Heart of the mutter

I have a 4-year-old 1.9 diesel Vauxhall Vectra that has done 50,000 miles. The other day, the water pump seized causing the timing belt to break in major engine damage. A new engine is required at a cost of £4,500. I approached Vauxhall for a financial contribution towards the costs as I thought that 4 years and 50,000 was a bit early to have to buy a new engine. Vauxhall has declined any contribution, stating that the car is 'out of warranty'. I intend to take the dealer who sold me the car 4 years ago to the Small Claims track of the County Court, although my problem is really with Vauxhall. Have other contributors had a similar problem?

Asked on 21 February 2009 by

Answered by Honest John

Yes, very common problem with this Alfa Romeo diesel engine, in Vauxhalls, SAABs, FIATs and Alfas. In UK law your dispute is really with the supplying dealer for selling you a car with an engine "not of satisfactory quality". The dealer might counterclaim that you did not maintain it properly.

Tags: technical issues water pump owning engine

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