Introduction

In a shocking turn of events, 66-year-old private-hire driver Seng Kim Wang found himself in a financial nightmare after purchasing a used Toyota Sienta Hybrid for an astonishing $65,800. The drama began when Seng spotted a Facebook advertisement leading him to Kartiam Singapore's listing on Motorist Singapore on September 28.

The Purchase

Eager to drive his own vehicle, Seng was persuaded by dealer Jordy Yong to put down a $5,000 deposit. He signed the sales agreement at CarVault-AML’s showroom, and was promised that his new car would be delivered by October 10. However, things quickly went downhill after the car was delivered to a carpark in Tengah. Mr. Yong claimed the transfer of ownership could not occur because it was after office hours and demanded the remaining amount of $60,800—forcing Seng to pay in full despite his better judgment.

Promises and Problems

"I thought paying upfront would allow me to work without worrying about rental costs," Seng lamented. Yet after making this large payment, he found himself tangled in a web of excuses and inaction regarding the ownership transfer. Yong continually insisted he was waiting for Motorist Singapore to complete the paperwork.

Repossessed!

On October 18, Yong even told Seng that his employer was prepared to compensate him for lost income while the ownership was being sorted out. However, just four days later, Seng discovered that the car had mysteriously vanished from the carpark. A Motorist Singapore employee informed him that the vehicle had been repossessed along with others belonging to Kartiam, which was reportedly embroiled in legal troubles.

Confrontation and Consequences

When Seng returned to CarVault-AML in late November to confront Yong, he was met with hostility from another employee, who advised him to take the issue up with Motorist Singapore, dismissing Seng's plight in a manner he described as "aggressive."

Escalating Financial Pressure

Now facing escalating financial pressure, Seng has taken out a loan to buy another car, putting him back in the same precarious situation he sought to escape. "It's my hard-earned savings that went into that purchase, and now my son has to co-sign for my new loan. The stress has been unbearable. I've been losing sleep over this," he expressed.

Seeking Justice

Seeking justice, Seng filed a police report, but was informed that the issue falls under civil dispute, leading him to consider legal action against Kartiam. He demands reimbursement of $65,589.31 for the car and its insurance, as well as $7,365.54 for income lost during this ordeal, but his attempts to contact Kartiam have gone unanswered.

Recent Developments

As of December 16, curious observers noted that Kartiam’s social media presence has dwindled, with both their Facebook and Instagram accounts appearing deleted, although their TikTok account remains active.

Involvement of CarVault-AML

The situation has also brought CarVault-AML into the spotlight, which stated that they have no involvement in the sale and that Yong has been suspended pending an internal investigation, emphasizing the showroom was merely a convenience for the transaction.

Conclusion

The fallout from this incident raises numerous questions about the integrity of used car transactions in Singapore, highlighting the potential risks involved with such significant investments. Will Seng find resolution, or is he destined to continue his uphill battle for justice? Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story!