Does the warranty cover a failed battery in my Toyota Prius?

In March this year I bought a 2008 Toyota Prius from a main dealer who gave a 12-month warranty. In April and subsequently in May, the small 12 volt battery failed, requiring assistance to get into the car and to start it. I am told by the dealer's service manager that the warranty does not cover the small battery (cost £100). Is he correct?

Asked on 6 July 2013 by DT, Formby, Liverpool

Answered by Honest John

The warranty may not cover it but the dealer certainly has to because obviously the battery was "not in satisfactory condition" when the car was originally sold to you. Tell him to replace the battery and if he charges you for it you will sue him for the full cost in the small claims track of the county court, starting with www.moneyclaim.gov.uk/. Law here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights/.

Tags: warranties batteries consumer rights

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