About a month and a half ago, I posted about how my TiVo had died. Specifically, the remote which is the only device you control it with, was dead. I called TiVo support and after running a few tests to narrow down the problem, they told me that I was still under warranty and that a replacement remote would be received in 5-7 business days. They were very nice, except for the fact that a month and a half later, they’ve done jack-shit.

I have called TiVo four or five times now since then. To date, they have attempted to send me a remote three times to two different addresses and from what I am told each time I’ve called, these replacement remotes have never actually been shipped. Three fucking remotes! Not a single one ever actually sent out. Now, every time I call, the support person has always been very nice, but they tell me that’s all they can do. It’s bullshit.

Meanwhile, I’ve been paying my monthly TiVo service fee for a box that’s unplugged. I can’t use it. If I plug it in, it changes channels on me, since I can’t control it. I’m paying for a service that they’re not making good on.

When I called TiVo for a credit for this unused service, I was flat-out told no. No credit till my service is restored. Then, I can call them up and request a credit for downtime. But really, when is that going to happen? Where’s my fucking remote? Three tries and these numbnut fucking morons can’t ship a single one? How long is this going to drag on? I’m under a one-year contract and it seems I can’t get out of it or at least suspend service until this shit is fixed, but in truth, I have zero fucking confidence that it will be. I feel like I’m being completely ripped off. I would be utterly unsurprised if my next manic and desperate call to them has them telling me that all I can do is kick down cash and buy a series 3 box. It would make sense…assholes.

Two days ago, after the deadline for the third shipping attempt expired, I broke down and ordered a remote from TiVo’s web store. It’s only thirty bucks, but I really shouldn’t have to do this. I’m under fucking warranty! Whatever…I gave up. I bought the damn thing and paid an extra fifteen bucks for next-day delivery.

Now I’m waiting for TiVo to ship this new remote…again. It’s fucking pathetic.

TiVo is a great, convenient service, but they’re absolutely inept. I got addicted to using TiVo and you would too, but pray nothing goes wrong with your box, because they will fuck you with a smile.

Truthfully, I’ve had it. I want my TiVo working, since I’m paying for a contract, but that’s it. I’m never, ever dealing with them again. Let me reiterate in bold—I will never give TiVo another fucking dime of my money ever again. A little convenience is not worth it. Fuck them.

Before opting For TiVo, I’d semi-explored the option of building my own media center device, running Linux and MythTV, a free and open source PVR program. I didn’t do it because I’m lazy, but fuck it. Once this TiVo shit is over, I’m going that route.

Fuck you TiVo, give me my television back!