Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Proposed lemon law will cover defects in both new and used cars


Flaws in cars covered by the proposed lemon law can range from serious safety-related ones such as stalling and loss of power steering to minor ones such as noise, vibration and cosmetic defects.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry, which is putting the law before Parliament, says it does not matter whether the vehicle was manufactured three years ago and had been lying in the yard before it was sold.

As long as a defect is detected within six months of delivery, it is assumed to be inherent, and it is up to the retailer to prove otherwise. The law, which is expected to kick in come September, covers used vehicles as well as new ones.

Motor Traders Association president Cheah Kim Teck said the changes should not worry reputable companies which already have best practices in place.

SOURCE



What do you think? As a consumer, you will be rejoicing for such a move. You feel more assured with such a law protecting you from dirty car dealers who sell lemons to ignorant car buyers. However, very much waits to be seen on how such a law can be enforced. If it can't be done effectively, it will be of not much use.