Anyone tried replacement chrome exhaust tips under warranty?

[JonChalk]

After only 10k and regular cleaning (with Autoglym or Autosol only), the chrome exhaust tips on my S5 are now (seemingly) irretrievably pitted and stained with carbon.

Has anyone tried / been successful claiming replacements under warranty?

[Dr G]

There's a TSB on this and the official line is 'no':


Customer statement / workshop findings

Corrosion or a lot of dirt on the end pipes of the exhaust system.


Technical background

If road salt and other aggressive substances stick for a long time on the exhaust end pipes,

the surface can get damaged.

This leads to very dirty or even rusty exhaust end pipes.


Production change

No change


Measure

Inform the customer that the end pipes have to be cleaned regularly.

Care products suitable for stainless steel or the cleaning solution for industrial grime with the Part No.: ABS 600 000 10should be used.


Warranty accounting instructions

An accounting under warranty or goodwill is not permitted, claims will be rejected.

[JonChalk]

Dr G said:

If road salt and other aggressive substances stick for a long time on the exhaust end pipes,

That's too vague to be enforceable - how long is too long?

Dr G said:

Inform the customer that the end pipes have to be cleaned regularly.

They are already - how regularly?

Dr G said:

Care products suitable for stainless steel or the cleaning solution for industrial grime with the Part No.: ABS 600 000 10should be used.

Also not enforceable, as per bloc exemption - any reputable, non-abrasive cleaner for metal / chrome will do same job

This is not some lease / company car washed every 3 months at the local swirl / scratch factory.

[These are not digs at Dr G, by the way - appreciate the TSB info.]

[Dr G]

You'll get a similar response to the aluminium trims around windows/roof rails discolouring.

If it's a late car and you've a good relationship with the dealer they might see a little bit of spend to keep you happy as a good investment (although experience says they'll go again in time).