Car dealers must make sure that they abide by new consumer
protection rules that came into force this week, according to the
RMI National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA).
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The Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD) provides better
protection for the consumer. The Directive harmonises unfair
trading laws across 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.
Unfair commercial practices as defined by the Directive
include:
- Conduct below a level which may be expected towards
consumers - Misleading practices, false or deceptive messages, and the
omission of important information - Aggressive sales techniques that use harassment, coercion or
undue influence
NFDA director Sue Robinson commented: “Previous rules on
consumer protection did not provide a full safeguard for customers,
as there were some remaining grey areas which could have been
exploited by unscrupulous traders.
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By GlobalData“The implementation of the Directive enables car dealers to
focus their internal consumer relations monitoring, but the new
rules will also mean more administration for dealers to deal with,
and could 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.”
She added: “NFDA member businesses who would like more
information on the Directive and its impact are urged to contact
the NFDA.”
Motor Finance Issue: 44 – June 08
Published for the web: May 29 08 19:7
Last Updated: June 11 08 11:21
