Should my local garage pay for snapped glow plug removal?

Last week I had a quote from my local BMW garage for £300+ for changing the glow plugs on my BMW 5 Series (2003). I gave them the green light to do the work, but have now been told that they’ve snapped one of the plugs while removing it. They’re now asking for £2200 to fix the car.

I’ve argued that this is down to the garage to fix, but they are claiming it’s an unforeseen fault and will not contribute to the payment. Do I have any legal right in this case?

Asked on 13 December 2014 by agirhea

Answered by Honest John

Unfortunately it's one of those things that can't be helped. Glowplugs can fuse into the engine and it's always touch and go as to whether they will unscrew without snapping. You can't apply heat because of the different metals involved and the location of the glowplugs. Your quotation is for removing the head, extracting the old glowplug, replacing it, and reassembling the engine. A big job.

Tags: legal and consumer advice technical issues glow plugs

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