A lifetime of brand loyalty down the drain

This review is about Citroen as a brand in South Africa. No specific dealership

My uncle had a Citroen, which he probably owned for more than 20 years. My mom had a Citroen which she drove for approximately 22 years. Until they both purchased new cars, these Citroens served them perfectly well.

When I bought my Citroen C3 in 2007, I was so proud of my first brand new car. I felt I bought into a brand that really care about the longevity of their cars and who will be with me every step of the way. I took care of my car as if I will drive it for a lifetime.

At 15 years old, my interior fan stopped working. When I took the care in to check it out, they came back with a quote of R71,000. They say that my harness and wiring is brittle and shorting. They say that a secondary computer board blew.

I was in tears when I spoke to the workshop manager who casually just remarked that that is not worth it and they will see what they can do when I trade it in. The dealer principal did say she will take it up with Citroen.

They asked for my car back, but the quote still stands.

I am so disappointed. I am so sad. I cannot believe that car manufacturer would not be proud of having their older vehicles on the road. I cannot believe they won't meet a customer half way.

My car was never at the sea where it was in high humidity or exposes to rust. My car is 105k only on the clock. My car was always parked in the shade wherever possible. My car exterior looks brand new. I have never serviced my car anywhere else than authorised Citroen workshops.

I advise anyone who wants to buy a Citroen out of loyalty or thinking that the car will last them well into the future, to rethink it. After pretty much 10 years or so, parts will be unavailable and exorbitantly expensive to import from France. Your car will be nothing more than an item to trade/sell as soon as possible. You will get no sympathy or empathy from Citroen.