Are Scratches on a Brand New Yamaha Guitar Normal? A Comprehensive Guide

When you receive a brand new Yamaha guitar, you might find a few minor scratches on the instrument. While these might seem concerning, it’s important to understand the common factors and potential issues that can cause such blemishes. Let’s delve deeper into this topic to clarify any doubts you might have.

Common Causes of Scratches on a New Guitar

It’s important to note that scratches on a brand new guitar may indicate several factors:

Improper Handling: A guitar may have been displayed without care or handled improperly at the point of sale. This could happen if the instrument was handled by many customers before being packaged and shipped. Minor Damage During Shipping or Storage: The guitar might have been handled roughly during shipping or storage, causing minor damage and resulting in scratches. Slightly Used or Displayed: If the guitar is marked as a "second" or "B-stock," it might have slight damage or used markings. Protective Coatings: Scratches could also be caused by marks or bubbles on the plastic protective coating, such as those on the scratchplate. Ensure these are not scratches but protective coating issues.

What to Do When You Notice Scratches

When purchasing a new guitar, it’s essential to inspect it thoroughly before finalizing the purchase. If you notice scratches or other imperfections, consider the following steps:

Discuss with the Retailer: Address the issue with the retailer. Explaining the situation and showing them where the scratches are can help. Request an Exchange or Refund: If the scratches are significant, you might want to exchange the guitar for another unplayed instrument. If this is not possible, ask for a refund. Document the Scratches: Take clear pictures of the scratches and send them to the retailer. This is crucial as it provides visual evidence for your claim. Contact the Manufacturer: If the guitar was not purchased from a local retailer, but directly from a manufacturer, you may want to contact them directly with your concerns.

Conclusion

A brand new Yamaha guitar should not have scratches. If you find that your guitar has been marked with them, it’s likely due to one of the reasons mentioned above. Taking the necessary steps to resolve the issue with the retailer or requesting a refund is the best course of action.

Remember that while minor blemishes can sometimes be expected, significant scratches or damage are not acceptable. Always ensure you receive a quality product that meets your expectations.