Here's Lucy, getting used to my new car. I bought from an approved mini dealer in Debden/Loughton.
Beautiful cream mini 5 door hatch, only 8k on the clock and the nicest and most expensive car I've ever bought.
Except the steering.
All over the place, didn't self centre properly, had to micromanage the steering to keep it going straight. High speeds it felt unsafe.
Lots of investigation by myself with independent garage, taking it back to the dealer. Dealer admitted twice the steering not great, then couldn't find what was wrong with the car, then told me nothing wrong. Few other mistakes on their behalf and a few lies told. Absolutely no offer to part ex for another or refund, despite it being still in the 30 day warranty period.
So, I tracked down the personal email address of the CEO of the whole group of companies and explained everything to him. He, to give him credit, answered my email within 3 hours and late in the eve, promising to sort it out.
Next day I receive an email from the manager of the Debden branch offering to collect the car today for a full refund. The email was amusing, so passive aggressive and clearly came over as he was told to apologise by the big boss. Very different tone from the same person who'd already shouted over me on the telephone telling me, incorrectly, that no cars self centre.
What a flipping headache this has all been, but will be pleased when the car has gone back and the money in my account. Just got to go find another car now...
Interestingly, upon using car forums to see if anyone else had this issue and if they solved it, it seems that this kind of steering fault is sporadic over their whole range and over a few years of models and mini not admitting anything. Some poor chap last night commented that his 3 week old mini does the same and the dealer insists nothing wrong... no wonder car salesmen have a bad reputation. Sigh.
@boxplayer It's been a headache, not an experience I expected when paying over the odds from an approved dealer and deliberately avoiding 'Dodgy Dave's Motor's Ltd'.
I was given the nickname Rottweiler from friends I helped years ago from companies who were taking the mick and some folk still call me that now whenever I help them out, lol. I hate it when companies take people for fools and will fight to put things right.
What a glorious picture of your Bengal girl! I have posted one of my Bengal boy today (5th)! Sorry you have had all this grief over your car and hope this one is safer to drive!
November 5th, 2023
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I was given the nickname Rottweiler from friends I helped years ago from companies who were taking the mick and some folk still call me that now whenever I help them out, lol. I hate it when companies take people for fools and will fight to put things right.