Is the issue with my Nvidia motherboard an inherent problem?

I bought an HP Pavilion Entertainment Notebook DV9000 from PC World two and a half years ago. It has stopped working and a repair shop identified it as a problem with the Nvidia motherboard.

I was told this was a known problem so I tried contacting HP customer support with no luck. I can’t approach PC World as I can’t find my receipt.
Duncan Anderson

Around three years ago HP did issue an alert about problems with certain laptops. At the time it agreed to replace the faulty component free. But this was a limited offer and ended around two years ago.

But Mr Anderson does have a claim against PC World under the Sale of Goods Act if the laptop has an inherent fault. He could try to prove this in a couple of ways.

He should find out if his laptop is one of the models HP identified as having an inherent fault. We have contacted HP on his behalf to see if his laptop is one of those it listed as affected.

Alternatively he can ask his local repair shop if the examination proves the fault is inherent and not the result of fair wear and tear or accidental damage. If PC World accepts the independent report it must do one of three things: offer to repair the laptop, give him a replacement or, if none of these is possible, offer him a refund. This will be pro rata because he has had the laptop more than two years and got fair use from it.

If it contests the report, PC World can ask to carry out its own examination. If it disagrees with Mr Anderson’s report, the only option is to let the small claims court decide.

The only problem that we can foresee if an inherent fault is proven is if he can’t find proof of purchase. Without this he can’t lodge a claim. But he doesn’t need the original receipt. A bank or credit card statement showing the purchase will be all he needs.