Study: Loyalty programs make you buy more
For years, consumer advocates like me have been warning consumers like you that loyalty programs aren’t the “win-win” propositions companies claim they are.
Problem Solved
Problem Solved is a weekly consumer column that fixes reader problems. From broken laptop computers to faulty kitchen appliances, nothing is off limits for this feature. Each story brings a fresh problem and solution in an engaging and succinct Q&A format.
Where’s my replacement TV from Wal-Mart?
Latonya Holloway’s TV stopped working. Good thing she bought the extended warranty from Wal-Mart. Or is it?
5 Secrets for negotiating the best price every time
No one wants to overpay for a product or service. But how do you know you’re getting the best rate? And if you’re not being offered the lowest price, how do you negotiate it?
Stuck with a pair of shoes – and confused about Sears’ refund policy
Olga O’Hara wants to return the shoes she bought at Sears.com, but she’s getting mixed signals from the company about how to do so. Is she stuck with her purchase?
Wireless company failed to deliver modem, then pocketed my money
Klaus Schuller’s wireless modem doesn’t arrive before his trip to Europe. It doesn’t arrive while he’s in Europe. Instead, it’s waiting for him when he gets home. Why can’t he get a refund for a hotspot he never got to use?
The unauthorized guide to fine print, holiday edition
When Ben Blout invoked a big-box store’s “low price promise” after discovering a lower price on his merchandise, he learned something customers rediscover every holiday shopping season: some restrictions apply.
Why won’t Starwood let me change my reservation ?
Carol Pratt is stuck with three pre-paid nights at a Starwood Hotel. Even though she wants to move the reservation by a few days, the hotel won’t let her without losing all of her money. What’s going on?
My Toyota Sienna needs your help
Philip Boutelle’s minivan is a money pit and Toyota doesn’t seem to care, even though it issued a limited recall. Can this car be saved?
5 things customers say during the holidays – and what they really mean
It’s that time of year when you follow the herd to the mall and gorge on the displays.