Why on earth is my heater / aircon hot on one side and cold on the other? 23 December 2016  |  Stu

Affecting: C5 & 407

Strangely, the air conditioning and heating seems to be cold on one side and hot on the other. This can be intermittant, choosing it's moments, which renders diagnosis frustratingly difficult. Alternatively, the dual climate control air distribution can become somewhat vague in operation. The cause of all this we have discovered is due to the failure of a small piece of plastic. One of the flaps that controls air distribution mounted within the heater housing is driven by a beautifully under engineered plastic bar which after a period literally twists off.

Of course, the upshot is that the flap, driven by it's motors cannot move correctly. All of this is buried deep within the dash and is a complete biatch to get at. Just to rub salt in, the part is not available individually, but comes complete with the heater housing at around £1000. Once you've had this fitted at your local main dealer, expect to drive home £1600 lighter. The good news is that we have developed a form of keyhole surgery and can initiate a guaranteed successful repair that is much stronger than the original design. Expect to drive home with a smile and a much less bruised bank balance, as our repair will set you back but a fraction of the main dealer price. Clearly your vehicle will need to be with us here in Derby for the repair to take place, but why not bring along the family and spend the day taking in all the historic land marks and points of interest in and around Derby. Alternatively, wait in our comfortable reception area and overdose on caffeine, day-time television and inane small talk.

For more information or to make a booking call Gavin on 01332 345869