Refund of R12,956.01 outstanding for over 3 weeks, three broken payment promises

I took my BMW 320i to Michanic.co.za for an oil pump replacement, chain replacement and minor service, and paid R16,600 upfront. During the work, they identified a larger issue and quoted R103,000 for an engine rebuild, which I declined on 3 August 2026. I was charged R3,600 for the diagnostic, leaving a refund of R12,956.01 owed to me.

Since then I have been given three separate dates for this refund, none of which were honoured: - Told on 10 August the refund would be paid by 14 August — not paid - Told the refund was scheduled for 21 August, with proof of payment to follow — not paid - Confirmed again in writing on 21 August that it "will be processed today" — no payment and no communication followed

I have all of this in writing across email and WhatsApp. Despite repeated written commitments, I still have not received my money or a single proof of payment. I would strongly caution anyone considering using this business, particularly if a refund of any kind becomes necessary.

I am also escalating this to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa and will be pursuing a Small Claims Court claim if this is not resolved.