Code of practice 'could raise car hire standards'

A new code of practice which has been introduced for garages could help raise the standard of car hire vehicles.

The Motor Industry Code of Practice is designed to enable consumers and car hire firms to easily identify which garages are deemed to deal with car issues responsibly.

Car hire firms will consequently know which mechanics will do the best job with their cars, giving rental customers a better service, while good garages should benefit from increased custom, in theory.

A spokesperson for the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF), said: "The code is great news for the industry, as it promotes and safeguards the interests of consumers by helping them identify subscribing businesses and providing an easily accessible and robust dispute resolution mechanism, should it be necessary.

"This will benefit the reliable and professional businesses that make up the vast majority in the sector."

Consumer affairs minister Gareth Thomas has urged independent garages to sign up to the new Motor Industry Code of Practice.

Mr Thomas has advised mechanics that the code is an affordable "must-have" business tool.

He added: "The code has got off to an encouraging start with some 5,000 businesses already committed to participate. A successful code is good news for consumers and business. It means garages show a clear intent to operate an open and honest business which attracts customers.

"It's particularly important during the economic downturn that consumers are reassured they're getting a good deal."

Key points of the code include that garages provide car hire firms with a written estimate of how much the work needed to be done will cost, which should include a breakdown of the repairs and maintenance that will be performed.

The terms and conditions of a garage's repair work should be clearly written and displayed within their premises. Furthermore, a consumer's cancellation rights have been bolstered by the code. He or she can cancel a service or repair at any time in writing, subject to legal liability.

Garages have a duty of care to inform customers when parts they have been provided with are covered by a manufacturer's warranty and cannot carry out additional work or labour without consulting the car hire firm or consumer in advance, making them aware of the extra cost.

A spokesperson for the RMIF concluded: "The Motor Industry Code of Practice is the route to success for the motor industry, as it will help to safeguard and improve standards, for the benefit of industry itself, and consumers."

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