HELPLINE: Trusted Dealers in new launch
Used car website Trusted Dealers are joining forced with the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) to launch a new consumer mediation and arbitration helpline.
The move, which also sees Trusted Dealers offer a free used car buyer’s guide called ‘Scambusters’, is in support of National Consumer Week (November 4 – November 10).
Acting as an unbiased service for consumers experiencing problems with a used car purchase, the helpline provides complete peace of mind for dealer and buyer.
The helpline is open to anyone purchasing a used car from Trusted Dealers and NFDA members.
Trained experts can mediate an agreement between the two parties, or act as an arbitrator to finalise a mandatory decision in favour of one or the other.
Sue Robinson, Director of the NFDA, said: “The new helpline is an important tool that can help regulate the industry of used car buying whilst also informing customers of their consumer rights.
“This new helpline, backed up our new Used Car Standards and handy reference guide for consumers firmly establish Trusted Dealers as the safest place to buy a car online.”
The launch of the telephone service follows research which found 73% of consumers seeking assistance last year needed guidance on dealing with faulty second hand car purchases.
Neil Addley, Managing Director of Trusted Dealers, added: “Trusted Dealers offers one of the safest ways to buy a used car online through franchise dealer members who all sign up to our ‘Ten Points of Difference’ standards, offering an assurance of quality and security.
“Although the Citizens Advice Bureau research showed only 14% of consumer complaints related to franchise dealers, for us this still signifies a need to offer buyers more support which we’re delivering through the helpline and ‘Scambusters’ guide.
“If the worst happens and a buyer does experience a problem, the new mediation and arbitration service provides an efficient ‘one-stop’ service to resolve any issues.
“The report also revealed the top complaints from used car buyers included defective goods, receiving substandard services and being misled by incorrect claims and bad business practice.
“Buying from a Trusted Dealers member safeguards against these, and with the help of our quick reference ‘Scambusters’ guide in support of National Consumer Week, we’re continuing to make used car shopping a smooth ride!”
Image courtesy of Chris Campbell, with thanks.
