Johannesburg - The Competition Commission has gazetted a draft code of conduct for competition in the South African automotive industry and is calling for public comment.
Members of the public have until November 3 to comment.
Consumers shouldn't accept status quo
Les Mc Master, Director of Right to Repair SA (R2RSA), said: "It is crucial that the public has a look at the draft code and submits comments. This is our chance to see real change that will benefit consumers and their rights when it comes to servicing their vehicles.
"We have been sold the misconception that independent workshops and aftermarket parts will reduce the safety of vehicles if they do repairs. But in reality, if you look at Europe and the US, where the principles of Right to Repair (R2R) were introduced decades ago, the roadworthiness of vehicles is much higher."
Click here for the draft code of conduct
Master said: "We see vehicle owners in SA neglecting the maintenance of their vehicles because of financial constraints. R2R is going to reduce the cost of parts helping owners maintain their vehicles. We also believe that access to technical information, training and tools for the informal sector will have a positive influence on safety. Our car park is getting older and the part prices, especially the systems controllers, are escalating beyond the value of the vehicle. The consequence of this is that our roads are littered with highly dangerous vehicles with partially working safety systems."
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Referring to maintenance and motor plans, Mc Master says it appears that, according to the draft code, maintenance plans locking the consumer into a contract with the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) dealerships are still permitted, but must be offered independently of the vehicle.
"If those products are beneficial to the consumer, the consumer will still have the option to purchase them. What’s important is that the consumer also has the right to decline them. Already we are seeing brands offering vehicles, especially entry level vehicles, with the option to purchase a basic warranty, a service plan or a maintenance plan. Because these aren’t automatically included in the purchase of the vehicle it brings the price down," he adds.
Click here to review the draft code
All comments can be emailed to mziwodumor@compcom.co.za by 3 November. Share your thoughts with Wheels24