I've had my Garmin for just about 12 months, and I just got it back from Garmin today for both of these problems.
I had heard of the rubber-band problem before, and just figured I would stick it out until I could find some of the "superglue for rubber" talked about in other posts.
Then the screen problems started getting bad. I shipped it off to Garmin ASAP. They got it back in less than a week. As far as I can see it is like new. It is not the same unit I sent in (checked serials), but definitely in better shape, and they took the time to transfer my waypoints over.
I expected hassles because I was so close to warranty, but they never even asked for proof of purchase, just sent me an RMA number.
Their gear may have a few problems (whose doesn't?), but their service does seem to make up for any little gotcha's.