As I understand it, this kind of thing is common practice, Saitek being market leaders for this kind of thing. A certain amount of kit will be allowed to leave the factory in less than satisfactory condition. Or simply non-functional in some way.
The point here is that enough people will eat the cost and work around the problem and/or attempt a repair themselves, that this makes more money for them than just not letting it out the door in the first place.
And thus, if you order Saitek gear, be prepared to play the returns game until you get something satisfactory.