Independent garages urged to embrace Industry Code of Practice

The automotive service and repair sector currently faces a number of serious issues – none more urgent than the threat of legislation in the form of licensing. By subscribing to the low-cost, consumer-focussed Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair, any garage can ensure it is in the best position to demonstrate a commitment to open and honest business to its customers and to government.

“The Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair is unique because it is a low-cost scheme which benefits customers and businesses alike,” said Chris Mason, director of Motor Codes Ltd. “While the franchised operations have been quick to see the advantages of committing to the Code, it is vital that independent outlets also embrace it to demonstrate to everyone that as a sector, we are capable of managing our own affairs.”

As a cross-industry Code, it received the support of organisations including the Retail Motor Industry Federation and Independent Garage Association who are urging members of their bodies to subscribe. To help them spread the message, Motor Codes Ltd has created a one page summary of what the Code means and why independent garages need seriously to consider being part of this, to satisfy consumer bodies and government that the garage trade is honest and, where required, has cleaned up its act. The information sheet will also appear in some trade journals and industry magazines.

Any UK garage can sign up to the voluntary Code, which is currently progressing through the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) Consumer Codes Approval Scheme (CCAS) and has completed the first stage of the OFT’s code approval process.

For full details on the Code, go to website service.motorindustrycodes.co.uk