According to data from the traffic management bureau of the Ministry of Public Security, the number of private vehicles on Chinese roads stood at 104 million at the end of 2014. Under the requirements set by automakers, cars will have to undergo two regular maintenances every year, and the private car fleet alone could translate into a multi-billion-yuan market.

It is estimated that the number of vehicles will grow to 250 million by 2020, and the size of the auto repair and maintenance market is likely to surge past 1 trillion yuan by then.

For such a big market which directly involves consumer rights, and most importantly, their personal safety, there needs to be stringent regulations. Inaction or ineffective action by the regulators will put consumers in an even more disadvantageous position, and affect the government's strategy of building a consumption-driven economy.

There is, however, good news on the horizon as the government is considering regulations for governing the after-sales market. These rules will not only lend clarity and cohesion, but also bring about the much-needed industry consolidation.