Spring spacers left on front springs

Bought car in July 2011 from Ford Dealer, 3 weeks ago noticed suspension squeak on passenger side front. Had a look myself, prior to taking it to dealer.

Whilst jacking up front end quickly noticed that there was 2 red suspension clamps on both front sides(i have been told by the dealer, these are transport clamps). These have badly scored the coils,rubbing off the powder coating and scuffed the inner arch area plus strut.

After speaking to the Ford dealer Service Manager he said 'this is nothing new, its happened before'. My worry is that after only 7 months the springs and strut are showing rust but the dealer said they may not replace/repair and stated that this is normal and would happen any ways. I dont except this and consider rust in one area would cause a fatigue failure. I want to keep this car for some years and dont want to have the expense of replacing these springs sooner than necessary, if not ever.

Should these be replaced by the dealer?

Asked on 28 February 2012 by S-MAX - 200

Answered by Honest John
You can demand that they are. The dealer was grossly negligent in not carrying out the pre-delivery inspection and the car was delivered in "unsatisfactory condition" as a result. If he refuses to replace them, photograph the evidence, have them replaced by another Ford dealer and sue him for the cost.
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