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My Ford Focus broke down due to blocked EGR valves - am I entitled to goodwill from Ford?

On Monday 1 April 2013 my Ford Focus Titanium broke down and showed the message "Engine malfunction". The AA was unable to fix the problem and towed the car to the dealership from which I purchased it. The fault was the failure of the EGR valve, which was replaced. The total bill was £419.12 but the dealer gave a 40 per cent discount on parts and labour, leaving a bill of £301.76, which I paid. With the car being six days out of warranty (one day beyond being taxed for the road) I complained to Ford directly, and they have offered the next service free so long as it is done within twelve months. Is this a fair deal?

Asked on 25 May 2013 by AS, Worcester

Answered by Honest John
The EGR valve will have become blocked due to a combination of the way the car was driven, the fuel used and the engine oil used. Ford is not liable at all and has been generous in providing the goodwill.
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