[Omneo]

Hey All. Thanks is advance for your support
Context:

• Dec 2024: New Germany car RRP >£50k bought from a Dealership in Yorkshire, cash purchase with finance cancelled during "cool off" period.
• Feb 2026. Sent vehicle into Surrey Dealership to investigate: Vehicle has developed a persistent noise from the rear, high up in the D‑pillar/roof area at low speeds.
• Feb 2026: Audi "Surrey" had the vehicle and finally found the issue. Audi Master Technician confirmed (in writing) that the noise was coming from within the body area of the roof after removing interior trims and lowering the headlining, and advised that the car required body‑shop attention to repair. I understand that the body shop declined to proceed without instructions from Audi Technical, and Audi Technical then recommended injecting spray wax between panel joints and applying force to adjust the internal panel. This work has now been carried out and the car has been reassembled. I have photos of the "disassembled" internal boot area.
• March 2026: I fetch the car 13th March. On 14th March 2026 I identified visible warping of the roof bodywork along the D‑pillar area which was not present before the vehicle was stripped and adjusted.

I have written 2 formal complaint letter to the the manufacture in UK. I am still awaiting a response.

My ideal is that the car is replace for a like for like but if not possible then a buy back should occur but I believe I will be "out of pocket" if the buy back occurs?

What are my next steps?
1. Should I arrange a independent review/assessment of the damage? Any advice on who/where to find the right "body shop / Expert"?
2. When should I escalate to the Motors ombudsmen?
3. Who do I chase? Manufacturer UK? Dealership that sold me the car or my local dealership?
4. Any advice or support is VERY appreciated.


Thanks!!!
Last edited by Omneo; Today, 10:05:AM.

[olduser]

Usually, first port of call would be the dealership (the people you bought the car from), they would then escalate up the chain.
The car is under warranty, your claim is the car is not of marketable quality, and was not of marketable quality when you bought it.
After their remedial work it is still unmarketable - if you can see a panel is not right, anyone you try and sell to will also see it.
I would be looking for a replacement car.

Good Luck.

[Omneo]

@olduser, Many thanks for the reply!!

[NMNeil]

They sold you a brand new car when in fact it was a car that had been damaged and repaired.
Take it back, accept no excuses and make sure every contact with the dealership is on paper, no phone calls.
If they argue or offer some sort of deal, decline, and instead ask for the contact details for their legal department so you can pass them onto your solicitor.
They sold you a dud, plain and simple.