Due to the recent Wrangler parts availability failures, many angry 2018 Jeep fans have taken to their keyboards. They worry, too, about the future viability of their vehicles. The Motor Ombudsman’s New Car Code is now signed up to by all of the UK’s major automobile manufacturers. Under this new code, manufacturers are required to ensure vehicle spare parts remain available throughout the production lifecycle and a reasonable period thereafter.
The New Car Code increases consumer confidence and protects car buyers. It provides real teeth to the mandate that manufacturers make enough parts available for independent maintenance and repair to be possible. This is intended to help consumers avoid situations where they find themselves unable to maintain their vehicles due to unavailable components. As one example, Jeep owners are slowly discovering that locating parts for their 2018 vehicles is getting more and more challenging. All of this calls into question whether the Code’s approach actually works.
The Motor Ombudsman’s guidelines are clear: parts must be available not just during the production run but for a reasonable time after production ceases. This important provision gives consumers the tools they need to better care for their vehicles. In turn, it keeps their fleet vehicle lifespan up and customer satisfaction high.
To Jeep’s credit, in light of this backlash, Jeep has emphasized its intention to make parts available. The company stated, “We aim to maintain parts availability well beyond any local legal requirement to do so. Jeep has a long heritage of being there to support customers as vehicles get older, and there are no plans to change this.” In response to feedback from our customers, who were having a hard time finding replacement parts for their cars and trucks. This commitment speaks to their worries at the outset.
Reflecting these changes, it’s more important than ever that consumers and manufacturers engage in clear dialogues over parts sourcing. Continuing this conversation is essential for both sending and receiving communities. The Motor Ombudsman advises that open dialogue between vehicle users and manufacturers is always best for resolving concerns quickly and efficiently.