Sounds like the condensation hose from the aircon system has come adrift.

It was a relatively easy to fix on T1 and T2 models. Can't think why you'd need to "pull the dash" but others may know better.

Here's the self study for the early cars - I'll see if I can find one for the T3.

http://www.volkspage.net/technik/ssp/ssp/SSP_301.PDF

 

Why not try to fill or patch the crack with urethane or good quality silicon ?

I would not like either that the dash be removed...

 

Just let them repair it under warranty.

 

I agree that it is not a good idea to remove the dash if it can be avoided. Maybe get a second opinion? Even though there are no out of pocket expenses, I cringe at the thought of removing a door panel or other interior components (especially on a new car) because I would fear that they will end up rattling. Once you break those parts loose, its hard to get it as tight as it was from the factory. Not impossible, but few technicians take the time and care to make sure it is as precise.

 

Are you sure "pull the dash" refers to pull the entire dashboard? Many vehicles (ie: BMW) require removal of the middle stack to replace A/C components. Its possible that "remove the dash" means "remove the center stack" ie: nav unit & related cluster. or remove part of the dash from underneath (many HVAC pipes down there.

 

+1
I highly doubt that they'll have to remove the entire dash. Either way let the dealer handle it.

 

The dealer told me they would need the vehicle to two days to complete the job and that the entire dash would have to be removed. I assume from this info that it is the whole dash.

 

I would check with another dealer.

 

I'd certainly want to see exactly where this pipe is and how they are going to access it before letting them dismantle the dashboard.

A second opinion might be the answer.

 

Let the dealer deal with the issue. I've had the dash removed on other vehicles and it went back just fine. It is under warranty! It's no rocket science here.

 

Let the dealership fix it. Take it to another dealership, this is probably something as easy as removing the glove box to gain access to the HVAC condensation drain line to fix. Super easy to pull the glove box.