How long should a company keep spare's?

The_Jester

I purchased a 14.4 volt cordless power drill from B&Q in Dec 05. Both of my batteries for this drill need replacing but B&Q have changed the drill to a different model and no longer stock replacement batteries.

This is the second time this has happened and I'm fed up with this. The last time I only had the drill for just over 3 years but was forced to buy a new drill due to the same problem. In my opinion B&Q do this purposely to force customers to buy a new drill.

I thought company's have to stock replacement parts for a specific period of time?

Where do I stand on this? Do I have the statutory right to demand a replacement?

Elsewhere

You don't say what make of drill it was - but perhaps a specalist battery supplier could help you - this place, for instance?

http://www.global-batteries.co.uk/index.php/cPath/5_98

advent1122

Surely you can get them elsewhere?

The_Jester

Sorry should have explained further. The drill is B&Q's own make called performance-pro and they are the only stockists.

custardy

The_Jester wrote: »

Sorry should have explained further. The drill is B&Q's own make called performance-pro and they are the only stockists.

cut open the battery casing and find out what the battery pack is

dmg24

custardy wrote: »

cut open the battery casing and find out what the battery pack is

Agreed. I would be amazed if the battery was unique to this product, and indeed if the product was unique to B&Q (most items are produced in generic form and then branded to a particular retailer).

The_Jester

Wouldn't cutting it open though make it unusable afterwards?

Stompa

FWIW EBay appears to have a few Performance Pro batteries, though currently only one 14.4V, and that's for a jigsaw. Might be worth taking a look periodically just in case one turns up though.

cardinalbiggles

There is actually a law regarding the availability of spare parts, I think its 6 years after date of last production If I remember correctly from Uni. B&Q may not have them but someone else will no doubt!

ecraig

Unfortunately B&Q import many PP/Mac lines on a seasonal buy, so it's possible there is either no stock left of the model, or of spares.

Have you called the specific PP/Mac helpline for spares, or did you enquire about spares instore?

The store unfortunately wouldn't know about spare parts available and would need to either call the helpline on your behalf, or log with the Store Support Office.

FYI: The helpline number is 08453002577 if you choose to call.

KeithP

ecraig wrote: »

The helpline number is 08453002577 if you choose to call.

Or use SayNoTo0870 to find a geographical number.