I've had my 60 gig PS3 for a long time. I've never had a problem with the systems performance on the gaming side. I play alot of games for alot of hours and it performs same way it did when I first got it. I'm surprised it has lasted for as long as it has but if you follow the guidelines given in the manual (Cleaning procedures, what to do after prolong use ect) your consoles will live longer. I follow strict cleaning rules( Every 2 weeks sweep all vents with a low power vacuum and clean every inch with a wash cloth and q tips. After a long play session ( 5-8 hours) it stays off for half that time.
But not everyone gets a good console and your probably one of the few who got the short end of the stick. Just remember when or if you get your console fixed to follow strict maintenance guidelines for it and your PS3 should live for a long time.
GamerTag/PSN ID JoshmyersBV (please add me I have 2 friends on Xbox Live)
