MG Rover customers have been offered 20% off any new warranty policy purchased for a model under 5 years old, after the collapse of the car firm left an 150,000 estimated customers without cover.

Independent warranty provider Warranty Direct put the offer on after the demise of MG Rover. PricewaterhouseCoopers, has written to MG Rover dealers confirming they will no longer be able to meet the cost of warranty work.

Previously, MG Rover had reimbursed franchised dealers for the cost of any repairs carried out for a period of up to three years after the sale of a new car. However, following the analysis of their financial state, PwC said MG Rover could no longer afford to honour the commitment.<> "MG Rover owners have been left in the lurch with their vehicle warranties. Should their vehicle develop a fault, they will no longer be able to return to their franchised dealer and expect the cost to be covered by a manufacturer warranty," says Duncan McClure Fisher, Warranty Direct managing director.

"Under the Sale of Goods Act, consumers can find some protection. Should their car need remedial work, depending on the fault and age of vehicle, they may be able to claim through the small claims court. However, the industry is already raising question marks about the futures of many of the franchised dealer.