VW California T5 ONLY Roof Corrosion - General Discussion

[David Eccles]

It is my understanding from VW that any paint corrosion issue that affects the front panel has to be dealt with by one of 4 approved centres only. Those with roof corrosion issues as well seem to being dealt with at same time as front panel from what I read here. Those with roof only issues is another system it seems ....
According to what I was told by VW (not a call centre operative) any front panel corrosion issues in new 6 year warranty period should go like this:
Dealer is supposed to take pics and pass on info to VW
(or owners contact VWCS direct)
VW approve and tell dealer (or owner if done via them)
Dealer (or VWCS) passes info and details to bodyshop
Bodyshop (or VWCS) contact customer to say in queue
(But the system is still not functioning as well as the plan so always ring dealer to check if approved and details passed direct to approved bodyshop and which one and then ring allocated bodyshop - that's what I did!)
In a nutshell you are being messed about. Phone VWCS and explain and get them to action verification / approval process and get you allocated and on the list.

 

[T5WOB]

it does my head in all this .why don't they get it all done for those that have this problem at any vw body shop .does not make you want to buy another calie .i would not .they should of left doing motor homes to those that no what they are doing .i get my coat now .

 

[shambly]

latest inside news from VW is that they are working with the 4 bodyshops to get more done more quickly....I think there will be an official update from VW on progress and what's being put in place shortly...

Getting the 4 bodyshops a decent supply of parts so that they can each do their quoted 2 a fortnight would be a good start... rather than being forced to down tools....

 

[David Eccles]

latest inside news from VW is that they are working with the 4 bodyshops to get more done more quickly....I think there will be an official update from VW on progress and what's being put in place shortly...

Getting the 4 bodyshops a decent supply of parts so that they can each do their quoted 2 a fortnight would be a good start... rather than being forced to down tools....

they know its part of the problem (one of many) they are dealing with it
problem for us I think is lack of info and response from VW, but things are happening...

 

[777111]

latest inside news from VW is that they are working with the 4 bodyshops to get more done more quickly....I think there will be an official update from VW on progress and what's being put in place shortly...

Getting the 4 bodyshops a decent supply of parts so that they can each do their quoted 2 a fortnight would be a good start... rather than being forced to down tools....

they know its part of the problem (one of many) they are dealing with it
problem for us I think is lack of info and response from VW, but things are happening...

How long does it really need to take?
VW knew about this problem way before March 2013 (because they acted on it ). They declare that there isnt a problem with the main roof for many months despite having every good reason to suspect a recurring problem. Year and a half later we have been drip fed the bare minimum of information and most are sitting in a queue that is unreasonably long whilst others with a 6+ year old vehicle are told to sling their hook.
And if this forum hadn't of brought pressure to the issue when do you think they would have done anything at all?!
That doesn't merit any commendation from me.

As far as a repair from somebody other than the nominated and trained four I will be extremely cautious until I see a declared fault from VW that includes the cause of the main roof corrosion , the approved remedial action to permanently fix it and a guarantee that it will stay fixed. Gluing the same rubber strip back on seems highly suspect as a recurrence will take a long time to become evident.

 

[SootyBob]

I'm a little concerned and after some advice. On 8 Jul 14 my roof and deflector were checked over by Heritage VW Bristol, paint depths were measured. I updated the Forum last week and gathered I should have heard something from VW fairly quickly, so I rang Heritage to find out what was happening.

I've received a call from SJ Curtis, Car Body and Accident Repair, Bristol, VWs approved repair shop. It appears Heritage haven't passed on my paint depths and they'd like to assess them again before they start the repair. There was some concern as to what type of roof I had as they didn't think they could repair all types, but I'm assured they can fix my corrosion.

My concern is, is this the right thing to do? Having looked through the Forum I have the problem being addressed on this thread. I'm also under the impression there are only 4 repair centres with what is getting to be a long waiting list. If it's recommended I shouldn't allow this repair shop to repair my corrosion, how do I approach VW direct? Should I approach VW direct going around Heritage Bristol?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

How old is your cali as no info. on your post?

John

Sorry John. I have an early 2009 Cali so inside the 6 year issue. Having read some of the other posts I think I'll be ringing VWCS to check up on everything.

 

[johnyboy]

Found out queue number @Heritage : 136

 

[campandfly]

Hello

Wow over a thousand posts on this thread and I have been away for awhile.

I have been tempted by a recent model second hand Cali 2013.
My question is ... Did VW address the manufacturing defect and if so when did the problem cease on the newer models?
Just trying to avoid buying a second hand model and have to be going to the garage and trying to get a dodgy roof fixed under warranty.

Thank you all

Tony

 

[777111]

Hello

Wow over a thousand posts on this thread and I have been away for awhile.

I have been tempted by a recent model second hand Cali 2013.
My question is ... Did VW address the manufacturing defect and if so when did the problem cease on the newer models?
Just trying to avoid buying a second hand model and have to be going to the garage and trying to get a dodgy roof fixed under warranty.

Thank you all

Tony

Tony,

Firstly try and establish a build date - look for date stickers on the inside of cupboards and wardrobe. That will give you an idea and will at least indicate the earliest date of build.
Next take a really careful look at the edge of the panel directly above the windscreen and try an ascertain whether it has a 3 mmm foam gasket between the top panel and the vehicle roof.
If it hasand the build date is later than July 2013 then you might have the modified panel and be in a good position to avoid front panel corrosion indefinitely.
As for the main roof it is almost certain there will be corrosion under the periphery rubber seal. This will require remedial work.
There are hundreds of excellent pics in this read to make reference to so you know what you are looking for.
Now, if VW had been a bit honest and published affected VIN numbers none of this would be necessary.
Alternatively take it to a VW dealer and get both roof panels evaluated.
Hope that helps but as much detail as you require is in this enormous thread!

 

[campandfly]

Thank you !

That is very helpful, I will have a look through some of the previous posts in time.

regards

Tony

 

[cozmo1589]

Being in Poole in Dorset I thought my California was going to Bristol area for repairs, apparently it will be Canterbury! Here is the email my local VW dealer sent me today :-

Good afternoon,
We are now in a position to have the repairs to the corrosion on the front of your California carried out. I have forwarded your information to the nominated VW approved bodyshop who will contact you directly. The Bodyshop name is AB Crush, which is based in Canterbury.
The bodyshop will arrange through the AA to have your vehicle picked up and transported via lowloader to have the repairs carried out. They will then return the vehicle the same way once repairs are complete. It is anticipated the vehicle will be at the bodyshop for around 2 weeks during which time you will be supplied with a California to use. The bodyshop should contact you within 6-8 weeks but I’m afraid we will be looking at around 6 months for the repairs to be completed.
If you have any questions which the bodyshop are unable to answer, please don’t hesitate to call,
Regards,

END

 

[AlanC]

Being in Poole in Dorset I thought my California was going to Bristol area for repairs, apparently it will be Canterbury! Here is the email my local VW dealer sent me today :-

Good afternoon,
We are now in a position to have the repairs to the corrosion on the front of your California out. I have forwarded your information to the nominated VW approved bodyshop who will contact you directly. The Bodyshop name is AB Crush, which is based in Canterbury.
The bodyshop will arrange through the AA to have your vehicle picked up and transported via lowloader to have the repairs carried out. They will then return the vehicle the same way once repairs are complete. It is anticipated the vehicle will be at the bodyshop for around 2 weeks during which time you will be supplied with a California to use. The bodyshop should contact you within 6-8 weeks but I’m afraid we will be looking at around 6 months for the repairs to be completed.
If you have any questions which the bodyshop are unable to answer, please don’t hesitate to call,
Regards,

END

That is puzzling. I am in Bournemouth and Breeze Poole is our local dealer. My email from Tony Hill, their Warrantee Executive, says our Cali is going to Heritage in Westbury...

Alan

 

[Woody135]

2006 Cali with corrosion - limited to front panel.
Just spoken with Mr Rhys Tomsett (Customer Relations Manager) at VWCCC to discuss REJECTION of warrantee claim for roof corrosion issue.

After much deliberation and discussions with their 'technical' dept based in Milton Keynes VWCCC's position appears to be that the front panel issue is due to 'paint perforation' not their recognised substrate/paint interaction issue. It therefor lies outside the 3 year paint warrantee, and is not covered by the 12 year perforation warrantee. When reminded that VW had already established that it was a paint/substrate issue - which actually falls into neither warrantee area, his fall back position was one of VW were being gracious and covering all repair work under an extension to the 3 year Paint Perforation Warrantee out to 6 years.

When asked why the front panel has been attacked and not the roof, where there no signs of any corrosion damage at all, he was at a loss to offer an explanation. Although there are some minor stone chips on this front panel, there does not appear to be any corrosion associated with them. The blistering under the paintwork is totally isolated from any mechanical damage.
/Users/ian_woodland/Pictures/iPhoto%20Library/Originals/2014/2%20Sep%202014/IMG_7078.JPG
/Users/ian_woodland/Pictures/iPhoto%20Library/Modified/2014/2%20Sep%202014/IMG_7081.jpg

VWCCC's line now appears to be that we as individuals have to commission an independent paint industry's 'SPECIALIST' report and submit this to technical dept of VWCCC UK with the hope that they will agree with the root cause of the damage. If they agree then all costs will be reimbursed by VW.

Mr Rhyc Tomsett was sympathetic and has been prompt in providing links to the relevant specifications and organisations.

The saga continues….. :doh :doh :doh

 

[T5WOB]

nice one woodie .i have 2006 calie .i don't no if i can be ass to deal with vw any more .i see how you get on .all best martin .

 

[SootyBob]

Thank you for the advice yesterday. I've spoken to VWCS about my 2009 Cali explaining I have been to Heritage Bristol and been referred to CJ Curtis Auto Body Repair Bristol. VWCS agree that as my corrosion is to the front deflector and to the elevating section of the elevating roof it doesn't have to go to one of the 4 repair centres. Repair centres are for corrosion on the main body of the roof.

Reading through the thread I don't get that impression, so am a little worried.

I'll take my Cali along for paint depth assessment by this third party and hopefully get a better picture of what is going on.

Does anyone else find themselves in this boat?

Is there anyone else in the Bristol area?

Many thanks

Bob

 

[Raggedroy]

Thank you for the advice yesterday. I've spoken to VWCS about my 2009 Cali explaining I have been to Heritage Bristol and been referred to CJ Curtis Auto Body Repair Bristol. VWCS agree that as my corrosion is to the front deflector and to the elevating section of the elevating roof it doesn't have to go to one of the 4 repair centres. Repair centres are for corrosion on the main body of the roof.

Reading through the thread I don't get that impression, so am a little worried.

I'll take my Cali along for paint depth assessment by this third party and hopefully get a better picture of what is going on.

Does anyone else find themselves in this boat?

Is there anyone else in the Bristol area?

Many thanks

Bob

I registered both my roof corrosion issues separately with VW, I have been informed that Shorade will carry out the repair on the front deflector and a local body shop will repair the main elevating roof section. After a good few calls to customer services I believe they are both now being repaired at Shorade.

Maybe this is a new approach by VW.

 

[Andy]

Thank you for the advice yesterday. I've spoken to VWCS about my 2009 Cali explaining I have been to Heritage Bristol and been referred to CJ Curtis Auto Body Repair Bristol. VWCS agree that as my corrosion is to the front deflector and to the elevating section of the elevating roof it doesn't have to go to one of the 4 repair centres. Repair centres are for corrosion on the main body of the roof.

Reading through the thread I don't get that impression, so am a little worried.

I'll take my Cali along for paint depth assessment by this third party and hopefully get a better picture of what is going on.

Does anyone else find themselves in this boat?

Is there anyone else in the Bristol area?


Many thanks

Bob

VWCS are wrong. All repairs to the front roof panel above the windscreen are covered by an extended 6 year warranty & is being repaired by one of 4 specially trained body shops.
Are you sure he did not say that because you have corrosion on both main roof & front panel it can all be done at same time by one of the 4 body shops ? as that is what they should be telling you. It sounds like they told you the wrong way round !!
I would suggest you call VWCS again & talk it through again. If they tell you the same again ask to speak to a manager & try with him.

I would definitely not let a third party paint shop do the work when it will be going into one of the 4 body shops for the front panel repair. Do both at the same time, less hassle for the customer.... you !!

 

[David Eccles]

"Repair centres are for corrosion on the main body of the roof."
as Andy says ...that's NOT right. Get onto them again!

 

[cozmo1589]

Being in Poole in Dorset I thought my California was going to Bristol area for repairs, apparently it will be Canterbury! Here is the email my local VW dealer sent me today :-

Good afternoon,
We are now in a position to have the repairs to the corrosion on the front of your California out. I have forwarded your information to the nominated VW approved bodyshop who will contact you directly. The Bodyshop name is AB Crush, which is based in Canterbury.
The bodyshop will arrange through the AA to have your vehicle picked up and transported via lowloader to have the repairs carried out. They will then return the vehicle the same way once repairs are complete. It is anticipated the vehicle will be at the bodyshop for around 2 weeks during which time you will be supplied with a California to use. The bodyshop should contact you within 6-8 weeks but I’m afraid we will be looking at around 6 months for the repairs to be completed.
If you have any questions which the bodyshop are unable to answer, please don’t hesitate to call,
Regards,

END

That is puzzling. I am in Bournemouth and Breeze Poole is our local dealer. My email from Tony Hill, their Warrantee Executive, says our Cali is going to Heritage in Westbury...

Alan

Yes strange indeed Alan, it was also Tony from Breeze Poole who sent my email today. Maybe they need to share workload around as some areas have higher concentration of repair work perhaps?????

 

[AlanC]

Being in Poole in Dorset I thought my California was going to Bristol area for repairs, apparently it will be Canterbury! Here is the email my local VW dealer sent me today :-

Good afternoon,
We are now in a position to have the repairs to the corrosion on the front of your California out. I have forwarded your information to the nominated VW approved bodyshop who will contact you directly. The Bodyshop name is AB Crush, which is based in Canterbury.
The bodyshop will arrange through the AA to have your vehicle picked up and transported via lowloader to have the repairs carried out. They will then return the vehicle the same way once repairs are complete. It is anticipated the vehicle will be at the bodyshop for around 2 weeks during which time you will be supplied with a California to use. The bodyshop should contact you within 6-8 weeks but I’m afraid we will be looking at around 6 months for the repairs to be completed.
If you have any questions which the bodyshop are unable to answer, please don’t hesitate to call,
Regards,

END

That is puzzling. I am in Bournemouth and Breeze Poole is our local dealer. My email from Tony Hill, their Warrantee Executive, says our Cali is going to Heritage in Westbury...

Alan

Yes strange indeed Alan, it was also Tony from Breeze Poole who sent my email today. Maybe they need to share workload around as some areas have higher concentration of repair work perhaps?????

That may well be the case. After the mail from Tony, I spoke to Heritage Westbury, as I was concerned the repair might affect our holiday. Needn't have worried. Apparently at that time (beginning of July) Westbury has 100 vans on the list but had only done a couple. Problems sourcing the parts from VW was causing a hold-up.

Alan

 

[SarahsBlossom]

.

 

[skinnywhippet]

Checked ours properly for the first time and no corrosion - but it is quite new with a build of week 20 (mid May) this year. However, the rubber seal on the front of the main roof panel seems to be glued in place so I can't check to the very edge of the panel. Does this sound right, if we're lucky enough to benefit from an improved main roof production process?

 

[777111]

Checked ours properly for the first time and no corrosion - but it is quite new with a build of week 20 (mid May) this year. However, the rubber seal on the front of the main roof panel seems to be glued in place so I can't check to the very edge of the panel. Does this sound right, if we're lucky enough to benefit from an improved main roof production process?

I wonder whether the factory has started gluing the rubber seal on or whether it is just very tight (which they are)? Maybe ask your dealer?
If they are glued then I am rather doubtful that is in itself a fix.

At least your front roof panel will be ok!

 

[Fryers!]

Ours was very very stiff to get off but does finally move, I am sure it should not be stuck? Would they glue a rubber seal?

 

[777111]

Ours was very very stiff to get off but does finally move, I am sure it should not be stuck? Would they glue a rubber seal?

Seems highly questionable to glue it on but this course of action is allegedly being carried out on warranty repairs.