So how does the Dell warranty work?

Noob alert! Believe it or not I have had this M15x for a few months and despite fideling around with it, even attempting to take apart the screen assembly to get rid of a spec under the glass, I have never had warranty on this as I bought it without any. I am about the buy another one off ebay and the seller (don't worry they are reputable) say they off 3 year Dell warranty. I presume that once I receive it I do some kind of registration to start my warranty. So when something goes wrong and I need a techie or a repacement part, do I phone up and quote the service tag or what?
Any help is appreciated.

 

I've only done this once, but when I bought the M15x I now have from another member, I just went to Dell's web page and filled out an ownership transfer form after I received the computer. Dell - Ownership Transfers. Within a day or two, the new computer showed up as one of my systems, with system configuration, warranty status, etc. listed. As I recall, my seller said he had done something to inform Dell of the transfer, but there seems to be no requirement for that under the Transfer provisions. Perhaps they confirm transfer by the prior owner after you submit the Transfer Form. In any event, it was simple and painless in my experience. For warranty purposes, you step into the shoes of the original owner, with the warranty extending from the date of delivery to him, not you. There is a separate form for international transfers, which may be somewhat more complex. Dell - International Ownership Transfer Form.

 

Once you get the system you'll just need to transfer it to your name using the form I linked. Just make sure to do it from the new system so it goes more smoothly. As long as it's in warranty, you should have no issues asking for support. I purchased mine the same way from e-bay. The only thing you may need is the original owner's name and address. But other than that, it's a pretty smooth process.

Dell - Ownership Transfers

 

REV beat me to it...lol

 

I'm in good company.

 

Thanks man, but you're always a step ahead of the rest of us.

 

Yeah but I have a feeling it is unopened so it hasn't been registered yet. So no one owns the warranty yet.

 

Once someone purchases it, the warranty kicks in under their name auromatically. It doesn't matter if the box has been opened or not. But don't let that stop you. You'll still be able to register it in your name. You'll lose a couple of warranty days though since I believe it kicks in once the original purchaser receives the shipment.

 

Ah ok thanks. Rep to y'all.