Book Stamped - No Service actually given!! Car problem now!

rka81

I bought a car registered in 2001, three months a go from a garage that was supposedly MOT'd and Serviced before we picked it up. Today after hearing grinding when breaking we took it to Kwikfit to let them have a look. Just received a call from them telling us the front breaks have ahad pads replaced on worn shoes, the back breaks have cylinders thats have been leaking for a few months so have contaminated the shoes, discs and pads and that it will cost nearly £500 to repair!!

They also confirmed that the break issues should have been picked up in the "service" that the garage told us they gave the car. Obviosuly not impressed with the garage. I called them and they have told me that "they are too busy to help right now" and are now telling me that they "dont remember selling me the car!" nor are they even entertaining that they gave a service, though we took it back as the service light came on as we drove off the forecourt and they then apparently gave the service - more like just turned the light off!

We have confirmation of a full service (got the stamp to prove it) and just this second they have backed down and said that they only done an oil service!!!!! Surely this aint right !! Any advice on where i stand or what i can do is really really really appreciated!

thanks in advance

LinasPilibaitisisbatman

Firstly I dont know how kwikfit can claim that. Brakes might have worn in that time especially if you do high mileage or heavy brake. Secondly brakes are normally just an inspection item on many services.

Thirdly kwikfit are well known scammers, I'd be getting another opinion on that price.

No1

Definitely take your vehicle for a second opinion (although it may be too late)

Kwikfit are notorious for this scam, besides....£500 is extortionate.

orangetiggs

kwik fit is not the ones we are worried about its the garage we purchased the car from. they were meant to have sold us a car with a service and these should have been checked.

I was just wondering what rights we have with this? should I contract trading standards? My Husband posted the first post and I am on here trying to figure what we should do

LinasPilibaitisisbatman

orangetiggs wrote: »

kwik fit is not the ones we are worried about its the garage we purchased the car from. they were meant to have sold us a car with a service and these should have been checked.

I was just wondering what rights we have with this? should I contract trading standards? My Husband posted the first post and I am on here trying to figure what we should do

With respect maybe you should

Kwik-fit are renowned for doing non required brake repairs. For example it could be something simple like new pads or discs you require. Not necessary a service issue and kwik fit are in turn claiming you need more.

Also kwik fit dont really have mechanics but "technicians". Take it to a proper garage and see what they say as I reckon there is a good chance kwik fit have done you.

cabbage

As above. Take it to a proper garage and get a quote - Kwik Fit may be incorrect.

I would also make an official complaint and write to the Managing Director at the garage (keep a copy) and report them to trading standards (usually done via consumer direct). Its appalling that they have stamped the book but not carried out the manufacturer's recognised service for the age of the car.

If they don't reply or you are not happy with the response, have a look at their website or letter heading to see if they are a member of a trade association and then complain to them.

dougk_2

As you have had the car for three months, how do you know they didn't service the car? In three months of general use the car could quite have worn down the brake linings. Its not always (in fact most often) necc. to replace the brake disks or drums when replacing the brake linings (shoes/pads).
Personally I'd never take a car to kwick fit - they overcharge for most things (including tyres!). The rear cylinders can start to leak at any time through normal wear and tear and the brake linings can be contaminated with oil within a few miles (not months).
As others have said take the car to a local garage - ask friends/ relatives for recommendations.

deanos

As mentioned get a 2nd opinion Kwik Fit are one of the worse scammers out there.

You said it had a MOT so if the brakes were that bad at the time it would have failed the MOT, brakes are a consumable item that do wear out.