Hi All,

I purchased my 2002 MCS used in the fall or 04 and found out last week that my sunroof drain pipe on the driver side was never attached properly. As I am not under MINI Waranty anymore I went to my mechanic and he fixed the drain, however, the damage has already happened... all my lights are flashing (DSC, ABS, Engine Light, Batterie Light, Tire Pressure, Heat gauge, speedo, tachometer, time).

I was able to remove the side plastic panel on the driver side and lift the carpet to see that the water is every where under.

I am in Canada and wanted to know if anyone has ever had a similar issue and what where the steps that I have to complete to get this resolved with out having to actually pay OR am I just out of luck and will have to pay an arm and a leg to get this repaired???

Please can someone give me some good news and steps...

 

Was the drain tube ever repaired under any type of warranty in the past?
If so, then maybe you could go after them for shoddy work.
If not, then I hate to say it, but you're probably on the line for this one.

 

the first owner did complain that the water seemed to be coming in from the top of the windshield, however, the dealer didn't find any problems.

Can this be considered as a dealer fault.

 

If it's documented on a receipt that you have that might be enough to show that the dealer missed the diagnosis while the car was under warranty. If you don't have the paperwork, sometimes they can trace things through computer records at the dealer. That assumes that they want to help you out. Bring a dozen donuts to the service desk, or homemade chocolate chip cookies to give you better odds.

 

I do have the paper work and the owner is a friend of the family. I will try talking with the owner and see what can be done... Should I also get in contact with Mini Canada?

 

I would suggest giving the dealer another chance. Armed with the paperwork and the subsequent damage, they may acquiesce. They'll need to get clearance from the territory manager anyway, so MINI Canada will hear about it through them. If you don't get satisfaction, I would contact a lawyer. It sounds like the damage was substantial and will likely cost more than a lawyer will. I'm sure Canada has the equivalent of our Better Business Bureau, but they are pretty ineffectual when it comes to forcing a business to do a repair like this, in my experience. The other problem you may face, even if all the electronics are replaced, is mold growth from the moisture in the carpeting. They really should pull all the carpeting and replace with new. Once that mold smell starts, you may have a very tough time selling the vehicle. Just a heads up, and I hope that doesn't happen. At least you're in Canada and not Mississippi. Good Luck!

 

I have sent the dealer an email with the paper work hoping they will take care of the water damages. Will keep you all posted.

Thanks for the help.