Jainendra jain
Posted on: 08-07-2025
I recently visited OSL Future Tata Service Centre for the first service of my Tata Tiago EV. My check-in time was 12:45 PM, and I left the centre at 6:30 PM.
Service Experience
The service advisor promptly attended to me, which I appreciated. I informed him about a few minor concerns, which he diligently noted. He explained that the first service for EVs primarily involves cleaning, washing, and software updates, with additional fluid checks and refills communicated beforehand. Fortunately, my car did not require any extra fluids, as everything was at the required level.
I was advised to wait in the customer lounge, and at 2:30 PM, the car was lifted upstairs for a software update, which was completed around 4:00 PM. After that, the advisor informed me that the car would undergo a test drive and anti-rust coating.
Concerns About the Test Drive
When I requested to join the test drive, the advisor said it was unnecessary, so I remained in the lounge. However, three staff members took the car, changed driver positions multiple times, modified the driver’s seat, co-passenger seat, and steering position, and then drove it to their own premises, which is typically used for Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), located around 15 km away from the service centre.
- Before the test drive, my car had 1,259 km on the odometer, with 55% battery.
- After the drive, it had 1,291 km, with 29% battery remaining.
- The energy efficiency dropped from 96 Wh/km to 172.8 Wh/km, and my range plummeted to 161 km from the usual 225-240 km.
While I understand that test drive was a routine part of service, the manner in which the car was driven was unacceptable, as it significantly impacted my vehicle's efficiency and range. When I asked for an explanation, the staff did not have a clear response.
Additionally, the anti-rust coating was not done at the service centre, but at this secondary location. Although the advisor shared images of the coating process, I was uncomfortable with how the situation was handled.
Charging Issue & Handling
I was told they would charge the car before returning it, but the fast charger was unavailable, and the car was only charged 2-4% before delivery.
Driving EVs and ICE cars is fundamentally different, and unfortunately, the staff did not seem adequately skilled in handling EVs. Even after my next full charge almist 4 to 5 times the range has not returned to its previous level, making me question whether any lasting impact was caused during the service.
Upon sending the feedback it was told that the technical team will give a call to explain the situation which never came.
Positive Aspects
On the brighter side:
- Customer service was welcoming, and I was even offered lunch, which was appreciated.
- The car was polished properly before being returned.
- Upon request, the cladding was cleaned again, which I was happy with.
Final Thoughts
While I had initially hoped this service centre would offer a better experience—especially given their background handling Skoda and Volkswagen vehicles, and some positive reviews—the handling of my car during the test drive left me disappointed.
Despite this, I would still recommend the service centre for general servicing, but I sincerely hope they improve their approach to EV handling and ensure transparency with customers during long test drives.