THE motorist who labelled his Land Rover with signs listing its faults and dumped it outside a dealership in Colchester says it is there to stay.

The Gazette revealed last week how the 2007 Range Rover had been ditched in front of the Lookers Land Rover showroom in Cowdray Avenue, Colchester.

It was customised with large vinyl lettering that read: “If you want trouble-free motoring do not buy one of these.”

Grimsby property developer Steve Bullas, 38, has come forward to explain his silent protest.

He revealed he carried out the stunt to embarrass Land Rover after suffering a string of problems with the specially-sourced V8 engined twin-turbo model.

He bought it from a Bury St Edmunds lease company which has since shut down, so decided to make his point in Colchester.

The vehicle had 3,000 miles on the clock when it first broke and over the past two years it has had to go to the repair shop nine times, mainly for problems involving the suspension.

Mr Bullas said: “I don’t think I’m being unreasonable. These cars are advertised as sturdy and able to withstand adverse conditions, mine has just done motorway miles.

“The car is going to stay there, it is not due to be taxed until August.

“Lookers sent a letter asking if I could remove my silent protest as I bought it through a third party, but my warranty is with Land Rover.”

Land Rover has said all necessary repairs to the vehicle were carried out under warranty and the company has made an offer to help Mr Bullas buy a new car.