Volkswagen Problems

Approach the dealer and ask to see the parts they removed from your car, and ask them to justify the cost of the parts they've charged you for. On the face of it the cost does seem excessive, but without the full list it's hard to be definitive.

It's always frustrating when you find yourself shelling out large sums of money on a car that you would think should be be bulletproof for the first period of it life. It's not like your car has done a million miles. I'm tempted to say that's the European experience. I would recommend that you find a good independent mechanic who specializes in VWs and take your car there.

We have seen one or two similar reports, but we haven't heard about any fixes that are available. I can only suggest at this stage that you keep the pressure on the dealer and VW to fix the car. Perhaps other affected owners could contact us with their experience.

Times have really changed at Volkswagen Australia. CEO Michael Bartsch has personally intervened in this case and is organising a like-for-like replacement to keep you in the family.

There would have been a statutory warranty that would have applied if you bought it from a licensed dealer, but it would have expired a couple of months ago. Added to that you don't know that it wasn't working when you bought it. You really don't have any comeback now.

First and foremost VW is required to fix your car and it would seem by what you say they are not doing it satisfactorily. You need to keep the pressure on the dealer and VW, and ask them when they will have it fixed. You should also be given a replacement vehicle of the same sort while your car is being repaired. If they cannot fix it within, say the next week or two, then press for a replacement car or your money back. If it gets to that stage you might be best to employ a solicitor to act on your behalf.

I have investigated and Volkswagen admits some sort of original fault, but you should not have driven the car until it stopped with 146 degrees of coolant temperature and external plastic sensors on the engine melted. The new CEO of Volkswagen Australia, Michael Bartsch, is promising a fair hearing and will help to get the car back on the road.