156 JTD clutch worn at 36,000 miles?

[KPNut]

Hi All
I had my 2003 156 serviced yesterday and asked them to look at the clutch as it has slipped a couple of times in high gears at high speeds. They reckon the clutch could be worn.
I was told it will only be covered under warranty (3 yr extended dealer warranty) if there is a manufacturers fault otherwise it's classed as fair wear and tear or 'customer error' and not covered, so I will have to fork out £800-£900 for a new clutch.

I have two questions, firstly I can't believe the clutch should be worn after 36,000 miles, what do you reckon?
And secondly, how will they know if it's 'customer error' intead of a genuine fault? I'm worried about getting ripped off.

Your thoughts/experiences would be much appreciated.
Thanks
KPNut

[pdV6]

Depends what they find when they look at it. Might be some obvious flaw in it or something else like oil ingress. Otherwise, its just worn. Clutches are, after all, a consumable. 36k does seem a little early in this day & age, but could be down to driving style (are you the 1st owner?).

I know MrsV6 has an annoying tendency to hold the car on the clutch for extended periods when stationary at junctions or on hills in traffic; its a pet hate of mine as I'm the one who'll be expected to fork out for a replacement when it goes...

[KPNut]

I bought the car from new and don't think I 'ride' the clutch or mistreat it. I do a lot of miles so tend to take it out of gear at junctions etc and in slow moving traffic I just keep a steady pace instead of changing up and down all the time.

[tr7v8]

My JTD did this at 95K started to slip just very occassionally. Turned out to be the oil seal on the crank had let go and covered the clutch in oil. Clutch was £ 100 Labour was 7.7hours !!!
Just after Xmas last year after this & Airbag ECU & 96K service ended up with bill for £ 1,300ish Deeply unimpressed.
Don't drive it for too long if its slipping! Its a dual mass flywheel and if you knacker it that will add to the bill...

Jim

[veg]

My 147 JTD has done the same at 43k miles. What was youre outcome?

Is it wise to take it to an independent for the clutch change and if they find anything get it trailored to the dealer?