Apple G5 iMac major repair requirements

Having been a loyal Mac owner for over 10 years, I thought I had no reason to be wary of my Dec.04 iMac purchase. However, I have one of the unfortunate serial numbers that has a defective on-off switch; Apple has extended their warranty to 2 years to repair - as it will probably take them two years to fix it.

When my iMac started to emit electrical smoke, I immediately called Apple support. They suggested turning the computer off and getting it to an authorized Mac repair immediately. I was also informed that if I purchased the Apple ProCare Repair Policy, I could hold my place in the fix queue and receive a workable ETA for the repair - if I didn't purchase the ProCare, ProCare policyholders would bump my place in the queue indefinitely. Without ProCare, I would not be told when my iMac would be fixed as the parts are on back order. I was informed I could purchase a new iMac, at full price, and they would install my old hard drive in the new one; with no refund for the defective Mac.

I would NEVER recommend purchasing a pre-June 05 iMac!