Alhambra nightmare

simplecarguy

Active Member
Feb 24, 2015
2
0
Yes I'm a newbie but I wanted to share my nightmare experiences after buying a Seat Alhambra, because honestly, I've had the worst car experience with my Alhambra than any of the many previous cars I've owned and others need to understand what you could be getting into if you, like me, decide to buy one...my recommendation is RUN A MILE!!!!

I did thorough research before deciding which family car to buy and the Alhambra won "Whatcar guide" best car of the year award a couple of times, seemed to have a load of good new features and was advertised as fairly fuel efficient for the size of the car (although in real life is not even close to the fuel efficiency as stated in the brochures). So this is my brief story...

...purchased near new Alhambra Lux model (2 year old) with 7,000 miles on the clock. Fast forward just over a year, we've now had:

(1) a new engine (after a Christmas Day engine meltdown and quality time on the hard shoulder of the M25 with 3 kids and Granny in the car...);

(2) a full new air-conditioning system (pipes, compressor, the lot);

(3) petrol door lock failed so couldn't refuel and was stranded 60 miles from home with car load of kids;

(4) seat belt replaced as it jammed and could no longer be used.

Luckily, all of the above was replaced/fixed under warranty as all were caused by defective components or components that failed which shouldn't have, but as a result of all of these issues it feels as if our car has been with the dealership more than with us over the past year that we've owned it!

Now the warranty has expired and the car's still giving us a hard time (who'd have thought!). The latest problem (aside from needing a new expensive Stop/Start battery) is one of the electric sliding doors has stopped working for no reason and so needs a new motor of course... (£378). We asked Seat if they'd supply the part at cost but was told by the dealer and customer services that they are unable to help despite all of our prior issues and inconvenience. No discounts or goodwill - thanks guys!
 
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Paul T

Active Member
Jan 24, 2008
37
0
Bristol
I have a 2012 model, and also had the petrol cap failure. Had new sensors and module fitted under warranty.
 

simplecarguy

Active Member
Feb 24, 2015
2
0
Seat Customer Care just called up today. They have changed the "customer care consultant" who was reviewing my case and the new consultant has re-looked at the case and has now offered to give a 50% discount on the supply and fit of the new electric door motor.