First ICAP report shows Code subscribers performing well

The Motor Codes Ltd, Independent Compliance Assessment Panel (ICAP) held its first meeting last month to review the performance of the Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair and compliance of its subscribers. Further meetings will be held every three months and to ensure transparency in the monitoring of industry codes of practice and operation, copies of each ICAP meeting report will be freely available to all.

The focus of the initial ICAP meeting was the Code launched in August 2008 to promote and safeguard the interests of consumers by helping them identify subscribing garages, and provide an easily accessible and robust dispute resolution mechanism when required. To assist in the process of satisfying consumer bodies and government that the sector is capable of managing its own affairs, ICAP will meet to carry out reviews, make recommendations accordingly and supply evidence to the OFT and Trading Standards for monitoring purposes.

The panel will contribute to the successful progress in automotive self-regulation and to ensure a balanced view, each group will be formed with at least one representative from the consumer lobby, another from the automotive industry and someone from the wider business community.

“In view of the fact that the Code was launched only a few months ago, we are very encouraged by the overall performance of the subscribing garages,” said Chris Mason, director of Motor Codes Ltd. “ICAP was able to identify some very successful examples of how this cross-industry initiative has been able to benefit consumers.”

Over the four month period reviewed, only one case gave the panel great concern – one subscriber failed to engage in the full and proper conciliation process with a customer. After evaluation of a full summary and case notes, it was decided unanimously to expel the garage as it had clearly breached the terms and conditions of the Code and its subscription.

“We are obviously disappointed that a garage has failed to meet the requirements of the Code, but it is only one subscriber out of nearly 5,000 reviewed,” continued Chris Mason.

Any UK garage can sign up to the voluntary code, which has already completed stage one of the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) Consumer Codes Approval Scheme. To comply with the code, a garage needs to commit to meet the requirements for completing service and repair work whilst doing business with its customers.

Full details of the Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair including a fully searchable directory of subscribing garages can be found at the website www.motorcodes.co.uk.

PDF of ICAP Report


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