Engine Replacement for Broken Part

My elderly mother’s Opel Mokka broke down in November 2025 and was towed by her insurance company directly from the breakdown site to this dealership.

She was later quoted R347,411 for a full engine replacement, based on what we were told were completed diagnostics. We paid R4,830 for the diagnostic report. What we received was a short written summary by a service advisor, with no fault codes, readings, or technician documentation.

Concerned, we took the car to an independent mechanic. He replaced a thermostat and oil cooler, flushed the system, and returned the car to full working order for R28,554.50. The vehicle has been running normally since.

We raised this with dealership management and asked for an apology and refund of the diagnostic fee. Our final correspondence received no response.

Posting this so other consumers, especially elderly ones, know to seek a second opinion before approving major repairs.