Serial numbers on RTX Founders Edition graphics cards, including PC Gamer's very own, are fading and apparently it's causing a problem with RMA requests

Users have reported issues with Nvidia’s RMA process after their RTX 5090 Founders Edition graphics cards developed faded serial numbers, leading to rejected warranty claims. A Reddit user claimed their RMA request was denied due to the unreadable serial, though Nvidia’s response comments were later removed or inaccessible. Multiple users confirmed similar fading on their own Founders Edition cards, not limited to the RTX 5090 model. PC Gamer’s own RTX 5080 Founders Edition also shows signs of fading on the metal I/O side near the PCIe bracket.

The serial numbers on newer Founders Edition cards are printed directly on the PCIe bracket rather than on a sticker, making them more susceptible to wear. Heat exposure or frequent GPU swapping, as seen in testing environments, may accelerate the fading. The location of the serial number on the bracket could contribute to its deterioration over time, especially in high-temperature conditions.

Nvidia’s warranty policy in the U.S. specifies that it applies only to original purchases, requiring verification of authenticity and warranty eligibility. While Nvidia’s public RMA process documentation does not explicitly state that a serial number is mandatory, its absence could hinder warranty claims. Regional RMA laws vary, adding further complexity to the process for international users.

To mitigate potential issues, users are advised to photograph their GPU’s serial number while it remains legible. However, it remains unclear whether Nvidia would accept a photo as proof if the serial has faded by the time the card is submitted for RMA. The situation highlights a potential design flaw in the placement and durability of serial numbers on Founders Edition cards.