NCDRC Upholds ₹3 Lakh Penalty on T&T Motors for Delay in Repairing Mercedes Benz Car

The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) has upheld a penalty of ₹3 lakh imposed on T&T Motors for a four-month delay in repairing a Mercedes Benz car. This decision stems from a complaint lodged by the car owner, who faced significant inconvenience and mental agony due to the prolonged repair process.

Background of the Case

The complainant, who purchased a Mercedes Benz C 220 from T&T Motors in November 2012, experienced a breakdown of the car in July 2013. Despite the car being under warranty, the repairs took four months to complete, prompting the owner to seek relief from the Delhi State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC).

Key Points of the Ruling

1. Compensation and Litigation Costs:
   The Delhi SCDRC had initially ordered T&T Motors to pay ₹2.5 lakhs as compensation for the inconvenience and ₹50,000 as litigation costs in May 2021. This decision was challenged by T&T Motors but was upheld by the NCDRC on July 2, 2024.
2. Service Delay:
   The NCDRC found no illegality or material irregularity in the SCDRC’s decision. It emphasized that a four-month delay in repairing a high-end car, especially one under warranty, was unjustifiable and caused considerable distress to the complainant.
3. Arguments by T&T Motors:
   T&T Motors argued that the delay was due to factors beyond their control, such as delays in approval from the complainant and the car’s insurer, and difficulty in sourcing parts. However, the NCDRC rejected these arguments, noting that the delay could not be attributed to the complainant’s actions.
4. Consumer Rights and Accountability:
   The NCDRC’s ruling reinforces the accountability of service providers in the automotive industry, ensuring that consumer rights are protected and service delays are appropriately compensated.

Implications

This ruling by the NCDRC sets a significant precedent for consumer rights in India, particularly in cases involving delays in services provided by automobile companies. It underscores the importance of timely service and adherence to warranty commitments by service providers.