Mahindra Nelspruit – Brand New Vehicle With Endless Defects

I am submitting this complaint after reaching my absolute limit with Mahindra Nelspruit and a brand new Mahindra Double Cab S11 KSE Dawn that has been problematic since day one. I purchased this vehicle on 12 June 2025 as a brand new bakkie. From the moment I took ownership, it has been nothing but a continuous stream of defects, repairs, and poor workmanship. This is not what anyone expects when buying a new vehicle. List of issues experienced: Day after purchase: I noticed rusted bolts on the suspension underneath the vehicle. The control arm had to be refitted as it was loose. The fuel level sensor failed and had to be replaced due to inaccurate readings. The fuel sensor then failed AGAIN, requiring a second replacement, just before the exhaust manifold issue was discovered. One of the rear door locks failed and would not open from inside the vehicle. On the day I collected the vehicle after that repair, a dashboard warning light showed a door was open. It was then discovered that the other rear door lock was also faulty and had to be replaced. The vehicle shudders intermittently and emits a puff of smoke, which Mahindra Nelspruit claims is “normal”. This explanation is unacceptable for a new vehicle. I then noticed a loud whistling noise, which Mahindra confirmed was caused by a warped exhaust manifold that required repair. Shortly after that repair, I connected a trailer and discovered that the trailer plug does not work at all. Most recently and most seriously, after rain overnight, water poured into the cabin while driving — coming through the roof lining and interior roof light. This indicates serious water ingress, which is completely unacceptable on a new vehicle. On top of all of this, the vehicle has required multiple paint touch-ups due to poor paint quality and unprofessional workmanship from the dealer. This bakkie has spent an unreasonable amount of time being repaired instead of being driven. I have lost all confidence in the vehicle, the dealer, and the brand. This is clearly a vehicle that does not meet basic quality standards. I want to be very clear: I do NOT want a replacement vehicle. I want Mahindra to take this bakkie back and issue a FULL REFUND. In terms of the Consumer Protection Act (Sections 55 and 56), a consumer is entitled to goods that are of good quality, durable, and free of defects. This vehicle clearly fails on all counts. I am now escalating this matter publicly as Mahindra Nelspruit has had more than enough opportunities to resolve these issues. If this is not resolved urgently, I will proceed with: MIOSA Formal CPA action Further public escalation Buying a brand-new vehicle should be a positive experience. This has been nothing short of a nightmare. I expect Mahindra South Africa to intervene immediately and confirm how and when this vehicle will be returned and refunded in full.