I recently RMA'd my original GTX 980 TI SC+ for artifacting and freezing throughout different games (Tested it on a different computer with the same issue).
 
I received the return card and looked at installing it today. As soon as I opened the box, I did a quick inspection and noticed the top heat sink was damaged. Reluctantly, I still plugged in the card and while booting all I heard was this noise from the card. I ensured the card was properly seated multiple times, and all power to the card was maintained in addition to the rest of the PC.
I was not able to get into Windows, I got constant BSOD's while doing so...
 
As I result I plugged into another computer and continued to get black screens/black lines. 
 
I'm at a loss for words and am extremely disappointed with EVGA and the service that I've gotten. I shouldn't be having these types of issues with two cards now. I purchased an EVGA card due to the known industry quality, but unfortunately I've had nothing but problems..

EVGATech_JoseC
Hello Oahmad,
 
Sorry to hear about your issues with your RMA replacement. I will be responding to the open ticket that you have and will help you find a resolution to this issue. Look forward to a response to your ticket soon!

Thanks Jose I got your note, however how can I ensure I won't be getting another refurbished card that is faulty? I haven't had any luck with these as you can see.. I've seen other posters in the forums with the issues with this specific card and their respective RMA replacements. (Sometimes getting a new card entirely).
 
At this point I'm highly concerned with these refurbished cards, as you probably can tell.