Trusted Dealers, the online used car classified business operated in partnership with the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), has launched an independent consumer helpline.

The helpline has been launched to act as a mediation service for both consumers and dealers and will offer customers advice on all aspects of consumer rights when buying and maintaining a used car.

Neil Addley, managing director of Trusted Dealers, said “While we strongly believe and advocate that most issues can be dealt with best at dealership level there are some situations where the relationship, for whatever reason, breaks down.

“Working as part of the NFDA means we are able to give consumers a clear message that if something does go wrong they are not “alone”. This can only add to the proposition that Trusted Dealers is the safest place to buy a car online.”

The NFDA acquired a majority stake in Trusted Dealers in May this year and hopes the website will act as the consumer face for the organisation.

Sue Robinson, director of the NFDA, said: “The new consumer hotline represents an important step for the industry as it will provide the first mediation service to be incorporated into a classified site.

“In addition to offering car owners help and advice on consumer rights when buying from a franchise dealer, the hotline will also play an important role in helping broker resolutions to customer problems.”

Trusted Dealers launched in 2011 and stocks used cars from 886 used car dealers.