Every time I upload a program, even a blank one, I seem to get this error. It just started happening one day. I did some research and it seems like there's a problem with the bootloader. I haven't messed with it at all, so has it somehow corrupted? How do I fix this? I don't have a programmer, so since it's within warranty, can I get it replaced or reprogrammed? I got my Arduino Uno with the starter kit from Microcenter.
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It only has a 30 day warranty? It's not within that then. 
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So should I get an external programmer or just contact Microcenter?
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Yes, I have. I called Microcenter and they're giving me another one regardless of the 30 day warranty. It was a daunting experience since I'm using this for my science project, but I'm sure it's just a defective product.
Is anything connected to the chip? e.g. if something is driving the RX or TX pins low you can get this problem.