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I bought a 2nd hand car (a 2004 Toyota Allex) with only 60k on the clock. Like most dealers they sell cars with what they say is a one month warranty which I understand is legally meaningless. I've only done 1500km in the car since buying.

After 10 weeks the brake started to get soft when you were sitting at the traffic lights/stop. It would slowly press further in - not quite to the floor but it would keep moving with pressure. More than in any other car I've ever owned (even 30 year old cars).

I took it back to the dealer assuming it would be covered and they asked me to sign something covering the cost of repairs. I suggested it should be covered under the warranty and, after talking to the owner, they said if it was driver-caused it wouldn't be covered but if it was a mechanical fault they would.

My question is this: how could something as fundamental as a brake not be under warranty? Surely brakes aren't easily damaged through low use city driving?

Any suggestions or tips for dealing with them when they call back?

Hi there,
The rule in place here is the CGA (consumer guarantees act) it has no fixed expiry date and out trumps the 1 month the dealer gave. The vehicle must be fit for purpose, be durable, and free from defect. My recommendation is that most things would be covered for a few months and then taper off as time goes by, as some things may be more reflective of the vehicle age/ mileage and less about the recent purchase. https://www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/get-guidance/cars-and-motoring/solving-issues-with-your-car-dealer/