Corroded alloy wheels

The consumer’s issue:

“My original alloys were badly corroded so they were replaced under my manufacturer’s warranty. A year later, my new alloys began to show signs of corrosion, and therefore, I took the car to a dealership for the alloys to be replaced under my warranty policy. However, the vehicle manufacturer declined to cover the repair costs because they believe the damage was caused by stone chips. As a result, I am requesting that my alloys are replaced at no cost under the manufacturer’s warranty because the corrosion was not caused by stone chips.”

The accredited business’ response:

  • Under the terms of our warranty, we are liable for the repair or replacement of genuine parts that are defective in material or workmanship.
  • A franchise dealer will make any repairs, using new or remanufactured parts, to put right any problem covered by this limited warranty free of charge.
  • However, our warranty policy excludes surface corrosion caused by stone chips.
  • Additionally, the wheels fitted to the vehicle during the initial repairs are not an original OEM part or re-finished by an approved partner, nor was the dealer authorised to fit the brand of tyres to the vehicle.
  • Therefore, I would advise that this case is redirected to the dealer who conducted the repair work, as we unable to assist or comment any further.

The adjudication outcome:

  • Firstly, the adjudicator recommended that the consumer should liaise with the repairing dealership in regards to the issue raised on the source of the wheels.
  • Additionally, the adjudicator did not find that the corrosion was caused by a manufacturing defect.
  • As such, The Motor Ombudsman did not find that the manufacturer had an obligation to repair the alloys which meant that the consumer’s complaint was not upheld.

Conclusion

  • The customer and accredited business accepted the outcome as recommended by The Motor Ombudsman, and the case was closed.