Which? magazine has warned that the motor industry code of practice for service and repair is the last opportunity for the sector to get its house in order.

At  the recent launch of the website www.motorindustrycodes.co.uk  its motoring editor Richard Headland said urged workshops to back the code or else face legislation.

He fears that unless more garages embrace it, government will take action through legislation.

“We are pleased with the positive steps taken by Motor Codes to address customers’ concerns but the key challenge now is to boost the number of independent garages willing to show they are good, honest businesses,” said Headland.

“This is the last chance for the motor industry to use self-regulation and avoid government intervention, so the stakes are high. We hope to see the Motor Codes logo become a hallmark of quality for consumers to recognise and trust - which means perfectly good garages who don't sign up could risk losing business to those that have joined the scheme.”

Introduced to consumers in August 2008, the Code now has more than 5,500 subscribing garages.