Mercedes Benz takes MONTHS to send parts, thus leaving you without your car for MONTHS

If you are deciding on a luxury brand to drive, please consider my experience. In 2022 we were very excited for our new GLE that we purchased. I wish someone had warned me before I chose Mercedes over other brands.

On 1 January 2023, we had an accident in our vehicle. We booked the vehicle in for repairs that week and worked closely with our insurance on the process, who has approved all parts claimed but the parts do not get sent to SA from Mercedes Benz Germany. It has been FIVE MONTHS and my car is still not ready for me to drive. The only feedback that is offered is that Mercedes Benz has problems with their suppliers and cannot send the parts on time. I have received feedback from the panel-beaters and my insurance company stating that this is a big problem with Mercedes and all clients struggle to have parts delivered when needed. I am told it is a global issue with Mercedes. I am an only parent that can drive my child around to school and activities, and I have a full-time job, but after FIVE MONTHS, still do not have my car because Mercedes Benz could not provide the parts in a reasonable time.

I have been in constant contact with Mercedes Benz since the incident but still do not have my car because the parts are not delivered. The only excuse Mercedes offered throughout this time, is that they have challenges with their suppliers (ongoing since 2022) and they cannot tell me how long parts will take. I have thus spent 5 months unsure of when I will have my car again.