My BMW 5 Series Touring has developed a paintwork fault on the rear bumper. A patch of lacquer about the size of a 50p piece has peeled away. I sought a warranty repair, as the vehicle is just under three years old, but it was rejected by the dealer on the grounds that the warranty does not cover bumpers. The warranty states: "The paintwork warranty covers your vehicle against defects such as blistering, discolouration or staining of the visible surface of all painted panels occurring as a result of faulty manufacture or workmanship for a period of 36 months from the date of first registration without any mileage limitation".

I believe that the bumper, which is integral with the tailgate cill, rear skirt and wheel arches, is a painted panel. The dealer has quoted circa £450 to repaint.