Fender Ultra Jazz Bass Problem

[gd47]

This concerns an Ultra Jazz Bass Ltd Edition which I bought in January 2024.

It recently developed a fault… bridge p/u not working.

Phoned Fender UK on 15/7 and they advised me to contact the dealer I bought it from and also confirmed it has a two year warranty.

Four emails later and no response from the dealer.

Since then, I have had it checked by a technician who has confirmed the bridge p/u is faulty (open circuit on the windings).

 I think I have a few options:

Upgrade the original pickups (open to suggestions as to which would be best).

Start small claims action against dealer.

Replace the existing pickups with Fender originals.

Or wait!

Any advice gratefully received with thanks!

[Beedster]

This stuff happens. I'd get it sorted myself, no point having a broken bass sitting around, and you'll find a lot of suggestions as to what PUPs you might upgrade to either elsewhere in this forum or as this thread develops.

 

Frankly, if you've emailed the store four times and had no reply simply name them here, it might encourage them to do the right thing. Of course they may have gone bust or there might be another legit reason for non-response but I still think it's worth you posting. I wouldn't bother with a small claims action, more trouble than it's worth, life's too short. 

[Stub Mandrel]

Or go to consumer protection.

[itu]

If the store doesn't help you, find a friend that knows electronics. Exclude faulty components until you know for sure, what is broken. Maybe he can fix it for you? 

 

bartolini, Lollar, SD, EMG... there are lots of options available. 

[KevL]

Have you tried to phone the dealer or have you only emailed?

[stevel]

Who is the dealer? (just so I can avoid them in future!)

 

Did you pay by credit card? You'll have some protection there if they're not honouring the warranty. Otherwise, I'd keep hounding the dealer - turn up on their doorstep with guitar and receipt in hand if you can.

[gd47]

Many thanks for all the helpful replies and comments…very much appreciated.

The dealer in question is Rich Tone Music, located in Sheffield.

Problem is, I live in Luton, so I can’t really turn up at their premises.

Paid by debit card, so no protection there.

I have phoned them, but was told someone would get back to me the same day.

A local guitar tech has confirmed that it’s the pickup that’s faulty, but is reluctant to do any work because of warranty issues.

I’m actually in my 70’s, reasonably poor health (completely my own fault due to a lifetime of pro bass playing!) and still working about four nights a week.

Once again, very many thanks to all.

[PaulThePlug]

I'd be on the phone, get a name of who you are talking with, and send a follow up email, daily...

Explain what YOU want to happen

A replacement pickup sent, or do you want RTM to receive the guitar back? 

Edited 2 hours ago by PaulThePlug

[KevL]

Rich Tone are, I believe, a well-established shop and am sure that they will sort this out.

 

As Paul suggests, have a clear idea of what you wish to happen, phone them and stay on the call until you are satisfied with the response, don't be fobbed-off by the first person who happens to answer telling you they will phone back. Be firm, clear and calm. Make a note of who you speak to and what is said. Ask this person to confirm this in an email to you and when they will do this.

 

I am sure this will be relatively-easily resolved. Please let us know how you get on. 

 

Good luck.