another clutch problem

[mawd73]

i own a 55 plate nav outlaw 48000 on the clock. 2nd owner, it hasn't done a hard days work according to the first owner, its immaculate. I only realised there was a problem when i towed for the first time. I have spoken to my dealer and they say a complete clutch, flywheel and pedal is needed at a cost of £1400, he also admitted to me that the dual mass flywheel was not fit for purpose and are only fitting solid mass at a cost of £750. I have also spoken to nissan uk about contributing towards the repair but they have refused due to the fact the 1st owner did not use nissan to service the vehicle. Should this be a recall ? Has anyone got any advice for me on where i stand, thanks Steve

[thedoctor]

1st August 2014

Ms Kim Sperring
Renault and Nissan Brand Manager
Vospers Motor House Ltd
Marsh Mills
PL6 8AY


Dear Ms Sperring

Re: Nissan Qashqai +2 Clutch failure

Thank you for your email dated 29th July following an assessment of my car which was recovered by Nissan Recovery to your garage for assessment.

I note that on your assessment clutch failure was due to clutch riding by myself leading to over-heating and this is not a warranty guaranteed repair and thus a cost for repairs to myself for £1750.00.

Since your email I have sought the opinion of car mechanics and reviewed social media forums to investigate this allegation further.

I would like to note the following:

1. This car is not two years old yet and only has completed approximately 28,000 miles.
2. The car is within warranty.
3. Both myself, as the main driver, and my wife have considerable driving experience and have previously owned a number of cars. I can clearly state to you that I have been driving for 18 years and am a safe and competent driver who does not slip the clutch. I have never experienced such a problem with any other car I have ever driven.
4. There have been a significant number of reports of clutch failure within the Qashqai, in particularly the diesel range, strongly suggesting a manufacturing defect. I would be happy to provide evidence if required.
5. I am also aware that other manufacturers of clutches have been found to have fitting issues and poor tolerances of the mechanism of the clutch plate leading to recall of the vehicles.
6. I am disappointed that your premature assessment was alleging that the cause of the failure was my driving habit. I am aware that a number of other causes could also simulate such a picture. For example corrosion and pitting in the gearbox input shaft as a manufacture defect can stop the clutch releasing properly causing breakup giving the same appearance as a ridden clutch but off course contrary.
7. I am currently suffering without access to a functioning car.
8. The clutch failure occurred when my wife was driving with our two little children. She found the experience traumatizing and naturally was very concerned for the welfare of our children in the car at the time and in the future in a Nissan branded car.
9. I and all members or my family have been committed users and supporters of the Nissan brand for many years and hope our faith can be restored.

In summary I have found offensive the premature suggestion that my driving habit is to blame for the failure of the clutch. I strongly believe and evidence would corroborate that there was a manufacturing fault with the clutch fitted in my car. Both my wife and I are very competent drivers who have never seen such a problem before. The necessary repairs should thus be completed under warranty and a replacement vehicle made available.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely