I actually needed my HDD replaced after about 3 years. The Dell warranty service was excellent for me. I sent support an email. After a couple hours, they responded back and I sent them additional information. I also was able set up a time for them to come to my house. A few days later, they installed my new HDD and let me keep the old one. I had a similar positive experience when they replaced my GF4 Ti4200 because its fan was getting loud.