Following the publication of its microcode update, Intel has successfully protected further Raptor Lake processors from damaging themselves. However, the manufacturer still has a mountain of RMAs to deal with as more customers come forward with their defective CPUs. It turns out, though, that supply may not be up to meeting demand, though, as reports of delays for replacements grow.
While all 13th and 14th Gen Core processors were at risk, Intel’s best CPUs were seemingly more prone to damage. This leaves Team Blue with relatively few options in replacing chips like Core i9-13900K with an exact or superior model. Now, this problem may have come to an unfortunate head for both customer and company.
Intel currently “out of replacements” for defective 13/14900K units
byu/Towel4 inintel
Reddit user Towel4 took to the Intel subreddit to share their RMA experience, with others echoing their account with similar stories. According to Towel4, the process of registering for a replacement had been a smooth ride. However, Intel soon informed them that stock availability issues were impacting their request.
In an email, customer support told Towel4: “We don’t have an actual or same-part replacement available for the reported unit, Intel Core i9-13900K processor, as well as a higher but compatible replacement, and normally it would take 4 to 5 weeks or more before our stocks are replenished. We’d like to know if you’re willing to wait 3-4 weeks while we check with our planning team about stock replinishment.”
Unpacking the above statement, this would mean that Intel doesn’t have any Core i9-13900KS, 14900K, or 14900KS to hand. To make matters worse, this news arrived in Towel4’s inbox almost two weeks since they opened an RMA. Ergo, they’re potentially stuck with their defective CPU for at least five weeks before any sign of a replacement. Other users in the thread have experienced similar reported wait times, opting for a refund instead.
Towel4 claims Intel is yet to offer a cash reimbursement, but it seems like the most sensible option at this point. All the more so, given they potentially stand to make a profit if refunded the processor’s $589 MSRP, as Core i9-14900K is available for just under $550 now. However, the wait for a refund could be just as long, with some users claiming to be waiting weeks for funds to arrive.
It’s important to note that availability of processors likely varies by region. Unfortunate as Towel4’s woes are, this could just be indicative of particular parts of the United States. Regardless, if you have a damaged Raptor Lake CPU, you’re better off joining the queue as soon as you can.
Club386 has reached out to Intel for comment.
