Warranties
Important Information for Motorists who wish to have the freedom of choice.
Car Servicing during the Warranty Period and beyond.
Did you know that in October 2003 European Union legislation, which could save you money, affecting the motor trade came into force? Its official title is ‘Block Exemption regulations 1400/2002 (BER).
This legislation changes the way cars may be legally serviced and repaired as per manufacturer’s guidelines. The main objective of this legislation is that it gives motorists the freedom to choose who provides professional mechanical care for their cars, which are still covered by the manufacturers warranty, serviced anywhere except a franchised dealer. A standard warranty for a new car is between two to five years giving peace of mind should a car have any mechanical faults during that time for example, air conditioning failure.
Now motorists can use any garage of their choice to service their cars without invalidating the manufacturer’s warranty (subject to certain conditions). Previously, this practice could have put the motorist at financial risk by declaring the warranty invalid.
The legislation states that “Independent repairers CAN carry out normal maintenance and repair services during a vehicle’s warranty period without invalidating the VA’s warranty conditions.” There are two stringent conditions affecting this protection:
1, That the service is in accordance with the VA’s servicing schedules and is recorded as such.
2, That the parts used are of ‘appropriate quality’ and recorded as such.”
The result of this legislation is that you are free to benefit from the competitive pricing and individual service offered by your local independent garage.
