conditions. The problem only applies to systems that were sold between May 2011 and July 2011. My own 27-inch iMac purchased in June 2011 is affected by this recall.

For complete information about the recall click the read link.

Dear iMac owner,

Apple has determined that a very small number of 1TB Seagate hard drives used in 21.5-inch and 27-inch iMac systems may fail under certain conditions. These systems were sold between May 2011 and July 2011.

Our records show that you have an iMac with an affected 1TB Seagate hard drive. Apple will replace your hard drive with a new one, free of charge, under the iMac 1TB Seagate Hard Drive Replacement Program.

Please choose one of the following options to get a replacement hard drive.

  • Apple Retail Store – Set up an appointment with a Genius.
  • Apple Authorized Service Provider – Find one here.
  • Apple Technical Support – Contact us for local service options.

Apple recommends replacing your affected hard drive as soon as possible. Before you go in for service, please back up your data. Learn more about backup options.

Additional Information

You will need to have the original Mac OS installation discs that were shipped with your iMac in order to reinstall your operating system, other applications, and any backed up data after your hard drive is replaced.

This worldwide Apple program does not extend the standard warranty coverage of the iMac.

Apple will replace affected 1TB Seagate hard drives, free of charge, until July 23, 2012. Apple will continue to evaluate service data and provide extensions to this program as needed.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Sincerely,

Apple Inc.

One other option that AppleCare doesn’t mention in this notice to their customers is the in office or home repair option. This service isn’t available in all areas so ask the AppleCare representative to see if you can take advantage of this service option. I did. I’m not exactly excited about lugging my 27-inch iMac back to the Apple Store if I don’t have too.

Updated 07/25/2011 8:08pm PDT: A technician sent by Apple arrived on site today to replace my 1TB Seagate drive with a 1TB Western Digital drive. The replacement drive carries the model number WDC WD1001FALS-403AA0. It carries some nice specs according to Western Digital’s website.

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