Why won't MINI help pay for a failed inlet camshaft sensor?
The inlet camshaft sensor has failed on my wife's MINI Cooper Automatic. It is three years and five months old and has covered only 6,419 miles from new. We currently own two MINIs and this is our fourth from Carrs BMW/MINI of Bury St Edmunds. Both Carrs and MINI UK agree we should not really expect such repair costs on the vehicle considering its age and mileage. MINI UK confirms the fault is due to a "manufacturing defect" and yet neither MINI nor Carrs are prepared to do anything in respect of the cost. Carrs initially wanted £150 to fix the problem then mysteriously dropped to £90 when we complained. Our local BMW specialist has quoted £65 inclusive. As yet the fault has not been fixed as no parts available. Not only are we being charged for a fault that is an acknowledged manufacturing defect by MINI, but are being ripped off too. Do we have any recourse at all with these greedy dealers and manufacturers?
Asked on 7 September 2013 by CP, Greast Barton
Answered by
Honest John
There may be a bit of obfuscation here. These engines are prone to internal condensation if the cars are not driven far enough after each start and your low mileage suggest that your car is one of them. I'll add your problem to the R56 MINI Cooper entry at www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar. Then you can use the evidence there to negotiate with the dealer. That said, £65 is not a lot to argue over. I'm surprised that a dealer would risk losing a customer for £65.
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