DRC warranty claim

[RSMOJ]

I'm sure this has been discussed a thousand times, but here we go....

The RS6 (black Avant 03, 69k) had begun to feel like a wobbly old bus, so took it to the TTShop in Bedford for a check over. My suspicions were confirmed when Dave advised that both front shocks were leaking (although we only mentioned 1 to the warranty assessor though fear of them throwing out on wear and tear as opposed to sudden mechanical failure).

Put in claim for full DRC at approx 4.5k (possible mistake in hindsight). Assessor visited and authorisation was received for 1 No. Spring and 1.25hrs labour. I challenged the claim and received a 2nd authorisation offering 2 front shocks and 2.5hrs labour (£700-£150xcess), stating that both front springs should be replaced in pairs. I again challenged the claim on the basis that the shocks are parts of a connected diagonal system and can only be replaced as front and opposing rear pair. When any part of this system loses fluid or pressure, both front and rear shock are drained of fluid and irreparable. They are not individual units, but a ‘system’.

Received this reply from Lloyds this morning.......

"Lynne has asked that I take a look at your recent claim for the replacement of all the shock absorbers and DRC control unit on your car at a total cost of £4,674 and notice we have authorised £550 towards the cost of replacing two shock absorbers.

I note that this you it your first claim and that we have already paid out £6,443 for repairs to your car so far including a gearbox and turbocharger. (so I've been unlucky, however, knew the risks prior to purchase, hence I bought a Warranty!)

I am familiar with the DRC (Dynamic Stability Control)system on the RS6 and have owned and worked on these cars myself. If one shock absorber fails there is no need to replace any other one, as you say they are linked and the whole idea of DRC is that the system can compensate and so one new shock absorber will work fine with the others that have not failed. We will replace two shock absorbers, on more standard set ups because if one is failed and replaced with a new one the cross axle balance of the car can be upset, especially on hard braking, something the DRC system was designed against.

Also, the DRC control valve and shock absorbers can be repressurised using tool part ASE42501200000. There is no need to replace all the shock absorbers and the control valve. The system can be bled and re-pressurised.

I am sorry but I cannot authorise the two shock absorbers and we should only pay to replace the single unit which has failed. As this is a Lloyd's isured policy I have copied our underwriters at Lloyd's and their Mark Jacobs will have the final say in determining the outcome. I can see that you may not be happy with this, but I believe this is the correct decision."

So they are back to offering 1 shock and 1.25 hours labour.

My question: who is correct, Lloyds or my garage? Is it possible to replace just 1 front shock and the system will be fine, and in 1.25 hours? I've got nothing to lose with Warranty Wise....they're offering me £200 and the warranty expires in May.

Incidently DRC has been ripped out and replaced with Bilsteins....now handles like my Integrale!!

Comments appreciated.

Thank you for listening.

[Shoppinit]

1.25 hours? Yeah, to get the shock out and back in, but not to drain and recharge the system.

Still, a bird in the hand...

[swannny]

this has me slightly concerned,

my car is booked in with the main dealers next week for an inspection on my faulty drc. i have no leaks, its just really high!

i too have a warranty with warranty wise and this will be my first claim, believe its around £850 a year i'm paying for the priveledge, waste of money if they don't pay out though.

[RSMOJ]

this has me slightly concerned,

my car is booked in with the main dealers next week for an inspection on my faulty drc. i have no leaks, its just really high!

i too have a warranty with warranty wise and this will be my first claim, believe its around £850 a year i'm paying for the priveledge, waste of money if they don't pay out though.

Yes, if they do agree to pay anything, it will be the bare minimum.....it cost me same again to finish the job on the gearbox and turbo issues!!