1999 golf tdi engine probs

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Fri 6 Dec 2002 14:51
1999 golf tdi engine probs - complete novice
I have a 1999 golf tdi import- engine gone- french dealer trying to wrangle out of any responsibility- have full vw service history- can anyone help?
Sold me extended VW guarantee in france, which apparantly they had no right to do-VW said this.
I am due on a holiday of a lifetime to Australia next week- can't afford new engine and dream holiday- any suggestions?
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Fri 6 Dec 2002 18:19
1999 golf tdi engine probs - daryld
Hello,

First a few facts.

1. The extended french VW warranty is only effective if the car has been serviced at a VW franchised garage. This will include one in the UK unless the wording says so. I think your car is still covered under the terme of the franch warranty.

2. VW UK are right in not treating your case as a warranty claim since the extended warranty has got nothing to do with them. But they might contribute 50% to the repair since you have a full VAG history.

If the french warranty is valid then book an appointment at the french VW garage and take the car there (no kidding). Methinks that the new euro consumer laws are on your side. If the dealer refuses to negotiate then write to the european commissioner with a complaint that you are being hampered in being allowed to "trade" across foreign borders.

To complain about a dealer write to:
Ms Audrey MacCready
DG14
European commission
2000 Rue de la Loi,
B-1049 Brussels
Belgium
e-mail info4@dg4.cec.be
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Fri 6 Dec 2002 21:28
1999 golf tdi engine probs - DavidHM
Good answer Daryl. In UK law at least, the fact that they had no right to sell you the warranty doesn't mean that they didn't accept responsibility, regardless of issues of cross border trade under EU law.

If your point on EU law is not accepted, VW France is out of the picture, but there is still a contract between you and the dealer. At the very least, they will have to refund you the few hundred you would have paid for this warranty as even VW says that the contract is void.

Secondly, look for a rebuilt or exchange engine. I would guess that the VW franchise want something like £2500 for the engine; a rebuilt or low mileage scrapyard part should be about £800 or so. At a guess.

Oh, and ever, nothing in this post is legal advice, but you are not high and dry.
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