I own an Opel Astra and from the time the vehicle was 2 years old the coating on the headlights has begun peeling off. The vehicle was in for its 3 year service and I was told that the headlight covers will not be replaced under warranty as it is considered as bodywork.

The dealer has noted that this is a problem with the Astra model, that multiple complaints have been received about this issue and has even shown me another vehicle with the same problem.

After complaining to their Customer Care Department I was instructed to take the vehicle back to Thorp Plumstead. There the Service Manager took some photos of the problem and submitted them to GMSA. The official response from GMSA is that the parts will not be replaced as they have been buffed and due to the use of solvents in polish.

THAT IS RUBBLISH AND IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN BUFFED AND THE HEADLIGHTS HAVE NEVER BEEN POLISHED OR EXPOSED TO SOLVENTS. Who uses petrol to clean a car anyway???

If you are thinking of buying a vehicle from GMSA rather save yourself problems down the line and choose something else. The funny thing is that I was going to buy their top of the line Astra and give this car to my partner. Now I’ll rather spend my money on an Audi or VW.

The official bulleting reads as follows:

PROBLEM DESCRIPTION:

The purpose of this Bulletin is to remind all Dealership personnel that solvents must not be used to clean surfaces of plastic components.

The investigation of plastic components with signs of cracking, crazing or deterioration of the surface areas has shown the cause to be the application of solvents such as petrol. The use of substances, such as petrol, induces stresses in the surface of the plastic material and may lead to damage of the part being cleaned.

The photograph below shows the result of cleaning a headlamp lens with petrol. Localised damage has been promoted in the area of the headlamp beam due to the headlamp having been on, whilst the solvent was applied.

Although this example demonstrates the result of worst possible conditions with the light on while the solvent was applied, a similar effect can be caused by the application of any other solvent.

The cleaning of any plastic surface should be carried out using only water and detergent.

Under no circumstances should solvents be applied to a plastic surface. Damage resulting from contamination by solvent is not covered by warranty.

I had my Chev Lumina seviced resently and reqested they fix an alarm indicatating a problem with the engine. It is now aproxsemitly at the dealer for repairs 4 months. They orderd the parts incoretly, and have consulted their so called engineers.

My GM costemer complaint no is 1402025057

Any assistance will be apreasiated, [email protected]

I am astonished that GM absolute lack of intrest and competency.

The car is Austrialian made based on the Holden.