ACCC Notice Should Impact the Car Sales Marketplace

Most consumers are aware of the marketing many car manufacturer brands have been promoting in recent months. These days, it seems that every dealers Perth drivers may brand is offering manufacturer capped price servicing, but the ACCC have put manufacturers on notice about misleading claims and offers.

The situation came about due to complaints about Kia price increases in their capped price servicing offer. The ACCC report has meant that Kia customers could be refunded after the brand increased their advertised prices four times. Other car brands will need to examine their schemes or face the possibility of $1.1 million fines.

Until now, many brands have had fine print in their terms and conditions, which could be exploited to allow price increases. The source of the investigation was that the manufacturer Kia had four price increases to the advertised services since 2012. These services had been advertised with a lower capped price. Kia had agreed following the ACCC investigation to contact the customers who had overpaid for services and offer to refund the differences between the quoted price at the time they purchased and the actual servicing costs charged.

While capped price servicing is an attractive feature with many dealers, Perth drivers should find that this investigation prevents dodgy dealers from making outlandish claims. According to Sarah Court, ACCC Commissioner, businesses should not be able to make capped price advertising offers which can be eroded by provisions in the terms and conditions allowing amendments and price changes.

While the ACCC investigation is mostly concerned with the compliance of car brands, their findings should create a ripple effect throughout the industry. This emphasises the importance of choosing a reputable car dealer who will not mislead their potential customers. Fortunately, Subaru used vehicles from 2006 onwards will benefit from used car dealers the manufacturer’s clear capped price servicing policy. However, when considering, Perth drivers should avoid any dealership claiming older vehicles can still benefit from the scheme. These dealerships could be intentionally or unintentionally misleading you about the long term costs of your vehicle choice.

If you are looking for a vehicle and in need of a dealers, Perth drivers should visit us. We have a range of new and used models, and have a strong reputation in the community. Our sales team would be delighted to provide straightforward answers to your questions and help you to find the right vehicle at the right price.