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Can I claim against my dealer for rust damage to my Mercedes-Benz A-Class?

I have a 2005 Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Taking golf clubs from the boot I noticed evidence of water and while washing the car I also discovered signs of paint bubbling on both side doors. Surface disruption was inside to out. The handbook states a warranty of 30 years. I went to the MB body shop and the inspection report told me I need two new doors and a boot lid. I believe MB used poor quality steel for this model/year. MB wants £3500 for corrective work with a 50 per cent contribution for me. This will not increase the value of the car or provide betterment. It was a manufacturing fault.

Asked on 18 May 2013 by GB, Heathfield

Answered by Honest John
This was already in the W169 entry in www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar. Before you can take any action against the supplier or against Mercedes-Benz you need to read the terms of the 30-year Mobilo warranty very carefully and make sure you have fully understood them and fully complied with them. If you find you have, then pay for your share of the work, then use www.moneyclaim.gov.uk to sue the supplying dealer (who sold you the car and the 30 year warranty) for the money you had to pay. Tell him that is what you propose to do beforehand.
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