Car Trouble: A Singaporean’s Nightmare with a Defective BMW
Tan Yong Chang, a 27-year-old logistics worker, is facing a frustrating situation that many Singaporeans can relate to. After borrowing a hefty sum from the bank to buy a car, he now finds himself relying on taxis for his daily commute. Imagine paying for a vehicle that you can’t even drive—it’s like throwing money down the drain!
The Purchase Gone Wrong
In August, Tan made a $500 deposit on a used BMW E60 5 Series 523i from Evolution Motors Private Limited. During the test drive, he noticed several alarming issues: the paint was peeling, the engine was sputtering, and there were problems with the shock absorbers and door locks. Despite these red flags, the dealer, Farhan Abdul Azis, assured Tan that everything would be fixed before handing over the keys.
However, when Tan finally took the car home on September 29, he was given a non-functioning key. To make matters worse, the vehicle wasn’t even washed as promised! Tan expressed his disappointment, stating, “I trusted Farhan because he was the boss. But he turned out to be worse than a salesman.”
Ongoing Frustrations
Tan’s troubles didn’t stop there. He described how the car would shake whenever he pressed the accelerator. Even after filing a police report on November 19, he felt lost and frustrated. “They should just tell the truth and stop making excuses,” he said, referring to the dealership’s constant blame on Covid-19 and supply chain issues for the delays in fixing his car.
Now, Tan is forced to spend an additional $80 daily on taxi fares for deliveries and meetings. Although he owns a van, he can’t park it in multi-storey lots due to low ceilings. “I bought the car to save time, but now it feels unsafe to drive,” he lamented.
Voices of Other Customers
Tan’s experience is not unique. Other car buyers have come forward with similar complaints about Evolution Motors. A second-hand Mercedes Benz owner reported that his car broke down just hours after purchase. First-time car owner Nishit Shah from Tampines shared his frustration after his vehicle was held at the dealership for weeks.
These stories serve as a cautionary tale for potential car buyers in Singapore. Under the Lemon Law, customers are protected against defective goods purchased within six months, covering both new and used vehicles.
A Lesson for Future Buyers
The horror story of Tan and others highlights the importance of being vigilant when purchasing a car. Always do your research and ensure that the dealership is reputable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and insist on a thorough inspection before making a purchase.
For more information on consumer rights in Singapore, check out the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE).
In the end, Tan’s ordeal serves as a reminder to all car buyers: be cautious and informed to avoid becoming another victim of a lemon purchase.