Chemical Corrosion to caravan window

Davvygolf
Davvygolf Forum Participant Posts: 18
edited May 2016 in Caravans #1

My 2014 sprite has developed cracks  in the front window, both inside and out, currently extending to about 4/5 inches. My dealer has made a warranty claim to Swift and both they and Dometic have rejected it as they state that it is due to" chemical corrosion". 

They appear to be suggesting that I have used incorrect cleaning products on the acrylic windows. I only use Fenwicks for cleaning the van.

Has anybody experienced this or have any advice. I appreciate that, ultimately, my recourse is against my dealer but need advice if I am to take this route, although I have to say they have worked hard to assist me

Comments

  • Tigi
    Tigi Forum Participant Posts: 1,038
    500 Comments
    edited May 2016 #2

    I should think that it is highly unlikely that Fenwicks is the cause its been around for along time and would have been an issue by now. I always use it and have never had a problem. You don`t cover your windows with cling film to allow the use of a caravan
    cover by any chance that was suspect at one time.

  • Takethedogalong
    Takethedogalong Forum Participant Posts: 17,073 ✭✭✭
    10,000 Likes 1000 Comments Name Dropper Photogenic
    edited May 2016 #3

    I think some Swifts have had cracking window issues, get onto swift talk forum and check things out on there? Good luck.

  • Wildwood
    Wildwood Club Member Posts: 3,585
    1000 Comments 250 Likes Photogenic
    edited May 2016 #4

    Firstly you need to go to Fenwicks and get their confirmation that it will not damage the windows. Armed with this you go to the dealer as your contract with them and demand that they are replaced as they are faulty and the manufscturers claim is rubbish.

    If they will not replace them you establish the cost and isdue a small claims summons. The companies try anything to fob you off so just take no nonesense and take them on.

  • Trini
    Trini Forum Participant Posts: 429
    edited May 2016 #5

    We had a Heki roof light that after 11 months developed 'crazing' only to be told by Dometic is was caused by 'chemical' damage'.

    Even tho there are only the 2 of us use the van, non smokers and have only used a dry cloth to wipe the roof light a coule of times.

  • Tigi
    Tigi Forum Participant Posts: 1,038
    500 Comments
    edited May 2016 #6

    Looked at a Bobby Dazzler can by Fenwicks today and that specifically says will not damage acrylic windows. 

  • jennyc
    jennyc Forum Participant Posts: 957
    500 Comments
    edited May 2016 #7

    It sounds like an imaginative evasion of responsibility on the manufacturers part. I had a similar "it's been misused" response from LeCreuset recently when I asked for a replacement for one of their very expensive cast aluminium saucepans on which the coating
    had started to peel. Ultimately they did replace it with dire warnings that I was in their records for the future. Our Swift caravan suffered persistent signs of water in a rear road light lens, which Swift advised the dealer to remedy by drilling a drain
    hole To resolve 'condensation'. Eventually, we prevailed upon the dealers to smear waterproof grease around the lamp's rubber gasket, and hey presto! cured. We have used Bobby Dazzler for years, with no ill effects.