Misleading Pricing and Compulsory Add-Ons at Lisa Cars

Dear Lisa Cars Management,

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding my recent experience with your dealership, specifically relating to the advertised Kia Picanto 1.0 Smart 2020 model listed on AutoTrader on Saturday, 18 April 2026.

The vehicle was advertised at R153,900. However, during the financing process, I discovered that the actual amount submitted to the bank was nearly R175,000. This included additional charges such as:

InsureAfrica warranty: R12,975

Service & delivery: R5,175

License fee: R2,000

At no stage during the initial adverti*****t was it made clear that these additional products and fees were compulsory. When I requested that the warranty be removed, I was told that “we can’t make you a deal without taking the warranty.” This practice is both misleading and unfair, as customers are entitled to choose whether they wish to purchase optional products.

The Consumer Protection Act explicitly prohibits forcing customers to buy additional products or services as a condition of sale. By advertising the vehicle at R153,900 but requiring compulsory extras, Lisa Cars is engaging in false advertising and unfair sales practices.

I respectfully request the following:

A full explanation of why the warranty was made compulsory.

Immediate corrective action to ensure that customers are not forced into purchasing unwanted add-ons.

A review of your advertising practices to ensure that the true cost of vehicles is transparently displayed.

If this matter is not resolved within 14 days, I will escalate my complaint to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA) and the National Consumer Commission for further investigation.

I am disappointed by this experience, as I have purchased multiple vehicles in the past and have never been forced into such conditions. I trust Lisa Cars will act promptly to address this issue and restore confidence in its business practices.