Where can I complain about a car dealership in South Africa?

If you have a dispute with a car dealership in South Africa, you can lodge a formal complaint with MIOSA (Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa). The MIOSA is unbiased and focuses on the resolution of conflicts between the automotive and associated sectors and their customers, as well as relationships among automotive and related industry participants to the advantage of the parties involved.

How to lodge a complaint with MIOSA?

Before you lodge your complaint

• Do your research. Make sure you understand all of the terms of the original purchase agreement before filing a complaint. This will comprise the sales agreement, warranty document, and, if applicable, service plan.
• Check that your vehicle’s service record is up to date and that the service schedule, if applicable, has been stamped by the servicing dealer.

• Contact your selling or service dealer, find out who the appropriate person is to speak with, and schedule an appointment to discuss the concern with the designated person.
• Keep records of all discussions, intentions and promises.
• If you are unhappy with how the issue is being handled, suggest that the selling or servicing dealer arrange for a manufacturer’s representative to review the complaint, or reach out to the original manufacturer yourself if possible. (Record everything.)

In the unlikely event that you are still dissatisfied with the way your complaint is being handled by the dealership, contact the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA).

• If you are online, you can simply complete the online Assistance Request Form; or
• You can download the Assistance Request Form, complete it fully and either email it to info@miosa.co.za or fax it to 086 630 6141; or
• You can phone the MIOSA on 086 11 64672 and request that a complaint form be faxed or emailed to you.

Submit a complaint online

Click here to complete the MIOSA Online Assistance Request Form.

How long does it take?

The MIOSA will evaluate a dispute within 30 (thirty) working days after receiving the required documentation/information to reach an informed conclusion about the complaint.