Visitor
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7 Messages
Why cannot I use Arris TG1682G bought on eBay?
Hello,
Here is the story. I bought a new Arris TG1682G (COMCAST variant) unit in unopened original packaging on eBay. I went to the xFinity store to get my old unit removed from my name and register for a new unit.
The store customer service representative told me that by looking at the serial number on my new unit she can tell that this unit is registered for some other customer and that unit cannot be transferred to my name. Basicaslly, the representative said that the TG1682G manufactured for COMCAST cannot be used because they are "for rent only".
I don't understand that policy. I lawfully bought the unit. xFinity lawfully uses the same type of modem and still they prohibit me from using the same type of device.
The phone companies do not prohibit using phones bought from elsewhere they just require releasing IMEI number from the previous user. In this case the xFinity is the only company owning the serial number.
Why xFinity have that policy? Or is it just a customer service representative point of view?
Is there a way to do what I planned to do?
Thanks in advance!
Andyross
Gold Problem Solver
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8K Messages
3 years ago
If it is a Comcast specific modem that they were RENTING to somebody, then it is technically STOLEN! Rental modems are the PROPERTY of Comcast and are NOT FOR SALE! ALWAYS be wary of used modems on eScam eBay. I'm surprised they didn't demand you give it back to them.
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NoNoBadPuppy
Problem Solver
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720 Messages
3 years ago
You have learned a valuable lesson: NEVER buy used/refurbished modems from anyone! 95% of them are stolen, or are units that belonged to someone who did not pay their cable bill and have the device locked against their account.
The chance that you are going to get this modem activated is about 5%. The majority of the time, there is nothing that can be done.
I hope that the eBay seller takes returns, but most who sell gray market hardware like used modems will not give refunds.
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user_9d147b
Visitor
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7 Messages
3 years ago
I disagree that I cannot buy a used/refurbished unit. I don't want to be forced to buy new unit from COMCAST. We still live in a free market country. Even COMCAST has a list of supported devices which in relatively wide.
If the account is locked they need to go after the person, not after the device.
Besides for third time the unit is in original unopened packaging - brand new.
Another thing. It looks like xFinity technicians install Arris TG1682G as a default option.
Question: Instead of monthly payments (or rent) can I pay upfront in full (or buy) for the unit?
(edited)
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MNtundraRET
Gold Problem Solver
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5.9K Messages
3 years ago
Ther is no way you are going to win this argument. Your only hope is with E-bay and likely no chance there.
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user_9d147b
Visitor
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7 Messages
3 years ago
I still want to get an answer for:
Another thing. It looks like xFinity technicians install Arris TG1682G as a default option.
Question: Instead of monthly payments (or rent) can I pay upfront in full (or buy) for the unit?
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Andyross
Gold Problem Solver
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8K Messages
3 years ago
Do you need that model because you have Comcast phone service? There are not many models available for direct purchase. You may be better off renting. The XB7 commonly given out is actually pretty good. The newer XB8 has problems.
The TG1682 is old and outdated. It is only DOCSIS 3.0, and Comcast wants everyone on 3.1.
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NoNoBadPuppy
Problem Solver
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720 Messages
3 years ago
You have received a direct answer. You bought a used modem, one that cannot be activated. You *DO NOT* have to use what xfinity provides, but you have to buy a new modem that is compatible with your service tier. My point to you was that the modem you bought used on eBay is the worst option you could have gone with. Do not buy used / refurbished / reconditioned modems; 95% of them are unable to be activated.
Return the modem you got on eBay, and use that money to buy one new, from a retail establishment with a standard return policy. Do not buy one from eBay, as many modems sold on eBay as new are not new, and in many cases are cheap Chinese knockoffs that are horrible at best.
I know that you 'disagree' with my answer, but that changes nothing that I have stated.
Good luck...I hope you are able to return the item to the person you bought it from and get your money back. Then, check this xfinity page for hardware that is compatible with your plan; although you should buy one that supports faster downloads than you currently have to future proof your purchase. Once you settle on a device, buy it from a reputable retail dealer. Do not buy from eBay, even if it is claimed to be 'new", and especially if the seller does not offer refunds. A seller who does not offer refunds is quite often selling stolen hardware.
(edited)
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NoNoBadPuppy
Problem Solver
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720 Messages
3 years ago
You are not the victim of an xfinity plot against you. You are the victim of a seller on eBay that is selling stolen hardware. No one is forcing you to use anything provided by xfinity. You have been given the best advice for your situation, by multiple individuals. You can either learn from this experience, or you can go on with the erroneous belief that you are being victimized by xfinity. You just have to understand the simple fact that buying a used modem is *NEVER* a good idea. Again, I wish you luck; I hope you get it all straightened out.
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BruceW
Gold Problem Solver
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26.6K Messages
3 years ago
Always check https://www.xfinity.com/support/devices before buying a modem or gateway. If it isn't listed there, getting Comcast to support it will be anywhere from difficult to impossible.
Please be aware that there are 2 kinds of responses in this Forum: Replies and Comments. When you Comment on a post by scrolling down to "Comment on this post here...", I am notified of your response. But if you select Reply, I am NOT notified and may not be aware of your response.
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