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Motor Codes is calling on dealers to take part in a consultation on used car sales.
It wants to reduce the number of complaints the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) receives each year by introducing a used car sales code.
The code would be similar to the existing new car, vehicle warranty and service and repair codes operated by Motor Codes.
Chris Mason, managing director at Motor Codes, said: “Year on year motorists are faced with complaint figures from central agencies and, however much we know that there are good garages and retailers out there, it’s impossible to gloss over these statistics and instil confidence in the customer without a formal, voluntary code of practice in place.”
Motor Codes said it planned to consult widely on the code content and is calling for involvement from used car retailers, consumer advisers and regulators and motorists.
“Used car buying is particularly emotive and to really make an impact on the confidence of the car-buying public, this has got to be an inclusive process through which we can promote and differentiate the responsible business operators.
“As an industry, we’re all responsible for improving the customer mindset and experience. However, there’s also the business benefit. As we all know, satisfied customers bring in more business so I urge you to get involved in the consultation process,” said Mason.
The consultation will run throughout 2011, with a view to being open to subscribers in mid 2012. The code will be backed by the Motor Codes advice and conciliation service.
Dealers who want to take part can send their details to ucs@motorcodes.co.uk.