My granddaughter purchased a Vauxhall Astra Twintop convertible in July 2008. For the first year, the car was not exposed to heavy rain and was garaged at night. Now, however, there are signs of leakage and following a diagnostic examination at a local Vauxhall garage (£75 for a hosepipe soak) we are told it needs 3 seals costing £456. When ringing Vauxhall customer service I was informed by ‘Barry’ that this part was only covered in the first year of warranty and nothing could be done. When I pointed out that there are customer's rights, such as value expectation, and that I might need to resort to the small claims court, and indeed, write to your good self, I was informed by ‘Barry’ that he would not be blackmailed. The full conversation should be on record at customer services. So, here we are, John. Is the complaint a common one with Vauxhall convertibles and do you think my Grand-daughter should press for a free repair or compensation?