I placed an order with DM Keith Leeds on 6 October 2010 for a Skoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI CR Scout 4x4. The only extra I ordered was metallic paint. I did not have a car to trade in. I was initially informed that I would receive the car in mid-January and ordered on this basis. However, as at 22 March 2011 I don’t yet have a build date and the dealership have absolutely no idea when I might take delivery of the vehicle. They doubt it will be with me by June.

Customer service has been awful - my sales executive left and they did not tell me this until I called them on 4 December. I then heard nothing until I called to chase them up on 15, 16, 17 and 19th January - on no occasion did anyone call me back. Finally on the 19th I managed to speak to the Sales Manager who informed me that there would be "some delay" with delivery.

18 weeks after the order date, the dealership provided me with a courtesy car (a Fabia). Apparently this is part of Skoda’s current approach to dealing with the lengthy delays they are experiencing. This is Ok, but the car provided is not really suitable for my needs, (I need 4 x 4 and travel very long distances) nor commensurate with the car I have ordered. This is a real concern as in June I am working for a month in France and really need an estate 4 x 4. In January, the dealership siad I shouldn't worry about this and they "would sort something out for me". Yesterday they informed me that they will not assist and I cannot take the Fabia out of the country. Also, in January I was informed by the dealership and Skoda UK that if I cancelled, then I would lose my deposit. Yestrday the dealership said in the circumstances I could have my deposit back if I chose.

However, I still need a car - and feel I am in a catch 22 - what options do I have? I feel the dealership have treated me badly and owe me something.