USB problems

I'm having trouble with my PS3 USB. I am constantly having problems with my USB registering when trying to start working out. Sometime I have to put it in several time for it to register. On those bad days, I have to turn the system off completely for it to work. I know I am not the only one having trouble with this. It is to late for me to take it back to the store. How can I get it replaced? What can I do to fix the problem?