If you own an Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 and have been experiencing hardware problems, Microsoft has decided to offer some welcome relief. The 90-day warranty is being extended to a year, and any repair costs incurred will therefore be refunded.
As Windows Central reports, the decision to extend warranties on Elite Series 2 controllers is in response to mechanical issues being reported. The warranty update announcement by Microsoft explains, “We’ve received claims that a small percentage of our customers are experiencing mechanical issues when using their Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. To ensure your satisfaction, we’re extending the warranty coverage period on Elite Series 2 controllers from 90 days to 1 year from the date of purchase.”
Microsoft goes on to make it clear that, “this extension applies retroactively for Elite Series 2 controllers sold to date. If you incurred repair costs to service your Elite Series 2 controller, you’ll be issued a refund by Microsoft before October 31, 2020.”
One of the main concerns when the Elite Series 2 controller launched in November last year was whether it would wear out as quickly as the first Elite controller did. It turns out, the concern was valid and Microsoft is already facing a class-action lawsuit for analog stick drift, which was filed back in April. Originally, the lawsuit was for the first Elite controller, but has since been updated to include the second-generation pad.
As the updated warranty only applies to Elite Series 2 controllers, it seems unlikely the class-action lawsuit is going to disappear. However, it may reduce the number of consumers who are eligible for some form of compensation if Microsoft ends up losing the case.
