NFDA responds to Chartered Trading Standards Institute Consumer Law Guide for Used Car Industry

“It is disappointing that following a number of responses, including our detailed comments on the draft guidance consultation, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute has ignored the majority of the issues NFDA had outlined alongside other industry trade bodies”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK.

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has published a free guide on consumer law for the UK used car industry, titled Car Traders and Consumer Law.

NFDA voiced its concern with the guidance document’s interpretation of the Consumer Rights Act 2015, particularly in areas where we believe the guidance fails to account for context and nuance in the sales process and exceeds what is required by the Act.

The UK used car market is key to the success of the automotive industry and the economy of the UK with 7.9 million used cars sold in 2019 according to the SMMT. Additionally, evidence from the independently conducted NFDA Consumer Attitude Survey 2019 showed more than half of UK motorists (55%) plan to buy a used vehicle as their next car.

Sue Robinson added, “We are concerned that the guide does not provide a clear operating environment for dealers. NFDA will continue to liaise with CTSI and highlight franchised dealers’ concerns. We will be looking at the guide in detail and communicate further updates to our members”.