I've run across the same problem everywhere from the USA, Britain and South Africa -it's still a pretty common sell-up procedure. I now use the American Express program, which seems to cure most problems.

Another technique you can consider is leasing a car in Europe. I believe this program originated in France, but is also available in other countries. It is based on the high sales taxes of new vehicles and low taxes on pre-owned. Car companies lease the car for a couple of weeks, then fix any problems and resell them at a large discount. Several friends have used this program and say it has been free of hassles - insurance or otherwise. Minimum lease periods vary, but usually are around two or three weeks.

Mike