Think at least 100 times before deciding to deal with Kulathunkal Motors, Trivandrum. Share this with anyone you may know of having a plan to buy a new car.
Here is the latest of my bad experiences with them. In April this year, during regular service, they "changed" the clutch assembly (even though I was not feeling any issues with the car) as they said it was “worn out”. I was handed over a bill of nearly Rs.22, 000, out of which, a whopping Rs.8, 000 was labor charges for various "checks".
Last week, I approached an experienced mechanic (non-Kulathunkal) as the car was showing irregular engine revs. The issue was very simple - the clutch had been completely worn out!!! A clutch assembly which must last at least 40000 km lasted just over 8000 km. The Kulathunkal had either not changed the clutch assembly or they used a cheap, low quality one** after charging the full amount for a brand new clutch assembly.
I had a similar experience with the Fog lamp assembly too, in the past. So, if you or anyone of know of having any plan to buy a new TATA or Fiat car, please keep this in mind – you may get taken for a ride.