Should the dealer pick up this bill?

I purchased a used 04 SASB 93 Aero Petrol from an established family dealership some 8 weeks ago.
I paid £4800, with 37k, backed up by MOT history.
After 4 weeks, the water top up light came on, and I took the car to a local independent SAAB workshop, who diagnosed a leaking water pump.

As I needed to use the car, I left it there to collect the next day repaired - cost £300.00.

I bought the car from a distance, after viewing, and clearly could not drive it back to them.

I have to say, that I did not notify them until after the work was done. To drive from Hastings to Gosport is 2-3 hours.

I'm told that - as I had not contacted them - then I have no warranty claim, because they would need to authorize repairs. What is my legal position here?

Asked on 20 September 2012 by Gav

Answered by Honest John
They are not strictly liable because they should have been given the opportunity to fix the car. But they may have the good sense and goodwill to contribute to the repair.
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