My Emergency Brake Assist triggered for no reason. Should I have to pay £150 to have the issue investigated?

My 2018 Nissan Qashqai (13,000 miles, out of warranty on 28 March 2021), recently set off the EBS warning light and warning chime when on a clear road with no obstructions near. The brake snatched momentarily but did not properly apply. My wife and I were alarmed, and the same thing happened about 20 minutes later on a different road on our return journey. It was a clear, dry, sunny day. On contacting our main dealer, we were given an appointment to have it examined by them - but at a charge of £150 an hour. When I requested that Nissan should foot the bill as this is a safety issue that was the subject of a recall last summer (my car went in to have it done), they referred me to Nissan HQ who tell me I have to pay and then they might consider making a contribution - but I must pay first. Calling at the dealership a few days later, I spoke to the Sales Manager and to the Service Desk Manager who both told me not to worry about it as all newer cars do this, and that theirs and most of their staff's cars do it all the time. I have now cancelled my investigation appointment and have written back to Nissan HQ again with this conflicting advice. So far, no reply. It hasn't happened since then (12 days ago). What do you suggest?

Asked on 1 June 2021 by Raymond Redfern

Answered by Dan Powell
This reads like a potential safety issue and it should be investigated by a qualified mechanic.

If you pay the £150 dealer charge (and the problem is serious) then Nissan UK will probably contribute towards the cost of the overall repair. Or you could find an independent Nissan garage to do the inspection at a cheaper rate. But obviously, Nissan will not pay for any of the repair costs if a serious and costly issue is found. Either way, you will need to pay a qualified mechanic to perform an inspection.
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