All our Thunderbolts reset three times a week. I mean that was all over the threads in March, 2011. Root the thing, throw on a custom ROM, flash MR2 if not already done, problem solved.
If Verizon sends you a replacement, it will be Certified Pre-Owned, and I've gotten more crap than phones from that program... However, the Bionic idea isn't too bad, just don't get a replacement from Verizon so long as the thing turns on and otherwise works. Furthermore, I was able to negotiate with a Verizon rep for a similar phone as the replacement. Just hope the CPO "version" of that phone that you will receive is in good shape. Actually, I went from 3 CPO Droid X's to a new Droid Incredible for free back in the day. I guess it all depends, but if Verizon still carries the Bionic (I think it does), try to negotiate for that, since both the Thunderbolt and Bionic are aging and not very popular at all what with the RAZR and Rezound....