Jeep Problems

There are plenty of SUV choices to look at, such as a Toyota Prado or Jeep Grand Cherokee. Both should serve your needs well.

Apparently your problem was never correctly reported to Fiat Chrysler's head office. Company spokesman Andrew Chesterton now replies: "This issue is anything but a common occurrence. I'm please to say this customer's sunroof has been fully replaced under warranty."

As you say Mercedes generally cost more to service and repair, particularly if you have a dealer do the work.

They're not as expensive if you use an independent Mercedes specialist, and there are plenty around who can do that for you. They not only charge less for their labour, they usually have access to cheaper parts. Most of those parts are full factory parts, just sourced from overseas, instead of locally, so you don't miss out on quality or reliability by using them.

Jeep owners generally swear by the cars, but they have had issues over the years that should make you wary about signing on to the brand.

There's not much to split them, perhaps I would prefer the 'Benz.

The carmaker is required to make a reasonable attempt to fix the problems that arise. If that has been done, and it seems that it has, you have no chance of getting a replacement vehicle. Replacing a vehicle almost never happens, so don't pin your hopes on that happening. You can get an extended warranty for longer than 12 months; the dealer should be able to do that for you. Although you might be feeling let down by your current experience with the Jeep it doesn't mean that you will have more problems gong forward.

This is a disaster, and by your description of events I think you should either get your money back or be given a replacement car. Unfortunately that isn't the way it works in Australia where owners are mostly treated with contempt. Complaining to Consumer Affairs is unlikely to result in a resolution; they seem powerless to do anything when it comes to faulty cars. If it were America I'm sure your car would be regarded as a lemon and you'd have a much better chance of getting a resolution. As much as it might seem impossible I would recommend that you continue to deal with Chrysler, best to do it with head office while keeping the dealer in the loop. Chrysler has a responsibility to fix your car and it would seem they are not doing that. Try sitting down with the people responsible and ask for a plan of action to fix your car.

Andrew Chesterton again: "FCA Australia's technicians have contacted this customer to arrange a like-for-like loan car and a longer test drive of this vehicle to determine exactly the issue so we can fully resolve it under warranty."

You're correct in thinking the Mercedes would cost more to service and repair, particularly if you use a dealer. Going to an independent service mechanic with experience of Mercedes-Benz cars would save you plenty. The Jeep would be the cheaper of the two in terms of servicing, and of the two you are looking at that's the one I would opt for.

There are companies in America that make extra dickie seats for your Cherokee. You can find them on the net.