Zen Auto - being unreasonable?

[M.F.D]

Keen to get some opinions, perhaps someone on PH has been in this situation before.

I have a Cupra which is coming to an end of the 3yr lease. I have not renewed and wish to return (have a replacement sorted - non lease).

In 2022 the rear view camera 'fell out'. Found the lens on the driveway. It took the local dealer months to get it in under warranty and diagnose, then further months to replace and then use a seemingly rare calibration tool. All in the process was 9 months. I understand this is a common fault across the VAG range with rear cameras.

Unfortunately the same has just happened the other week, found the lens on the driveway after dropping out. Called the local Cupra dealer who told me August would be their first available date to get the vehicle in to diagnose. Given I have weeks left of the lease, I contacted Zen Auto to confirm what they wanted me to do with the vehicle, as by the time it see's the dealer it will no longer be in my possession. I was provided with 2 options;

1. Hand the car back with a broken camera and pay the related 'damage' penalty
or
2. Keep the car and extend the lease until such times as the warranty repair is carried out

Option 1 is not sitting well with me. The car will be fixed under warranty at the expense of Cupra. Zen Auto appear to be wishing to charge me for the 'damage' to then pocket that once Cupra sort under warranty. Doesn't seem right?

Option 2 is a no go either, I have a replacement sorted and only signed up for a 3yr lease and do not wish to extend it.

Before I escalate the matter, wondering if anyone has been in a similar predicament?

[M.F.D]

I have not been provided a cost, perhaps I should have asked but any cost does not seem reasonable at all given that it isn't even damage. Manufacturers fault, so would be totally FOC under warranty. The fact another PH'er is in the same situation shows how common a fault it is.

I am particularly annoyed at the fact they wish to charge me what I assume will be a significant amount and simply pocket this cash when they have Cupra sort it FOC.

[M.F.D]

JD said:

This thread unfortunately represents perfect timing for me.

Also have a Cupra Leon on lease with Zen, due back next month, and the camera fell out a month or so back.

It's already been to the garage to be "diagnosed" but have been told the parts could be anything from a week to a few months, so I was just about to speak to Zen to see what my options were.

Have they provided any indication as to the cost of extending the lease?

I'll keep you apprised, I am not paying any amount and will not be extending my lease. Shows how common the fault is!

[M.F.D]

JD said:

Yea I totally agree with you, there is absolutely no way I want to still be responsible for this car once the warranty is up given how often it has been back to the dealer.

Have you still got the lens? My current plan is to just epoxy it back into place if it comes down to it.

GiantEnemyCrab said:

Can you stick it back in with a bit of glue so it lasts long enough to make it through the inspection?

Yeah, probably the hassle free solution, just didn't want to mess it up and then would totally be liable. I await their reply for now.

[M.F.D]

JD said:

Did you ever get any collection receipt from Zen?

Mine went back last week and I haven’t heard anything aside an excess mileage charge?

(I glued my camera in)

Thanks for the update guys. I've paid my final direct debit and will now arrange a collection date.

What did you use to bond the camera back in?