3DS XLs poorly designed - screen scratches after just a few days normal use

bhavv

bhavv

bhavv

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Watch this video in 720p to see the problem:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sc9b9WxAjv0

I just got my 3DS XL on 27th September. 4 days later from just using the console normally, both sides of the top screen have a vertical line of tiny dotted scratches about 1 cm in from the sides. These lines of scratches happen because the top screen brushes against the plastic ridge around the bottom screen every time the unit is opened and closed normally.

I already ordered screen protectors, but they didnt arrive yet, but you wouldnt expect scratches within just 4 days of using the thing! This is a very common problem with these consoles that lots of people are having.

Another issue is that a lot of 3DS XLs have an ugly strong yellow tint behind the top screen. Mine doesnt and has a clear white background, so if I try to get it replaced I might end up getting one with a screen that looks like Wii ... I mean, wee.

Even worse is Nintendos repair warranty:

My screen is cracked or has colour spots on it

If either screen on your Nintendo 3DS system is cracked or there are colour spots on the screen – even when it’s switched off – it may be damaged and need repairing.

This problem is usually noticeable when the system is being used. This happens when the system has been dropped, crushed or exposed to extremes of temperature.

We’ll be happy to repair your Nintendo 3DS, but unfortunately this kind of damage isn’t covered by your warranty so you’ll be liable for the cost of the repairs. Details of these costs can be found on our guideline prices for out-of-warranty repairs page.

If you would like more information on Nintendo 3DS repair and warranty, follow the link.
Click to expand...

According to that I'd have to pay to get it fixed!
 
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I have to wait for Nintendo UK CS to reply. I've read that they have acknowledged this issue already so should repair it, but there's no way im paying for repairs. I've already bought 5 games as well, 3 e-shop ones, plus shinobi and kid Icarus, along with Zelda oot for free with the console.

I'm going to be hugely annoyed with whatever happens if my lovely white screen is replaced with a yellow tinted one too. I'll make a video of my screen before sending it back so I have evidence of it, then rage if I get a yellow one :x. I definitely pointed this out in my email rant to Nintendo.
 
Been using my XL for weeks and nothing on my screens =/

I guess I'll start laying the cleaning cloth between the screens like I did with my 3DS before it just in case.
 
Hate screen protectors, can't stand them on anything.

I've just got a little screen cleaning cloth that I got with a DS 'kit' ages ago that fits perfectly between the screens, so I just lay that over when I'm done and close it up.

I never bothered with the XL however as I heard they'd fixed that problem with the new version. Apparently not.

So I'll go back to my old ways!
 
I hate scratches due to shoddy craftsmanship more than screen protectors, way more.

The best solution is called Gorilla Glass. Start using it Nintendo!
 
I had them on my first unit. They were there when it came. Second unit was fine. Second unit seems to have a bigger gap between the screens, hold it to the light and there is a clear gap. I think the first unit had a smaller gap.

You been putting it in your pocket? Have read a few people having them appear after short amount of time from it being in a pocket and dust/dirt getting in the gap or slight pressure pushing the screens together.

Still shouldn't happen though. I'm not even sure why they have a raised border on the lower screen, should just recess it, rather than have a raised edge.
 
i have the same problem as OP, noticed it a few days after i got in release. It doesn't really bother me as you don't notice it whilst playing but yes it's a design fault which nintendo had said that they have fixed from the problem appearing on the orginal NDS. I use two small rubber feet on top cover of 3ds to stop it closing tight and making it any worse.
 
Not been putting it in my pocket at all, its not being carried around or used as a portable device.

I simply use it at home with the intention of playing Nintendo games like OOT / Kid Icarus / Mario. The console was sat on my desk in its charging dock, and simply used normally to play games, and 4 days later scratches.

I contacted both Nintendo and Amazon about this and sent a link to the video. Firstly Nintendo offer completely free inspection of the console and free postage, but told me they can charge £47.50 - £77.50 for screen repairs.

Amazon said that they would replace it for free within the 12 month warranty for this problem. However even better, after I told them about Nintendos possible charges, they said I can get it repaired through Nintendo and Amazon will refund any such charges.

Its not a problem when the screen is turned on, but there's no way I'm keeping a defective scratched screen within the first week of use. I requested a repair through Nintendo but they havnt emailed me a postage label yet.
 
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I ended up buying one on release day, I've been using it everytime I'm on night shift and haven't had any issues with the screen scratching. Although I'll keep an eye one it now! :p
 
I'd have just taken the new unit from Amazon personally. Save faffing about.
 
I've had my 3DSXL for a couple of months now, it's received heavy use from me and my brother playing Super Mario 3D Land and Resident Evil.

I've just given the top screen a quick inspection and I can't see any scratches like the ones shown in bhavv's video, all seems fine. I held up the console to my living room light and I can see that there is a gap between the screens. The console is only played at home so no pressure from bags/pockets etc and is placed on a table top when not being used.

Thanks for bringing this to my attention as it's the first I've heard of it. I'll put a cleaning cloth between the screens as someone else suggested from now on just to be on the safe side. If this turns out to be a serious problem I hope Nintendo acknowledge it and offer free repairs/replacement units as it's unacceptable.
 
When I held my closed unit up to the light there's a gap too, but I think in the process of opening and closing it it still brushes against the ridge.

I would normally have taken a new one from Amazon, but the horror stories of getting a yellow screen on these put me off doing that, and its completely free to try posting it back to Nijtendo and get an inspection at least first (they emailed me a free pre paid postage label). Since Amazon offered to cover it with a replacement for the full 12 months, I'll try getting it repaired first, and Amazon said this is a good first step to try and they will still refund any potential costs or replace it after.
 
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