What is an Ombudsman?

An ombudsman is an impartial service that considers consumer complaints about a variety of issues relating to organisations in both the private and public sectors. It is tasked with reaching outcomes for both parties which are fair and reasonable based on the evidence provided, as an alternative to going to court.

The Motor Ombudsman is the automotive dispute resolution (ADR) body. It is the first voluntary and fully-impartial private sector ombudsman for the automotive sector, providing a self-regulatory environment for the industry using its Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)-approved Motor Industry Codes of Practice.

What Is The Motor Ombudsman?

The Motor Ombudsman is the UK’s independent and impartial body dedicated to resolving disputes between motorists and automotive businesses. It offers a free Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service for complaints that cannot be resolved directly with a business. Working with accredited companies that follow its Codes of Practice, The Motor Ombudsman helps ensure fair treatment across vehicle sales, servicing and repairs.

The Motor Ombudsman complements consumer law rather than being a substitute for it.

The Motor Ombudsman is NOT:

  • A consumer or industry champion
  • A regulator
  • A government-backed watchdog
  • The voice of the automotive industry
Find out more about our powers
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Your guide to
The Motor Ombudsman

The video below explains what an ombudsman is, the role The Motor Ombudsman plays in the UK automotive industry, and how we help consumers and businesses resolve disputes fairly. Watch to find out how our impartial service works and what you can expect if you bring a complaint to us.

Find your nearest business

Find a business accredited to one of the The Motor Ombudsman’s Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)-approved Codes of Practice