Cambelt Change as recommended by Suzuki UK @ 5 years

I recently asked you a question regarding the whining noise after a replacement cambelt was replaced by an authorized Suzuki Dealership. Armed with your advice, I returned to the dealer and they subsequently removed the aux belt but could not clearly define what was causing the whining noise.

They advised me before they carry out any further diagnostic work, I will have to pay for their time for stripping the engine down and it could be in the region of £1300, which would include replacing either the Air Con/PAS pump. I sent the dealer an independent report which stated it was the cambelt at fault.I believe they have been negligent in their original proactive work (the car has been back several times because of poor workmanship/belt originally overtightened) and I have asked them to repair my vehicle (without cost to me) because they have breached the contract under the Sale of Goods & Services Act 1982.

They are still not willing to repair my vehicle unless I pay all costs. I have been in touch with Suzuki Customer Services and they are no help, obviously sticking by what the dealer advises. The cambelt was fitted in September 2012 and is still under their 12 month warranty. Because of the on-going problems, the car has completed just over 1300 miles since the cambelt has been changed. Where do I go from here?

Asked on 16 February 2013 by Trebor500

Answered by Honest John
If you want to make a case against the dealer who fitted the replacement cambelt you will need a statement by an expert witness and will then have to take the matter to the small claims track of the county court. Some links to expert witnesses in www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/list/ But the downside is that the cost of the expert witness report may be greater than the cost of the work proposed by the Suzuki dealer.
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