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Luke, we have a 2007 model quasar 525 bought brand new just short of 3 years ago and we had exactly the same problem as you- with a hairline crack on the roof section of the panel in a very similar place & also some cracks just above the rear steady winder on the back panel which resembled a spiders web. Just like you we were seriously upset-after all when you buy brand new you expect a few years of hassle free use. Again just the same we had to let the dealer have a look to confirm what the problem was. The service manager had a look said it was repairable as it was in the coating & not the panel itself. He said he would arrange a repair via Lunar with the panel manufacturer. I was a little sceptical but accepted this as a first response. Within a couple of days we received a phone call from a representative of the panel manufacturer who arranged to come to our house (where we keep the 'van) to effect the repair & we arranged a time & date when I could be there to meet him. The guy turned up as arranged had a look said it was no problem just an easy repair to the coating on the panel, something that would easily be sorted. So while I made us both a brew he got his gear out & started doing his job. Now I don't like being watched while I am working so I don't hover around anyone else when they are so I can't tell you what he did but can confirm that apart fron a bit of white dust on the drive you would never know he had been there. This was if I recall correctly at least 18 months ago but despite my intense scrutiny ever since the cracks have steadfastly refused to reappear so I shouldn't worry too much until it has been checked by someone who has dealt with this problem before.

Hope this is of some help & leaves you feeling a little more positive about things mate.

See you all soon, Bernard.

P.s. I can confirm that this has had no lasting effect on me & June as we ordered another new Lunar at the show in November-we must just love teething troubles!

I would also try and get something in return as a way of compensation for the stress and inconvienience you have suffered, Even if its only a couple of decent new sleeping bags or a free service voucher its better than nothing. After all, the dealer was at fault for not checking the caravan over properly before he handed the keys  over to you.

I hope you soon get it all sorted and are able to enjoy many weeks of stress free caravaning in the future in your new van.

Julia

The panels are made by Lamplas in County Durham and are GRP. They are easy repairs to do and I wouldn't get too worried about it.

http://lamplas.co.uk/case_studies.html

It looks like a hairline crack so probably didn't get noticed post production or on delivery at the dealers (it's in the dealers interest to ensure that the van is received in tip-top condition as it becomes their responsibility once they sign for it). It's probably only become noticeable once it has weathered on the forecourt for a few months. I think talk of rejecting it out of hand is a bit premature and I would give the dealer the chance to rectify the problem.