Following the broadcast of BBC’s Watchdog consumer affairs programme which highlighted various hardware and customer service issues with the Xbox 360 after recieving 248 complaints, Microsoft have hit back.

As reported here on Gamesdog, the programme which was broadcast on tuesday February 13 covered the "ring of death" problem and the inconsistancy in which Microsoft have dealt with the it. Two owners featured were told they would have to pay around £80 to have their consoles fixed.

Whereas Microsoft admits there are "isolated reports" of faults with their new console, they stated that there is "no systemic issue" with the console.

"It's important to note that there is no systemic issue with Xbox 360. Each incident is unique and these customer inquiries are being handled on a case-by-case basis."

Microsoft has not revealed how many Xbox 360 units have had problems, but did say that the return rate is "significantly lower" than the CE industry average of between 3 and 5%.

"Customer satisfaction is our highest priority, and we do everything we can to take care of gamers who may be having problems with their consoles", the company said.

"Anybody having an issue with their Xbox 360 console should call customer service immediately so that we can help. Microsoft voluntarily provides customers with a one year manufacturer's warranty in the UK which operates over and above the legally required retailer warranty for all consumer goods."

>> Read - Less than full marks for Xbox on BBC
>> Link - Official Site/Microsoft