Our MG5 electric vehicles have spiraled out of control, and MG seems unresponsive to the situation.
After utilizing a charger at one site, the vehicle experienced a power system failure at a highway service station.
The car became unresponsive to all controls, including the off button. Consequently, we called the AA. The patrolman was able to start the engine and opted to take a test drive with my family onboard as it was pouring rain.
When the patrolman shifted the car into reverse, it surged forward and wouldn’t stop, even when he pressed the brakes. The vehicle collided with an AA van, and as it attempted to accelerate, its wheels spun and began smoking.
We all exited the vehicle safely, and eventually, a patrolman managed to switch the car off from outside. I was informed it wasn’t safe to drive.
The AA arranged for a tow truck to bring it to the dealership, covering the repairs (£2,500). A police vehicle was also damaged in the incident.
The dealership is scrutinizing the defect, and there will be a charge of £500 in costs. No issues were identified. MG insists the matter has been resolved and intends to pursue further investigation at their own cost.
Six weeks on, the vehicle remains with the dealership. I am reluctant to drive until I know it’s safe, yet I can’t afford continued investigations.
AB, East Lothian
You are not the sole MG owner facing issues. One individual was forced to ram his car into a police van due to brake failure.
I requested a technical report from the AA, confirming that the vehicle “jumped forward” when shifted to reverse.
It’s understandable to hesitate before getting behind the wheel until the issue is identified, and since the vehicle is still under warranty, it’s reasonable to avoid spending personal funds on the repairs.
MG Motor UK appears surprisingly indifferent, given the potential dangers posed by malfunctioning EVs. The dealership recommended that MG’s technical department investigate the issue and provide guidance, but MG let it go.
MG merely issued an apology for the “inconvenience” following your complaint.
My inquiries regarding whether the dealer-requested investigation was conducted prior to resolving the incident and how many similar cases they’ve acknowledged concerning power failures were side-stepped.
However, the company promptly initiated a more comprehensive assessment of the vehicle and conducted a 45-mile test drive, using various public charging stations. There will be no charges for this test or any previous evaluations.
“MG considers all reported issues related to malfunctions a priority. No associated faults with onboard equipment or the vehicle’s charging capabilities were discovered.”
“MG and our authorized dealer have meticulously examined the vehicle and concluded that an error occurred that isn’t linked to the vehicle itself. We will continue to provide support to our customers with relevant information and advice.”
This places you in a challenging position. Your car is deemed healthy, yet your trust in it has waned. Consequently, you’ve decided that selling it is the best course of action.
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