Vehicle Sales Code

The Motor Industry Code of Practice

The Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales is the newest Code and achieved full CTSI approval in October 2016. The Code provides reassurance to motorists during the vehicle purchasing process and is applicable to both main dealer and independent car retailers.

Download a copy

  • Transparent wording in adverts and pricing
  • Vehicle provenance checks when selling a used car
  • Test drives
  • No pressurising with pushy sales
  • Accurate advice on warranty and finance products
  • A full vehicle handover with all available historic documentation, service history and valid MOT certificate

The Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales was updated on 1st June 2025.
For any disputes which occurred prior to this date, the previous version of the Code applies. If you wish to see the previous version of the Code, please email: info@tmo-uk.org, with your request and the name of the Code of Practice you would like to see, e.g. The Vehicle Sales Code.

If you have any specific questions relating to a case, and which Code is applicable, please contact our Customer Service team on: 0843 241 3008.

Find your nearest accredited business

The Motor Ombudsman’s Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)-approved Codes of Practice

Businesses interested in signing up to the Code of Practice?

Accreditation to the Motor Industry Code of Practice allows you to reassure your customers you are providing  the highest levels of customer service.

Find out more about the benefits