Hitachi Class Action Lawsuit Filed by HORP&B
Partner Eric D. Pearson and Attorney John W. Pate, with my law firm Heygood, Orr, Reyes, Pearson & Bartolomei, have filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of plaintiff Anthony Partida and others against Hitachi America, Ltd., Hitachi Electronics Devices (USA), Inc., and Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc., subsidiaries of Tokyo-based Hitachi, Ltd., for defects in their LCD rear projection televisions with the model #50V500A. In the lawsuit, it is alleged that
According to Eric Pearson, “
If you have purchased a Hitachi Model #50V500A LCD television with any visual defects, please email Angel@ReyesLaw.com regarding your eligibility for participation as a plaintiff in the following lawsuit:
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE
NORTHERN DISTRICT OF TEXAS
CASE #8-008011513-ND
ORIGINAL CLASS ACTION COMPLAINT
ANTHONY PARTIDA, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated,
VS.
HITACHI AMERICA, LTD.,
and
(
Defendants.
Anthony Partida, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, by and through his attorneys, makes the following allegations and claims for his complaint against Hitachi America, Ltd, Hitachi Electronic Devices (USA), Inc. and Hitachi Home Electronics (
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
1. This Court has jurisdiction over all causes of action asserted herein pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1332(d), because the aggregate claims of the Class exceeds the sum or value of $5,000,000.00, and there is diversity of citizenship between proposed class members and defendants.
2. Venue is proper in this district under 28 U.S.C. § 1391(a)(2). All defendants conduct substantial business in this District, including conduct directed at members of the Class, including the promotion, sale, and marketing of their products, sufficient to render all of them within the jurisdiction of this Court. The events and conduct giving rise to the violations of law in this action constitute interstate commerce, and a significant portion thereof occurred in this District.
PRELIMINARY STATEMENT
3. This class action is brought by plaintiff seeking damages and equitable relief on his own behalf and on behalf of all others similarly situated in the
4. As such,
PARTIES
5. Plaintiff Anthony Partida purchased a Television containing the Defect and is a citizen and resident of
6. Defendant Hitachi America, Ltd. ("
7. Defendant
8. Defendant Hitachi Home Electronics (
9. Defendants
10. Plaintiff is informed and believes and thereon alleges that at all relevant times, each of the defendants was the agent, servant, representative successor, successor in interests and employee of the remaining co-defendants, and in doing the things hereinafter alleged, each was acting within the course and scope of said agency and employment and with the ratification and authorization of its respective principals.
STATEMENT OF FACTS
11. HDTV refers to high definition television, a method of portraying television images in high resolution, with a high degree of picture detail and accuracy. As such, HDTV televisions command prices several times higher than those for common standard definition television sets. Consumers purchasing HDTV televisions therefore pay a significant premium for the ability to enjoy the high quality picture such television sets offer.
12.
13. Consumer's experiences with these Televisions, however, have been completely contrary to what was explicitly represented by
14. The green blobs, red "bloom," green haze, blue dots, yellow lines and other color anomalies are believed to be caused by a condition in the Televisions' "light engine" and related componentry which causes the unwanted coloration to be produced on the screen. The light engine is the video component that causes the video signal to be displayed as a picture on the viewing screen. The defect in the light engine and related components in the Televisions generate the offending green blobs, red "bloom", green haze, yellow lines and other color anomalies.
15. To date, despite persistent consumer demands,
16.
17. As a result of
CLASS ACTION ALLEGATIONS
18. Plaintiff brings this action on behalf of himself and all other members of the class consisting of all purchasers of the Televisions in the
19. The Class is composed of no fewer than tens of thousands of persons nationwide and is sufficiently numerous for class treatment. The joinder of all Class members individually in one action would be impracticable, and the disposition of their claims in a class action will provide substantial benefits to the parties and the Court.
20. Plaintiff's claims are typical of the claims of the Class, and plaintiff has no interests adverse to the interest of the other members of the Class.
21. This dispute raises questions of law and fact that are common to all Class members. Those common questions predominate over questions that arise on an individual basis for Class members. The common questions of law and fact include, without limitation:
(a) Whether
(b) Whether
(c) To the
(d) When
(e) Whether
(f) Whether the Defect constitutes a manufacturing or design defect;
(g) Whether the Defect constitutes a breach of
(h) Whether the members of the Class have been injured by
(i) Whether the members of the Class have sustained damages and are entitled to restitution as a result of Hitachi's wrongdoing and, if so, what is the proper measure and appropriate formula to be applied in determining such damages and restitution; and
(j) Whether the members of the Class are entitled to injunctive relief.
22. Plaintiff will fairly and adequately protect the interests of the Class and has retained counsel experienced and competent in the prosecution of class action litigation.
23. A class action is superior to other methods of the fair and efficient adjudication of the claims herein asserted. Plaintiff anticipates that no unusual difficulties are likely to be encountered in the management of this class action.
24. A class action will permit a large number of similarly situated persons to prosecute their common claims in a single forum simultaneously, efficiently, and without the duplication of effort and expense that numerous individual actions would engender. Class treatment also will permit the adjudication of relatively small claims by many Class members who could not otherwise afford to seek legal redress for the wrongs complained of herein. If a Class or general public action is not permitted, Class members will continue to suffer losses and
25.
FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION
Unfair and Deceptive Acts and Practices Under State Laws
(Against All Defendants)
26. Plaintiff fully incorporates by reference each of the preceding paragraphs 1 through 3 as though fully set forth herein.
27. To the extent that these laws are applicable to
28. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200, et seq.
29. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Alaska Stat. § 45.50.471, et seq.
30. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 44-1522, et seq.
31. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Ark. Code § 4-88-101, et seq.
32. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200, et seq.
33. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Colo. Rev. Stat. § 6-1-105, et seq.
34. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Conn. Gen. Stat. § 42-110b, et seq.
35. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of 6
36. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of D.C. Code § 28-3901, et seq.
37. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Fla. Stat. § 501.201, et seq.
38. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Ga. Stat. § 10-1-392, et seq.
39. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Haw. Rev. Stat. § 480, et seq.
40. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Idaho Code § 48-601, et seq.
41. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of 815 ILCS § 505, et seq.
42. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Kan. Stat. § 50-623, et seq.
43. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Ky. Rev. Stat. § 367.110, et seq.
44. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of La. Rev. Stat. § 51:1401, et seq.
45. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of 5
46. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Md. Corn. Law Code § 13-101, et seq.
47. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Mass. Gen. L. Ch. 93A, et seq.
48. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Minn. Stat. § 8.31, et seq.
49. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of
50. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Mont. Code § 30-14-101, et seq.
51. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Neb. Rev. Stat. § 59-0601, et seq.
52. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Nev. Rev. Stat. § 598.0903, et seq.
53. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of N.H. Rev. Stat. § 358-A:1, et seq.
54. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of N.J. Rev. Stat. § 56:8-1, et seq.
55. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of N.M. Stat. § 57-12-1, et seq.
56. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 349, et seq.
57. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of N.C. Gen. Stat. § 75-1.1, et seq.
58. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of N.D. Cent. CODE § 51-15-01, et seq.
59. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Ohio Rev. Stat. § 1345.01, et seq.
60. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Okla. Stat. 15 § 751, et seq.
61. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Or. Rev. Stat. § 646.605, et seq.
62. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of 73
63. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of R. I. Gen. Laws § 6-13.1-1, et seq.
64. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of S.C. Code Laws § 39-5-10, et seq.
65. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of S.D. Code Laws § 37-24-1, et seq.
66. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Tenn. Code § 47-18-101, et seq.
67. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Tex. Bus. & Com. Code § 17.41, et seq.
68. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Utah Code § 13-11-1, et seq.
69. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of 9
70. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Va. Code § 59-1-196, et seq.
71. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of Wash Rev. Code § 19.86.010, et seq.
72. Defendants have engaged in unfair competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices in violation of West Virginia Code § 46A-6-101, et seq.
73. Plaintiff and members of the Class have been injured by reason of Defendants' unfair and deceptive acts and practices in regard to their manufacturing, marketing, sale, and warranty practices relating to the defective Televisions. These injuries are of the type that the above State consumer protection statutes were designed to prevent, and are the direct result of the Defendants' unlawful conduct.
SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION
Breach of Express Warranty
(Against All Defendants)
74. Each of the above allegations is incorporated herein.
75.
76. Alternatively,
77. In fact, the products purchased by the Plaintiff did not so conform.
78. As a result of the foregoing, Plaintiff and the Class have suffered damages. THIRD
CAUSE OF ACTION
Violation of Magnum-Moss Act (15 U.S.C. § 2301 et seq.
(Against All Defendants)
79. Each of the above allegations is incorporated herein.
80. Plaintiff and the Class are consumers as defined in 15. U.S.C. § 2301(3).
81. Defendants are suppliers and warrantors as defined in 15. U.S.C. § 2301(4)(5).
82. The Televisions are consumer products as defined in 15. U.S.C. § 2301(6).
83. By reason of Hitachi's breach of its express written warranties stating that the Televisions would operate properly, were free from material defects, and that it would repair or replace any such defects, Defendants have violated the statutory rights due the Plaintiff and the Class pursuant to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, 15 U.S.C. § 2301 et seq., thereby damaging Plaintiff and the Class.
FOURTH CAUSE OF ACTION
Breach of Implied Warranty
(Against All Defendants)
84. Each of the above allegations is incorporated herein.
85.
86. Alternatively,
87. In fact, the products purchased by Plaintiff and the Class did not so conform.
88. As a result of the foregoing, Plaintiff and the Class have suffered damages.
PRAYER FOR RELIEF
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff respectfully requests that this Court enter judgment as follows:
A. Declaring that this action is properly maintainable as a class action and certifying Plaintiff as a class representative;
B. Awarding damages to Plaintiff and the other Class members for
C. Awarding restitution and disgorgement as a result of
D. Requiring
E. Awarding pre and post judgment interest;
F. Awarding attorneys fees, expenses and costs; and
G. Providing such other and further relief as this Court may deem just and proper.
JURY DEMAND
Plaintiff demands trial by jury and has tendered herewith the appropriate fee.
DATED: ________ 2008.
Respectfully submitted,
Eric D Pearson
State Bar No. 15690472
John W. Pate
State Bar No. 24040092
HEYGOOD, ORR, REYES, PEARSON & BARTOLOMEI
2331
(214) 526-7900 Telephone
(214) 526-7910 Facsimile
ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF
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We are having the same issue with Hitachi, how do we get our name upon the list of complaintants? What do we do now?
Thank you for any info and help!
These symtoms apply to my model 50v710 made in 2004, Hitachi says tv not the same as 50v500, but its the same thing, my tv is unveiwable and cant get Hitachi to fix it, I am very stressed about it.
I have a client with a model 62vs(5?)69a experiencing the same difficulties. Are you considering including any other models in your class?
11/17/2008
I HAVE A HITACHI 50V500 A WITH A BAD LIGHT ENGIN HOW DO I GET ON THE LIST? i HAVE RECIET FROM SEARS FROM 03/06/04
I have same 50V500 TV, from Circuit city, replaced Light ingine 8 month ago, now all images and text has a ghost effect,to log through imput to 12C service menu nor successful, tried many times, $3600 + service expencies + lots of inconvenience, waisted on this Tv. Maybe Hitachi would reimburs somehow....
I have a Hitachi 50v710 with a green blob issue that appears to be very similar to the symptoms described here. Is there any course of action for me? I have seen multiple accounts of this issue on my model tv all across the internet.
I asked to be added to the suit and was told they could not take my name on the case. Not sure why but now need to find another remedy.
I have a Hitachi 50V500 50in which was purchased in Jan 2004. I did have problems with the Light Engine but, it the repairs were coveredby the 4 year warranty which was purchased from Circuit City for $500. The TV has crapped out on me again (about once every year now) and I'm convinced that this POS is just about worthless now. I'll never buy a Hitachi product ever again. I did call to see about joining the class-action group but was told it was more or less closed to new complaintants at this point. I gave the woman who answered the phone my info though.
Attached is a copy of a posting dated 1/6/2009 from the websit fixya.com wherein a Hitachi TV owner states he recently contacted Hitachi regarding his defective Optical Light Engine. He goes on to state Hitachi agreed to send him a new one @ N/C. I thought this might help your firms case against Hitachi wherein another example of how they are treating people unfairly with this issue.
If you wish to view this posting on the fixya.com website go to:
http://www.fixya.com/ThreadView.aspx?thid=990548&prdid=191117
Warm regards
I also have an Hitachi 50v500a. purchased at sears feb. 03,for $3500.00. This tv has also had the same problems with a red blurr. Hitachi was told of the problem, and after about an hour of talking to several people, they said they would replace the light engine @N/C but that I would have to pay for labor. The tv was almost 2 years old and thought that wasn't so bad ($150.00) labor. of course about a year and a half later it started with a small red blurr again which over time gets bigger and bigger till covers 90% of the screen again. Does anyboby know if hitachi will replace these tv's or some sort reimburstment for another?
I too have a hitachi 50vs810 which also has the green "blob' issue,and it was very difficlt to watch.(Paid $3,000.00 new.)After repeated complaints to hitachi customer service, thay agreed to replace the light engine, all i had to pay for was the pick up and delivery of the set(150.00). My set has been in the repair shop for 5 weeks, and still no word on when or if the new engines will ever make it to the warehouse, i am so completely frustrated at this point, i just don't know what to do ..how long should one wait???
thanks hitach, for the 50v500a. what a hunk of junk light engine, lens, power board ect, for the money i paid i could sue you myself
I have a Hitachi 50V710 that I just replaced the bulb in about six months ago. Now the Screen has a green halo that extends from the middle of the TV to the outside edge. TV repair service diagnosed it as a light engine issue. Called Hitachi for replacement and was told cost would be $1,500, I paid over $3,500 for the TV and expected it to have a longer life than just 3 years. I think Hitachi should replace these TV's with a newer version. I would like to be included in the Class Action Lawsuit against Hitachi. What do I need to do to be included on the list? Thank you!
I HAVE A HITACHI 55VS69A MODEL FROM NOV 2007 AND HAVE BLUE GHOST ABOUT 8IN WIDE FROM TOP OF SCREEN TO BOTTOM THAT STARTED 1 MONTH AFTER WARRANTY EXPIRED. ARE ANY OTHER MODEL NUMBERS GOING TO BE ADDED THE THIS SUIT. CORRECT ME IF I'M WRONG, BUT I BELIEVE THEY ALL USE THE SAME LIGHT ENGINE PRODUCT. HAS ANYONE CONTACTED THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU ABOUT THEM. ARE THEY ABLE TO PUT ANY PRESSURE ON THEM TO RECALL PRODUCT OR SOMETHING. THIS IS CRAZY!!! ANYONE THAT HAS ANY SUGGESTIONS OR CAN OFFER SOME HELP PLEASE EMAIL ME AT BIGDOGG531@WOH.RR.COM.
I also have a hitachi model number 50VS810A I have had many problems with the replaceing of the bulb these bulbs are not cheap and im actually thinkin its the light engine also how do I get on this list also and this tv was made in 2005. thank you
In Canada the 60v500a cost me Five thousand dollars. After 14 months i was getting green blobs on my screen making my television experience awful. Thankfully i did buy the extended warranty and the light engine was replaced in December 2005. In January 2009 it was confirmed that my optical lense needs replacing because my picture is off colour. example: watching hockey on tv, the ice is yellow. All whites are yellow and if the screen should be black the middle of the screen is black but the rest is blue. This blue issue has nothing to do with the mercury in the lamp. Bottom line is that Hitachi Canada is sending me the part for free but i do have to pay for the labour. But this is just temporary relief for me knowing that this problem is going to happen again. I also will never buy a Hitach product again. As i have also read and has happened to me, when you call Hitachi and complain about these problems they play dumb with you and say that there is nothing they can do for you.or they never heard of this problem before. But once your authorized Hitachi repair man confirms your problem Hitachi Canada all of the sudden understands your problem and sends you the free part.Atleast for now anyway Hitachi is replacing my defective part for free, but as i said,in the back of my mind i know this tv will fail again which is making my television experience not as enjoyable.Dear Hitachi Fool me once shame on me. Fool me again you can"t fool me again. Thanks George. Anyway good luck everybody.
Hitachi is replacing the optical light engines at no charge for the part. You are still responsible for labor. I have a 60v500A from 2003. The red blob covers almost the entire screen now. I called Hitachi and spoke to the Consumer Relations Department. It only took a few minutes on the phone with them to agree to replace the optical light engine. The catch is they will not send you the part. You have to have an authorized Hitachi repair center come out to your house and verify the issue, they will then release the part to them for repair. The service company I went with is called ElectraSound and I could not be more pleased with their service. The initial inspection to verify the problem goes towards your total repair cost when the part does arrive.
We have a Hitachi 42V715 with the same problems of yellow/green blobs. This month the lamp went. Thinking the lamp may have been the problem, I purchased a new lamp for $250, and installed it. Screen lit up - as did the old yellow/green blobs. After research now have to buy a new light engine for more big bucks - that will only result in the same probem later. The new lamp burnt out this morning(5 days). I wish your lawsuit would include all sizes of this particular projection HDTV. Is there a place we can dump these things?
I have a 42V710 that has a yellow/green ring, form research it appears to be the optical light engine as well. I will be calling Hitachi tomorrow to complain. Hopefully I will have luck
We are having the same issues with our tv.
We have replaced the bulb and still no change. The blue haze has covered almost all of the television, and it looks like blue dots are everywhere.. My tv is 2 yrs. old. and Of course it's not under warranty.
Let me know if any of you have any suggestions.
i have a 60v500a model bought 4 years ago and hitachi told me the the bulb was bad so i bought one and it did not cure problem, after spending 450 bucks its the engine light and no help from them either.
I too own a 50vs810 and have most of the problems described above. New light engine and bulb did nothing. Still have splotches and rings and a dark set overall. Any class action suit for this model? Purchased June 05.
I purchased my Hitachi 50VS69A 2 years ago and never thought I'd have to junk my $1500 television so soon. I called Hitachi after my lamp blew out. The TV was only about a year old and was only used a few hours each night. I was surprised that the lamp would burn out so quickly, so I called Hitachi to find out if something else may be going on. The person I spoke with was very rude and told me that nothing was wrong with the TV and that the lamps only last 1-2 years. I purchased a new lamp (around $200) and installed it myself. The bright new lamp revealed a another problem. There was an interesting blue blob in the center of the screen that has progressively grown and it's invaded the majority of the screen. It hurts my eyes to watch the TV, so it's just sitting there collecting dust. I've read so many complaints online about the problems with the light engine in Hitachi rear projection televisions and the way Hitachi is handling the situation doesn't make it any better. I will never purchase another Hitachi product ever again!
I have a Hitachi 50v500.
Am I a party in this class action lawsuit?
Thank You
I purchased a 55VS69A in 2006, and in 2008 I had the same blue blob. After 6 months of looking @ it, I called the repair shop out to find out the problem (Hitachi's advice), and they told me $1200 to fix optic block and also the bulb. I declined to fix. The unit quit complely now, and will not power up. Its the bulb I'm sure now, but if I replace it, sounds like the blue blob will still be there. Does this set qualify? After reading this, I called Hitachi again, but was told that they stopped sending Optic Blocks out 2 months ago? any truth to that? djordan@fastenercorp.com is my email - Pls help!
I have a 2004, 60v500a with a optical light engine issues. Do I qualify for this lawsuit?
We purchased a Hitachi tv (Model # 50V710). It was manufactured in October 2004. We have already replaced the bulb once in May 2008 to the tune of $230 and now we are experiencing a huge yellow circle on the screen.
From what I have been researching this is a "known" defect from Hitachi. Is this model part of your class action lawsuit? A television that we paid $3500+ for and is less than five years old should not have all of these costly problems.
Please advise.
Thank you.
I have a 50c20a Hiatchi television and my lite engine is gone i am now on my 3 bulb in 2 years 1500-2000 dollars to have repaired tv should have lasted longer THATS WHAT YOU GET YOU THINK YOU ARE BUYING FROM ONE THE BEST MANUFACTORERS IT SEEMS TO BE ABOUT THE MONEY NOT THE COSTOMER
I have the same type of issue with my 55vs69a Hitachi LCD TV. At about 18 months of ownership, I replaced the bulb costing my $125.00. Now just after two years, I have a blue halo covering about 75% of the screen. I contacted Hitachi and they refuse to do anything because I had no other issues previously. When speaking to the CS at Hitachi, I asked him if he thought a $1300.00 tv should last more than two years. With a snicker in his reply, he stated he could not answer that. Does this tv qualify in this suit?
I have the same problem with my 55VS69A its two years old and the light engine is causing blue clouds all over the screen. Like many others I am out of warranty and Hitachi refuse to help. Can I still qualify in this suit?
I have a 50v500a that I purchased 4-5 years ago. I've had the red 'bloom' on my screen for the last 2-3 years. I've put up with it because I didn't think I could afford the repairs. Well I've finally put some research into it and now I see that it is a much bigger complaint than just my own. I called hitatchi customer service and they told me my tv was too old and because I didn't have any previous repairs then I don't fall into their 'guidelines' to get it fixed. Is it too late to join this lawsuit?!?
I own the 55vs69 and have this problem just over two years of ownership. Looks horrible and getting worse by the day. Also on my 3rd lamp with average use. How come this model is not listed as a lemon as well?
I bought 50vs810 3yrs ago it has yellow screen repair man said it was light engine. he told me to call hitachi and try to get replacement, they told me sorry about your luck you sould have gottin exstended warranty. I paid $3400 for mine and it will cost $1100 to fix. should of bought a sony
Our 55VS69A was less than 2 years old when the light went out. Bought another (OEM)lamp and one week later, started to see a blue haze at the top and in the center. It seems to be growing. Have read so much on the problems with this television, that I don't see any reason to spend anymore money on it. How do I add my name to this class action lawsuit against Hitachi?
I have a 50V500 and had the pink cloud issue...After searching the web for solutions I found that it was a common problem...After several calls to Hitachi I did get them to replace the light engine but I had to pay all labor costs...Now am having issues with a lamp cooling fan...I will be taking it 45 miles to an authorized repair center for the third time this month...I paid $3500 for this TV 5 1/2 years ago and have not been pleased with the quality. I would be interested in joining this suit, please send details if there is still time.
Thank You
We have a 55vs69a and have the problem with the lamp blowing out, replaced, and tv goes on and off with red lights blinking. Is this model included in the lawsuit?
I have a Hitachi 60V500A. It has a blue streak down the left side of the screen with a red haze in the center. I also have blue dots in the center of the red haze.
I would like to be added to the lawsuit. We have a Hitachi Projection TV 50". On July 3 the light blub went out and it cost us over 200.00 to replace it, then last week a month later the screen went blue dots and like a halo in the middle and yellow colors. We find out its the Light Engine. We call Hitachi and they will do nothing about it. We have not even had the TV two years till this coming Fall 09. They said the warranty had run out and when you pay that kind of money for a TV you expect it to last longer than ours did. We checked on the price of the part, Light engine is $800.00 plus over $200.00 to install it.What a rip off. I would also like to add when we bought this TV and set it up there was some blue dots already on it in the corners, but we brushed it off as the color, because this was our first big TV and never thought anything about it just taking it out of the box new. Well we were wrong and never buy another Hitachi again. I do hope something is done about this and would love to get our money back.
Thank you
We would also like to be added to the lawsuit. After only 2.5 years of having this T.V. we also noticed a blue blob in the middle of our screen. We called Hitachi and they also stated to us that they would not do a thing about it. Hitachi customer service representitive also stated to us that it was Hitachi's policy that they were allowed to hang up on us and that they were told by upper management that they were to do nothing for us. The representive then stated to get an attorney and sue if we would like. 5 out of the 6 representivies we spoke to to extremely rude and treated us with no respect at all. We took our T.V. to a repair shop and they varified that it was the light engine. It would be about $1,200.00 to replace (including labor). I would like my money back for this dissappontment of a television and will NEVER buy another Hitachi product again. Nor will any of our friends and family as we shared this with everyone we could think of!
I have a Hitachi 60v500a. Same problems as above. First it was a red blob now after replacing the bulb it is blurry and has streaks. Again, the light engine. From what I can read on the internet, this is a continuing problem. Replace the light engine and replace it again in a few years. I feel taken.
I would also like to be added to this lawsuit. After exactly 2 years my bulb went out on my TV(50vs69a bought from Circuit City). I replaced bulb and everything was fine until 2 months after bulb replacement I notice a blue haze in background.I paid this no mind and 2 wks later half of my screen is showing this blue hazy color. I call a authorized repair Shop for Hitachi and before I could finish explaining my problem I was told its the light engine AND THAT THIS WAS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH MY MODEL TV. This was too easy so I went on answers.com and was told this was a common issue with Hitachi rptv's. Research has told me Hitachi knew about this since 2005 yet they were still selling tv's with defective parts. I called customer service. I was told flat out there was nothing they can do since the TV had no known issues before and the TV is out of warranty. I asked what about all the complaints on the internet? their reply was "They were just a few unhappy customers" 2 YEARS FROM MY TV THATS HIGHWAY ROBBERY. The price for the part with labor ($775+$250) is too much to repair. I would like my money back. I WILL NEVER NEVER NEVER BUY THIS BRAND AGAIN
have the 55vs69a The light engine is definitely malfunctioning. I have not seen if this case has moved forward since it was posted a year ago - Is there an update? Or has Hitachi quickly made a recall on this part?
We bought a hitachi 55vs69a 55" LCD TV.
After 2yrs and 1 week the bulb went out, $280 Then it started having blue dots and a white haze, now it has a big yellow blob in the middle.
Here are some pix.
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j131/thondor/tv3.jpg
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j131/thondor/tv1.jpg
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j131/thondor/tv2.jpg
I have read all over the net that everyone is having the EXACT same problems in the same time frame.
Please advise
Thank you
Thondor
thondor@thondor.com
I have a Hitachi 50v500 Rear Projection TV and am having problems with it. I was told that it was the light engine, and according to records dating back to 2003 Hitachi was aware of the problem. I contacted Hitachi today and spoke with a Ryan and he played stupid and said that there was never any problems with that TV and that is was infact a great TV. Since Hitachi was aware of this problem, all I want is a Replacement Light Engine
I would like to think Hitachi stand beside their products, for reason this is the only electronics I shop for. However I am having a very serious problem with the product that I have now. Hitachi LCD Rear Projection 50" television set, so far I have enjoy watching the television set until recent when the color show green all the time. I purchase this product back in 2/2007 and the one year warranty ended last year at 2/2008. However, the problem with this set is a BIG problem and I do not understand why this STILL BRAND NEW TELEVISION SET is having this problem. I was informed that the ULTRA-COMPACT 3-PANEL LCD LIGHT ENGINE IS MILE FUNCTION AND CAN BE DEFECTED. I was surprise and upset at the same time due to the warranty just ran out and this defect is happen to my television set. I ask several repair company about this problem and they informed me that it will cost me around $899.00 to $1,000.00 to have this repair and this is not including the labor cost. At this price I can purchase a new television set, and I can not afford this cost. I HAVE HAD SEVERAL TELEVISION SETS IN MY LIFE AND I KNOW A TELEVISION SET CAN LAST YOU AT LEASE 4 TO 5 YRS. I HAVE CONTACTED THE CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER AND WAS TOLD THEIR IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. THIS IS HARD TO SWALLOW, I AM TRYING AGAIN TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURE ABOUT THIS PROBLEM BEFORE I MAKE MY NEXT STEP. ATTACHED YOU WILL FIND MOTIVATION DOCUMENTS AND RESEARCH PAPERS. (THE INTERNET IS A POWERFUL TOOL. INFORMATION CAN TRAVEL FAST, DO YOU AGREE...) ALL I WANT IS MY 19 MONTH OLD TELEVISION SET REPAIR.
I bought the 50V500 in October of 2005. My set has a yellowish, green tint that cannot be adjusted. Repair shop quickly diagnosed problem as defective light engine which would be roughly $1000 to repair. Customer relations at Hitachi said the set was too old and because I didn't have prior complaint, they wouldn't do anything. That really frosted my pumpkin and I am highly motivated to make them pay. Because of the overwhelming number of people in the same boat, doesn't this go beyond a simple warranty issue? Wouldn't any thoughtful arbiter agree that a Tv should last longer than this?
I have a Hitachi 60v710 and my TV is having the same issue. After replacing the lamp I noticed 30 days later a yellowish spot that is growing in size on the screen. I called the TV repair man who took one look and stated it is the light engine. I called the 800-654-7013 number listed in the above posting and because other than bulb issues I have not had any problems with the TV they are unwilling to assist me. Is there any way you could help me??
I think we are all in the same boat with the television issue--we were all sold lemmons--seems to me if we pooled our energies and sent a letter to the consumer agencies and also began making a lot of noise then someone might listen--we all got taken for about $3500 each and that is a lot of money! We could make a facebook site for Victims of Hitachi. Does anyone like this idea?
I have the hitachi 50v500 and there is a big red background. I tried changing the color a few times but doesnt get better.
I have a Hitachi 42V710 with the same problems of yellow/green blobs. I have replaced the lamp and i still have the yellow/green blobs. I was told that it was the light engine, I have a 60 months Parts/Labor Warranty from REX that was purchased in 12/31/2004 but rex does not want to pay to fix it, they just want to buy me out for $500 well i gave $2400 plus $160 for a stand that will fit any other TV what good is a warranty if you cannot use it should i call Hitachi?
I have a Hitachi 55VS69A and am having the blue streaks across my TV. I have only owned this TV for 2 years, I have a Sony Trinitron TV that has lasted over 12 years. This is Bullcrap. I would also put my name on said list if this hasn't already gone to court over this.
i to have a 50v500 purchased in dec of 03 it started giving a purple background in mid 2007 then red begain in the center to i had it dignosed by a technition and they told me it was the light engine i contacted hitatchi customer relations and service several times and doucumented the people i spoke to neither were helpful and asked i asked for supervisor evertime and evertime they refused to let me :(
I purchased a 60V500A in August 2004 and replaced the light engine once already and need to do it for a second time.
Can I be included in the suit.
My Hitachi 50VS810 cost almost $5,000 in late 2004, and I paid over $600 for an extended warranty. After checking the internet, I realize these tv's have more than "blob" issues. I had a major repair done in 2007 (I believe it was the cooling fan) and I was not the only one with that problem. Last week, my tv stopped working altgether. The lamp light blinks and replacing the lamp unit does not solve the problem. This problem keeps the set from turning on at all, and I am not alone. Can I join the class action?
I have an 50vs69a and I have the blue shadow how can I replace the blue panel and what is the part number for that if anyone knows?
I have a Hitachi 50VS69A and have the same blue haze and dots on my screen not long after the warranty was up i noticed the blue haze . Called Hitachi and they said i needed to replace the bulb. Replaced the bulb but still didn't help called back and they tell me its the light engine and it was not recalled now i have a $1100 peice of junk that needs a $900 light engine. I WILL NEVER BUY A HITACHI PRODUCT AGAIN THIS IS THE WORSE CUSTOMER SERVICE I HAVE EVER SEEN!!!!
Same here. Purchased a 50V715 Hitachi in 2006. Had it for less than a year and it cost $500 to replace the lamp and something else. That was in 2007 and it has worked great until now . . . I have a yellow circle right in the middle of the screen and getting bigger and brighter by the day. Not fair. I bought this TV when I retired and thought it would last a long time because I have a 32" Hitachi TV I bought back in 1993 AND IT IS STILL WORKING. I want to join this lawsuit!
We bought a 50V500A from Sears on sale with a stand for $2861.99 in July 2004. It was an investiment to say the least. We thought we were buying a reliable brand with the best up to date features. Eighteen months to two years later, I started to notice a little pink/red spot in the center of the television. I thought it was the lamp starting to burn out and was surprised it was going that soon. It was tolerable and I put off doing anything with it. It steadily grew covering most of the center of the screen. I finally looked into replacing the lamp last year and called Hitachi. Their price for a lamp was $250 - $300. I researched it on the internet and found cheaper priced lamps but put off replacing it still. It was aggravating to watch a movie and embarassing to have family or friends comment on the distortion. I finally decided to replace the lamp but callled Hitachi to verify that was the likely problem . . . 'No that sounds like a light engine problem. No idea the cost to repair/replace. Here's a number to a local service tech.' I called, about $800 to replace . . . I don't think so guys. I google for a cheaper option and came across postings from several sources of this problem and the class action. Sign me on. I'm glad I didn't put any more money into the damn thing. Don't buy Hitachi!!
I have a 55vs69a.. a few days before the one yr warrenty ended we had speaker problems...that was replaced with a tech that told us no one installed foam inside where the speakers were,causing vibration...few days went by the problem was back.(we chose to buy surround sound to listen to the tv...aprox. week later the bulb went, replaced that...now we were told today the light engine was gone...911.00 to replace that....why would I want to replace one defective part with another?? NOT!! I'm taking this as far as I can,seems they know about these defective parts
I purchased Hitachi 50v500 in 2004 for 3200 + the 400 stand for the tv.A little over a year later the tv developed a red haze through out the piture.I contacted Hitachi and at first said it was out of warranty and to contact sears were I purchased it.I contacted sears and they wanted 150 just to come out nd check it.So again I contacted Hitachi and finally got them to come out and repair it.It ended up being the optical engine.Well I guess they never corrected these optical engines because the problem is back now with a blue haze. So sign me up for this lawsuit.
My light engine went out this week and Hitachi will not replace . 60v500A 2-3 years old
Sign me up
emailed the following to Hitachi "Question: I currently have a 50V500A lcd set that now has a defective light engine that apparently is a known defect for quite some time. The hours on my set is 3400 hours which roughly equates to about a dollar an hour that I have enjoyed. This seems a bit pricey. Are you offering any type of compensation for this known defect or are you simply sticking you customers with the problem." Their response was that it is my problem and the set is too old.
I have a 60v500 and have the same problem that thousands of Hitachi LCD owners are experiencing: failure of the optical engine due to defective design and manufacturing of the product. I contacted Hitachi, as did my "certified" Hitachi TV serviceman, but the company would do absolutely nothing about the problem. Incredibly, even after we consumers pay $3,000 to $5,000 for these sets, which should make us "premier" customers in their mind, we are treated horrendously. Hitachi was rude, unprofessional, unresponsive, not to mention uncaring. Obviously no one should ever buy an HDTV from this company, and indeed, I understand that the awful reputation their HDTVs and their customer service have earned is driving them out of the flatscreen business. But I'd advise consumers to seriously consider whether you want to risk buying ANY Hitachi product. After all, if they treat customers this way who spend $3,000 to $5,000 on their TVs, why are they going to treat buyers of other Hitachi products any differently?
I have paid more in repars than I paid for the tv.they refuse to replace it,and won't even fix it without charge!I have had this tv for just two years,and paid a fortune for it.
I purchase a 42v710 3 years ago that has the same problem as everyone else "yellow patches on the screen". I contacted Hitachi and spoke with a customer service rep and explained to her the problem that I was experiencing with this TV. She said that there was nothing they could do for me because there was no history of problems with this TV. Well I told her there is a history just look on the web and browse for Hitachi light engine problem....
When I told her that their was a class action law suite being prepared regarding this TV and that I will be supporting it...
She told me that she WAS aware of a law suit but Hitachi was fighting it. That statement alone told me a lot about the company. She then gave me a mailing address to send in my complaint..
PS
The Hitachi sales rep just called me while writing this comment. She said she see's I have an extended warranty and I should contact the seller of the TV and have them fix it. She felt since I paid the money for the extended warranty its not right to not have them be responsible in fixing the TV. I told her thanks for that info but where did you get that info from. Apparently they have a database that shows who has purchased the extended warranty from the store.
Question: Are they trying to push this off on to the Seller.
Answer: NO! they wouldn't do that
I know that I didn't buy an extended warranty. Instead I bought a TV for 1800 dollars that the manufacture doesn't back. She then realized her mistake and that she read her data wrong about the extended warranty. She then told me that I would have to write to the address she gave me earlier to submit a complaint
I will never buy another Hitachi product again.
I have a Hitachi 50v500 with a bad light engine , i have called them letting them know this issue is all over the net and there are class action lawsuits, they refused to help,how do i add my name to this class action suit?thanks
I have a 50V710 with the same issue. Yellow glow in the middle. Wrote the appeals committee and they said they were not going to help replace the part since my TV is out of warranty. It's only 3 years old!!!! So now I'm stuck! Does anyone have any advice?
I also have a 50VS69A about 3 years old. Lamp blew out and I replaced it with new lamp. Now have numerous blue dots on screen and blue halo in center of screen. sounds like I'm in for more trouble. Just Great.
Bought a hitachi 55vs69a aprox 2yrs old -bulb went ,repaired aprox 2 months ago and now a bluish blob is appearing on several area's of screen.This is b.s.Any info on getting hitachi to pay for these faults pls post.Thanks.
I have a Hitachi 50V500 with a bad light engine. How do I add my name to this class action suit? Thanks
I have a 42V710 with the same issue. Hitachi customer service said they are aware of the issue but disagree with having to be responsible to replace the light engine. Are there other models that can be included? For now, the only option they gave me was to write a letter to Hitachi's appeals department.
I have a 55VS69A as well and just had to replace the lamp after 2 1/2 years which isnt too bad seeing the cost was only $160 for a new one online, but once I changed it, I started getting the same blue spots on my tv as well as the centre of the screen has a circular halo and quite unwatchable. I contacted Hitachi customer service just like everyone else here just to have them brush me off mailing my complaint to Hitachi Home Electronics.
I agree that there should be other models included with this lawsuit and this taken care of now that we've all seen its a larger issue than they thought.
I purchased a Hitachi 50V710 that now has a green tint issue as well. I have gotten the "runaround" from Hitachi's customer relations dept. I would like any info RE: how to join the class action lawsuit. Thank you.
Bad light engine on mine also. Hitachi needs to step up to the plate and fix their problems! You can buy a new tv for the price of the badly designed light engine. Add me to the list.
I'm with everyone here. For those asking how to get on the list it's at the top of the page. Email Angel@ReyesLaw.com. I'm keeping my fingers crossed on this one. It's ridiculous!
I have purchased my dlp lcd tv 50v720 for $2300.00. Now because of the red blooms due to the faulty light engine it would cost me over $1000.00 to have it replaced. I guess hitachi only makes four year old tvs. they are throw aways. I will never purchase another Hitachi again.
I have a 4 year old Hitachi 50v500 and a bad light engine. Television has very limited use due to being in the finished basement where I do not spend much time. Hitachi customer relations states tv is out of warranty. What are my options?
I have a 50VS69A with the blue haze (blob) progressing throughout the screen. Spoke with hitachi customer service and customer relations with no satisfaction. Everyone has the basic same issues, I don't understand why Hitachi won't resolve them to atleast try to keep their customers. I suppose they (Hitachi) don't care as long as their TV's are selling why care. Even if hitachi give me a free light engine I still have to pay for installation which ranges from $400 to $600 dollars. I don't know about everyone else but a TV that's 3 1/2 years old should not need this type of repair. I don't mind buying the bulbs, however I have purchased 2. Purchase 1 approx. 1.5 years after purchase and another 6 months later. I feel that everyone is getting screwed by Hitachi and will never purchase another item from them ever as well as advise everyone and their friends not to never purchase Hitacti's equipment again. So for what it's worth if possible definitely add me to this list.
I have a 50VS69A with the blue haze (blob) progressing throughout the screen. Spoke with hitachi customer service and customer relations with no satisfaction. Everyone has the basic same issues, I don't understand why Hitachi won't resolve them to atleast try to keep their customers. I suppose they (Hitachi) don't care as long as their TV's are selling why care. Even if hitachi give me a free light engine I still have to pay for installation which ranges from $400 to $600 dollars. I don't know about everyone else but a TV that's 3 1/2 years old should not need this type of repair. I don't mind buying the bulbs, however I have purchased 2. Purchase 1 approx. 1.5 years after purchase and another 6 months later. I feel that everyone is getting screwed by Hitachi and will never purchase another item from them ever as well as advise everyone and their friends not to never purchase Hitacti's equipment again. So for what it's worth if possible definitely add me to this list.
I have a Hitachi 50VS69A. It has the blue dots and also haze all around the screen. Talked to the 800# and told them my problem, and also said that I did research on this problem and they told me that they had not heard of this problem and could only refer me to a local service center since I don't have an extended warranty. I would like to add my name to a class action suit. The unit is only 3 years old.
I too have the same issue with my Hitachi television. What do I do now other than by a new television. Can I add my name to the lawsuit for charges occured trying to make the television as it should be as well as the cost of replacing the television?
I have a 60V500 that has the same problem as the others. I purchased this TV from Circuit City so there is no help from them now. Hitachi informed me that they will do nothing as I am probably out of warranty. I originally wrote Hitachi for assistance in August 09 and finally received the negative answer in December 09 after sending two more request. Can I get in on this action also?
60V500A - Green haze, how do I become part of this lawsiut?