So what about the two inspections -- should the problem have been
found? And if not, then why doesn't the inspection protocol take this
into account, especially when there is evidence of rust?

On 26 Jan., 18:48, "Lost In Space/Woodchuck"
<newsgroupma...@wildblue.net> wrote:

What I want to know whether this was
just bad luck,

*** 55K on brakes, you done well! Things just wearout and break at times.

bad service by dealer (including whether the dealer
should antiicipate such a problem),

*** Would be great if we could see into the future?

a VW design flaw (in which case
what should dealer have done, if anything), or what. And if the dealer
did err what my options are,

*** sounds like your dealer is upfront and honest.

I own a 2002 Golf diesel, 4dr, auto, 55k, washed daily in winter, 2x
weekly rest of time, detailed 2x/yr and dealer does all recommended
work.

At 50k service, and for state safety inspection at 53k, dealer found no
indication of any brake issues or concerns.

At 55k brake indicator light came on. Car driven directly to dealer,
who charged $600 to replace disc assembly including rotors.

Dealer says rust on inside WAS seen at 50k and 53k service visits, but
no indication of brake pad wear. Dealer says a pin inside the assembly,
not visible without taking the brakes apart, caused rotor damage.
Dealer also indicates this is a not uncommon. Dealer says that had pads
been replaced at 50k the problem would not have been discovered.

Makes me wonder what purpose of the service and check ups is. Just bad
luck on my part, did dealer err and is selling me a bill of goods or
what?

Any advice appreciated.