I have an oneill mutant that I bought about a month ago. First time I tried it on (had been wearing my 3/2). I looked at the right bicep area and there is a rip down the seam not all the way through the neoprene, but it will be. So basically I want to know how your dealings with oneills warranty service has been. I am very very bummed as per their website I will be without a suit for the month or so it takes to repair it.
Don't worry. Businesses usually put those seemingly ridiculous time frames out to cover their @sses. It's kind of like a "under promise, over deliver" type deals. You'll probably get it back sooner, but maybe not much sooner (b/c humans will be humans and take as long as they're committed to. ;-) ) It got cold early...for a moment. It's going to get warm again. Things will right themselves and your 3/2 will be good enough for a month, at least. Or longer. Send it back, see how things go and report back on your experience. I know you asked for "your dealings." I have none, but you really have no choice but to send it back. Sorry for the bum rip, but you'll be GTG before you know it. Stay safe.
Chris No dealings with O'Neill but I can pass on to you my experience with Rip Curl. The biggest lesson I learned from that is to be in contact with them (by phone) often. I made it a point to call 2x per week to get a status report on the fix.
If you can take it back to the dealer that you purchased it from or any dealer that will send it back for you it may be faster. I have had good turn around time but only had to deal with a waranty issue once. Shipping alone could take up to 14 days to and from the west coast. I'm surprised that you have an issue so soon. Mutant seams have a lifetime gaurantee. Good luck.
On the shop thing. IF you know the shop well, and know the owner to be very proactive, then by all means, have them send it back. but, if like most shops, they are pretty lacking in motivation, you are better off sending it your self. once you get the authorization from the manufacturer, you can take it to a UPS store and have it shipped next or second day air.