So an update.....After calling 4 times someone FINALLY got back to me. The guy was quite gruff for a customer service person but said that if I book it in to be done, he will THEN submit the claim so that VW can respond. So while I was waiting they were doing NOTHING....
Anywho.....he will call me back Monday to confirm if VW approved the replacement at their cost....fingers crossed.....he did say its quite likely given its only a few weeks out of warranty....