[jfs9900]

I recently purchased a second TiVo unit at a really good price - it was previously returned. I set it up with no problem, but it didn't ask me to activate anything.

When I checked the system information it says "Account Status" 5: Product Lifetime Service - So I guess the person that owned it before had purchased the lifetime subscription for the box.

When I purchased the box I fully indented on activating the service and paying the additional 6 a month. So seeing that it has been fully paid for was quite shocking, maybe my good deal turned into a great deal???

My problem now is that I can't activate the tivo onto my account, so I can't use the TiVo Desktop/TiVoToGo etc. features because the media access keys don't match my other box.

Can I call TiVo and have it setup? If I do will they remove the "Lifetime Service" from the box?

 

[classicsat]

It has to be removed from the previous owners account, then you can add it to yours.

 

[jfs9900]

If I don't know who that is can it still be done?

 

[LifeIsABeach]

You can call TiVo to see if they can do it for you. No need to mention that you didn't know it had a lifetime subscription. Since those stay with the box you are okay. Good Luck!

 

[mdscott]

TiVo requires you (or the previous owner) to call support -- from the Tivo Support section:

Product Lifetime service – Remember that Product Lifetime service accompanies the DVR, not the person. For more information on Product Lifetime service, see Product Lifetime Service. To transfer your Product Lifetime service to a new owner, either you or the new owner must call TiVo Customer Support at 877-367-8486 between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM PST. If you call, please have the contact information available for the new owner.

Michael

 

[jfs9900]

Thanks for all the responses!

I called - was on hold for almost an hour, but they were able to change the box onto my account..

One last question - what if the person that paid for the subscription trys to cancel with TiVo --- will that adversely effect my account?

 

[LifeIsABeach]

One last question - what if the person that paid for the subscription trys to cancel with TiVo --- will that adversely effect my account?

There is no way to cancel a lifetime subscription. However, the previous owner could have transferred his lifetime from your TiVo to a knew one (under the grandfather clause, etc). In that case you may lose the lifetime status one day. Either way, enjoy it while it lasts!