Square Deal' Charter for Used Vehicle Buyers
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1-1, A PLAN to ensure not only a reasonable quality in used commercial vehicles, but also (in most instances) to provide the purchaser with a warranty relating to each vehicle, was introduced last Friday by Vauxhall Motors Ltd.
Known as the Square Deal plan, it will be operated by Bedford dealers throughout the country. Every make of vehicle of every type with a capacity of over 25 cwt. will be included.
The intention was not, as Mr. G. C. Welby (Vauxhall Sales Director) said at an inaugural lunch, to give " new lamps for old ". It was to ensure that the mileage left in a used vehicle was put to work safely and effectively, so that the buyer got real value for money.
Vehicles, regardless of make, will only be sold by Bedford dealers under the "square deal" label if they have been inspected to a rigorous pattern laid down by Vauxhall Motors, and have been worked on to eradicate faults thus shown up, so being absolutely roadworthy. The inspection form will be available for the purchaser to examine.
In addition. Vauxhall is insisting on minimum standards in facilities and personnel for carrying out the inspections and work. Representatives of the sponsoring company will carry out spot checks to ensure continuance of these standards.
The inspection routine that will he carried out by dealers selling "square deal" vehicles includes 63 items and a thprough road test.
Vehicles thus offered must be thoroughly clean on top and underneath (including engine and engine compartmerit). Protective paint on exposed parts of the chassis, wheels and axles will be used where necessary. Lettering and signing will be removed and, if needed, a coat of paint or primer will be applied. The cab will be cleaned, interior paint made good, seating, trim, mats and pedal rubbers renovated or replaced.
Particular attention will be given to the following items: security of cab doors and locks; lights; windscreen wipers; mirrors; glass; steering; horn and speedometer. Attention will also be given where necessary to: sheet metal and bumpers; springs and anchorages; chassis frame and towing attachment; direction indicators; stoplights; charging and starting systems.
Brakes (including servo and handbrakes) must operate effectively and have a reasonable lining thickness. Bodywork must be rendered functional. Tyres and wheels must be of uniform size and rating, with sound casings and enough
original tread pattern to provide an appreciable amount of skid protection. Accessories must either be serviceable or taken off. The general mechanical condition should be satisfactory, commensurate with age and price.
Most dealers are expected to agree to provide a " gradcd " warranty matching the age, mileage and price of the vehicle. It will take a specified form, the dealer agreeing to contribute a defined proportion towards the cost, of repairs for a defined period following the sale.