Van issues since new - Where do I stand?

Existedsteed
Existedsteed Forum Participant Posts: 15
edited February 2018 in New to Caravanning & Touring #1

I took delivery of my first, brand new, coach built motorhome in November 2016 from a franchise dealer - the initial snagging looked at several minor issues and two others that seem more significant:-

1. THE HAB DOOR - only closed properly after 3 or 4 hefty slams and occasionally didn't catch at all. The initial door lock/catch replacement made no difference, and neither did the dealer's idea to attempt to realign the door by  sticking  a small block on the bottom of the door and another on the door jam to hold the door slightly apart - The only effect was for it to allow water and condensation to accumulate at the bottom of the door on the inside of the van!

2. THE CONDENSATION - On the first occasion we stayed in the van with the heating on we noticed that water/condensation occurred on one side of the van behind the seating cushions.  This was enough to form a puddle on top of one of the locker/seats. They dealer  took the van in and told me they would fix this. Unfortunately, as we discovered on the next occasion we used the heating, the identical  issue still occurs. 

The van is now back with the dealer who has told me that after more work "the condensation is 80% cured" and if I give permission for them to build in a 1 inch spacer between the seat cushion, that I won't see condensation.

Although my van is now 4 months beyond the 1 year manufacturer's warranty period, these are problems that have existed and been treated unsuceesfully by the dealer since new. i suspect   that the condensation issue is only being masked - and that actually there is a manufacturing /insulation issue in the wall cavity (signs of condensation can be seen on the outside of the van too when the heating is on!) I'm concerned that the fix they are suggesting may affect any future sale/price of the van and for any  effect on the longevity of the van's life.

The Hab door is still under review as it appears the manufacturer and the dealer seem to be in disagreement over replacement of the door - The manufacturer's say it should be adjustable to make it close properly and be water tight too - but the dealer says they tried everything! 

I bought this particular van because it was promoted  as an all-year round van with dampness warranty. I'm worried for my £45,000 investment that has only done 4500 (700 of those miles due to the return journeys to the dealer!)

The dealer is asking for my permission to go ahead with the "spacer" work - I don't really know if I should just accept it - or if I should be asking for a different less bespoke solution - or even a new replacement van.

I have many friends who have provided "opinions" on what i should do but what i'm really hoping for is some "PROFESSIONAL" / KNOWLEDGABLE ADVICE if anyone can oblige please?

Thanks for considering

 

 

 

Comments

  • JVB66
    JVB66 Forum Participant Posts: 22,892
    1000 Comments
    edited February 2018 #2

    What make/model of motor caravan is it?

  • Tracy123
    Tracy123 Forum Participant Posts: 167
    100 Comments
    edited February 2018 #3

    Hi Existedsteed

    I'm sorry you are having problems with your motorhome. I personally would suggest you ringing our Legal Helpline on 01206 846073 before committing to anything. 

    Good Luck.

    Tracy

  • ABM
    ABM Forum Participant Posts: 14,578
    1000 Comments
    edited February 2018 #4

    Take  Tracy123's  advice  Exist,  it's  very  good !

  • Existedsteed
    Existedsteed Forum Participant Posts: 15
    edited February 2018 #5

    Thanks Tracy, I spoke to Legal this afternoon, as per your recommendation - Very helpful advice from you, and them!

    Steve

  • Wildwood
    Wildwood Club Member Posts: 3,581 ✭✭✭✭
    1000 Comments Photogenic
    edited February 2018 #6

    It sounds as though the vehicle is not fit for purpose and could be rejected. As suggested if you want more information ring the Legal Helpline who will be very familiar with your problem.

  • Scottie2
    Scottie2 Forum Participant Posts: 226
    edited February 2018 #7

    All previous advice is the only way to go. Legal procedures. Both the dealer and the manufacturer have had their chance to sort it out and have failed. For £45000 they have supplied an item not fit for purpose and sounds as if the dealer hasn’t a clue what to do next. Don’t let them near your Motorhome. It’s full refund  called for here. The. CANDMCC legal are the ones who will help you.

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