Vehicle Failure After Incorrect Repairs by Audi Claremont

I am submitting this complaint regarding Audi Claremont and repeated incorrect repairs carried out on my vehicle over the past two years.

Each year, my vehicle’s warranty has been extended, and the battery replacements were carried out during these periods. Despite this, the battery has now failed in under 9 months on two consecutive occasions, which is entirely inconsistent with normal vehicle ownership. I have never owned a vehicle that required a battery replacement within such a short timeframe.

Audi Claremont replaced my vehicle’s battery. Less than 9 months later, the battery failed, placing me in a dangerous situation. This followed a similar battery failure the previous year, also shortly after a battery replacement by the same dealership, which nearly resulted in an accident.

After the most recent failure, an independent Audi specialist confirmed that the incorrect battery type was installed: • Installed by Audi Claremont: EFB battery • Required for my vehicle: AGM battery (as per Audi specification for start-stop systems)

This is now the second consecutive year that Audi Claremont has installed a battery not suitable for my vehicle. Installing an EFB battery where an AGM is specified compromises the vehicle’s energy management system, leads to premature battery failure, and creates a serious safety risk, with potential damage to the alternator, battery management system, and onboard electronics.

I have consistently supported and advocated for the Audi brand. However, this experience has significantly eroded my trust, particularly given that these failures occurred while the vehicle was under extended warranty and serviced by an authorised Audi dealership.

If this matter is not resolved promptly, I will escalate it to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA).