Cecile Stearn

Consumer support for ecological car ownership on the rise

Eight in ten motorists would choose ‘green’ car parts if offered by their service, maintenance or repair provider.

Posted on Mar 28, 2023 by Cecile Stearn

Sustainability is now at the heart of everyday life and the motor industry is leading the charge in a bid to achieving net zero goals by 2050, from manufacturing to servicing to vehicle scrappage. However, a new survey by Intelligent Motoring reveals that whilst 82% of car owners said they would take advantage of recycled or reconditioned replacement parts if offered to them, just 13% said they had been given the choice of ‘green’ car parts by their service, maintenance or repair (SMR) provider.

The use of quality assured recycled and reconditioned car parts reduces waste of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) and the need for new OEM parts to be manufactured. Both significantly contribute to improving the global automotive industry’s environmental impact, a move that is fully supported by today’s car owners. The Intelligent Motoring survey reports that the main reason car owners said they would choose ‘green’ parts was to be environmentally friendly (71%).  This was marginally followed with financial savings, cited by 69%.

Duncan McClure Fisher, CEO of Intelligent Motoring, a leading provider of automotive warranties, insurance products and aftersales solutions, said, “Our research proves that consumers would happily and confidently opt for quality assured recycled and reconditioned parts to improve their own carbon footprint, but worryingly they aren’t being given the option.

“The ongoing shortage of new vehicle parts has proved hugely challenging for dealers and garages over the last couple of years. So, with more than 80% of every vehicle being recycled in some form or other, why are green parts not bridging the gap? Only 13% of motorists we surveyed said they were offered these as an alternative when they visited their garage or dealer for SMR work.  What’s more, with consumer wallets under constant pressure, SMR providers could pass on substantial savings to their customers as ‘green’ parts are typically 70% cheaper than new items.”

Dealers, garages and service providers should always purchase certified recycled or reconditioned parts.  The Vehicle Recyclers’ Association (VRA) Certification Scheme provides independent assessment of a recycler’s policies and procedures, aimed at ensuring that every reclaimed vehicle part has been accurately identified, recorded, tested and graded. Concludes Duncan McClure Fisher, “With all VRA Certified items meeting strict quality standards, consumers can get peace of mind, save money and play their part in protecting our environment.”