Concern raised over garage faults failure
Personal insurance
24th August 2010
An undercover investigation has found that most garages fail to identify simple faults with vehicles.
The mystery shopper test was carried out by consumer group Which? at 62 garages, with just eight found to correct a series of four "easy-to-spot" problems.
According to the organisation, it introduced faults to vehicles such as low brake fluid levels, a blown reversing tail light and deflated spare and nearside rear tyres, something that may be of interest to those seeking a UK insurance policy for their car.
However, nearly 90 per cent of mechanics failed to identify all of these issues, while 40 per cent of premises charged for products or services that were not provided - such as filling up screenwash.
Which? noted that this is despite a series of industry codes of conduct in place and its chief executive Peter Vicary-Smith remarked: "This could have endangered the lives of drivers and other road users and is simply not acceptable."
The study comes after the Sunday Express warned that annual MOT testing in the UK could be replaced by two-yearly checks if the European Union introduces standardised testing across all 27 member states.
For more information on how Giles can help you with your personal insurance needs, Click here.
