F1 Computer Services — Local services in Groveland Township

I took my laptop to F1 Computer service because it would not power on. John called me to tell me that it would not be an easy fix as well as costly (something to do with replacing the motherboard) and that I'd be better off to buy a new computer or a second hand computer and he would transfer my information onto the replacement computer. I bought a new laptop and took it to him and he then said my information was encrypted and he couldn't transfer it to my new computer. He charged me $315 for his time up to that point. I decided to get another opinion so I took my broken laptop to the Geek Squad at Best Buy. They looked inside the computer and in less than 5 minutes told me that the power switch inside the computer was broken and to order a new one from Dell. I ordered the part from Dell for $6 and the Geek Squad installed it for $40. That simple. I went back to John and told him what the fix was and how much it cost. He asked me what I wanted to do about it and I said I wanted my money back because I paid $315 for nothing when it was a $46 simple repair. He said that would not happen. Pretty much tough you know what.

This paragraph is a reply to the owners response: You were not clear at all in explaining that you did not have access to purchase the part. If you were at all clear, you would have simply told me to order the part and you would install it. You never even said that part needed to be replaced. I did come to your home unannounced because that is where your business is located. I didn't know I needed an appointment to come to your business. I came there simply to tell you that I purchased the part on Best Buy's recommendation, they replaced the part for $40 and I wanted a refund of my $315. I was perfectly calm in talking to you. You were the person who started shouting at me. Your offer to "submit the matter to small claims court" was, "what are you going to do, take me to court" and you are the one who started berating me when I said I was not going to take you to court but that I was going to write a very poor review of your business practice. That is when you threatened to physically remove me from your property. It was only then that I responded to this threat with an obscenity. You can spin this however you want. I only wish I had just gone to Best Buy initially and I would have had my laptop fixed and the cost would have been $46. I have learned my lesson the hard way. Perhaps others will...

So, one day my computer worked just fine and the next day it didn't. Originally, I went to John because he was the only place still open. Lucky chance. John had my laptop in his possession all of 10 minutes and diagnosed the problem. He was patient in explaining what was wrong and why. And also telling me that he could maybe fix it but it would cost me a bundle and there's no quarantee that it would work. Instead of repairing a lost cause, he told me to buy another computer. He told me what to look for, what to make sure the replacement had installed, and where to go to find it. Further, if I could find one used but without the hard drive, just bring it to him and he would install what I needed. John was involved in another project when I dropped in. He stopped what he was doing and took time to look at my computer. And for all of that, he charged me Nothing. I will be returning when I get my...

John communicates frequently on progress and any issues, always letting me know what he was doing. He's very friendly, reliable, knowledgeable, and informative every step of the way. The free diagnostic service is incredibly useful to know what needs to be fixed and if it can be fixed. It is also rare these days, to find someone willing to put the time and effort in for no payment if nothing is required or nothing is able to be fixed. He is very professional and offers alternatives so you are never out of options. I would recommend this service for anyone in need of electronic repairs...