Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Air con damaged by stone entering engine bay - is this a warranty issue?
What do you think of Elon Musk? Have your say | No thanks

Air con damaged by stone entering engine bay - is this a warranty issue?

I own a new Volkswagen Golf 2.0 GT Bluemotion diesel. A few weeks ago the air conditioning stopped working. The local Volkswagen dealer diagnosed a damaged condenser, caused by a stone. I have questioned how a stone would enter the engine bay and asked if it is a design fault. However, the dealer has told me it is just one of those things and not a design issue. Is he right?

Asked on 30 May 2014 by GRH

Answered by Honest John
A/c condenser radiators are usually just behind the front grille where they are vulnerable to stone damage. It's damage, so is not a warranty item. A company called Zunsport makes accessory grilles to protect them.

10 warranty myths exposed

Here’s how to sort the fact from the fiction when it comes to car warranties.

Cheap Car Warranties

Looking for a garage you can trust? Honest John's Good Garage Guide has thousands of reader recommended garages, plus how-to guides and tips on servicing.

The Good Garage Guide
Similar questions
Just prior to the expiry of warranty on my MINI Cooper Convertible, the air conditioning failed. The car was due a service and pre MOT check therefore they looked at the problem just prior to its MOT....
I have a 2015 Renault Clio with approx 18 months warranty remaining. I've had persistent trouble with the tyre sensors malfunctioning and have had three new tyres already. The dealer says it's a fault...
I purchased a brand new Peugeot Boxer from a main dealer in May 2016. In June, it started to have a slight hesitation which has now worsened and makes me feel as if it might come to a complete stop at...
Related models
Plenty of second-hand choice, excellent cabin quality, efficient petrol and diesel engines.