Skywell ET5 Steering Sticking Issue Raises Safety Concerns
My 2023 Skywell ET5 began experiencing steering issues at just 19,000 km. The steering wheel started sticking. I contacted Skywell’s distributor, Ulu Motor, and learned that the nearest authorized service center was in Adana. On October 30, 2024, I went to Skywell Enderboğa Service in Adana. After a test drive with the service advisor and technician, they confirmed there was a problem with the steering and stated that it was a known, chronic issue. I was told a service record would be opened and the steering component would be replaced under warranty.
In the first week of November, I was informed that the replacement had been approved and that the part could arrive within 1 to 1.5 months, though delays were possible.
During this time, the steering problem worsened significantly. Since we use the vehicle daily for commuting to work and taking our children to school, we experienced several near-accidents due to the steering sticking and becoming stiff while driving.
On December 18, 2024, we spoke with Skywell Ulu Motor, the general distributor, and explained that the steering was sticking during driving and creating a serious traffic safety risk. We were told the part would arrive in mid- to late January 2025.
Today, January 17, 2025, when I spoke with Mr. O****** from Ulu Motor, I was told the part might arrive in March and would be installed in order of queue—if my turn came up. It appears the distributor is simply stalling customers and failing to stand behind its brand. As far as I know, the Ministry of Trade sets the maximum repair period for automobiles at 45 business days. However, the time taken to supply this part has far exceeded that limit. I will be submitting videos and photos through official notice and on social media showing this chronic steering defect, which even the company and its service centers acknowledge. Why does a company that admits this is a known issue not keep parts in stock and instead leave customers waiting for months? In the event of an accident, how will they take responsibility?
