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http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/STIStory_719226.html
Published on Oct 3, 2011
Stuck with an expensive lemon on four wheels
MY FAMILY bought a Mercedes-Benz last year and within two weeks of the collection of
the vehicle from Cycle & Carriage, the engine stalled.
Assuming that it was our unfamiliar handling of the car, we dismissed the problem until the Merc stalled repeatedly.
The new car was sent to the service centre many times. It was even checked by experts from Germany, but the stalling continued - it stalled eight times in a year.
When we asked for a replacement, we were told repeatedly to monitor the vehicle after each servicing.
We were promised that if the fault was not rectified, the matter would be brought to the attention of higher management.
When we finally met the senior manager, we were denied a replacement. He justified his company's stand by stating that the car should be repaired within the warranty period.
We were disappointed with the way the case was handled and it raised an important public issue: There is no law in Singapore to protect consumers like the lemon law in the United States.
I am now saddled with yet another problem, which has to do with the air-conditioning of the car.
Having paid so much money to own what we thought was a reliable marque, we have had more than our fair share of inconveniences, frustrations and time lost.
Where can we seek help?
Wendy Ng (Ms)
