The State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ruled in favor of Harshbir Singh Banga, instructing American automaker Ford and its Chandigarh dealership to refund him Rs. 59 lakh or provide a new Mustang. Banga, an automotive enthusiast, faced a critical engine failure in his Ford Mustang GT Race, prompting dissatisfaction with the offered warranty engine replacement. Concerned about potential adverse impacts on the car’s resale value and performance, Banga approached the district consumer commission, seeking resolution from Ford India and the dealership.
Following a comprehensive examination of the complaint, the district commission favored Banga’s claims, directing Ford and the dealership to either replace the Mustang or refund the full purchase amount.
In addition, Banga received Rs. 1 lakh in compensation and Rs. 15,000 for litigation costs. Ford India and the dealership contested this decision, appealing before the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. Despite their arguments, the state commission upheld the lower commission’s ruling, emphasizing the discrepancy between Ford’s asserted exceptional quality and the premature engine failure in Banga’s Mustang. The state commission questioned Ford India’s reluctance to offer a satisfactory resolution, expressing bewilderment at their refusal to replace the vehicle or refund the cost.
