INSURERS and bodyshops have expressed interest in joining a major campaign to improve the availability of parts for off-the-road fleet cars.

The Association of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO) has launched the initiative that aims to reduce the number of occasions when cars are off the road due to a lack of spare parts following an accident or mechanical failure. The move has already won support from 21 manufacturers who have agreed to take steps to end the problem.

ACFO says that different makes suffer to different extents but that any delay can cost fleet operators up to £40 a day in rental costs and increased administration. In the latest development, ACFO says that major fleet insurers are keen to get involved as they too suffer additional costs and customer dissatisfaction when spare parts are not available.

And, it adds, several sectors of the body repair industry have also expressed an interest in joining the campaign.

ACFO director Stewart Whyte said: 'These discussions have confirmed that the problem of parts delay is not uncommon. Fleet operators, bodyshops and insurers have all identified that there are continuing problems, and we want to work with the manufacturers and the whole parts supply chain to improve the position for everyone.'

ACFO is now in the process of drafting a 'guide to the parts maze' document that will help fleet executives and administrators work through any future parts blockages. It is also bringing together a working party of fleet managers to draft what it calls a 'fair and beneficial Code of Conduct between fleets and manufacturers'.