Pros 
Cons A Cloud of Concern: Recurring Complaints & Pricing Issues
Silver Taxi Service Sydney, despite appearing prominently in search results, seems to be generating a significant amount of user concern and criticism. A recurring theme revolves around inflated fares and deceptive pricing practices. Several reviewers have reported being charged significantly more than quoted or expected, particularly on airport runs. One user recounted a 12-minute airport journey costing $43, a stark contrast to the $19 estimate provided by Uber. Another individual described being presented with a fixed price of $68, far exceeding the $30 quoted by both 13cabs and Uber, and ultimately paying $54 by the meter – without the option of Cabcharge payment. The tactic of covering the taximeter with a POS machine, as described by one customer, raises serious questions about transparency and ethical operation. The experience highlights a potential disconnect between perceived branding ("Silver Service") and actual delivery.
"Bought their way to the top of the promoted search results, then said it would be more than double the price of an actual Silver Service taxi." - A frustrated user, commenting on deceptive search placement.
These issues are compounded by a lack of responsiveness from the company itself. Multiple reviewers lamented the failure of Silver Taxi Service to acknowledge or address their complaints, further eroding trust. This lack of customer service echoes in the broader narrative, suggesting an operational focus that prioritises volume over quality and customer satisfaction. The reported consistent issues justify seeking alternative transport solutions, especially given the potential for unpredictable and inflated costs.
Reliability & Professionalism: A Mixed Bag
Beyond pricing, the dependability and professionalism demonstrated by Silver Taxi Service appears inconsistent. While some customers praise the service as “fantastic” and "on time" with “pleasant drivers," these positive accounts are frequently offset by significant concerns. The experience with the car seat booking presents a particularly troubling scenario. Despite the company’s marketing highlighting experience with car seats, the driver arrived late, the seat was incorrectly installed, and no assistance was provided with luggage. This point speaks to a core problem: the discrepancy between advertised service levels and the reality encountered by passengers.
Here's a breakdown of reported reliability issues:
| Issue | Frequency of Mention | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Lateness | Frequent | Moderate |
| Incorrect Car Seat Installation | Present | High (Safety Concern) |
| Lack of Luggage Assistance | Present | Moderate |
| Taxi Cancellations (Surry Hills) | Frequent | High (Safety Risk for Elderly) |
| Rude/Unhelpful Booking Staff | Present | Moderate |
Furthermore, the persistent taxi cancellations affecting bookings made through an elderly gentleman, forcing him to walk home alone at night, represents a serious safety risk. This raises concerns about booking management and potential disregard for passenger vulnerability. It’s evident that service quality is not consistently maintained.
Communication Breakdown & Booking Woes
The issues don’t stop at on-road experience. Many negative reviews cite problems with communication and the booking process itself. One user described a particularly frustrating interaction with a booking operator, characterised by rudeness and an insistence on a "full address" despite the destination being a well-known landmark like Bondi Pavilion. This lack of basic courtesy and knowledge of Sydney locations is unacceptable for a professional taxi company. The consistent cancellations reported, especially affecting vulnerable individuals, also point to a deeper systemic problem with their booking and dispatch system. It's clear there is a need for significant improvement in how Silver Taxi Service handles customer interactions and manages bookings.
The booking challenges highlight a potential problem: the lack of a streamlined, user-friendly booking experience, particularly when compared to competitors like Uber and 13cabs. Addressing these communication issues is vital for restoring confidence and providing a professional image.
A Question of Reputation & Future Prospects
Silver Taxi Service's current 3.3-star rating is reflective of these widespread concerns. The contradictory reports—praise for timeliness and pleasant drivers alongside accusations of deceptive pricing and unprofessional conduct—paint a picture of inconsistency. The claim of being a "top service taxi company" feels increasingly ironic, given the overwhelming number of negative experiences shared online. The surfacing of false marketing practises – seemingly manipulating search results to appear as "Silver Service Taxi" when they are not – adds another layer of mistrust and questionable ethics.
The company's future hinges on addressing these core issues. Transparent pricing, reliable driver behaviour, improved booking processes, and robust customer service are all essential for regaining customer trust and justifying the "Silver Taxi Service" name. Until these problems are addressed, it seems that prospective passengers will be sensible to explore alternatives, especially those concerned about fair pricing and a reliable, professional experience. The phone number +61 483 960 080 might be difficult to trust given the events expressed by reviewers.