Ford and other dealers whose manufacturers' approved used car warranties were underwritten through Warranty Holdings have been prevented from completing deals pending new underwriting arrangements, following Ford's decision last week to put WH into administration last week.

”Car dealers have been left in an uncertain position by Warranty Holdings' move into receivership,” commented Matthew Carrington, chief executive of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) on26 March.

Carrington said: “We were deeply concerned by the news. Warranty Holdings have announced that they will not underwrite any new business, but it is our hope that they will honour existing claims. The RMI intends to investigate this matter, and if possible assist members in finding alternative arrangements for their warranty coverage. RMI members that have any immediate concerns should call the RMI Helpline.”

WH competitors are already reporting increased dealer business.