What should you do if things go wrong?
- Go back to the seller right away;
- Explain the problem and;
- Say what you would like done.
If you purchased the vehicle from a dealer who is a member of one of the trade associations (details can be found below), they may be able to help you as there is a code of practice for dealing with complaints:
- You can go to court or use a trade association conciliation/arbitration scheme (a consumer adviser/solicitor can explain the procedure).
- If you are a member of the AA, they can provide legal advice if you have a problem with buying a used vehicle.
Useful contact details
The Motor Industries Federation represents all member businesses that operate in the "automotive aftermarket" of the retail motor industry. There are 12 separate associations which constitute the RMI Including: NADA - the franchised retail motor dealers selling new and used vehicles, as well as selected independent used vehicle operations; SAFDA. - The Fuel Dealers Association, which represents service stations and M.I.W.A. - The Motor Industry Workshop Association that represents workshops countrywide.
For complaints about member businesses that operate in the automotive aftermarket, contact:
RMI Regional Offices:
Bloemfontein Tel (051) 430 3294
Cape Town Tel (021) 939 9440
Johannesburg Tel. (011) 886 6300
Kwa-Zulu Natal Tel (031) 266 7031
Port Elizabeth Tel (041) 364 0070
Pretoria Tel (011) 886 6300
For complaints relating to insurance claims contact:
The Insurance Ombudsman
Tel 086 066 2837