MINI2

stuvoi · Jun 1st, 2008, 02:51 PM

Hiya

This is a bit of a moan, but also a request for some advice...

I've just come back from holiday, but before I went on hols had signs of clutch going, so dropped the car off whilst I was away - this was Wollaston Mini in Northampton

Car is R56 Mini, about 13 months old, done 20,000 miles, driven no differently from my last Mini, which after 3 years needed nothing doing to it.

Mini called me to say that Clutch & flywheel need replacing, it needs to be replaced at a cost of £1495 and that it's normal wear and tear and they weren't willing to do a goodwill gesture. I have had good dealings with Wollaston Mini - but as soon as I deal with Service, I feel like a second class citizen, not owning a BMW...

I have seen a few threads, where people have gotten Clutch go after similar mileage get the garage to accept repair under warranty and was wanting some advice on what my rights are - is thins something I can go to Trading Standards over - if they are using poor quality parts? Or do I just have to bite the bullet and accept the fact that sometimes these things happen...

Also, do you know where things stand with getting repairs done by non-mini garage - and can anyone recommend a good garage in Northampton that could do the work? We have a local garage to us, but not sure if they need specialist parts or the like?

As I bought the car with "mini finance" I thought as a second option could be to hard car back and just buy a cheaper car ,or something like that and so Wollaston gave me a part-ex value of the car (R56 MCS with Chili Pack, Sat Nav, Sun Roof etc etc) of £12k - which was less than I got for my 3 year ofd R53 MCS last year - Given I bought the car for £24k that is a loss of 50% in a year, so looks like the end of Mini residual values... Surely £12k is too low for a 1 year old MCS? I was thinking £16 - £17k would have been closer the mark?

Anyway, if people can offer advise as to what I should do it would be appreciated as I just feel a little blargh..

To the Mods, as this covers repair and resale I put it into the General Forum as opposed to a specific R56 forum...

Cheers

Stu

Tracie · Jun 1st, 2008, 03:01 PM

I think your Dealer is taking the Mickey on both counts.
Get MINI Customer Services involved. At 20k miles the Clutch shouldn't be going and if it does if most defo should be a warranty issue unless they can *prove* you have abused it.

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 03:11 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

Mini called me to say that Clutch & flywheel need replacing, it needs to be replaced at a cost of £1495...

Most of which will be the extortionate labour charge.

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

...and that it's normal wear and tear...

It is.

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

...and they weren't willing to do a goodwill gesture. I have had good dealings with Wollaston Mini - but as soon as I deal with Service, I feel like a second class citizen, not owning a BMW...

Nothing to do with the dealership, or the car you drive, as it's MINI that decide what does and does not get paid for under warranty.

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

I have seen a few threads, where people have gotten Clutch go after similar mileage get the garage to accept repair under warranty and was wanting some advice on what my rights are - is thins something I can go to Trading Standards over - if they are using poor quality parts? Or do I just have to bite the bullet and accept the fact that sometimes these things happen...

Your warranty clearly states that the clutch is a wear-and-tear item and as such is only covered in the first 12 months from new.

The fact that MINI may have agreed to replace a clutch under warranty after the first 12 months in the past is no guarantee, or even indication, that they will, or even should, again.

As for Trading Standards, are you publicly accusing MINI of building your car with sub-standard or poor-quality parts?

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

Also, do you know where things stand with getting repairs done by non-mini garage...

As long as they use genuine parts there isn't an issue.

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

We have a local garage to us, but not sure if they need specialist parts or the like?

They can buy the genuine parts from any MINI dealership, so again no issue.

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 03:12 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Tracie (original)

At 20k miles the Clutch shouldn't be going and if it does if most defo should be a warranty issue unless they can *prove* you have abused it.

As the provider of the warranty MINI has no obligation to prove anything. The onus is on the driver to prove they haven't.

Terrahawk · Jun 1st, 2008, 03:59 PM

Scrogg ............ as a new forum member your post reads as quite unhelpful!!

A clutch/flywheel needing replacing at13months and 20k miles ............ I would be PUBLICLY accusing Mini of using substandard parts. A decent mechanic could look at the rest of the car such as the brakes to get an idea about the way the car has been driven.

I had discs and pads on a WRX Impreza replaced under warranty at 20k miles as they considered the wear to be excessive on them. STi and Wrx's which are driven VERY hard tend to wear clutches around the 40k to 50k mark.

I would suggest you conact Mini direct and contact trading standards. The fact you have history of ownership of another mini and not having such a unusual premature clutch/flywheel failure will hold you in good stead. The more evidence of other people with similar clutch failure will assist you also.

Stand your ground and make loud noises!!

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 04:05 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original)

Scrogg ............ as a new forum member your post reads as quite unhelpful!!

I'm sorry, I must have missed the bit where it says you're only allowed to post if you agree/sympathise with the original poster whilst simultaneously criticising MINI/their dealer network at every opportunity.

mini-millie-n-dan · Jun 1st, 2008, 04:25 PM

Think Scrogg must work for MINI!! Or never had the misfurtune of anything going wrong under warranty. Hope you get this sorted soon, I would be giving the dealers grief if it was my car too.

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 04:34 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original)

Think Scrogg must work for MINI!!

Nope. Worked for a MINI dealership until about 18 months ago though.

Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original)

Or never had the misfurtune of anything going wrong under warranty.

My first MINI went back to the supplying dealership 11 times, and to my local dealership 3 times. I've also worked in the Motor Trade since 1997. I'd say I've had more than my fair share of misfortune, on both sides, when it comes to cars going wrong.

Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original)

Hope you get this sorted soon.

As do I, I just refuse to post the same pointless 'advice' as everyone else.

Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original)

I would be giving the dealers grief if it was my car too.

That's always a great way to get anyone to do anything!

Rakey · Jun 1st, 2008, 05:56 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original)

Scrogg ............ as a new forum member your post reads as quite unhelpful!!

A clutch/flywheel needing replacing at13months and 20k miles ............ I would be PUBLICLY accusing Mini of using substandard parts. A decent mechanic could look at the rest of the car such as the brakes to get an idea about the way the car has been driven.

I had discs and pads on a WRX Impreza replaced under warranty at 20k miles as they considered the wear to be excessive on them. STi and Wrx's which are driven VERY hard tend to wear clutches around the 40k to 50k mark.

I would suggest you conact Mini direct and contact trading standards. The fact you have history of ownership of another mini and not having such a unusual premature clutch/flywheel failure will hold you in good stead. The more evidence of other people with similar clutch failure will assist you also.

Stand your ground and make loud noises!!

Sorry totally agree, I've seen Scrogg post on here for some time, he states the facts, very clearly and gives the best advice on this forum.

He can't help it if those facts are not what some people want to hear, but its always the truth!

I'd be a lot more careful of having a go at him, as you never know one day you might be in need of his accurate advice

stuvoi · Jun 1st, 2008, 05:56 PM

Scrogg

Thanks for the comments - as I am not someone with much knowledge of how these things works I was looking for some realism in what I might expect.

In terms of what you said in response to my comments about Trading Standards, then I would consider that a Clutch that went after 13 months and 20k miles is not good and I have had some 15 cars in total - most of which have done over 100k miles and not one has ever had a clutch go - and I used to drive harder in my youth than I do now - plus 3 years and 50k miles with R53 and no sign of clutch go and my driving style was pretty similar, so if you take the "me" out of the equation as I am a constant in all the cars I drive, then it does lead to an issue with the parts? Or am I missing something here?

Thanks for the comments about the other garages doing the work, the car is with MIni garage at the moment, I will pick it up and take it to other garage in the week... I've not given them the go-ahead at Mini to do the work

In terms of my comment about the Service from the Service Department, my wife feels they are looking down at us, for being Mini owners and they seem to be all over the BMW owners, it might not be true, but it's a perception we have.....

Main gripe I've had this week, is that I've had to do ALL the running around, you ring up and leave a message then phone again and again and again and no-one calls me back and I was trying to enjoy my holiday!

I guess it's just reduced my enjoyment of Mini ownership and I am now questioning whether i would get a new one when it comes time to change this... whereas a couple of weeks ago, Helen (wife) was going to replace her 4x4 with a Clubman and then I'd be getting a new Mini in a couple of years... now? all up in the air

Cheers

Stu

Quote: Originally Posted by Scrogg (original)

Most of which will be the extortionate labour charge.

It is.

Nothing to do with the dealership, or the car you drive, as it's MINI that decide what does and does not get paid for under warranty.

Your warranty clearly states that the clutch is a wear-and-tear item and as such is only covered in the first 12 months from new.

The fact that MINI may have agreed to replace a clutch under warranty after the first 12 months in the past is no guarantee, or even indication, that they will, or even should, again.

As for Trading Standards, are you publicly accusing MINI of building your car with sub-standard or poor-quality parts?

As long as they use genuine parts there isn't an issue.

They can buy the genuine parts from any MINI dealership, so again no issue.

Terrahawk · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:20 PM

Really don't give a jot how many posts someone has on any forum

As a owner of a car that suffered a major PREMATURE failure that the delaers tried to wriggle out of I speak from experience.

Speak to the right people, be determined and the consumer can get justice. Dealers and manufacturers expect the consumer to give in at the 1st sign of difficulty.

Stuvoi your comments in the 3rd paragraph of your last post are spot on. A clutch failing at 20k miles is unrealistic and 4 weeks after the warraty ran out, well ............ those of us with common sense would expect Mini to do the right thing. Its worrying that Mini would treat an owner of its product with such contempt. I've never had a clutch go on any of the 15 or so cars I've owned some of which did just over 100k miles.

Sorry if MY OPINION and EXPERIENCE doesn't agree with anyone elses, and I make no apology that I'm not in the 'old boys club' on here.

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:21 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

Thanks for the comments

You're very welcome.

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

as I am not someone with much knowledge of how these things works I was looking for some realism in what I might expect.

You'll always get that on here

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

In terms of what you said in response to my comments about Trading Standards, then I would consider that a Clutch that went after 13 months and 20k miles is not good and I have had some 15 cars in total - most of which have done over 100k miles and not one has ever had a clutch go - and I used to drive harder in my youth than I do now - plus 3 years and 50k miles with R53 and no sign of clutch go and my driving style was pretty similar, so if you take the "me" out of the equation as I am a constant in all the cars I drive, then it does lead to an issue with the parts? Or am I missing something here?

I don't think you're missing anything at all, and I agree that it shouldn't go after such a short period of time/low mileage, but it has.

If you take the 'advice' of some and scream, shout, wave your arms about etc you'll get pretty much nowhere. If you talk to Wollaston's calmly and sensibly and discuss your concerns they will be much more likely to fight your cause with MINI. Afterall, they get paid for doing the work whoever pays for it, so getting it done under warranty is in as much their interest as yours, especially if you will be taking it elsewhere to be done in the event you do have to foot the bill.

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

Thanks for the comments about the other garages doing the work, the car is with MIni garage at the moment, I will pick it up and take it to other garage in the week... I've not given them the go-ahead at Mini to do the work

Only do that if MINI do not agree to pay for the work to be done under warranty of course

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

In terms of my comment about the Service from the Service Department, my wife feels they are looking down at us, for being Mini owners and they seem to be all over the BMW owners, it might not be true, but it's a perception we have.....

That's a common complaint on here, and is sadly true of some dealerships, but I am surprised that Wollaston's would do it as they have a very good reputation for good service.

Saying that, the people that pay BMW money (especially 5, 6, 7 Series) do expect that little bit extra, and almost always get it. It's a sad fact of life.

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

Main gripe I've had this week, is that I've had to do ALL the running around, you ring up and leave a message then phone again and again and again and no-one calls me back and I was trying to enjoy my holiday!

That's my pet hate with dealerships (and before I get flamed again, I know I'm guilty of it sometimes as well) but I know I'll never solve it

Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original)

I guess it's just reduced my enjoyment of Mini ownership and I am now questioning whether i would get a new one when it comes time to change this... whereas a couple of weeks ago, Helen (wife) was going to replace her 4x4 with a Clubman and then I'd be getting a new Mini in a couple of years... now? all up in the air

Don't let one bad experience tarnish an entire brand. There are far more good MINIs that have few or no problems than bad ones, and far more good experiences with dealerships than bad ones, it's just that the bad ones get reported more often. Another sad fact of life!

Terrahawk · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:23 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Scrogg (original)

I'm sorry, I must have missed the bit where it says you're only allowed to post if you agree/sympathise with the original poster whilst simultaneously criticising MINI/their dealer network at every opportunity.

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:25 PM

Oh can I? Please? it's been so long?

supa-dupa-cooper · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:28 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original)

You clearly dont know Scrogg very well then do you!

Back to the matter of the main post

If it were me and my car, I would go back to the dealership again, give them another chance to help you out, dont go in kicking and screaming but just tell them that you dont think its right. If that still doesnt work, then yes I would get MINI involved.
Having had issues with my own car, and with the dealership, resulting in me getting MINI involved, I can say that they will do their best to help you out/give advice as much as they can

supa-dupa-cooper · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:30 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original)

Nice edit of your post there, taking out the insult to Simon!....muppet!

supa-dupa-cooper · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:32 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Scrogg (original)

That post has been edited Jo, originally it was an attack on me and a bit of name-calling.

Obviously chicken-outed though and decided to hide behind a few smilies

Edit or no edit, I reported the post, not sure if the mods will be able to see what it said previously or not! He is quite clearly a member to be ignored

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:33 PM

Crikey, you don't hang about do you?

I deleted my post when I saw you'd already spotted the edit.

stuvoi · Jun 1st, 2008, 06:51 PM

Hi Scrogg

So, just trying to clarify..

Given the car was literally only 2 weeks older than the 12 months when I reported the fault it's not covered, to clarify does the car have seen within 12 months to be an issue, or is it within 12 months if the problem first occurs?

As it was so close to just being over 12 months, should I get Wollaston to try and fight the case with Mini in the first instance? Quoting all that I have said before and hope for some goodwill? As it must have been going for at least a couple of weeks beforehand - as I was driving around for a while before I could get the car into the garage.....

Or should I phone Mini up and mention that it's with Wollaston and that it's a fault that is not being covered by Warranty and try and sort things from both sides?

Cheers

Stu

Scrogg · Jun 1st, 2008, 07:04 PM

The simple answer is no, it's not covered, as the warranty is only for 12 months.

The good news is though is that most manufacturers are a bit less black-and-white about these things, and will often offer to pay some, if not all, of the costs involved in situations like this. They look at each case on an individual basis.

As I've already said, talk it over with Wollaston's and ask them to talk to MINI, and it certainly won't hurt for you to contact MINI as well and present them with the facts.

Jun 1st, 2008, 02:51 PM	#1
stuvoi MINI2 Senior Join Date: Jul 2004 Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 385 Offline	'avin a laugh Hiya This is a bit of a moan, but also a request for some advice... I've just come back from holiday, but before I went on hols had signs of clutch going, so dropped the car off whilst I was away - this was Wollaston Mini in Northampton Car is R56 Mini, about 13 months old, done 20,000 miles, driven no differently from my last Mini, which after 3 years needed nothing doing to it. Mini called me to say that Clutch & flywheel need replacing, it needs to be replaced at a cost of £1495 and that it's normal wear and tear and they weren't willing to do a goodwill gesture. I have had good dealings with Wollaston Mini - but as soon as I deal with Service, I feel like a second class citizen, not owning a BMW... I have seen a few threads, where people have gotten Clutch go after similar mileage get the garage to accept repair under warranty and was wanting some advice on what my rights are - is thins something I can go to Trading Standards over - if they are using poor quality parts? Or do I just have to bite the bullet and accept the fact that sometimes these things happen... Also, do you know where things stand with getting repairs done by non-mini garage - and can anyone recommend a good garage in Northampton that could do the work? We have a local garage to us, but not sure if they need specialist parts or the like? As I bought the car with "mini finance" I thought as a second option could be to hard car back and just buy a cheaper car ,or something like that and so Wollaston gave me a part-ex value of the car (R56 MCS with Chili Pack, Sat Nav, Sun Roof etc etc) of £12k - which was less than I got for my 3 year ofd R53 MCS last year - Given I bought the car for £24k that is a loss of 50% in a year, so looks like the end of Mini residual values... Surely £12k is too low for a 1 year old MCS? I was thinking £16 - £17k would have been closer the mark? Anyway, if people can offer advise as to what I should do it would be appreciated as I just feel a little blargh.. To the Mods, as this covers repair and resale I put it into the General Forum as opposed to a specific R56 forum... Cheers Stu

Jun 1st, 2008, 03:01 PM	#2 (permalink)
Tracie MINI less. My Classifieds Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Poole, Dorset.UK Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 2,486 Offline	I think your Dealer is taking the Mickey on both counts. Get MINI Customer Services involved. At 20k miles the Clutch shouldn't be going and if it does if most defo should be a warranty issue unless they can prove you have abused it. I'm being tempted back to a MINI....

Jun 1st, 2008, 05:56 PM	#9 (permalink)
Rakey Four Candles? My Classifieds Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Hardware Shop Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 50,823 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original) Scrogg ............ as a new forum member your post reads as quite unhelpful!! A clutch/flywheel needing replacing at13months and 20k miles ............ I would be PUBLICLY accusing Mini of using substandard parts. A decent mechanic could look at the rest of the car such as the brakes to get an idea about the way the car has been driven. I had discs and pads on a WRX Impreza replaced under warranty at 20k miles as they considered the wear to be excessive on them. STi and Wrx's which are driven VERY hard tend to wear clutches around the 40k to 50k mark. I would suggest you conact Mini direct and contact trading standards. The fact you have history of ownership of another mini and not having such a unusual premature clutch/flywheel failure will hold you in good stead. The more evidence of other people with similar clutch failure will assist you also. Stand your ground and make loud noises!! Sorry totally agree, I've seen Scrogg post on here for some time, he states the facts, very clearly and gives the best advice on this forum. He can't help it if those facts are not what some people want to hear, but its always the truth! I'd be a lot more careful of having a go at him, as you never know one day you might be in need of his accurate advice The only problem I have is knowing which one to drive?

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:20 PM	#11 (permalink)
Terrahawk MINI2 Newbie Join Date: May 2008 Location: Peterborough Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 6 Offline	Really don't give a jot how many posts someone has on any forum As a owner of a car that suffered a major PREMATURE failure that the delaers tried to wriggle out of I speak from experience. Speak to the right people, be determined and the consumer can get justice. Dealers and manufacturers expect the consumer to give in at the 1st sign of difficulty. Stuvoi your comments in the 3rd paragraph of your last post are spot on. A clutch failing at 20k miles is unrealistic and 4 weeks after the warraty ran out, well ............ those of us with common sense would expect Mini to do the right thing. Its worrying that Mini would treat an owner of its product with such contempt. I've never had a clutch go on any of the 15 or so cars I've owned some of which did just over 100k miles. Sorry if MY OPINION and EXPERIENCE doesn't agree with anyone elses, and I make no apology that I'm not in the 'old boys club' on here. Last edited by minicabrio : Jun 2nd, 2008 at 08:07 AM. Reason: swear filter avoidance

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:28 PM	#15 (permalink)
supa-dupa-cooper In S Club Heaven!! Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Cloud MINI Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 19,851 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original) You clearly dont know Scrogg very well then do you! Back to the matter of the main post If it were me and my car, I would go back to the dealership again, give them another chance to help you out, dont go in kicking and screaming but just tell them that you dont think its right. If that still doesnt work, then yes I would get MINI involved. Having had issues with my own car, and with the dealership, resulting in me getting MINI involved, I can say that they will do their best to help you out/give advice as much as they can * The Italian Job 2008......Team 50 - Website Here!* UNION JACK OWNERS CLUB GB002

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Jun 1st, 2008, 03:11 PM	#3 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) Mini called me to say that Clutch & flywheel need replacing, it needs to be replaced at a cost of £1495... Most of which will be the extortionate labour charge. Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) ...and that it's normal wear and tear... It is. Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) ...and they weren't willing to do a goodwill gesture. I have had good dealings with Wollaston Mini - but as soon as I deal with Service, I feel like a second class citizen, not owning a BMW... Nothing to do with the dealership, or the car you drive, as it's MINI that decide what does and does not get paid for under warranty. Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) I have seen a few threads, where people have gotten Clutch go after similar mileage get the garage to accept repair under warranty and was wanting some advice on what my rights are - is thins something I can go to Trading Standards over - if they are using poor quality parts? Or do I just have to bite the bullet and accept the fact that sometimes these things happen... Your warranty clearly states that the clutch is a wear-and-tear item and as such is only covered in the first 12 months from new. The fact that MINI may have agreed to replace a clutch under warranty after the first 12 months in the past is no guarantee, or even indication, that they will, or even should, again. As for Trading Standards, are you publicly accusing MINI of building your car with sub-standard or poor-quality parts? Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) Also, do you know where things stand with getting repairs done by non-mini garage... As long as they use genuine parts there isn't an issue. Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) We have a local garage to us, but not sure if they need specialist parts or the like? They can buy the genuine parts from any MINI dealership, so again no issue.

Jun 1st, 2008, 03:12 PM	#4 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Tracie (original) At 20k miles the Clutch shouldn't be going and if it does if most defo should be a warranty issue unless they can prove you have abused it. As the provider of the warranty MINI has no obligation to prove anything. The onus is on the driver to prove they haven't.

Jun 1st, 2008, 03:59 PM	#5 (permalink)
Terrahawk MINI2 Newbie Join Date: May 2008 Location: Peterborough Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 6 Offline	Scrogg ............ as a new forum member your post reads as quite unhelpful!! A clutch/flywheel needing replacing at13months and 20k miles ............ I would be PUBLICLY accusing Mini of using substandard parts. A decent mechanic could look at the rest of the car such as the brakes to get an idea about the way the car has been driven. I had discs and pads on a WRX Impreza replaced under warranty at 20k miles as they considered the wear to be excessive on them. STi and Wrx's which are driven VERY hard tend to wear clutches around the 40k to 50k mark. I would suggest you conact Mini direct and contact trading standards. The fact you have history of ownership of another mini and not having such a unusual premature clutch/flywheel failure will hold you in good stead. The more evidence of other people with similar clutch failure will assist you also. Stand your ground and make loud noises!!

Jun 1st, 2008, 04:05 PM	#6 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original) Scrogg ............ as a new forum member your post reads as quite unhelpful!! I'm sorry, I must have missed the bit where it says you're only allowed to post if you agree/sympathise with the original poster whilst simultaneously criticising MINI/their dealer network at every opportunity.

Jun 1st, 2008, 04:25 PM	#7 (permalink)
mini-millie-n-dan MINI2 Regular My Classifieds Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: stoke on trent Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 138 Offline	Think Scrogg must work for MINI!! Or never had the misfurtune of anything going wrong under warranty. Hope you get this sorted soon, I would be giving the dealers grief if it was my car too.

Jun 1st, 2008, 04:34 PM	#8 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original) Think Scrogg must work for MINI!! Nope. Worked for a MINI dealership until about 18 months ago though. Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original) Or never had the misfurtune of anything going wrong under warranty. My first MINI went back to the supplying dealership 11 times, and to my local dealership 3 times. I've also worked in the Motor Trade since 1997. I'd say I've had more than my fair share of misfortune, on both sides, when it comes to cars going wrong. Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original) Hope you get this sorted soon. As do I, I just refuse to post the same pointless 'advice' as everyone else. Quote: Originally Posted by mini-millie-n-dan (original) I would be giving the dealers grief if it was my car too. That's always a great way to get anyone to do anything!

Jun 1st, 2008, 05:56 PM	#10 (permalink)
stuvoi MINI2 Senior Join Date: Jul 2004 Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 385 Offline	Scrogg Thanks for the comments - as I am not someone with much knowledge of how these things works I was looking for some realism in what I might expect. In terms of what you said in response to my comments about Trading Standards, then I would consider that a Clutch that went after 13 months and 20k miles is not good and I have had some 15 cars in total - most of which have done over 100k miles and not one has ever had a clutch go - and I used to drive harder in my youth than I do now - plus 3 years and 50k miles with R53 and no sign of clutch go and my driving style was pretty similar, so if you take the "me" out of the equation as I am a constant in all the cars I drive, then it does lead to an issue with the parts? Or am I missing something here? Thanks for the comments about the other garages doing the work, the car is with MIni garage at the moment, I will pick it up and take it to other garage in the week... I've not given them the go-ahead at Mini to do the work In terms of my comment about the Service from the Service Department, my wife feels they are looking down at us, for being Mini owners and they seem to be all over the BMW owners, it might not be true, but it's a perception we have..... Main gripe I've had this week, is that I've had to do ALL the running around, you ring up and leave a message then phone again and again and again and no-one calls me back and I was trying to enjoy my holiday! I guess it's just reduced my enjoyment of Mini ownership and I am now questioning whether i would get a new one when it comes time to change this... whereas a couple of weeks ago, Helen (wife) was going to replace her 4x4 with a Clubman and then I'd be getting a new Mini in a couple of years... now? all up in the air Cheers Stu Quote: Originally Posted by Scrogg (original) Most of which will be the extortionate labour charge. It is. Nothing to do with the dealership, or the car you drive, as it's MINI that decide what does and does not get paid for under warranty. Your warranty clearly states that the clutch is a wear-and-tear item and as such is only covered in the first 12 months from new. The fact that MINI may have agreed to replace a clutch under warranty after the first 12 months in the past is no guarantee, or even indication, that they will, or even should, again. As for Trading Standards, are you publicly accusing MINI of building your car with sub-standard or poor-quality parts? As long as they use genuine parts there isn't an issue. They can buy the genuine parts from any MINI dealership, so again no issue.

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:21 PM	#12 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) Thanks for the comments You're very welcome. Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) as I am not someone with much knowledge of how these things works I was looking for some realism in what I might expect. You'll always get that on here Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) In terms of what you said in response to my comments about Trading Standards, then I would consider that a Clutch that went after 13 months and 20k miles is not good and I have had some 15 cars in total - most of which have done over 100k miles and not one has ever had a clutch go - and I used to drive harder in my youth than I do now - plus 3 years and 50k miles with R53 and no sign of clutch go and my driving style was pretty similar, so if you take the "me" out of the equation as I am a constant in all the cars I drive, then it does lead to an issue with the parts? Or am I missing something here? I don't think you're missing anything at all, and I agree that it shouldn't go after such a short period of time/low mileage, but it has. If you take the 'advice' of some and scream, shout, wave your arms about etc you'll get pretty much nowhere. If you talk to Wollaston's calmly and sensibly and discuss your concerns they will be much more likely to fight your cause with MINI. Afterall, they get paid for doing the work whoever pays for it, so getting it done under warranty is in as much their interest as yours, especially if you will be taking it elsewhere to be done in the event you do have to foot the bill. Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) Thanks for the comments about the other garages doing the work, the car is with MIni garage at the moment, I will pick it up and take it to other garage in the week... I've not given them the go-ahead at Mini to do the work Only do that if MINI do not agree to pay for the work to be done under warranty of course Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) In terms of my comment about the Service from the Service Department, my wife feels they are looking down at us, for being Mini owners and they seem to be all over the BMW owners, it might not be true, but it's a perception we have..... That's a common complaint on here, and is sadly true of some dealerships, but I am surprised that Wollaston's would do it as they have a very good reputation for good service. Saying that, the people that pay BMW money (especially 5, 6, 7 Series) do expect that little bit extra, and almost always get it. It's a sad fact of life. Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) Main gripe I've had this week, is that I've had to do ALL the running around, you ring up and leave a message then phone again and again and again and no-one calls me back and I was trying to enjoy my holiday! That's my pet hate with dealerships (and before I get flamed again, I know I'm guilty of it sometimes as well) but I know I'll never solve it Quote: Originally Posted by stuvoi (original) I guess it's just reduced my enjoyment of Mini ownership and I am now questioning whether i would get a new one when it comes time to change this... whereas a couple of weeks ago, Helen (wife) was going to replace her 4x4 with a Clubman and then I'd be getting a new Mini in a couple of years... now? all up in the air Don't let one bad experience tarnish an entire brand. There are far more good MINIs that have few or no problems than bad ones, and far more good experiences with dealerships than bad ones, it's just that the bad ones get reported more often. Another sad fact of life!

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:23 PM	#13 (permalink)
Terrahawk MINI2 Newbie Join Date: May 2008 Location: Peterborough Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 6 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Scrogg (original) I'm sorry, I must have missed the bit where it says you're only allowed to post if you agree/sympathise with the original poster whilst simultaneously criticising MINI/their dealer network at every opportunity.

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:25 PM	#14 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	Oh can I? Please? it's been so long?

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:30 PM	#16 (permalink)
supa-dupa-cooper In S Club Heaven!! Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Cloud MINI Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 19,851 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Terrahawk (original) Nice edit of your post there, taking out the insult to Simon!....muppet! * The Italian Job 2008......Team 50 - Website Here!* UNION JACK OWNERS CLUB GB002

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:32 PM	#17 (permalink)
supa-dupa-cooper In S Club Heaven!! Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Cloud MINI Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 19,851 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Scrogg (original) That post has been edited Jo, originally it was an attack on me and a bit of name-calling. Obviously chicken-outed though and decided to hide behind a few smilies Edit or no edit, I reported the post, not sure if the mods will be able to see what it said previously or not! He is quite clearly a member to be ignored * The Italian Job 2008......Team 50 - Website Here!* UNION JACK OWNERS CLUB GB002

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:33 PM	#18 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	Crikey, you don't hang about do you? I deleted my post when I saw you'd already spotted the edit.

Jun 1st, 2008, 06:51 PM	#19 (permalink)
stuvoi MINI2 Senior Join Date: Jul 2004 Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 385 Offline	Hi Scrogg So, just trying to clarify.. Given the car was literally only 2 weeks older than the 12 months when I reported the fault it's not covered, to clarify does the car have seen within 12 months to be an issue, or is it within 12 months if the problem first occurs? As it was so close to just being over 12 months, should I get Wollaston to try and fight the case with Mini in the first instance? Quoting all that I have said before and hope for some goodwill? As it must have been going for at least a couple of weeks beforehand - as I was driving around for a while before I could get the car into the garage..... Or should I phone Mini up and mention that it's with Wollaston and that it's a fault that is not being covered by Warranty and try and sort things from both sides? Cheers Stu

Jun 1st, 2008, 07:04 PM	#20 (permalink)
Scrogg Run out of ideas... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gloucester Local Time: 08:02 AM Posts: 15,478 Offline	The simple answer is no, it's not covered, as the warranty is only for 12 months. The good news is though is that most manufacturers are a bit less black-and-white about these things, and will often offer to pay some, if not all, of the costs involved in situations like this. They look at each case on an individual basis. As I've already said, talk it over with Wollaston's and ask them to talk to MINI, and it certainly won't hurt for you to contact MINI as well and present them with the facts.