Based on recent customer reviews, Bidvest Group draws heavy criticism across its motor dealership, insurance, security and airport lounge divisions. Customers repeatedly describe vehicles returned undrivable after servicing at McCarthy branded dealers, warranty and Tyre Angel claims blocked by exclusions, unanswered attorney letters, and denied lounge access despite paid tickets and valid permissions. Fidelity and Cellini Luggage complaints follow a similar pattern of initial promises followed by silence. One standout review praises an individual staff member for honesty, patience and professionalism during a legal matter.
TrustIndex
2.3
NPS Score
-60
Recommended: Unlikely
Oct '25 - Sep '26
Frequently Asked Questions About Bidvest Group
What do customers say about Bidvest Group?
Based on recent customer reviews, Bidvest Group draws heavy criticism across its motor dealership, insurance, security and airport lounge divisions. Customers repeatedly describe vehicles returned undrivable after servicing at McCarthy branded dealers, warranty and Tyre Angel claims blocked by exclusions, unanswered attorney letters, and denied lounge access despite paid tickets and valid permissions. Fidelity and Cellini Luggage complaints follow a similar pattern of initial promises followed by silence. One standout review praises an individual staff member for honesty, patience and professionalism during a legal matter.
Is Bidvest Group trustworthy?
Bidvest Group has a TrustIndex of 2.3 out of 10 on Hellopeter, based on 11 reviews in the last 12 months. Hellopeter has tracked Bidvest Group across 190 total reviews. How is the TrustIndex calculated? →
Recent reviews (11)
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 Sept 2017
Awesome professional advise
Brian, I would like to sincerely compliment you on your professionalism, patience, honesty, and dedication. You have been incredibly helpful and supportive throughout my legal matter, and I truly appreciate the way you have handled everything with understanding and professionalism. Thank you for your assistance and guidance.
1 reviews | Active since Sept 2017
Awesome professional advise
Brian, I would like to sincerely compliment you on your professionalism, patience, honesty, and dedication. You have been incredibly helpful and supportive throughout my legal matter, and I truly appreciate the way you have handled everything with understanding and professionalism. Thank you for your assistance and guidance.
1 reviews | Active since Aug 2026
McCarthy Ford Silver Lakes: Our Kuga Went In Driveable and Came Out Undriveable
Very disappointing experience with McCarthy Ford Silver Lakes. We drove our Ford Kuga to the dealership on 4 Aug 2026 for a normal service and with what appeared to be a relatively minor spark plug issue. After work was done on the vehicle, we were advised that it can no longer be started. We then instructed our attorneys to assist us. Our attorneys wrote to McCarthy on Friday 14 August 2026 asking them to explain exactly what was done to the vehicle, why it can no longer start and how they propose returning it to the driveable condition in which it was delivered. Despite further escalation to McCarthy and Ford earlier this week we have still received no response. All we want is an explanation of what happened to our vehicle and a sensible proposal to resolve the matter. Just not good enough Bidvest McCarthy and Ford.
1 reviews | Active since Aug 2026
McCarthy Ford Silver Lakes: Our Kuga Went In Driveable and Came Out Undriveable
Very disappointing experience with McCarthy Ford Silver Lakes. We drove our Ford Kuga to the dealership on 4 Aug 2026 for a normal service and with what appeared to be a relatively minor spark plug issue. After work was done on the vehicle, we were advised that it can no longer be started. We then instructed our attorneys to assist us. Our attorneys wrote to McCarthy on Friday 14 August 2026 asking them to explain exactly what was done to the vehicle, why it can no longer start and how they propose returning it to the driveable condition in which it was delivered. Despite further escalation to McCarthy and Ford earlier this week we have still received no response. All we want is an explanation of what happened to our vehicle and a sensible proposal to resolve the matter. Just not good enough Bidvest McCarthy and Ford.
1 reviews | Active since Apr 2021
BIDVEST LOUNGE
Not sure why ABSA would stick to this relationship. They are pathetic and don't treat ABSA private bank clients with respect. My wife who is a secondary on my account could not access the Bidvest lounge today even though she had the necessary permission and documents.
1 reviews | Active since Apr 2021
BIDVEST LOUNGE
Not sure why ABSA would stick to this relationship. They are pathetic and don't treat ABSA private bank clients with respect. My wife who is a secondary on my account could not access the Bidvest lounge today even though she had the necessary permission and documents.
1 reviews | Active since Jun 2022
Horrible service Nissan Randburg McCarthy
I traded-in a 100% mint condition car with Mr Stephen last year at this Randburg McCarthy Nissan , only to be given a s****py car . This s****py number 1 did not even last weeks in my position and had to replaced with another s****py number 2 which I drove for few months , and it had the same problems , when I query the issue they refused to repair the damages telling me as their client that they car is no longer under the dealership guarantee and said I must pay for damages. Imagine I must pay ? I’m already paying this car monthly , now I’m as speak I’m paying instalment for a non-runner sitting in the yard , and this is a finance of over R280k. The dealer principal Chantell Heynes is aware and she does not want to take accountability for the nonsense after sales service. This experience has been horrific and emotionally exhausted for me and my family . The after sales service is horrible and I would not recommend anyone to do business with them. This matter escalated to ombudsman as speak.
1 reviews | Active since Jun 2022
Horrible service Nissan Randburg McCarthy
I traded-in a 100% mint condition car with Mr Stephen last year at this Randburg McCarthy Nissan , only to be given a s****py car . This s****py number 1 did not even last weeks in my position and had to replaced with another s****py number 2 which I drove for few months , and it had the same problems , when I query the issue they refused to repair the damages telling me as their client that they car is no longer under the dealership guarantee and said I must pay for damages. Imagine I must pay ? I’m already paying this car monthly , now I’m as speak I’m paying instalment for a non-runner sitting in the yard , and this is a finance of over R280k. The dealer principal Chantell Heynes is aware and she does not want to take accountability for the nonsense after sales service. This experience has been horrific and emotionally exhausted for me and my family . The after sales service is horrible and I would not recommend anyone to do business with them. This matter escalated to ombudsman as speak.
1 reviews | Active since Aug 2024
*********, unreliable, dishonest and *****ulent!
In connection with McCarthy Audi Westrand.*********, dishonest, *****ulent idiots! Bought a bakkie that is just a mess! Took it for a full diagnostics at Ford. Sent it back to Audi they can all of a sudden not find the faults Ford found and claims everything is good. Endless promises to return the vehicle everyday and they just don't pitch. The Bidvest report says it's a single cab when it's a cab and a half, the report states that everything passed including oil etc and then the manager wants to say that the oil leaks are new when ford pointed it out and showed us where the old oil was just wiped off. The manager claims it's just a standard checklist that gets done when they purchase a vehicle to make sure it wasn't in a accident etc but we had at it at panel beaters confirming accident damage. We have spent 30k out of our pockets thus far to get the vehicle in a presentable condition and as far as the mechanical part goes we are getting little to no assistance. They owe us money for repairs, diagnostics etc that is also just empty promises to pay it back. When financing you pay for registration etc but with this dealer we had to do everything after it was mistakenly registered on my wife's mother's name and try and claim back our money. The sales person as well as the Manager is totally ***********! I cannot believe Bidvest associates themselves with this dealer! We will be seeking legal advice to cancel the deal. Unbelievable and disappointing from a reputable franchise.
1 reviews | Active since Aug 2024
*********, unreliable, dishonest and *****ulent!
In connection with McCarthy Audi Westrand.*********, dishonest, *****ulent idiots! Bought a bakkie that is just a mess! Took it for a full diagnostics at Ford. Sent it back to Audi they can all of a sudden not find the faults Ford found and claims everything is good. Endless promises to return the vehicle everyday and they just don't pitch. The Bidvest report says it's a single cab when it's a cab and a half, the report states that everything passed including oil etc and then the manager wants to say that the oil leaks are new when ford pointed it out and showed us where the old oil was just wiped off. The manager claims it's just a standard checklist that gets done when they purchase a vehicle to make sure it wasn't in a accident etc but we had at it at panel beaters confirming accident damage. We have spent 30k out of our pockets thus far to get the vehicle in a presentable condition and as far as the mechanical part goes we are getting little to no assistance. They owe us money for repairs, diagnostics etc that is also just empty promises to pay it back. When financing you pay for registration etc but with this dealer we had to do everything after it was mistakenly registered on my wife's mother's name and try and claim back our money. The sales person as well as the Manager is totally ***********! I cannot believe Bidvest associates themselves with this dealer! We will be seeking legal advice to cancel the deal. Unbelievable and disappointing from a reputable franchise.
1 reviews | Active since Jul 2015
Lack of Accountability: Fidelity Security Services Rosebank Mall
Date & Time: 15 December 2025 at approximately 16:39. Location: Rosebank Mall parking area. The Event: A Fidelity Security Services employee, Mr. Donet Mashele, struck the claimant’s parked Kia Cerato (Silver Grey, HT 66 WM GP) while operating an electric three-wheeled scooter. Police Report: The incident was reported at Rosebank Police Station (***/12/2025). The Dispute & Lack of Service Initial Cooperation: The Security Manager, Mr. Rudi Van Aarde, initially acknowledged the incident, apologized, and requested vehicle details and insurance information. Compliance: Following instructions from Fidelity, the claimant submitted three repair quotations and an affidavit confirming he would not claim from his own insurance on 12 January 2026. The Issue: Despite full compliance and numerous follow-ups since mid-January, Fidelity Security Services has failed to provide any assistance or resolution. Demand for Settlement The legal demand issued on 03 February 2026 requires Fidelity to pay: R4,100.00 for vehicle repairs (based on the lowest quote). R5,000.00 in professional legal fees incurred due to their lack of responsiveness. There has been no communication and it seems the matter is being ignored despite my cordial approach to the matter.
1 reviews | Active since Jul 2015
Lack of Accountability: Fidelity Security Services Rosebank Mall
Date & Time: 15 December 2025 at approximately 16:39. Location: Rosebank Mall parking area. The Event: A Fidelity Security Services employee, Mr. Donet Mashele, struck the claimant’s parked Kia Cerato (Silver Grey, HT 66 WM GP) while operating an electric three-wheeled scooter. Police Report: The incident was reported at Rosebank Police Station (***/12/2025). The Dispute & Lack of Service Initial Cooperation: The Security Manager, Mr. Rudi Van Aarde, initially acknowledged the incident, apologized, and requested vehicle details and insurance information. Compliance: Following instructions from Fidelity, the claimant submitted three repair quotations and an affidavit confirming he would not claim from his own insurance on 12 January 2026. The Issue: Despite full compliance and numerous follow-ups since mid-January, Fidelity Security Services has failed to provide any assistance or resolution. Demand for Settlement The legal demand issued on 03 February 2026 requires Fidelity to pay: R4,100.00 for vehicle repairs (based on the lowest quote). R5,000.00 in professional legal fees incurred due to their lack of responsiveness. There has been no communication and it seems the matter is being ignored despite my cordial approach to the matter.
1 reviews | Active since Jul 2012
Horrible service
I'm still without a car after my car gave issues after they did a major service. Two days after my car got serviced. Now Novel Ford is trying to claim from my plans and me. My car was fine and drivable. Suddenly oil pressure errors, car overheating and powerless after they worked on it. When am I getting a straight answer? When am I getting my car? I'm now about to return to work and need my car. You've kept it for December and disconnected my battery a few times but no feedback to me.
1 reviews | Active since Jul 2012
Horrible service
I'm still without a car after my car gave issues after they did a major service. Two days after my car got serviced. Now Novel Ford is trying to claim from my plans and me. My car was fine and drivable. Suddenly oil pressure errors, car overheating and powerless after they worked on it. When am I getting a straight answer? When am I getting my car? I'm now about to return to work and need my car. You've kept it for December and disconnected my battery a few times but no feedback to me.
1 reviews | Active since Sept 2024
Extremely dissatisfied with Bidvest International Lounge
My mother flew from Germany to SA (via Paris) and arrived at OR Tambo Int. on Saturday 6 Dec '25. Because of a change in flights made by the airline she used, her next flight was scheduled for the following day 9am (Jhb to Kimberley). I then decided to purchase a ticket for her to wait at the Bidvest International Lounge until the following morning (I bought two tickets seeing as one is valid for 4hours only). Upon arrival my mother was informed that the lounge is only for International DEPARTURES and she was denied access. I've checked the website again and NOWHERE does it specify that the lounge was for international departures and NOT arrivals. My mom had to wait on a bench for 9hours for her next flight. I expect the R1216 that I've paid to be refunded. The website is not clear about this and neither was the lady I spoke to when I phoned the international lounge before I purchased the tickets.
1 reviews | Active since Sept 2024
Extremely dissatisfied with Bidvest International Lounge
My mother flew from Germany to SA (via Paris) and arrived at OR Tambo Int. on Saturday 6 Dec '25. Because of a change in flights made by the airline she used, her next flight was scheduled for the following day 9am (Jhb to Kimberley). I then decided to purchase a ticket for her to wait at the Bidvest International Lounge until the following morning (I bought two tickets seeing as one is valid for 4hours only). Upon arrival my mother was informed that the lounge is only for International DEPARTURES and she was denied access. I've checked the website again and NOWHERE does it specify that the lounge was for international departures and NOT arrivals. My mom had to wait on a bench for 9hours for her next flight. I expect the R1216 that I've paid to be refunded. The website is not clear about this and neither was the lady I spoke to when I phoned the international lounge before I purchased the tickets.