VW Midrand Sold a Defective Vehicle – Refusal to Accept Responsibility

I purchased a pre-owned vehicle from Volkswagen Midrand on 15 October 2024. The salesperson, Mpho, assured me that the car was in excellent condition with no issues. Less than seven months later, on 4 April 2025, a dashboard notification warned me that the car was due for service in 200 km. I booked it for service on 24 April, where I was shocked to be told the thermostat housing was leaking — requiring repairs worth R20,000. My extended warranty covered only R11,500, leaving me to pay the shortfall of R8,500.

I raised my concern with the dealership, explaining that this was a latent defect that should have been disclosed or picked up during their vehicle checks before the sale. I was told by Tony (VW service advisor) that the fault was mechanical, and I relayed this back to Mpho. He said he would escalate it to the manager, Abel. Unfortunately, I was told that because the six-month period had passed, VW Midrand refuses to take any responsibility.

Just two days later, on 10 May 2025, a "Fault: Damper" warning appeared on the dashboard, revealing yet another mechanical problem.

At this point, I have lost trust in the vehicle and the dealership. I believe the car was sold with undisclosed defects and VW Midrand is hiding behind a technicality rather than doing the right thing for the customer. I have since lodged a formal complaint with MIOSA and am seeking a full refund or a buyback, as I am left with an unreliable vehicle and growing repair costs.

I am deeply disappointed by VW Midrand's unwillingness to assist and their lack of accountability. I hope Volkswagen South Africa intervenes, as this experience damages trust in the brand.