MEMA, MERA urge FTC to align auto parts guides with new commercial reality

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and its remanufacturing affiliate, the Motor & Equipment Remanufacturers Association (MERA), are urging the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to more accurately classify remanufactured parts. The associations’ submitted official comments to the FTC on the 16 CFR Part 20 Auto Parts Guidelines. In the comments, MEMA and MERA stated that classifying remanufactured parts in the same category as parts not produced using standardized industrial processes in a manufacturing environment (used parts) is both inaccurate and confusing to consumers. “While the industry acknowledges remanufactured parts are not ‘new,’ the new commercial reality is that they should not be classified as ‘used’ parts,” says John Chalifoux, president and COO of MERA.  “Doing so ignores the significant advancements this country’s remanufacturing industry has made with regard to consumer quality and in the area of international trade since the Guides were first adopted in 1979.” In support of their position, MEMA and MERA referenced more recent documents from other U.S. federal agencies -- including bilateral free trade agreements -- that recognize “remanufactured goods” as a unique classification. “We look forward to further discussing the Part 20 Guides with the FTC to make sure consumers are fully aware of the benefits of remanufactured parts,” says Bob McKenna, MEMA president and CEO. MEMA and MERA concluded the comments with a request to meet with the FTC to discuss significant revisions that should be made to improve the Part 20 Guide.About MEMA Suppliers manufacture the parts and technology used in domestic production of new cars and trucks produced each year, and the aftermarket products necessary to repair and maintain more than 248 million vehicles on the road today. MEMA supports its members through its four affiliate associations, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA), Motor & Equipment Remanufacturers Association (MERA) and Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA). MEMA represents more than 700 member companies with global motor vehicle parts sales exceeding $600 billion and 65 percent of North American automotive supplier sales. For more information on the motor vehicle parts supplier industry, visit www.mema.org.About MERA MERA (MERA.org) is a trade association that comprises many businesses—both large and small—in the remanufacturing industry. This network of remanufacturers, suppliers and professional firms is committed to moving the industry forward for the benefit of its customers and the national economy. MERA is one of four affiliate associations of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), which has been serving the needs of motor vehicle parts suppliers since 1904.