FNB connect

I purchased a pre‑loved device from FNB Connect on a 36‑month contract. I did not take out insurance, as the phone is still under warranty. After one month, the phone started giving me issues, which I reported to FNB at the end of March. The phone was collected from RAM in April. The first feedback I received stated that a sticky substance was found in the device and that there was liquid damage.

On Monday, 20 April, the service centre contacted me and advised that I am liable to pay R13 000 to repair an iPhone 13 pre‑loved device due to water damage — which is (excuse my language) ****ING ridiculous. After two months of owning the phone, paying R479 per month on a 36‑month contract, I am now expected to pay R13 000 to fix it. I have sought legal advice because WOW!! Who the **** decides to break your “new phone” for no damn reason? Guess that idiot is me!!! Anyway, this is my request:

I require:

A certificate or report confirming that the device was in excellent condition when it was received from the previous owner; and The current inspection report confirming that the device is supposedly water damaged.

Legal advice also confirmed that a report can determine when the water damage occurred, which I am still waiting for. I contacted the service centre, and they advised that FNB must request these certificates. WOW, what a run‑around! I am extremely irritated — because what if the device was already damaged by the previous owner?

Now, I want to know what the cost would be to cancel the contract. No one can give me an answer. I am told that the device must be assessed again by FNB to determine the cancellation amount — and that is also a ****en hassle. This has been a complete NIGHTMARE dealing with FNB Connect. How difficult is it to simply take back my broken device and provide me with a cancellation fee? FYI: Do NOT purchase a pre‑loved device. It’s a ****.