It Pays to Never Throw Anything Away
Some people call me a pack rat. After stories like this one, I take it as a compliment.
My Canon Powershot A75 died in January. But I didn't throw it away. I left it on my desk. So when I read about a CCD problem in many Canon cameras (in an FW thread) whose description sounded familiar, I contacted Canon. Within 24 hours I was wrapping up the camera in some bubble-wrap and packing peanuts that I had saved from shipments I received, and selected a cardboard box from among my collection of used boxes. Despite being out of warranty, all repair costs and even shipping are covered.
I had hoped they'd decide to "upgrade" me to a newer model (even if refurbished), but it looks like they actually repaired mine. I'll know for sure in less than a week when it is scheduled to be returned to me.