My opinion is that it wasn't a rock, but a screwdriver. And that it was a freakish accident.

As to who and when, I really don't know. You would expect that if the A/C was previously working and the first time it was found to not be working was during the service that the finger is pointed at the service centre. But if as they say, they don't remove either the top cover or bottom plastic guard then I doubt it happened during that service. The only other access point is through the front, and you'd need a very long, very accurate screwdriver so I doubt it happened that way.

The only other explaination I can think of (and it's got it's flaws) is that during the cars respray in March it was damaged whilst the front bar was off. The leak was so fine that it took until now to discover (the short block was replaced directly after the respray in the first week of April and had another 1000K serviced in May or June. The problem wasn't detected then). But if that's the case then it's just as likely the damage occured the week after the respray when the engine was being replaced.

Hell, I don't know. I'm just sick and tired of A) shelling out money for repairs that could have gone towards cool mods B) having my car off the road.

 

Since a screwdriver shaped rock is unlikely, I would work with the dealership to see if it can be blamed on a manufacturing defect that developed a leak. A flat blade screwdriver is not the tool of choice if this was a deliberate puncture.

 

THe indentation does not have to be caused by something of exactly that shape. If you've ever seen any dings or dents on your car, how often is the dent exactly the same shape as what caused it?

Ever see dented plastic bumpers?

 

You are quite right, they don't have to be. But sometimes they are.

The elasticity properties of plastic and aluminium are significantly different. In fact I've read threads on this very board that talk of discernable handprints on the aluminium bonnet from people not closing it properly.

 

I am happy to report that my A/C is now fully functional again.

I had the condenser aluminium welded by Mosman Radiators and the system pressure tested and regassed by Northside Auto Electrics Mobile Service.

Total cost for yummy frigid air was $254 including GST. That's over $1000 saving on what Rick Damelians wanted to do.

 

Hey Aus maybe it was BJ"S Car Detailing

 

Grrrrrr