

Volvo
Based on recent customer reviews, Volvo is facing significant dissatisfaction across multiple South African dealerships, with customers consistently mentioning poor after-sales service, prolonged repair turnaround times, and weak communication from service managers and dealer principals. A recurring theme is unresolved mechanical issues such as steering rack failures, faulty sensors, and gearbox problems that persist despite repeated workshop visits. Customers express frustration with parts delays, questionable workmanship, and what they perceive as a disconnect between Volvo's premium brand positioning and the actual ownership experience. Concerns around resale values and unmet hybrid battery range claims further compound the negative sentiment.
TrustIndex
2.1
Jul '25 - Jun '26
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Share Your Experience1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
[CMH Volvo Menlyn] My experience with my Volvo XC40 has been extremely frustrating and well below what you’d expect from a premium brand. The vehicle has been back to the workshop multiple times, yet issues were not properly resolved, leading to repeat visits. Basic problems were missed entirely, including: - Rear wheels fitted with different valves to the front wheels, showing poor workmanship and quality control. - Windscreen wiper washer fluid not dispensing, a basic safety feature that should never fail inspection. -Brakes needed to be fitted three times before the brakes stopped making excessive noise. What’s worse is the poor customer service. Volvo has shown that they do not value their customers, refusing to replace two rear tyres that are very close to the legal safety minimum. I did not ask for a discount on the vehicle — I simply expected Volvo to do the right thing and replace two unsafe tyres. For a brand built around safety, this refusal is unacceptable. This experience has destroyed my confidence in both the dealership and the Volvo brand. I would think twice before buying a Volvo based on the after‑sales support I’ve received.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
[CMH Volvo Menlyn] My experience with my Volvo XC40 has been extremely frustrating and well below what you’d expect from a premium brand. The vehicle has been back to the workshop multiple times, yet issues were not properly resolved, leading to repeat visits. Basic problems were missed entirely, including: - Rear wheels fitted with different valves to the front wheels, showing poor workmanship and quality control. - Windscreen wiper washer fluid not dispensing, a basic safety feature that should never fail inspection. -Brakes needed to be fitted three times before the brakes stopped making excessive noise. What’s worse is the poor customer service. Volvo has shown that they do not value their customers, refusing to replace two rear tyres that are very close to the legal safety minimum. I did not ask for a discount on the vehicle — I simply expected Volvo to do the right thing and replace two unsafe tyres. For a brand built around safety, this refusal is unacceptable. This experience has destroyed my confidence in both the dealership and the Volvo brand. I would think twice before buying a Volvo based on the after‑sales support I’ve received.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
This review serves as a complaint toward Volvo cars south Africa as a whole. We currently own a 2017 Volvo S90 T6 AWD inscription that we purchased in 2022 with 40 000km. the vehicle currently has 104 000km on it. On the 3rd of February 2026, I requested to Tom Campher motors Johannesburg that I would like to replace the steering rack on the vehicle, as it had started to grind. I took the car in, and they had originally provided a quote to the value of R21 189.90 fitted at Tom Campher motors. On the 6th of February, I took the vehicle in for them to make sure that the steering rack was in fact faulty, to which they confirmed it was. I was also informed that the torque rod needed to be replaced, so on Monday, the 9th of February, I requested to have that part added with the 0.5hrs of labour required. what then followed, was Tom campher motors informing me that the part was superseded, and total bill was now R38 037.40 which was way more than expected. the quote was still valid for 14 days and I had written proof of the quote before that I wanted to approve. I then contacted Volvo cars South Africa to lodge a complaint on the 10th of February 2026. on the 12th of February 2026, I received an email back saying that they have sent through info to Japie at Tom Campher motors. they said the best they can do for me was R31 194.90 which was still R10 000 more than I would like to have paid. We decided that they may say that there was something else wrong and we would end up having to pay in more. so we decided to leave it. On the 9th of march 2026, the S90's steering rack completely failed. the vehicle was then taken to Bosch performer 2000 where they then informed me that the steering rack could not be reconditioned and a new unit was inevitable. Bosch then requested that I purchase the steering rack and all associated items through Swedish auto. which I did, on the 10th of march. Swedish auto was only able to process my order on the 18th of march with Volvo Bedfordview. I was in formed by Swedish auto that the steering rack would arrive by the 6th of April 2026 from Volvo Bedfordview. it never did. On the 10th of march 2026, I was informed by Swedish auto that there was an issue with the part and Volvo Bedfordview did not receive it. I drove to Volvo Bedfordview, and spoke to the parts salesman there. he informed me that there was a short supply. As I know people that have worked at dealerships, both in service and parts departments, I enquired with them to this. they suggested that the dealership forgot to actually order the part. I contacted Volvo cars south africa 3 times with the same reference number, and the gentleman on the other end of the line assured me he would find out about the part and what is happening, as I have the order number. he never got back to me. Through a lot of back and forth with Volvo Bedfordview, I finally received an answer today dated 21st of April 2026. The part was re ordered on the 10th of April, and the ETA is the 18th of may 2026. The level of lackluster service have received from a high end brand is shocking. The newer Volvo vehicles do have an issue with the steering racks failing. both Tom Campher and Swedish auto have confirmed this with me. Volvo Cars South Africa, should order a recall of the vehicles affected by this issue, or at least provide a credit. I also expect them to have steering racks on hand as these are a common issue. I also expect that when a representative of Volvo cars South Africa informs me that they will contact me, that they actually do. I expect Tom Campher to not ignore me as a customer when there is an issue, and to value a quote that is still valid for 14 days, even when I want to add additional repairs to the quote. that should be the first indication to uphold a price, as I am bringing in business to your establishment. I expect Volvo Bedfordview to ensure that the items that are requested can actually come from Sweden on time. I also expect them to have clear communication and to again, not leave me in the dark, uninformed and begging for answers. Another issue I have faced is once you purchase a Volvo, not one Volvo dealer in Gauteng wants that car. You will be better off selling the vehicle privately, as the offers you will receive will be a rightful smack to the face. I suggest to any Volvo customer, to please ensure that you have a Backup vehicle on hand should yours fail. To any person interested in purchasing a Volvo, I suggest you make sure that the vehicle is in tip top shape should it be second hand. Rather look at other brands. This vehicle has been sitting on a lift for 43 days as of today, 21 April 2026. I would expect that a Swedish brand, has their ducks in a row. the lackluster service received has convinced me otherwise about Volvo, A brand that was once my absolute favorite. Swedish Auto And Bosch service performer 2000 have been incredibly helpful and informative during this issue with the S90. Should you be a Volvo Owner, I highly recommend these 2 companies for your vehicle.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
This review serves as a complaint toward Volvo cars south Africa as a whole. We currently own a 2017 Volvo S90 T6 AWD inscription that we purchased in 2022 with 40 000km. the vehicle currently has 104 000km on it. On the 3rd of February 2026, I requested to Tom Campher motors Johannesburg that I would like to replace the steering rack on the vehicle, as it had started to grind. I took the car in, and they had originally provided a quote to the value of R21 189.90 fitted at Tom Campher motors. On the 6th of February, I took the vehicle in for them to make sure that the steering rack was in fact faulty, to which they confirmed it was. I was also informed that the torque rod needed to be replaced, so on Monday, the 9th of February, I requested to have that part added with the 0.5hrs of labour required. what then followed, was Tom campher motors informing me that the part was superseded, and total bill was now R38 037.40 which was way more than expected. the quote was still valid for 14 days and I had written proof of the quote before that I wanted to approve. I then contacted Volvo cars South Africa to lodge a complaint on the 10th of February 2026. on the 12th of February 2026, I received an email back saying that they have sent through info to Japie at Tom Campher motors. they said the best they can do for me was R31 194.90 which was still R10 000 more than I would like to have paid. We decided that they may say that there was something else wrong and we would end up having to pay in more. so we decided to leave it. On the 9th of march 2026, the S90's steering rack completely failed. the vehicle was then taken to Bosch performer 2000 where they then informed me that the steering rack could not be reconditioned and a new unit was inevitable. Bosch then requested that I purchase the steering rack and all associated items through Swedish auto. which I did, on the 10th of march. Swedish auto was only able to process my order on the 18th of march with Volvo Bedfordview. I was in formed by Swedish auto that the steering rack would arrive by the 6th of April 2026 from Volvo Bedfordview. it never did. On the 10th of march 2026, I was informed by Swedish auto that there was an issue with the part and Volvo Bedfordview did not receive it. I drove to Volvo Bedfordview, and spoke to the parts salesman there. he informed me that there was a short supply. As I know people that have worked at dealerships, both in service and parts departments, I enquired with them to this. they suggested that the dealership forgot to actually order the part. I contacted Volvo cars south africa 3 times with the same reference number, and the gentleman on the other end of the line assured me he would find out about the part and what is happening, as I have the order number. he never got back to me. Through a lot of back and forth with Volvo Bedfordview, I finally received an answer today dated 21st of April 2026. The part was re ordered on the 10th of April, and the ETA is the 18th of may 2026. The level of lackluster service have received from a high end brand is shocking. The newer Volvo vehicles do have an issue with the steering racks failing. both Tom Campher and Swedish auto have confirmed this with me. Volvo Cars South Africa, should order a recall of the vehicles affected by this issue, or at least provide a credit. I also expect them to have steering racks on hand as these are a common issue. I also expect that when a representative of Volvo cars South Africa informs me that they will contact me, that they actually do. I expect Tom Campher to not ignore me as a customer when there is an issue, and to value a quote that is still valid for 14 days, even when I want to add additional repairs to the quote. that should be the first indication to uphold a price, as I am bringing in business to your establishment. I expect Volvo Bedfordview to ensure that the items that are requested can actually come from Sweden on time. I also expect them to have clear communication and to again, not leave me in the dark, uninformed and begging for answers. Another issue I have faced is once you purchase a Volvo, not one Volvo dealer in Gauteng wants that car. You will be better off selling the vehicle privately, as the offers you will receive will be a rightful smack to the face. I suggest to any Volvo customer, to please ensure that you have a Backup vehicle on hand should yours fail. To any person interested in purchasing a Volvo, I suggest you make sure that the vehicle is in tip top shape should it be second hand. Rather look at other brands. This vehicle has been sitting on a lift for 43 days as of today, 21 April 2026. I would expect that a Swedish brand, has their ducks in a row. the lackluster service received has convinced me otherwise about Volvo, A brand that was once my absolute favorite. Swedish Auto And Bosch service performer 2000 have been incredibly helpful and informative during this issue with the S90. Should you be a Volvo Owner, I highly recommend these 2 companies for your vehicle.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Poor service by Volvo Menlyn - my car was towed to Volvo Menlyn on the 29th January from Rustenburg. It was suspended that the cambelt had failed. Two months later (30 March 2026) I still don't have my car, I still don't know what is wrong with my car and I still don't know when my car will be fixed. There is no communication from Volvo Menlyn. When I call I am told they are yet to submit a quotation to Volvo South Africa. The email I sent them on 10 March 2026 has not been responded to. I am not only incurring costs in terms of an alternative means of transport but I am paying for a car I do not have/use.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Poor service by Volvo Menlyn - my car was towed to Volvo Menlyn on the 29th January from Rustenburg. It was suspended that the cambelt had failed. Two months later (30 March 2026) I still don't have my car, I still don't know what is wrong with my car and I still don't know when my car will be fixed. There is no communication from Volvo Menlyn. When I call I am told they are yet to submit a quotation to Volvo South Africa. The email I sent them on 10 March 2026 has not been responded to. I am not only incurring costs in terms of an alternative means of transport but I am paying for a car I do not have/use.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Dear Volvo South Africa, I am writing to formally raise a serious complaint regarding the unacceptable standard of repairs performed on my vehicle, and to demand urgent resolution. After waiting several weeks for parts to be ordered, we were informed on Tuesday that repairs would commence. On 19 March 2026, we were advised that the vehicle was ready for collection, and we were assured that it was in proper working condition. Relying on your expertise and representation, We have spent a hefty amount on the repairs of this vehicle which is money we don't have just loofing around in this tough economical times However, on 20 March 2026, less than a day after being collected and we were told the vehicle was fully repaired, the engine warning light switched on. This clearly indicates that the repairs conducted were either incomplete, defective, or negligently performed. This situation is entirely unacceptable. Please note that in terms of the Consumer Protection Act, I am entitled to services that are carried out: With reasonable care and skill To a standard that consumers are generally entitled to expect Resulting in a vehicle that is safe, functional, and fit for purpose Your failure to meet these legal obligations constitutes a breach of my consumer rights. Furthermore, this vehicle has had ongoing issues since 2023, and Volvo Rustenburg workshop has failed to provide a lasting solution despite repeated interventions. Today I have to deal with Volvo Fourways and still I am in distress, the continued financial strain and emotional distress caused by the matter of this vehicle are significant and unacceptable. As such, I hereby demand the following, without delay: Immediate collection and comprehensive reassessment of the vehicle at your cost A full diagnostic report outlining the cause of the failure post-repair Rectification of all faults to a proper and lasting standard, at no additional cost to me Written confirmation of the steps taken to prevent recurrence Appropriate remedial action, failing which I will consider further legal remedies Should this matter not be resolved urgently and satisfactorily, I will have no option but to escalate it formally to the National Consumer Commission and pursue all remedies available to me under applicable law, including recovery of costs. I expect a written response within 48 hours of receipt of this email. This is a matter of urgency and will be treated as such. Volvo Fourways, South Africa Kind regards, Dr Judith Tikoane
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Dear Volvo South Africa, I am writing to formally raise a serious complaint regarding the unacceptable standard of repairs performed on my vehicle, and to demand urgent resolution. After waiting several weeks for parts to be ordered, we were informed on Tuesday that repairs would commence. On 19 March 2026, we were advised that the vehicle was ready for collection, and we were assured that it was in proper working condition. Relying on your expertise and representation, We have spent a hefty amount on the repairs of this vehicle which is money we don't have just loofing around in this tough economical times However, on 20 March 2026, less than a day after being collected and we were told the vehicle was fully repaired, the engine warning light switched on. This clearly indicates that the repairs conducted were either incomplete, defective, or negligently performed. This situation is entirely unacceptable. Please note that in terms of the Consumer Protection Act, I am entitled to services that are carried out: With reasonable care and skill To a standard that consumers are generally entitled to expect Resulting in a vehicle that is safe, functional, and fit for purpose Your failure to meet these legal obligations constitutes a breach of my consumer rights. Furthermore, this vehicle has had ongoing issues since 2023, and Volvo Rustenburg workshop has failed to provide a lasting solution despite repeated interventions. Today I have to deal with Volvo Fourways and still I am in distress, the continued financial strain and emotional distress caused by the matter of this vehicle are significant and unacceptable. As such, I hereby demand the following, without delay: Immediate collection and comprehensive reassessment of the vehicle at your cost A full diagnostic report outlining the cause of the failure post-repair Rectification of all faults to a proper and lasting standard, at no additional cost to me Written confirmation of the steps taken to prevent recurrence Appropriate remedial action, failing which I will consider further legal remedies Should this matter not be resolved urgently and satisfactorily, I will have no option but to escalate it formally to the National Consumer Commission and pursue all remedies available to me under applicable law, including recovery of costs. I expect a written response within 48 hours of receipt of this email. This is a matter of urgency and will be treated as such. Volvo Fourways, South Africa Kind regards, Dr Judith Tikoane
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I wish to formally report an incident that occurred this morning, 28 February 2026, at approximately 09h30, involving a black Volvo vehicle with license plate KSC369EC. While we were walking, the driver of the vehicle accelerated past us at what felt like an uncomfortably close distance while walking next to the curb, creating the impression that he may have intended to frighten us. The proximity and speed at which the vehicle passed made the situation feel unsafe and alarming. We could not walk on the curb as there was vegetation planted on that stretch. I would also like to emphasize that there was no oncoming traffic at the time of the incident. The driver had ample space and opportunity to pass at a safe distance. Choosing to drive so close to me, despite having the ability to maintain a wider berth, significantly increased the risk and contributed to the distressing nature of the encounter. Concerned about the incident, I visited the William Moffett Volvo Dealership to report the matter. The sales staff initially received me in a friendly and professional manner. However, when I began explaining that a vehicle had nearly collided with us in the parking area, their demeanor changed noticeably and for good reason. Not good feedback and I assume as a shock. Shortly thereafter, a gentleman emerged from the offices and identified himself as the driver of the vehicle in question. He stated that I had been walking in the middle of the road and informed us that he had been traveling at 25 km/h. From my perspective, the vehicle did not appear to be traveling at that speed when it passed me. Unfortunately, there was no apology offered, nor was there any attempt to resolve the matter constructively. He indicated that he would review the camera footage but did not allow me the opportunity to view it with him. The interaction concluded without any meaningful resolution, and the driver turned his back and returned to his office. I was left feeling unsettled by both the incident and the response. I am also concerned about the preservation of any available camera footage and vehicle speed data that may provide clarity regarding the situation. During our interaction, the driver’s demeanor came across as dismissive and somewhat arrogant. There was no acknowledgement of the distress caused, nor any attempt to de-escalate the situation or offer reassurance. This response was disappointing and did little to address the safety concerns raised. I trust that this matter will be reviewed appropriately and that any relevant footage or vehicle data will be examined to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I wish to formally report an incident that occurred this morning, 28 February 2026, at approximately 09h30, involving a black Volvo vehicle with license plate KSC369EC. While we were walking, the driver of the vehicle accelerated past us at what felt like an uncomfortably close distance while walking next to the curb, creating the impression that he may have intended to frighten us. The proximity and speed at which the vehicle passed made the situation feel unsafe and alarming. We could not walk on the curb as there was vegetation planted on that stretch. I would also like to emphasize that there was no oncoming traffic at the time of the incident. The driver had ample space and opportunity to pass at a safe distance. Choosing to drive so close to me, despite having the ability to maintain a wider berth, significantly increased the risk and contributed to the distressing nature of the encounter. Concerned about the incident, I visited the William Moffett Volvo Dealership to report the matter. The sales staff initially received me in a friendly and professional manner. However, when I began explaining that a vehicle had nearly collided with us in the parking area, their demeanor changed noticeably and for good reason. Not good feedback and I assume as a shock. Shortly thereafter, a gentleman emerged from the offices and identified himself as the driver of the vehicle in question. He stated that I had been walking in the middle of the road and informed us that he had been traveling at 25 km/h. From my perspective, the vehicle did not appear to be traveling at that speed when it passed me. Unfortunately, there was no apology offered, nor was there any attempt to resolve the matter constructively. He indicated that he would review the camera footage but did not allow me the opportunity to view it with him. The interaction concluded without any meaningful resolution, and the driver turned his back and returned to his office. I was left feeling unsettled by both the incident and the response. I am also concerned about the preservation of any available camera footage and vehicle speed data that may provide clarity regarding the situation. During our interaction, the driver’s demeanor came across as dismissive and somewhat arrogant. There was no acknowledgement of the distress caused, nor any attempt to de-escalate the situation or offer reassurance. This response was disappointing and did little to address the safety concerns raised. I trust that this matter will be reviewed appropriately and that any relevant footage or vehicle data will be examined to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I have experienced a massive financial loss selling my (so called) premium XC60 T8 Twin Motor. I wrote to them about it and received what I perceive to be the customary customer relations department " sho away". Volvo has ******ed their used car values with their actions about curtailing sales and service centers. Dealers where I tried trading in the XC60 were not prepared to even offer a value. When others did make an offer, it was a horrifying experience. However Volvo continue to advertise new cars and sell new cars without warning the unsuspecting new car customer of their potential financial blood bath. Someone from Volvo phoned me after they rep**** to me asking if I received their reply. I confirmed I had and suggested they send my complaint/advice to a senior at Volvo. Maybe the CEO! I believe I should make the buying public aware of the financial loss that will be incurred when buying then selling a Volvo, this advice to HelloPeter is the start of my campaign.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I have experienced a massive financial loss selling my (so called) premium XC60 T8 Twin Motor. I wrote to them about it and received what I perceive to be the customary customer relations department " sho away". Volvo has ******ed their used car values with their actions about curtailing sales and service centers. Dealers where I tried trading in the XC60 were not prepared to even offer a value. When others did make an offer, it was a horrifying experience. However Volvo continue to advertise new cars and sell new cars without warning the unsuspecting new car customer of their potential financial blood bath. Someone from Volvo phoned me after they rep**** to me asking if I received their reply. I confirmed I had and suggested they send my complaint/advice to a senior at Volvo. Maybe the CEO! I believe I should make the buying public aware of the financial loss that will be incurred when buying then selling a Volvo, this advice to HelloPeter is the start of my campaign.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am deeply disappointed in how Volvo has has been handling my request or actually not handling it at all and that has also left me in a situation where I don’t have a car and now I am inconvenienced and had to spend money out of pocket and I’m still not being assisted.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am deeply disappointed in how Volvo has has been handling my request or actually not handling it at all and that has also left me in a situation where I don’t have a car and now I am inconvenienced and had to spend money out of pocket and I’m still not being assisted.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am extremely disappointed with the service I received from Rola Volvo Somerset West. I booked my Volvo XC60 for a service and was never provided a quotation beforehand. Upon arrival, I was hit with a R25,000 quote — which I declined. I then asked them to inspect a faulty PDC sensor simply. I dropped my car off at 12:00, and by 17:00, all they had done was a diagnostic. I was told the entire cradle for the front sensors needed replacement, despite the technician initially suggesting the issue was likely just a disconnected sensor. The diagnostic alone cost me R3,000, and nothing was repaired. I lost five hours of work time for a vague and overpriced assessment. This is the third time I’ve experienced poor service and overcharging from Volvo South Africa: Volvo Fourways refused to honour my motor plan. Tom Campher, Volvo Auckland Park, provided substandard service. And now Rola Volvo Somerset West has wasted my time and money. If it weren't for Keeshia, the receptionist, who sporadically checked on me, I would not have known what was happening. Volvo markets itself as a premium brand, but the service I’ve received has been anything but. I am disgruntled, disappointed, and rapidly losing faith in Volvo South Africa as a second-time Volvo owner. I am seriously considering just moving my business elsewhere and would have gladly given zero stars if it were an option...
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am extremely disappointed with the service I received from Rola Volvo Somerset West. I booked my Volvo XC60 for a service and was never provided a quotation beforehand. Upon arrival, I was hit with a R25,000 quote — which I declined. I then asked them to inspect a faulty PDC sensor simply. I dropped my car off at 12:00, and by 17:00, all they had done was a diagnostic. I was told the entire cradle for the front sensors needed replacement, despite the technician initially suggesting the issue was likely just a disconnected sensor. The diagnostic alone cost me R3,000, and nothing was repaired. I lost five hours of work time for a vague and overpriced assessment. This is the third time I’ve experienced poor service and overcharging from Volvo South Africa: Volvo Fourways refused to honour my motor plan. Tom Campher, Volvo Auckland Park, provided substandard service. And now Rola Volvo Somerset West has wasted my time and money. If it weren't for Keeshia, the receptionist, who sporadically checked on me, I would not have known what was happening. Volvo markets itself as a premium brand, but the service I’ve received has been anything but. I am disgruntled, disappointed, and rapidly losing faith in Volvo South Africa as a second-time Volvo owner. I am seriously considering just moving my business elsewhere and would have gladly given zero stars if it were an option...
Based on recent customer reviews, Volvo is facing significant dissatisfaction across multiple South African dealerships, with customers consistently mentioning poor after-sales service, prolonged repair turnaround times, and weak communication from service managers and dealer principals. A recurring theme is unresolved mechanical issues such as steering rack failures, faulty sensors, and gearbox problems that persist despite repeated workshop visits. Customers express frustration with parts delays, questionable workmanship, and what they perceive as a disconnect between Volvo's premium brand positioning and the actual ownership experience. Concerns around resale values and unmet hybrid battery range claims further compound the negative sentiment.
Volvo has a TrustIndex of 2.1 out of 10 on Hellopeter, based on 14 reviews in the last 12 months. Hellopeter has tracked Volvo across 115 total reviews. How is the TrustIndex calculated? →