Looks like MS is taking the proper approach and fixing the latest rash of hardware failures sporting the generic
E74 error message that has been popping up. Effective April 14th, MS has updated their Xbox 360 warranty to include the E74 error under the three-year extension that was announced in July of 2007. In addition, anyone paying to service their console for this error will be reimbursed. Here is the main meat of the statement that MS made:
“After investigating the issue, we have determined that the E74 error message can indicate the general hardware failure that is associated with three flashing red lights error on the console. As a result, we have decided to cover repairs related to the E74 error message under our three-year warranty program for certain general hardware failures that was announced in July 2007. We have already made improvements to the console that will reduce the likelihood of an occurrence of this issue”
Again, this is the right thing to do, but it stinks that it has to be done at all. Hopefully MS will learn from the mistakes of rushing to market and put a little more testing into the Xbox 720 or whatever the next iteration will be called. Check out the full description of the warranty extension after the jump or
visit it at Microsoft Support.
Description of the E74 error message warranty extension
Article ID : 969905
Last Review : April 14, 2009
Revision : 1.0
SUMMARY
This article describes the extension of the warranty to three years for general hardware failures indicated by the E74 error message.
MORE INFORMATION
While the majority of Xbox 360 owners continue to have a great experience with their console, we are aware that a very small percentage of our customers have reported receiving an error that displays “E74” on their screen. After investigating the issue, we have determined that the E74 error message can indicate the general hardware failure that is associated with three flashing red lights error on the console. As a result, we have decided to cover repairs related to the E74 error message under our three-year warranty program for certain general hardware failures that was announced in July 2007. We have already made improvements to the console that will reduce the likelihood of an occurrence of this issue. Detailed information related to the Xbox 360 warranty and resources for those who require repair can be found at www.xbox.com/support (www.xbox.com/support).
Microsoft will refund to customers the amount paid for an out of warranty repair due to a general hardware failure associated with the e74 error message. Those customers should automatically receive the refund within 4-12 weeks, and no additional action by customers should be necessary. However, if a customer has not received a refund by July 1, 2009, the customer should visit www.xbox.com/support before November 1, 2009 for information on how to place a claim. All refund claims must be received on or before November 1, 2009.’For more information about troubleshooting the E74 error message, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:
941377 Your Xbox 360 console receives the error message E74
