OFT backs Motor Codes

More Motor Codes reassurance for motorists

• Automotive Service and Repair Code gains full OFT approval.
• ‘Safe haven' network of garages numbers 6,500-plus nationwide.
• Online ratings and reviews give real-time feedback from other motorists.

Motorists can now identify the UK's best garages with the full backing of the OFT.  The Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair, run by automotive body, Motor Codes, has become the latest of only 12 consumer codes to reach the exacting standards needed for full OFT approval.

The OFT endorsement is a confidence booster for motorists looking for a local garage to trust with their car.  Motor Codes has made it simple to find a garage close to you with an online postcode-based Garage Finder search tool, detailing over 6,500 garages subscribing to the Code.

And choosing from a range of garages in your area is made easy with the support of real-time feedback and ratings from previous users at http://www.motorcodes.co.uk/. Motorists are encouraged to complete an online survey after every visit giving valuable recommendations for future visitors.

It's this openness that Chris Mason, managing director at Motor Codes, believes has been instrumental in gaining OFT backing:

"Since we launched our customer survey, well over 25,000 people have rated our garages.  Transparency is vital and we let motorists do the talking, giving them the chance to champion providers of good service.  If you've moved to a new area, changed cars or are simply shopping around, it can be daunting knowing that you've got to trust a new garage with your hard-earned cash but the Motor Codes network gives the advice and support needed throughout your experience."  

The network of Motor Codes garages - 6,500-plus nationwide - ranges from main dealers to the smallest independent businesses, all committed to delivering honest, professional service. 

Most reassuring for customers of Motor Codes garages is the backing of a team of independent experts at the Motor Codes Freephone Advice Line.  And if anything does go wrong, Motor Codes operates a Fast Track resolution service that aims to resolve any issues while the car is still in the garage, alongside a more formal conciliation and legally binding arbitration service for more complicated cases.

"The stress can be taken out of getting your car serviced simply by choosing a Motor Codes garage and checking what other users have said beforehand", adds Chris.  "There's no longer any need to be anxious about choosing a garage."

Motor Codes operates three codes of practice, outlining the level of customer service that motorists should expect in relation to new car sales, car service and repair and warranty products. Its advice line, with free conciliation service for motorists, acts as an independent intermediary and its activities are overseen by a compliance panel, currently chaired by Ron Gainsford OBE, chief executive at Trading Standards.