Tuesday, December 12, 2006

It's all my fault (as per usual)

It's my fault, you see
Apparently I can't drive;
Hyundai is perfect.

It's official. The clutch is worn out. One can normally expect around 100,000km before that happens, but of course that's not the case with my car. The service person at my dealership (who is quite sympathetic to my troubles) suggested that Hyundai Canada will not cover this premature deterioration under warranty, instead considering it normal wear and tear, and that I should try contacting customer service personally.

I took his advice, only I went one step further - I called Car Help Canada. For anyone who's not familiar with them, they are a service that's set up solely to protect consumers. They'll help you research any new or used car, and give you advice when you run into any sort of car related problems. They'll even give you a legal consultation if you end up going to court. The $50 membership fee is the best money I've ever spent.

I was told my rights, given direction in how to deal with this, and given contacts. I'm not feeling quite so spazzy about it anymore. They told me that if they don't find anything wrong with it, to ask for the clutch and take it to a transmission specialist (who's contact they provided). I had no idea I could do that!! This specialist will also go to court and testify if need be.

I was also told that they dealt with this same issue (different car) twice last week. At least I know I'm not alone.

Yet another fight. It's becoming a constant battle these days trying to get what you paid for.