2 year old VW Crafter Van. VW Van Centre Trafford Park
2 year old VW Crafter Van. Clutch Issue. Burning smell coming from engine compartment. Phoned to book in. Was told that the first available slot was January!! I expressed my concern that this could potentially break down at any time and leave the driver stranded. I was then informed that basically the van needed to break down and have road side vehicle assistance before being considered for immediate attention. This policy is ridiculous! A potentially dangerous issue that could only be booked in once the vehicle had broken down! The caller actually agreed with me, but stated, 'company policy' Due to the response, we had the van checked via an another local garage who stated the clutch had worn through a master cylinder issue 'not driver error' and should be covered under warranty. Sent the detailed report over to Inchcape. I called back and manage to speak to a Technical Manager who finally authorised the vehicle to be booked in immediately. Bearing in mind the vehicle has only 45,000 miles on the clock and is driven by one driver who is 84 and drives with care, we were informed that the clutch was worn due to 'driver misuse' (surprise, surprise!) and would not covered by warranty. Despite providing the in-dependant report, there was no movement. Since the clutch had been stripped down (with a 6 hours mandatory fee to do this), we had no other option but to pay for a new clutch. Very disappointed with the overall handling of the issue. They only one positive was the service levels from Sarah-louise. Our driver commentated on her professionalism and friendly approach. Even offering him a lift as he had no option but to walk. Thank you Sarah-louise. Hence the additional 1 star, otherwise it would have been the lowest score available. Very disappointed and we will not be purchasing another VW van for our business if the clutch's are failing after 45,000 miles, then being pinned on a mindful elderly driver.