On 06/04/06 we bought a one year old Vauxhall Signum. In May 2008 the heater fan failed and it, together with the control, was replaced by our local Vauxhall dealer at a cost of £492.91. They advised us that the failure was due to water ingress due to leaves blocking the air intake and we have kept the grille on the scuttle free of leaves ever since.
In May 2010 the heater fan failed again but this time after seeking advice on a Vauxhall Owners forum, I removed the scuttle grille and saw a pool of water about 40mm deep in the plenum chamber beneath. I probed the rubber drain tube with a metal coat hanger and released a large quantity of water and a lot of silt (but no leaves). I then sprayed the motor with WD40 and eventually it worked again.
I have written three letters to Vauxhall Customer Care, claiming that there was a design fault in this drain which allowed it to become clogged and asking for refund of the repair cost. They refused the claim.
Do I have any legal redress?
In May 2010 the heater fan failed again but this time after seeking advice on a Vauxhall Owners forum, I removed the scuttle grille and saw a pool of water about 40mm deep in the plenum chamber beneath. I probed the rubber drain tube with a metal coat hanger and released a large quantity of water and a lot of silt (but no leaves). I then sprayed the motor with WD40 and eventually it worked again.
I have written three letters to Vauxhall Customer Care, claiming that there was a design fault in this drain which allowed it to become clogged and asking for refund of the repair cost. They refused the claim.
Do I have any legal redress?