Motor Codes: can they help car buyers?

What do they cover?

New cars - The codes oversee parts availability complains, advertising and every aspect of new vehicle sales.

Servicing and repair - Garages signed up to the scheme must recognise a wide range of formally agreed standards ranging from customer care to invoicing.

Warranties - The codes are claimed to set higher standards for pre-sales information, cancellation rights and protected claims funds.

What are the advantages for motorists?

Car owners who require consumer advice have access to the Motor Codes helpline (0800 692 0825).

Benefits also include:

• Transparent pricing and invoicing.
• A free conciliation service.
• Low cost arbitration.
• A web-based motoring advice centre (www.motorcodes.co.uk/motoring-advice).
• A list of accredited garages.

Why are the codes being introduced?

Cars represent a big investment, and many buyers feel outside their comfort zones when buying them.

Some punters don’t trust the motor trade. According to a Motor Codes survey, over 14m car owners feel they’ve been cheated over servicing and repair costs.

What does it actually mean?

According to the scheme’s backers, the codes provide consumers with a single point of contact for a wide variety of car-related issues.

By Martin Gurdon

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