It's possible the defect was found before closing but wasn't mentioned because the title agent/underwriter thought it might just go away with time. 

Small physical defects and some deferred maintenance are normal and expected costs investors will incur.

I don't know where you are located but with rates this low and inventory down to historic levels, the MLS listings you speak of are either overpriced or have a defect or feature that is turning people off or some other issue such as tenants not allowing showings.

Can you claim defect in the finish if manufacturer is in the US maybe but if in China, nope. 

Thus far I've been getting a lot of optimistic statements from people, but the more research I've done the more I've come to accept this is a defect in the property that needs a very specific solution in order to secure a loan.It annoys me that the listing agent went through all of this a year ago and didn't disclose the defect only saying that it wouldn't go VA.

Addition detail: From the purchase contract: "ACCEPTANCE OF PROPERTY CONDITION: "As Is" means the present condition of the Property with any and all defects and without warranty except for the warranties of title and the warranties in this contract.

Where I buy, the As is clause means that you can’t back out for some defect that was already disclosed on the sellers disclosure form.

If it makes noise because it's older, and not somehow defective, I would politely tell them no.

The new norm is homes priced to move, do so in 4-6 days, so buyers see defects that don't necessarily exist if DOM is longer.

@Wayne Brooks it states that no major defects are present during time of inspection so he’s saying that the panel works so in his mind it would be an upgrade if he had to switch the panel out.