Know More About Right to Repair SA
MIWA, a group of over 2500 independent workshops, aftermarket distributors, and part manufacturers, founded Right to Repair SA. With Right to Repair SA, the automotive repair supply chain is meant to be fair and competitive.
For the consumer to be able to choose from the many offerings offered by a multitude of independent companies, the combination of service and price must suit the consumer’s needs.
For all market operators to exert their professions and be able to offer their competitive products and services to motoring consumers, full access to technical information, the ability to source and supply replacement parts, as well as diagnostic tools and test equipment, are of utmost importance.
In this way, drivers are guaranteed their right to choose where they have their vehicles serviced and repaired. Providing independent operators with all the tools, software, and repair information they need to maintain a vehicle is a crucial part of such rights. In addition to benefiting consumers, this will ensure broad-based economic growth over the long term.
The second goal of the campaign is to equalize the playing field between manufacturers, parts suppliers, and workshops, including those accredited by manufacturers. Assuring continuous cost-effective mobility requires legislation that supports this throughout a vehicle’s life cycle.
South Africa’s Right to Repair Codes and Rules
It has decided to go one step further by seeking to implement a draft motor code in law after hearing the viewpoints of over 80 stakeholders regarding what may be viewed as anti-competitive behaviour in the automotive industry.
The current system of ’embedded’ motor and service plans binds South African car owners to use vehicle manufacturers’ service centres, repair shops, and parts. In what is a highly unfair practice, South African new car owners who choose to use an independent repair or service provider of their own choice are typically punished by their automobile manufacturers by voiding their warranties?
4 Things You Need To Know About Your Right To Repair Act In South Africa
Here are 4 things that you should know about your right to repair act in South Africa
1 – Choosing A Service Provider Is Your Right
Both during and after the warranty period, independent service providers can service and maintain cars. Elliott (CEO of Right to Repair South Africa (R2RSA) advised customers to choose between servicing their vehicles at the dealer they purchased them from or shopping around for the best price and quality.
2 – It Is Permissible To Use Parts That Are Not Original
Because cost is always a concern, the good news is that consumers can now shop around and use non-original spare parts (such as oil filters) while their vehicle is under warranty, while manufacturers cannot void it. “Choosing a generic antibiotic is no different from selecting a brand-name antibiotic – it is the same thing, but less expensive.”
3 – Regardless Of Who You Choose As Your Service Provider, Your Warranty Is Protected
The Commission has now declared that motor manufacturers cannot void warranties for vehicles that are not serviced at dealers. It was previously common practice for manufacturers to do this.
4 – Vehicle Service And Maintenance Plans Should Be Unbundled From The Purchase Price
Currently, vehicle retailers are required to offer separate prices for your car and any value-added products, such as service and maintenance plans, that they may offer when you buy a car. If you do not wish to purchase a service or maintenance plan, car retailers are required to sell you a new vehicle without it. “Do the math,” she said, “and you may be surprised at how much you can save.”
Car Maintenance Options Are Radically Expanded Under New Right To Repair Rules
Due to the restrictive embedded service plans that are currently in place in South Africa, it has been unique in the world. This is why the Competition Commission began a process in 2017 to bring South Africa in line with countries such as the US, Europe, and Australia.
Dealerships and OEMs Cannot Lock You In
You can now seek service, maintenance, or mechanical repair of your new motor vehicle at an independent service provider (ISP) of your choice without being obstructed by car manufacturers (known as original equipment manufacturers or OEMs). Even though you as a consumer still have the right to seek these services through your approved dealership, you now have the option of contacting an independent service provider (ISP) if you so desire.
At The Point Of Sale, Plans Can Be Unbundled
At the point of sale, maintenance plans and service plans will be separated from the vehicle’s purchase price. Consumers will have the option of purchasing maintenance or service plans from their dealerships or independent providers, allowing them to exercise choice.
OEMs and independent providers have a common practice elsewhere in the world. When a car is written off, the maintenance plan or service plan must be transferred to a replacement car. It is also important for dealerships or independent providers to disclose all information about vehicle maintenance and repairs, as well as their terms and conditions.
Insurers Must Give You More Choice
Your insurer’s response to repairs will be particularly affected by other changes in the guidelines, particularly when your car parts have expired their warranty period. Out-of-warranty repair options will have to be expanded within geographic areas by insurers. Any repairer whose standards and specifications meet their standards and specifications will be permitted to undertake repairs on out-of-warranty vehicles by insurers.