New rules governing internet car sales will make it easier for vehicle retailers to provide protection for consumers.

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has published new guidance on how to comply with the Distance Selling Regulations (DSRs), which motor retailers must comply with when selling vehicles without any face-to-face contact. This includes both internet and telephone sales, and applies to both new and used vehicles.

The DSRs give consumers who buy goods without face-to-face contact specific rights including a cooling-off period, clear indication of price, information on delivery cost and arrangements, written confirmation and details of complaints and cancellation procedures.

Louise Wallis, the Retail Motor Industry Federation's business development specialist, says: “The rules surrounding distance selling have previously been unclear, so the new guidance from the OFT will be very useful to dealers.

“With the guidance in place dealers will know what their responsibilities are, and what level of service they are required to provide,” she added.

The guidance is available from the OFT and RMI members can also contact the RMI member helpline for more information.