Quoted from Elvishasleft:Next time buy it from a reputable dealer...
Allow them to open it and set it up and test everything even if they charge you something to do that. They can always re-box it and send it out.
Problem solved.
Yep, but just as important is a dealer that really close by...which might not be easy in some locations.
Quoted from YeOldPinPlayer:How is a potential NiB buyer supposed to know that prior to purchase?
I think distributors need to do a better job but as the OP pointed out if you don’t like your local options it can really be problematic when you need support.
You talk to the dealer? Back in 2004, I had the choice of buying my LOTR at Sharper Image or Pinball Warehouse. I didn't trust Sharper Image for support, so I called Pinball Warehouse and was impressed by the owner (Evan Steiner, IIRC).
fwiw, back then, I would barely take the glass off and depended on Evan for any repairs. Over the next 16+ years, acquired a ton of experience fixing these beasts. Takes time to become proficient, and again, for really busy people, they don't have the time!