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The transportation blocks on my new car were never removed causing damage - where do I stand?

During my cars first service, it was discovered that the transportation blocks had been left in place by the dealer. The car was driven like this for 2 years/10k+ miles. The following items were replaced by the service centre and costs were covered by the dealer:
Top mounts
Wheel bearings
Shock absorbers
Bump stops
Inner track rod ends

The service centre advised that the steering rack and components were also damaged by this oversight and needed to be replaced. The dealer disagreed and said that it was a separate issue. The dealer then took delivery of the vehicle and replaced the steering rack themselves.

The service centre are adamant that the damage to the steering rack was a result of the transportation blocks, the dealer say otherwise and replaced the steering rack under warranty. I'm not sure who is correct. The dealer have offered £500 compensation. I'm unsure if I should accept this or log a case with the Motor Ombudsman. Thoughts?

Asked on 5 September 2025 by Russell McAffery

Answered by David Ross
It would likely require a detailed engineering report to determine if the damage to the steering rack was a result of the transportation blocks, but given the damage to the suspension components it seems likely that this is the cause. You do have the option to take your complaint further, but unless you are unhappy with the vehicle and the quality of the repairs and wish to reject the vehicle, the compensation offered is an easy win and leaves you with a car that has a number of significant components replaced free of charge. Continuing your complaint may get you more compensation, but it also may not and could require a long process of communication and negotiation.
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