MIOSA Closed My Case on a Technicality While I’m Still Sitting With a Defective Vehicle and Massive Financial Loss

MIOSA Closed My Case on a Technicality While I’m Still Sitting With a Defective Vehicle and Massive Financial Loss

I approached MIOSA (Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa) after months of struggling with a defective Ford Ranger purchased from Kyalami Executive Motors.

The gearbox failed within 24 hours of purchase. The dealer arranged repairs, but the vehicle continued having the exact same gearbox issues shortly afterward. It was returned again and incorrectly diagnosed as a BCM issue. Less than two months later and under 10,000 km after the repair, the gearbox and torque converter failed completely.

The original repairer later became unreachable and the vehicle was undriveable. As this is our only family and business vehicle, we had no practical choice but to have the vehicle inspected and repaired locally in Durban after weeks of delays and poor communication.

Despite supplying: -Full email correspondence -Mechanical reports -Repair invoices -Photographic evidence -Proof of ongoing defects and failed repairs

MIOSA closed the matter on a technicality because the gearbox was eventually opened by a third-party mechanic after the original repairer could no longer assist.

At no point did it feel like the actual facts, failed workmanship, repeated misdiagnosis, or consumer prejudice were properly considered. We are still sitting with a problematic vehicle, major financial loss, and no meaningful assistance.

Very disappointing experience from an organisation that consumers approach for fair assistance and dispute resolution.