Why was my Skoda Yeti Elegance 4x4 not fitted with folding mirrors as described?

I recently acquired an excellent Yeti Elegance 4x4 from SMC Exeter who provided me with superlative service. The car replaced my Volvo V70 which, with its very poor turning circle, proved incapable of negotiating the restrictive driveway into our new house. A second major consideration, prompted by the very narrow stonewalled lane, was the Elegance's standard electric folding mirrors. Since I could not find any note in the handbook on how the mirrors operated I contacted the dealer who quickly explained the procedure - to no avail. Further research, backed up by SMC Exeter, revealed the fact that Skoda is only now beginning to fit electric folding mirrors to the Yeti Elegance - despite the fact that it has been listed as standard from the outset. A brief search of the internet reveals that many disappointed Yeti owners share my concern. This would seem to me to be a simple case of mis-selling. Is there any recourse? Should Skoda be required to retro-fit this facility at no cost?

Asked on 6 February 2012 by GR, Shaftesbury, Dorset

Answered by Honest John
There is no obligation for a car sold to match its catalogue description because cars contain too many parts and mass production means a production line cannot be stopped due to the temporary shortage of an accessory. The law is Johnson v HWM, Kingston County Court 1997 and this has yet to be overruled by a higher court. But because GR had specified his need for folding mirrors, the car was “not of satisfactory quality” and the dealer refunded £250 for the omission.
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