No Practical Support From ABSA Vehicle & Asset Finance in Ongoing Vehicle Dispute

I am extremely disappointed with the response I received from ABSA Vehicle and Asset Finance regarding a serious dispute involving a vehicle financed through a joint venture with Ford Credit.

My Ford Ranger, which was serviced by a Ford dealership, became immobilised shortly thereafter following a mechanical failure. The matter is currently the subject of a formal dispute with the dealership and has been escalated to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA).

Despite the vehicle being under finance and my continued obligation to make monthly payments, ABSA advised that they are unable to assist, as the issue is considered a service-related matter. No guidance, escalation support, or practical assistance was offered, even though the vehicle is off the road and the dispute remains unresolved.

While I understand that finance institutions may not be directly responsible for repairs, I find it concerning that there is no support framework for customers when a financed vehicle becomes unusable due to an unresolved dispute. Being expected to continue paying for a vehicle that cannot be used, with no engagement or assistance, is extremely frustrating.

I believe ABSA Vehicle and Asset Finance needs to reconsider how it supports customers in situations like this, particularly where the vehicle is financed through a partnership and remains subject to an ongoing investigation.