Negligent Repairs Left Me Driving a Dangerous Vehicle
I purchased a 2011 Kia Soul from The Paddock. The listing stated the car came with a reversing camera, but during the initial test drive, I noticed it wasn’t working—along with a few other issues. They assured me all would be fixed. A week later, I came to pick up the car. Everything appeared to be working, so I paid and drove off.
On the way home (almost two hours away), it got dark. During a break, I discovered that the right tail light and right front daytime running light weren’t working. This was particularly concerning, as they had just carried out an MOT. I messaged them immediately.
The next day, they responded saying they’d check with the garage—but I never heard back until I followed up myself. Even then, the response was vague and unhelpful. Since a car without working lights is not roadworthy, I was pulled over by police and given a warning.
After more messages, they told me they couldn’t find an electrician near me, and that I’d have to either bring the car back to them or sort it out myself. I found a local auto electrician who discovered the issue: while installing the reversing camera, The Paddock had used an incompatible unit and wired it incorrectly, which caused problems with the vehicle’s lighting and electrical systems.
The new electrician disconnected the faulty system. While my lights now work, I’ve been left with no reversing camera, radio, or GPS. I was advised that a properly compatible system needs to be purchased and installed.
Since then, trying to get any meaningful response from The Paddock has been like pulling teeth. They know they messed up but don’t seem willing to take responsibility. They even claimed the radio isn’t covered under their warranty. The audacity is unbelievable.