A second-hand 2021 Haval H6 2.0T Premium purchased for R359,000 in cash has spent 162 days in repair workshops, according to owner Mario Angrisano, after a cascading series of electrical and mechanical failures culminated in a total engine collapse. The Brackenfell resident, 54, bought the luxury SUV from Kia Tyger Valley on December 29, 2023, using his life savings, only to experience a complete electrical blackout just two weeks later.
Consumer Rights and Legal Escalations via MIOSA and NCC
According to Angrisano, the initial electrical failure caused the digital instrument cluster, infotainment screen, indicators, headlights, and hazard lights to shut down simultaneously. After reporting the issue to Kia Tyger Valley, he was advised to visit an authorized Haval workshop. Technicians at Haval Brackenfell performed a factory software reset at the end of January 2024 without conducting an extensive investigation.
The dispute escalated after repeated repair attempts failed to resolve intermittent brake seizures, rain sensor malfunctions, and dashboard warning lights. In January 2025, the vehicle displayed critical warnings for water pump failure and severe engine overheating. Following an unsuccessful inspection at Haval Milnerton, where technicians reported no fault codes, the matter was escalated to Haval South Africa’s customer care department.
In September 2025, the vehicle suffered a complete engine failure that Angrisano links directly to the unresolved overheating problems. Although Haval authorized a complete engine replacement and returned the SUV on December 18, 2025, Angrisano claims the vehicle entered gearbox limp mode and suffered another complete electrical blackout weeks later. He has since involved the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA) seeking a full refund, with the matter subsequently referred to the National Consumer Commission (NCC).
Manufacturer Response and Ongoing Engagement
Great Wall Motor (GWM) Head of Marketing and Public Relations, Floyd Ramabulana, stated that because the complaint has been escalated to the NCC, GWM is unable to comment further. However, Ramabulana noted that the company has been engaging with the client to try and assist him. Angrisano confirmed communication with GWM Customer Care, receiving an email indicating that restoration costs and wear-and-tear items may be for his account.
Meanwhile, attempts by reporters to reach Kia representative Kieran Correia were unsuccessful. Angrisano currently drives an older Toyota Tazz, keeping the Haval parked due to safety concerns regarding unresolved defects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicle is involved in the Brackenfell dispute?
The vehicle is a second-hand 2021 Haval H6 2.0T Premium purchased from Kia Tyger Valley.
Which regulatory bodies are handling the complaint?
The dispute has been referred to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA) and the National Consumer Commission (NCC).
What was the outcome of the engine failure?
Haval authorized and completed a full engine replacement, which was returned to the owner in December 2025 before further electrical and gearbox issues reportedly occurred.
Pro Tip: When purchasing a pre-owned vehicle with cash, secure a comprehensive independent mechanical inspection and review historical workshop records to mitigate potential dispute risks.
What are your thoughts on consumer protections for second-hand vehicle buyers in South Africa? Share your perspective in the comments below or explore our latest motoring investigations.
Related reading