General Reversing Sensors fault

[DRS]

HI guys, first post on this impressive site. Wish I knew about it when I first bought my Ulysse (nearly 4 years ago now), but better late then never!

Anyway, I have a problem. I know what the problem is and I know how it needs to be fixed, what I don't know is;

1. How many people have had the same fault?
2. How much did it cost to fix?
3. What's the best way to make Fiat pay for the repairs?

The Problem: The rear parking sensors have stopped working due to the rear wash pipe coming disconnected again. The first time, in around 2004, the sensor speaker kept beeping even when out of reverse gear (annoying). At the time the rear washer pipe had failed pouring the fluid into the pillar above the ECU.
The Fix: A new ECU.

Current Activity: The car is currently at Fiat for another problem, which we have been waiting for nearly 8 months to sort (second time for this problem too). I asked them to have a look at the problem and they have stated that if Fiat do not agree it is an inherant problem of the car, and therefore covered by them, that it will cost me in the region of £400 to fix. 50% part 50% labour.

Does anyone out there have any advice on how to best approach this problem if Fiat deny their responsibilities as a manufacturer?

Thanks in advance.

 

[apis]

It is quite reasonable that the problems with she sensor are because of the rear washing pipe, since the parking sensors ECU is located at the rear right beam under the connection of that pipe.

 

[Pat H]

You don't have many options. You can try and ask Fiat to honor the out of warranty work but my experience is you'll be out of luck.
We had our crankshaft pully come undon a week after the 3 year warranty expired and despite a modified pully being fitted (that helpe prevent it happening again" Fait refused to pay £150 down the pan. The a few days later our handbrake started releasing self. It had worn out after 3 years. Again no joy from Fiat another £150 down the pan.
You could try taking them to small claims court but as you are out of warranty it would be a struggle.

 

[T14086]

Fiat are under no obligation & cant keep everyone happy or they will be out of business in no time!
You can but ask,I have seen massive payouts as goodwill gestures but I will admit these people have been good Fiat customers.

 

[DRS]

Thanks everyone for your honest replies. I have today picked up my car and the original faults it was booked in for are now fixed (at least I hope so). I was mightly surprised at the bill, a lot less than I expected. The lady in the garage said it was so low because of the hassle I have had waiting so long so I can't knock them for that, and they are fighting my corner for the sensor so we will see how it all turns out.

If Fiat do not pay for the cost of the sensor the problem I'm going to have is convincing the wife that we don't need them!! Ah well, I'll try.