A major breakdown is never limited to the cost of the part alone. Breakdown on the motorway, towing fees, rental of a replacement vehicle, and sometimes even, storage fees charged by the dealer (often £40 to £50/day).
What the law says
Under consumer rights laws regarding hidden defects, if the seller knew of the defects (which is the case for manufacturers for these systemic failures), they are bound to compensate the buyer for **all damages**, in addition to the repair cost.
Keep all your invoices
Systematically include all these ancillary costs in your formal notice. Do not pay storage fees without formally protesting: it is an unacceptable pressure tactic used to force you to sign an abusive quote.
Are you affected by this problem?
Join the national registry to defend your rights under the warranty of hidden defects (Art. 1641).
Register my case