FTC Seeks Public Input on Used Auto Parts Guides

Do you have something to say about used auto parts and how they're marketed? If so, the Federal Trade Commission wants to hear from you. As part of its systematic review of all current FTC rules and guides, the FTC is seeking public comment on the costs, benefits, need for, and regulatory and economic impact of the FTC's Used Auto Parts Guides.

The Guides, formally known as the "Guides for the Rebuilt, Reconditioned and Other Used Automobile Parts Industry," are designed to prevent the unfair or deceptive marketing of used motor vehicle parts and assemblies, such as engines and transmissions, containing used parts.

The Guides prohibit misrepresentations that a part is new or about the condition, extent of previous use, reconstruction, or repair of a part. Previously used parts must be clearly and conspicuously identified as such in advertising and packaging, and, if the part appears new, on the part itself. The Guides describe the treatment a part must receive before it can be described as "rebuilt" or "remanufactured," and limit use of the term "factory rebuilt" to parts built "at a factory generally engaged in the rebuilding of such products." The Guides also prohibit misrepresenting a part rebuilder's identity.

The Guides' last revision, in 2002, included an update to the list of commonly rebuilt or reused parts for cars, trucks, motorcycles, tractors, and similar self-propelled vehicles.

The Commission vote approving the Federal Register Notice was 5-0. The Notice is available on the FTC's website and as a link to this press release and will be published in the Federal Register soon. Instructions for filing comments will appear in the Federal Register Notice. Comments must be received on or before August 3, 2012. All comments received will be posted at www.ftc.gov/os/publiccomments.shtm. (FTC File No. P127702; the staff contact is Jonathan L. Kessler, East Central Region, 216-263-3436)

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