A Storm of Complaints: Recurring Issues Plague Prime Taxi
Prime Taxi currently holds a dismal rating of 2.10 out of 5, reflecting a significant volume of concerning customer feedback. A recurring theme points to dishonest practices by certain drivers, specifically regarding fare manipulation and route selection. Several customers allege that Prime Taxi drivers deliberately choose the longest routes, artificially inflating the fares. One reviewer highlighted how a trip from the Singapore Zoo to Orchard Road cost them $40, compared to the $25 typically charged by CDG Zig. Another reported being charged $61.73 for a direct airport run with no traffic, far exceeding previous trips with traffic. A disturbing pattern emerges: drivers allegedly prevent passengers from reviewing the route breakdown before processing payments via Eftpos, providing hastily scribbled, incomplete receipts. The lack of transparency and accountability surrounding fare calculations is a major point of contention.
"Absolute disgraceful company. I was picked up from 1 Marina Bay and taken to the airport with no traffic. The driver charged me $61.73 which was double the cost I got charged when I went into the city with traffic. He did not allow me to see the route expense and just plugged the total straight into the Eftpos machine... Terrible rude driver, very aggressive and the last time I'll get a taxi in Singapore."
Furthermore, one reviewer specifically identified a driver "with long beard and middle eastern appearance" driving a black Toyota Camry (license plate SHD2121) as being particularly problematic and worthy of caution.
Safety Concerns: Dangerous Driving and Reckless Behavior
Beyond fare discrepancies, a worrying number of reviews raise serious concerns regarding driver safety and driving practices. Multiple customers reported experiencing dangerously aggressive and reckless driving by Prime Taxi drivers. This includes tailgating, speeding, abrupt lane changes, and cutting off other vehicles. One particularly alarming account described a near-miss incident involving a motorcyclist near Changi Airport, attributing the dangerous behaviour to the driver's constant lane changes and speeding. A customer expressed profound fear for their mother’s safety when the driver ignored requests to slow down, instead accelerating and stating his vast experience made such behaviour acceptable. It’s clear that a minority of drivers present a genuine risk to public safety, demanding immediate investigation and corrective action.
"This driver SHD2121 almost killed me and a motorcyclist near Changi Airport. He was in and out of lanes, speeding, cutting."
Safety Concerns Reported | Frequency |
---|---|
Speeding | High |
Tailgating | Medium |
Reckless Lane Changes | High |
Ignoring Requests to Slow Down | Medium |
Dangerous Driving Overall | High |
A Diamond in the Rough: Praise for Exceptional Drivers & Service Interactions
Despite the overwhelming negativity, a few reviews highlight exceptionally positive experiences with specific Prime Taxi drivers. Yen Sim Thong receives repeated, glowing praise for his punctuality, politeness, and extensive knowledge of Singaporean culture, food, and history. One customer recounted how Yen Sim Thong provided compassionate transportation during an unforeseen surgical emergency, offering quick and reliable service with genuine care. This demonstrates that while issues are present, Prime Taxi does have the potential to deliver exceptional service when staffed by dedicated and empathetic drivers. These positive experiences offer a glimmer of hope amid the widespread complaints.
"We had the pleasure of being introduced to Yen Sim Thong a driver for Prime Taxi. He was punctual, polite and very informative, we learnt so much about Singapore’s culture, food and history. Yen Sim Thong is an exceptional driver and I highly recommend his services."
Customer Support & Lost Item Frustrations: A System in Need of Overhaul
Several reviewers voiced frustration with Prime Taxi's customer support and handling of lost items. A recurring grievance is the lack of after-hours support, with the hotline only operating during standard business hours. Customers who have lost items report a cumbersome system requiring email submissions and prolonged wait times for a response, leaving them feeling helpless and unsupported during urgent situations. One individual described the situation as reflecting a “third world” standard of service and lamented the inability to even track a completed journey. The inability to resolve issues promptly, especially regarding lost belongings or accidents, significantly negatively impacts customer satisfaction. A 24/7 hotline is deemed crucial for a taxi service operating around the clock.
"I lost an item in a Prime Taxi and was extremely disappointed with the lack of after-hours support…A 24/7 hotline is necessary for a company with taxis operating around the clock. Please improve your customer service."