Why will my dealer not repair an ESP fault on my Audi A3 under warranty?

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Why will my dealer not repair an ESP fault on my Audi A3 under warranty?

I recently purchased a 2006 Audi A3 with full Audi service history and 47,000 miles on the clock. The ESP light has appeared and I have had a diagnostic test done. The fault is the brake pressure sensor (G201 code). I bought the car from Arnold Clark Preston who have offered 50 per cent towards any repairs as a goodwill gesture. I also contacted Preston Audi to see if there was any goodwill available. I was declined.

I know that Volkswagen is giving 100 per cent goodwill on the same part, so why is Audi not offering the same? I purchased the car 11 weeks ago from Arnold Clark Preston, not Audi Preston, but I contacted Audi about a goodwill gesture because apparently the fault I have is a manufacturing defect. Arnold Clark states that the car was supplied with a standard 30-day warranty only.

Asked on 21 March 2011 by SW, via email

Answered by Honest John

They are not allowed to give a mere 30-day warranty. Do not let them fob you off. They are legally required to warrant the car for any fault that was present or was developing on the day of purchase for a full six months from purchase. If they sold you a car with a manufacturing defect then they are responsible for it indefinitely until it is fixed. Supreme Court ruling Clegg v Olle Anderson (trading as Nordic Marine) 2003. Only an Act of Parliament can overrule that. Law here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights/

In any case, VAG is no longer pursuing an expensive replacement for the ABS/ESP module. Instead VAG is doing what I suggested 18 months ago (and was rebuffed), which is to have the pressure sensor in the ESP repaired and modified. Several UK companies do this for between £169 and £300 plus VAT, but first the part has to be removed and sent to them, then refitted to the car once it is returned. These specialists are: www.ecutesting.co.uk; www.sinspeed.co.uk; and www.actronics.co.uk

Tags: warranties legal and consumer advice electrical faults esp

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