Naughty Car!

[Roughquest]

What are my rights and what can i claim for ?
I bought a new Ford StreetKA last June, and I have had continuous problems with it, below is a list of faults so far.

1. Upon collecting the car - there were scratches on the paintwork
2. The front windscreen was scratched upon collection
3. Airbag warning light came on
4. Leaking convertible roof
5. Faulty alarm
6. Dented roof stowage cover
7. Engine light has come on and off over the last month now - had this checked and the car needs a new ego sensor (under warranty)

Everything has been fixed as the car is still under warranty, but I have just about had enough of taking the car to and fro to the garage dealership where i bought it from! I have compalined to various managers about the state of the car, after the windscreen was replaced, they never even cleaned the car inside and when i collected it - it was covered in finger marks and dust! The dealership have apologised and gave the car a free valet, but for all the dissatisfaction I have told them about, FORD have not done anything about the many problems I have had with a new car, the after sales service has also been awful! I asked for a brand new car as I have nothing but trouble and they chose to ignore that statement.
HELP, Im at my wits end, I wont be buying a FORD again!

[Roughquest]

COnt.....the car also has had new convertible roof locking handles as the new ones on the car fell apart!

FORD told me they fixed the leaking roof, but it still leaks, in exactly the same place!

[Buenchico]

In general, when something you buy goes wrong (within the period covered by consumer legislation), you have no right to demand a cash refund or a replacement product. The vendor has to put the fault right but he can choose whether to do so by repairing the faulty item or by providing a replacement.

However, there's one important exception to the general rule. If a product is found to be faulty before you've legally 'accepted' it, you retain the right to a full cash refund. (You could, of course, choose to accept a replacement but this would be entirely at your discretion). Since your question indicates that there has never been a time, since purchase, when the vehicle was 'perfect', there is a strong case for arguing that you've never 'accepted' the vehicle. In which case, you're entitled to your money back (or, if you so wish, a replacement vehicle).

Unless you signed a contract stating that you were purchasing the vehicle directly from Ford (with the dealer acting as your agent), it is the dealer (and not Ford) who is responsible for putting matters right. (It would then be up to the dealer to seek compensation from Ford). So don't waste time arguing with Ford; pursue the dealer for some positive action.

Your local Trading Standards department might be able to give you further advice. (If you live outside of a unitary authority, they'll be part of your county council, not the district council). Otherwise, try your local CAB or look for a solicitor who offers a free initial consultation.

Don't let the dealer fob you off with statements like "We''ll have to get Ford to take a look at it". It's the dealer's duty to put matters right and (if you've not legally 'accepted' the vehicle) that means that, if you want it, you're entitled to a full refund.

Chris

[Toureman]

Just 2 points after Buenchico's excellent answer.

1 The car isn't naughty, the Ford dealers are.

2 It is worth contacting Ford UK as they will question the garage about your car and this might get the garage trying harder, it works with the Renault head office.