Issue Date:  -  Friday, 13 July 2001

Closure of Houghton Motors

Receiver managers today announced the closure of Houghton Ford in East Victoria Park and Fremantle. Houghton Ford had been a long-standing motor vehicle dealership that originated in Victoria Park.

Houghton Ford had been trading under receiver managers Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu since 12 June 2001. In a notice placed in today's West Australian newspaper, Ford Australia announced that Houghton Ford was no longer a franchised dealership.

Consumer Protection understands that people with used car warranty claims will remain covered by the receiver or the Motor Trade Association Dealer Warranty Insurance Scheme. New car warranties are the responsibility of Ford Australia and are expected to be covered by any other franchised Ford dealership.

The receiver and Ford Australia are currently negotiating outstanding contracts (offers-to-purchase) that have not been completed, but no clear information is yet to hand.

Initial enquiries relating to Houghton Ford business should be directed to Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu on 9365 7000.

Consumers with any other concerns should ring the Consumer Protection Call Centre during office hours on 1300 30 40 54 for the cost of a local call.

Last year the Call Centre gave free advice to more than 170,000 West Australians.