Muscat – The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has banned the trading of 21 categories of used vehicle spare parts and introduced mandatory warranty, disclosure and consumer-consent requirements under new rules aimed at tightening oversight of the second-hand auto parts market.

The regulations, issued by CPA through Decision No 363/2026, apply to vehicle repair, maintenance, painting and dent-repair workshops and centres, as well as shops dealing in used spare parts.

Among the parts prohibited from being traded are brake pads and linings, clutch discs, wheel hub and engine bearings, cylinder-head and engine gasket kits, oil and air filters and spark plugs.

The list also covers hydraulic suspension components and suspension bushes. Shock absorbers, engine and gearbox mounts and catalytic converters are prohibited when they have been used for more than one year.

Under the regulations, suppliers must provide a warranty for used parts that are sold or installed, based on the terms agreed with the consumer.

If a part is defective, does not meet specifications or is unsuitable for its agreed purpose, the supplier must repair it, replace it or refund its value during the warranty period without imposing additional costs on the customer.

Invoices must clearly state the supplier’s commercial details, the name, description and source of the part, as well as the vehicle type, model year and country of origin.

They must also include the total price, including installation charges, warranty period, condition of the part and details of any defects or damage, along with the date of installation or repair.

Workshops cannot begin repairs, replacements or installations without the consumer’s prior written approval. The authorisation must specify the work, type of parts to be used, cost and expected completion time.

Violations can attract an administrative fine of up to RO1,000, doubled for repeat offences. Continuing violations can incur fines of up to RO50 a day, capped at RO2,000.

The decision, issued on August 16, takes effect on Monday, a day after its publication in the Official Gazette.