Laserblues2 said:
Reading plenty of threads on here, it seems that firmware updates sometimes do cause problems and I completely understand that pilot error is a factor. However, surely when something like this has a problem, the chances are it will be in the air. Let's say a motor fails and this is nothing to do with pilot error - it will crash and therefore not be covered by warranty?
I guess it would be rare that DJI will actually repair something under warranty?
This has always been a gray area with RC, and a problem for both end users and manufacturers. For the user, how do you "prove" the motor failed in flight? For the manufacturer, how do you know the aircraft wasn't crashed by a complete newbie and the damage is a result of the crash? This is why it is important to develop a relationship with a reputable dealer. Not that this guarantees things will always go your way, but it certainly helps if you've been around, the dealer knows you and you've purchased many models, and they can go to bat for you with the manufacturer.
Case in point: FMS makes some amazing RC fixed-wing models. A couple years ago they released some new 1700mm (5.5' wingspan) warbirds. There were some issues early on. The v1 F4U Corsair had a plastic prop hub assembly they tended to fly apart. Further, the firewall (what the motor bolts to) was sometimes poorly glued and the thrust would sometimes totally rip the firewall from the fuselage. The 1700mm P-47 was notorious for the firewall failure. Needless to say, both of these problems resulted in aircraft being totally destroyed as they plummeted to earth.
My F4U is a v2, so the prop assembly was redesigned with a beefier metal hub, and I knew to always apply hot glue to the firewall to ensure it was well attached to the fuselage, so I did not suffer these issues. The guys are MotionRC went to bat with FMS for several of their customers who suffered these problems, and got them replacement aircraft from FMS at no charge. Considering these are extremely impressive $400+ models, that was nice indeed! I have two of the Mustangs...the Ferocious Frankie in this video and the Red Tail, and also the v2 gray & white Corsair. If you ever want a BIG and impressive fixed-wing model, these are impressive!
FMS 1700mm P-51D Mustang "Ferocious Frankie"
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qv3LvPDfh_Q[/youtube]
FMS 1700mm v2 F4U Corsair "Olathe Airfield"
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBa0-B0EHTc[/youtube]