Thread: Garage negligence

Hi, I’m new here and looking for advice.

BG: I love my car, it’s my dream car since I was a child, and I treasure it. We have taken it to this BMW specialist in Derby a couple of times and each time there have been small issues (like loosing the cap for the hydraulic brake reservoir)

My car required a new front passenger side spring replacing, along with a fan and steering adjustment. The latter 2 were replace no issue but the garage ordered the incorrect spring for my car so I had to wait a fortnight to get it replaced.

In total the repairs for £489.

Yesterday was when the spring was finally replaced, and the car was washed as well, something I did not ask, expect or want either.

I picked the car up, and took it home. Got it home, and noticed the spoiler and boot were badly scratched, all in one direction. Then noticed it was all over the car.

Drove back to the garage to find the 2 brothers (managers) had left for the day, so we returned this morning.

Considering the condition of my car I asked for a refund, and was instead offered a mopping, which I declined as I do not want them touching my car again. Both managers stated that the paintwork on my car wasn’t very good anyway considering the age of it (15years old) to which I responded was not the point.
(The paint work was very good).

I stated I did not want the car washing in the first place, and the manager stated they had f***ed up then.

We then repeated that we wanted a refund, but they declined once more.

Since my husband paid with credit card we are going to dispute the payment.

Is this the right thing to do? What recourse do I have?

I’m so angry and sad.

Thank you in advance,

bmw850.

Hi, sympathise with I had a 15 year old car , now sold and the one thing is the laquer wears off leaving the paint which is soft and should never be put through a car wash, maybe this waht they and it will certainly score and scratch the paintwork.
Now I would never just replace the spring/shocks etc on one side only always fit in pairs, but hey thats your choice.
Now what you are seeking is damages for the paintwork, not that the actual work you paid for was faulty etc. so I dont see a CC company accepting that as reason for a cliam, but you can try.
I think your only recourse is to put your claim in writting that you want the damaged paint work put right and give them 7 days to respond or you will get done somewhere else and sue them for the cost. get an estimate from a paint shop that specilises in older cars and refinishing. good luck.