May be a coincidence but I have had 2 Maxtor drives fail, one just out of guarantee and one new. The second, from Ebuyer (UK) was confirmed u/s and replaced immediately. Excellent RMA service, posting costs and all refunded. First failure resulted in a loud head clacking and no seek of files. Second showed up as 'failing' on Maxtor's own test programme (downloadable on their site).
I am just a bit wary now of Maxtor (Diamond Max)! There are one or two web forums which say the same.