Who is responsible for taking care of my Saab's warranty?

My wife's Saab 9-3, new in April 2011 with the 1.9 diesel, needs correction of a faulty heater but the sellers will not embark on the work under warranty. The retailer surely takes responsibility for the warranty claims, whatever happens to the manufacturer? Also, you mentioned that the 1.9-litre diesel engine might become faulty. Can you please advise about warranty claims and also, if possible, how to avoid the engine problems? Should we seek a Warranty Direct policy for the car?

Asked on 31 March 2012 by CW, Perth

Answered by Honest John
In law you might have a case against the retailer who sold you the car (www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights). A warranty case where a manufacturer goes bankrupt, but the retailer who sold you the car remains solvent, has yet to be tested in court. Yes, for the future it’s wise to purchase a warranty from www.warrantydirect.co.uk but that cannot cover you for pre-existent problems. There's a list of potential engine problems here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/saab/9-3-2002/?secti...d
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