The consumer’s issue:
“My new car suffered a rear suspension failure, causing a crack in one of my alloy wheels. This clearly shows that the vehicle suffers from a manufacturing defect. However, the manufacturer has only repaired the suspension fault under warranty, and they’re saying that the crack in the alloy is because of bad driving. I believe the crack is a manufacturing defect and I want the alloy to be replaced under warranty at no cost to myself.”
The accredited business’ response:
- We believe the alloy wheel was cracked by external influences because it shows signs of kerbside damage.
- Additionally, the evidence does not show a link between the suspension failure and the cracked alloy wheel.
- Based, on the above the damage is not covered by the warranty. Therefore, we won’t be paying the cost of repairs on behalf of the customer.
The adjudication outcome:
- The adjudicator concluded that the alloy had not cracked because of actions taking during the manufacturing process.
- Additionally, the adjudicator did not find that the suspension failure, which was repaired under warranty, was linked to the crack in the alloy wheel.
- As such, the adjudicator did not find the manufacturer liable for the repair cost of the cracked wheel alloy, and therefore did not rule in favour of the consumer.
Conclusion:
- The customer and accredited business accepted the outcome as recommended by The Motor Ombudsman adjudicator and the case was closed.
