Why won't the RAC warranty cover a timing chain failure on my BMW 318d?

Our BMW 318d ES N47 has suffered a broken timing chain. We bought it at 75,000 miles. The chain failed at 103,000 miles. The RAC warranty won’t pay up. I had a separate report done by an independent engineer who says the RAC engineer has not diagnosed the problem correctly. I am awaiting in writing the decision saying they are not getting the repairs done. Lots of stalling and not returning calls. Apparently this is happening on a lot on their claims not covered by the FSA. They police their own claims so there is no independent body to refer to. Any ideas?

Asked on 21 September 2013 by GS, via email

Answered by Honest John
The RAC has now got into the business of selling used cars on the basis of its warranty, so this does not bode well. This is definitely a mechanical failure. So as long as the engine has been serviced correctly you have a strong case in the Small Claims Track of the County Court. You obviously don't if it was not serviced correctly. Law here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights/
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