BLOCK EXEMPTION PAGE

Warranty opportunities for Independents

Vehicle manufacturers are playing by the rules regarding servicing under warranty, the RMI has found.
A recent investigation by the RMI's Independent Garage Division found that manufacturers are complying with the Block Exemption Regulations (BER) governing the servicing of vehicles under manufacturer warranty, and are informing customers of their right to choose where their vehicles are serviced.
The RMI called the customer relations departments of ten manufacturers: Audi (VW), Honda, Renault, Toyota, Nissan, Peugeot, Vauxhall, Ford, Isuzu and Hyundai and asked about their conditions of warranty.
All the manufacturers contacted by the RMI fully acknowledged the customer's right to choose.
Audi's customer relations department explained that a new piece of legislation called Block Exemption enables the customer to have their car serviced outside the Audi Network, with no detriment to the warranty. The only stipulation was that the garage carrying out the work adhered to the Audi Guide Lines for Serviceable Items outlined in the vehicle's handbook. Honda advised that the car could be serviced at any garage, and that as long as Honda parts were used the warranty would still be valid; Renault said that if the garage chosen to carry out the service was VAT Registered, Renault parts were used, and the Renault Servicing Schedule was followed and documented, the warranty would still stand; while Toyota said the car could be serviced at any garage without affecting the warranty. Nissan said the car could be serviced anywhere providing the business used was VAT Registered and Nissan authorised parts were used; Peugeot said the same, adding that if the car was made after January 2004, Peugeot Approved Parts needed to be used, and that Peugeot service intervals should be followed; and Vauxhall specified that Vauxhall genuine parts must be used, with documentary proof.
Ford, Isuzu and Hyundai also gave advice in line with the BER.
Commenting on the results, Mike Owen, head of aftermarket at the RMI, said, 'Vehicle manufacturers are complying with the BER, and this has created huge potential for the independent repair sector. Customers now have a choice but this message is not getting through. The independent sector cannot rely on manufacturers or their networks to promote this choice; it is up to the repairers themselves to make the most of this opportunity.'