The National Consumer Council (NCC) has set the automotive industry a target for September 2007, whereby all consumers should have easy access to a garage that follows a code of practice approved by the OFT.

But, the OFT plans to begin inspecting garages in January 2007 with a view to them taking prompt action and enforcing legislation on the industry when the NCC’s Super-Complaint happens in September 2007.

BSI’s Kitemark Automotive Services Scheme comprises a set of codes and practices devised by automotive industry representatives allowing the industry to self-regulate and protect garages from this enforced legislation.

Although it is a lengthy process, there are currently 30 Kitemark garages, with another 20 achieving the standard imminently. In addition to this, there are currently 500 applications/enquiries being processed. This is a vast improvement on the 11 that held the Kitemark when Tyres & Accessories reported on this in July.

Failure to self-regulate is expected to mean garages face having to meet tough standards imposed by the government or face prosecution for non-compliance.

Tina Tillard, BSI’s head of Kitemark Services, said: “The industry’s performance is under closer scrutiny than ever before, and this will intensify from January 2007 when the OFT investigates whether the trade is adopting a self-regulating scheme or facing imposed legislation.

”The Kitemark scheme is the only way forward for the industry and allows garages to differentiate themselves from the poor practices that have blighted the industry’s reputation, driving those practices out, raising standards, consumer confidence and, preventing the need for enforced legislation.”