Zotac rejects RMA of working RTX 5070 Ti for unrelated issue and suggests trashing the GPU

RTX 50-series GPUs have suffered their share of defects, often requiring gamers to initiate returns. However, with one RTX 5070 Ti, even a seemingly minor problem has turned into a headache. A customer began the RMA process for a defective fan, only for Zotac to deny the warranty claim. Because of a supposedly damaged PCB, the company has offered to throw it away as a resolution.

Reported by VideoCardz, the gamer’s saga has been documented in a pair of Reddit posts. After only a few months, the graphics card began producing grinding noises. The owner suspects a faulty bearing in the GPU fan is the culprit. Agreeing to pay $40 in shipping charges, Zotac proceeded to inspect the component.

To the Redditor's surprise, Zotac explained that it could not repair the RTX 5070 Ti because it had “limited tools.” It then revealed that its PCB has been irreversibly damaged, a problem not covered under the limited warranty.

How a malfunctioning GPU fan became a larger issue

The gamer can’t say with certainty that the GPU didn’t suffer harm during its journey. According to the customer, the box was well-packed, reducing the risk of calamities during shipment. Installing or uninstalling the part may have produced the minor defects shown in the photos. Still, several readers argue that the visible scratches shouldn’t prevent the GPU from functioning.

Unhappy with the response, the owner spoke to an RMA manager. The individual detailed how, during a visual inspection, technicians discovered flaws, including a crack near the PCIe connector. Unable to fix the RTX 50 series GPU, the gamer could opt to file a claim with the shipping carrier. More shockingly, Zotac proposed disposing of the three-month-old card, which retails for $750 or more.

I_Main_TwistedFate could accept a return of the RTX 5070 Ti in its current condition. Followers have advised that a repair shop could likely address the rattling fan. However, with multiple complaints about poor customer service, Gamers Nexus may investigate. The YouTube channel has pressured manufacturers and retailers to be more accommodating in the past.