Your right to repair, but choose wisely
Ultimately more competition always leads to better prices, better quality and better service.
This past year, the automotive industry has seen a range of challenges, from Right to Repair and a global semiconductor chip shortage, to an explosion of EV mandates, autonomous vehicle advancements and trying to figure out which trends will last.
In the aftermarket space, however, some significant progress was made in 2021 when the new Guidelines to Competition in the South African Automotive Aftermarket (“the Guidelines”) or the consumer’s right to repair, were firmly placed in the spotlight.
Kate Elliott, CEO of Right to Repair, said there is no doubt consumers are invested in the debate and want to have some say in it, which is good for the aftermarket. Motorists increasingly want the ability to own the data coming off their cars and to direct their vehicles to the service location of their choice, where price and service level dictate their choice, rather than restrictive contract clauses. “We have been happy to note that over the last six months we have seen a number of really positive developments with some of the larger original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) taking firm action to implement the Guidelines and provide consumers the choice that they are entitled to.”
Kate ElliottElliott said ultimately it is in everyone’s best interests if the OEMs embrace the Guidelines to maintain the reputation of their brands and give their customers the freedom to choose how best to maintain their asset.
The removal of previous barriers is definitely in the consumer interest. The fact that technical information and special tools will now be even more accessible will empower independent service providers (ISPs) to tend to consumers’ vehicles correctly and allow healthy competition to flourish.
“What is absolutely key, however, is that motorists do their homework. We strongly advise motorists to make use of reputable ISPs and make sure they have sufficient defective workmanship and liability insurance in place, something which, in terms of the Guidelines, all independent workshops are required to tell you. The manufacturers are entitled to void the warranty on a part which has been damaged as a result of the use of inferior parts, incorrect service procedures and/or faulty workmanship. This is where an independent workshop’s insurance will kick in and cover you. That is why only using reputable providers is key,” concluded Elliott.
Consumers who need help or want to check their rights in more detail can visit the R2RSA website on www.right2repair.org.za or alternatively report non-compliance to The Competition Commission at https://www.compcom.co.za/lodge-a-complaint/.
Cathy Findley Public Relations
