Repeated service problems and poor follow-up from Group1 Chery Stellenbosch

I'm very disappointed with the after-sales service we've received for our Chery Tiggo 8 Pro.

In early October, the car would not start and was taken to Group1 Chery Stellenbosch. The dealership diagnosed a failed battery and quoted over R5,000 to replace it. We found a less expensive option elsewhere. When the engine warning light remained on after the replacement, we returned to Group1 and were told a further R1,500 diagnostic charge would apply.

There was also a rear-window fault that we had reported during an earlier service. We were told the technician who handles window repairs was away for training. When we brought the car in again, the technician was away for training again, so we had to make another trip.

The engine warning light and rear-window fault were eventually addressed. A staff member at the service centre was friendly and helpful during the later visits, which I appreciated. However, the Bluetooth connectivity fault remains. We were told to "monitor" it, without a clear explanation or repair plan. The date and time were also left incorrectly set, and we still have not received clear instructions for correcting them.

We are now considering selling the car. When my wife took it to another dealer for a quote, they could not find the service booklet. Group1 later confirmed that it was still at their workshop. We had not been told this or given the booklet back.

I formally complained on 9 October and followed up several times. It took around 11 days to receive a response on LinkedIn. Chery Customer Care later asked for the vehicle details to register a case and said feedback would follow within 24 working hours after receiving them. I supplied the requested information, but as of 27 October I have had no substantive update or confirmation of who is handling the case.

The repair issues have required repeated chasing, extra trips and avoidable uncertainty. This has seriously damaged our confidence in Group1 and Chery, and we are now considering selling the vehicle.

I'm asking Group1 and Chery to provide a clear written response, properly diagnose and resolve the Bluetooth fault, explain how to set the date, return the service booklet with its records up to date, and identify who is accountable for following up.