My brand new ipod (4th gen, click wheel, 20gig ver) seems to run out
of battery power fast.

I heard I would get 10-12 hours, but I tried recording something and I
only got 4 hours.,.  I only listen to audiobooks, audible.com format
and I could swear I can?t get half that 12 hours.  you would think I
would get 24 hours with books, since they are so tightly compressed,
and low bandwidth.,

I purchased it at Costco about 3 or 4 months ago.

Could I have gotten a lemon battery?
Is it too late to get it replaced?
Where would I go, Apple or Costco?
If it is too late, should I buy AppleCare and then I am covered or
does that not cover preexisting conditions?

thanx in advnce

Here is the information that I eblieve that you are looking for. iPod
(Click Wheel) should have up to 12 hours of continuous playback time.



http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=61475

All about the ipod battery.
http://www.ipodbatteryfaq.com/