Faulty “brand new” vehicle and service provider downplaying client’s complaints

Good day. I hope this email finds you well.

On 29 November 2024 at about 10:36 I arrived at Chery Midrand to finalise documents and collect my car- Chery Tiggo 7 ProMax AWD. Throughout the whole process and buildup of collecting the vehicle, I was assisted by Shana Crawford. It was a smooth process as both parties involved- the salesperson and the client were eager to seal the deal. I had just settled my vehicle which was financed my MFC, and paid R80000 deposit towards the Chery. Prior to that, I had asked 2 friends who drive different brands- 1 being a Chery Tiggo 7 and the other being a Hyundai Tuscon to “sell” the brand to me. My friend who drives the Chery sold the brand. As a result, I headed to Chery Midrand, test drove the 7 and 7 ProMax. I then bought the 7 ProMax AWD.

December 2024 I experienced rattling sounds on the sunroof. I raised it with Shana who then communicated with her office. Car was taken in, checked and brought back to me. However, the sound did not stop. I then went back and reported the issue again. The sunroof was replaced mid 2025 (in fact, towards the end due to unavailability of parts).

On a monthly basis in 2025, with no exaggerations, I’ve frequented Chery Midrand reporting 2 issues on the alleged brand new car upon purchase. 1. Petrol gauge showing no petrol while on full tank, and going back to full, 2. Car randomly switching off while driving. Chery Midrand would take the car and confirm that the issues have been sorted. These are issues that I endured and reported in 2025 alone. In December 2025, mechanic from Chery Midrand by the name of Gert took my car in after they had heard of similar issues from a branch in Sandton where two clients complained about the same issues. I felt like all along my concerns were downplayed, and now that there are certain clients, they want to take it serious. I however did not make a fuss as all I wanted was my car to be in good condition- what I am actually paying for. The car was handed back to me mid February 2026.

On 18 March 2026 at around 07:34, the car cut off while I was driving in Hennopspark. I communicated with Gert about the issue. On the 24th while driving to Limpopo, car cut off again while I was driving on a national road. I sent a short video of what I was able to capture to Gert.

I contacted WesBank as the financial provider and explained my story. I was informed to send an email to them.

Sometime in March or April, I received a call from CherySA regarding the vehicle and if I’m enjoying it. I raised the issues with the gentleman who had called (I forgot his name). After hearing me out, he profusely apologised and he confirmed that he will contact me the next Monday and book the car for a service with Head Office. Alas, no contact to date.

This car has become nothing but a hazard in my life. If it able to switch off randomly while I’m driving on any road, clearly my life is at risk. I have raised this twice too many times for the dealership not to consider this hazard as serious and dangerous! I therefore urge CherySA as a provider, WesBank as the primary financial provider and Chery Midrand to provide a solution in this matter as my life is at a risk over a product that CherySA does either not know of the issue that a committed client is experiencing, or such hazards are downplayed.

Disclaimer: Vehicle is financed by WesBank, instalments are up to date, and there is also an advance payment from my end to show the seriousness and love I HAD for this car.

Regards PNN Thobejane