Chausson Motorhome Problems
Purchasing a motorhome is often a significant investment, representing the promise of adventure, comfort, and freedom on the road. However, for some owners of the Chausson 630 flash, this dream has been dampened – quite literally – by issues surrounding water ingress in the rear garage area.
The Issue at Hand:
Owners have reported discovering dampness in their Chausson motorhome’s rear garage area during their first Habitation Check, which is usually performed a month after purchase. Despite attempts at repair, which included ordering new rear doors, seals, and frames, the problem persisted. One owner, in particular, cited maximum readings of dampness in the garage area during a second Habitation Check by a Chausson Approved Repairer, even after the initial repairs. The situation was further confirmed by an NCC approved technician.
Tracing the Source:
While the primary complaint seems to center around water ingress in the garage area, the cause wasn’t immediately clear. In one instance, after a dispute regarding the persistence of the dampness, water was deliberately poured over the rear door, revealing damp readings in the recently replaced door.
The Resolution Struggle:
The journey to address and rectify this problem has not been smooth for many Chausson motorhome owners. Many faced prolonged repair durations and delays in the arrival of replacement parts. Additionally, some have pointed out discrepancies in documentation, where dampness reports conflict with the findings on official paperwork.
The legal aspect of the issue becomes more convoluted. Some dealers argue that rejecting the motorhome after such an extended period would require the owner to prove that the defect existed at the time of collection. This position has been met with skepticism and challenges from owners.
Seeking Solutions:
For those facing similar issues, there are several suggested courses of action:
- Educate and Advocate: Understand your rights. Some owners have successfully rejected their motorhomes or caravans when they were found not to be fit for purpose.
- Seek Expertise: If in doubt, seek a second opinion. In some cases, an NCC approved technician can provide clarity on the situation.
- Legal Advice: Consider consulting a solicitor, especially if the seller is uncooperative. Some solicitors offer a ‘First half hour free’ consultation, which could provide some initial guidance.
- Credit Card Intervention: If any part of the motorhome was paid for using a credit card, cardholders might be able to invoke Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act for additional protection and assistance. However, there are limits to the amount covered under this provision.
- Engage Higher-ups: Contacting higher levels of management or even reaching out directly to the parent company, in this case, Trigano, might yield results. Chausson’s parent company, Trigano, might provide an avenue for resolution, especially if the problem is widespread.
In conclusion, while motorhomes symbolize freedom and adventure, it’s crucial for manufacturers and dealers to uphold their end of the deal. Quality control and responsive customer service can go a long way in ensuring that the journey is smooth, both on and off the road. If faced with issues, motorhome owners should remember they have rights and avenues available to seek resolution.
