Vehicle dealers need to make sure they are ready for new consumer protection rules coming into force in 2008, according to the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association.

The Unfair Commercial Practices Directive passes into law in 2008 and will provide better protection for the consumer.

The Directive will harmonise unfair trading laws in all EU Member States, and introduces a general prohibition on traders not to treat consumers unfairly. This prohibition is intended to act as safety-net consumer protection legislation.
Under the Directive businesses must not mislead consumers through acts or omissions, or use pressure-selling techniques.

According to NFDA Director Sue Robinson, this is good for motor retailers.
“The implementation of the Directive will enable car dealers to focus their internal consumer relations monitoring, and provide even better service than they already do.”
However, the director believes there are still some areas that will need further adjustmen, adding, “The new rules will mean more administration for dealers to deal with, and will add more work to the existing heavy load borne by Trading Standards officers. There are also some questions on where the burden of proof will lie in disputes.”