I sent in my 17-55 on 10/28 UPS ground and got the "except estimate" email 10/5, for $167. Guess there was "impact filter ring". It would only zoom half way. So anyhow, I approved it and the credit card was charged. Then the charge went away. So I called Tues 11/10, ended up in India I think, but the rep was on top of it. She explained that the inital charge was to validate my card and I would be charged when the lens is shipped. So, while I had her on the phone, I asked if there was a way to know when I could expect delivery. She responded by asking when I needed it. I told her that I would be leaving for a 2 week trip on Tues 10/17 and would need to rent a replacement if the lens wasn't back yet. She expedited it at no cost and the lens was delivered Fri 11/13.
Just thought it deserved notice being that the two weeks away included two week-ends and ground ship. We all hear so much of the complaint side- I thought it would be a nice change to hear a good story.
The Melville facility has been hit or miss with me. Most of my warranty work has been back in the 2 week time frame, but the paid repairs seem to take 6-8 weeks. Last year it was my SB800, waited on parts for 8 weeks, and just today I find my D2x is now on parts hold after 2 weeks. Not sure why they don't stock parts, but having to pay almost $500 to replace the sub-command dial and then wait for who knows how long doesn't make me happy.
