Motor industry complaints rise

The number of complaints recorded by vehicle owners about defects on their cars rose by 2661 last year, South African Motor Industry Ombudsman said on Tuesday, 6 April 2010.

Ombudsman spokesman Ruben Els said in 2008 there were 17039 complaints registered and 19700 in 2009.

"This means more and more people want to have independent verification."

The rise in complaints was directly linked to the rising cost of labour and the deteriorating condition of roads in the country.

The main complaints related to tyres, poor service and engine problems.

Also significant were problems with wheels and cooling systems.

"The recession impacted on consumers as well, resulting in non-compliance with service schedules, warranty terms and conditions, and failing to honour monthly instalments," said the ombudsman.

The turnaround time for repairs and services continued to improve despite the severe shortage of skilled technicians.

This was due to the cutback in the waiting period for spare parts as the year progressed.

Source: Sapa