Motor Codes has launched consultation on a possible used car sales code of practice and is inviting dealers to give their opinions on the idea.

The used car code of practice is being developed to provide a clear set of consumer expectation for products and services, in a similar fashion to Motor Codes’ existing new car, vehicle warranty and service and repair codes.

Chris Mason, managing director at Motor Codes, said: “Year-on-year motorists are faced with ‘complaint figures’ from central agencies and, however much we know that there are good garages and retailers out there, it’s impossible to gloss over these statistics and instill confidence in the customer without a formal, voluntary code of practice in place.”

Motor Codes intends to consult widely on the code content and is calling for involvement from used car retailers, consumer advisors and regulators and motorists themselves, in order to implement a meaningful set of guidelines customers can rely on.

He said: “Used car buying is particularly emotive and to really make an impact on the confidence of the car-buying public, this has got to be an inclusive process through which we can promote and differentiate the responsible business operators.

“As an industry, we’re all responsible for improving the customer mindset and experience. However, there’s also the business benefit. As we all know, satisfied customers bring in more business so I urge you to get involved in the consultation process”.

Consultation on the code content is anticipated to run throughout 2011, with a view to being open to subscribers in mid-2012.

Dealers wanting to join the consultation should send their details to ucs@motorcodes.co.uk.