Parts Suppliers Comment on NHTSA Proposal

Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) has weighed in on NHTSA product marking recommendations for imported vehicles and vehicle part. The group’s input came in response to NHTSA’s request for comments its proposed regulations. Various MEMA sub-groups – including the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association – participated.

MEMA said that NHTSA’s product marking recommendations “go beyond just the ‘country of origin’ mark by adding the following: manufacturer name or trademark; date or date range of manufacture; and, any marking requirements from an industry standard or recommended practice.

“Our response to NHTSA highlights the challenges facing the automotive aftermarket, the industry segment which primarily deals with ensuring compliance and safety of imported automotive parts,” said Steve Handschuh, AASA president and COO. “We believe NHTSA is sending the right message to the aftermarket – to practice due diligence, be responsible and be compliant.”

“Our HDMA members and councils have worked diligently with NHTSA to reduce the number of non-compliant imported truck parts and increase the safety of trucks on US highways, ” said Tim Kraus, HDMA president and COO. “Their valuable input and the continued collaboration with NHTSA again reinforce the commitment of our organizati