Complaint Regarding Diya Auto Solutions

I am writing to formally lodge a serious complaint regarding my experience with Diya Auto Solutions, a company I was referred to by Key Pietermaritzburg, and a member of the Retail Motor Industry (RMI). The treatment I have received, the unexplained price inflation, the missing parts from my vehicle, and the refusal to cooperate with my insurer have caused significant prejudice and stress.

To summarize the chain of events:

Referral to Diya Auto Solutions: In August 2023, Key Pietermaritzburg diagnosed my Opel Astra with engine issues. Due to their inability to attend to my vehicle, they referred me to Diya Auto Solutions, vouching for their reputation and reliability.

Initial Engagement with Mr. Ramsurran: On 19 October 2023, Mr. Ramsurran of Diya Auto Solutions towed my vehicle from Key Pietermaritzburg to his workshop at 39 Willowton Road, Shop No. B7. After discussing the matter with him, I authorized the stripping and assessment of my vehicle so that a report could be submitted to my insurer to facilitate repairs.

Price Inflation After Insurance Authorization: Initially, Mr. Ramsurran quoted me R35,000 for the repairs. However, once I went through the process of getting Diya Auto Solutions registered on my insurer’s database and my claim was approved, he suddenly increased the price to R43,640, citing that the higher price was due to the involvement of insurance. This drastic increase of R8,640 is shocking and, quite frankly, unjustifiable. Whether paying in cash or through insurance, the repair cost should not vary so dramatically. Additionally, he demanded a R21,000 deposit despite my insurer having authorized the claim, and informed me if I do not pay the deposit he would have to charge me storage for the vehicle. This seemed like ******ion, and it was evident that we not operating on the same terms, as such I paid an amount of R5 100.00 being strip and assessment plus storage fees to get my vehicle towed away from his workshop.

Missing Common Rail Pressure Pump and Unfinished Repairs: After months of delays, I had my vehicle towed from Diya Auto Solutions on 6 December 2023. I was assured that all parts had been placed in the boot, but my current mechanic informed me that the common rail pressure pump was missing. Despite multiple attempts to contact Mr. Ramsurran, I have been met with hostility, and he has refused to take responsibility or cooperate in resolving this issue. As a result, my vehicle cannot be repaired, and I have been without it for over a Year.

Refusal to Cancel Insurance Authorization: Adding to my frustration, Mr. Ramsurran is now refusing to send a letter to my insurer cancelling the authorization for the claim, which is preventing me from proceeding with repairs elsewhere. His refusal to cooperate with my insurer is causing further delays and unnecessary hardship.

Discriminatory Treatment: I believe that Mr. Ramsurran is taking advantage of the situation because I am a woman, operating under the assumption that women lack knowledge about cars. I do not believe he would have treated someone of the same gender as him in this manner, and his refusal to address the missing part is significantly prejudicing me.

I would not recommend this company to anyone. I was misled by Key Pietermaritzburg, and as a result, I have been without a car for over a year. I have been trying to source the missing part, but to no avail, and this entire ordeal has caused me significant frustration and inconvenience.