Can I reject my Subaru Outback which has a wobbling steering wheel?

I bought a brand new Subaru Outback Boxer diesel in June this year. I have returned the car on two occasions for niggly problems and the steering wheel wobbles at 70 to 75mph. The dealer has balanced the wheels and also moved the wheels from front to back. The problem is still apparent. I am increasingly disappointed whenever I drive the car, and spoke to the manager on the last occasion it was in the garage. He reassured me that they would fix the problem. The car subsequently was returned to me still with the wheel wobble and also with the boot contents left with dirty hand marks. The Service Manager then agreed to contact the "head of technical" to get further advice but said he was on holiday (two weeks ago). I have not been contacted since.

Do I have grounds to reject the car? I feel that for a car bought brand new for over £26,000, I am not happy with the service I have received and the standard of the car. It would appear that I have to give them three chances to fix the car. Does a steering wheel wobble constitute a car of "not satisfactory standard"? If I reject the car, what chance is there of retrieving my money or even getting a new replacement from the same dealer?

Asked on 17 August 2010 by Angusr1

Answered by Honest John
I don't think that vibration possibly from tyres out of balance constitutes grounds to reject the car, and if you tried and the case went to court it could cost you £10,000+ with no guarantee of success. Better to push to get the wheels and tyres replaced. If the dealer refuses and you get them replaced elsewhere and that solves the problem, you have a simple case to sue for the cost using the small claims track which won't cost a fortune.
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