Baku, August 18, 2025 — A new car purchase has turned into an ongoing struggle for Baku resident Farid Hasanaliyev, who says his recently bought BAIC X55 — worth more than 33,000 manats — developed a serious defect after less than 1,000 kilometers on the road.
According to Hasanaliyev, the vehicle fails to start properly when fueled with 92-octane gasoline, despite manufacturer instructions on the tank cap and in the manual indicating this type of fuel is suitable.
“When I fill up with 92, the car only starts on the fourth or fifth attempt. The dealership told me to drive it for a while and the problem would go away. I did — but nothing changed,” he said.
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The car was later kept at the Performance Center service facility for a week. Hasanaliyev claims staff suggested updating the vehicle’s software, but then told him the required program was not available.
He says the car operates without issue on 95-octane fuel.
“When I use 95, it starts immediately. Their excuse is that local fuel quality is below standard — but that is not my problem. I bought a car that should work with 92, as officially recommended,” Hasanaliyev noted.
Attempts by local media to contact the dealership went unanswered. Calls were not returned, and on-site staff declined to comment, citing a non-working day. Hasanaliyev has stated he intends to file a complaint with law enforcement to defend his consumer rights.
A Broader Problem With Chinese Cars
Hasanaliyev’s case highlights a wider frustration among Azerbaijani car buyers. Industry experts note that while Chinese vehicles have grown popular due to their lower price tags and modern design, the market is plagued by poor after-sales support and service gaps.
Lack of qualified technicians: Most service centers are not equipped with trained specialists for diagnostics or complex repairs.
Frequent model changes: Chinese manufacturers often push new models into the market but fail to secure a steady supply of spare parts for earlier versions, leaving owners stranded when breakdowns occur.
No real warranties: Cars brought in by unofficial importers usually come without reliable guarantees. Even those sold through dealers are often subject to vague or unenforceable service promises.
Consumer advocates warn that many buyers are lured by the attractive prices of Chinese cars, only to face mounting costs and uncertainty later. Hasanaliyev’s BAIC X55 is one of many examples underscoring the risks of weak quality control and insufficient after-sales infrastructure.
