The Vehicle & Operator Services Agency (VOSA) is urging MoT stations to sign up to the Motor Codes code of practice for service and repair.

VOSA said that despite the MoT stations would have already had to demonstrate their competence to fulfil VOSA’s own accreditation process, the MoT stations would be demonstrating their commitment to customer service.

Alex Fiddes, VOSA chief operating officer, said: “We would encourage MoT garages to sign up to industry codes and seek to improve standards for motorists.

"This code is specifically aimed at providing reassurance to consumers and comfortably operates alongside other schemes - which can only help during what is clearly a challenging time for any business.”

Both independent and franchised garages can apply to become an authorised examiner and carry out MoT tests but applicants must employ suitably qualified and experienced mechanics and be able to demonstrate that they are reputable businesses.

Chris Mason, Motor Codes director, said:”Motor Codes is about promoting the honest majority and stamping out the rogue traders.

“At £75 per year, subscription to the code is one of the most cost-effective marketing tools a garage can have and those unwilling to sign up will increasingly be identified by motorists as businesses not able to deliver good customer protection.

MoT testing stations are already approved for their high standards of work so it stands to reason that this should be matched in their approach to their customers.”

Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair commits subscribing garages to:

• Honest and fair services
• Open and transparent pricing
• Completing work as agreed
• Invoices that match quoted prices
• Competent and conscientious staff
• A straightforward, swift complaint procedure

And offers motorists:

• An online search facility allowing consumers to locate their nearest subscribing garage
• A free consumer advice line
• Free conciliation and low cost, legally binding arbitration

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