The No.1 magazine for automotive information FEBRUARY 2024 www.aftermarketonline.net INSIDE Is the aftermarket ready for SERMI? P8 How will the SERMI requirement affect garages? Find out how SERMI could affect your garage business Q&A: Continental on tyres P14 The experts at Continental discuss the seasonal tyres opportunity and how you can capitalise on it A month in the life of a technician P24 Frank Massey gets into double NVH trouble with a dual mass flywheel on a problematic Ford 1.8 diesel engine ENTER TOP TECHNICIAN AND TOP GARAGE 2024: PAGE 4
ALL UNDER ONE ROOF DIAGNOSTICS, TRAINING, TOOLS, TECHNOLOGY & WELLBEING DEDICATED TO THE INDEPENDENT GARAGE & BODYSHOP SECTOR (combined events) Ryan Fuller Managing Director T: +44 (0) 1732 370340 M: +44 (0) 7720 275097 E: ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk Emma Godden-Wood Operations Manager T: +44 (0) 1732 370340 M: +44 (0) 7738 672398 E: emma.godden-wood@dfamedia.co.uk
www.aftermarketonline.net FEBRUARY 2024 AFTERMARKET 3 CONTENTS BUSINESS 8 Big issue: Ready for SERMI? 13 MAM Software: Cold comfort? 14 Q&A: Continental TOP TECHNICIAN/TOP GARAGE 18 TOPDON: Driving excellence TECHNICAL 20 Technical update 22 Aftermarket of the future 24 Frank Massey: A month in the life 27 Motul: Next generation thinking 28 Repairify: SERMI explained 30 ACtronics: Ether/Or IN FOCUS 32 Snap-on: Connected MOT equipment 34 MOT 38 Batteries and chargers 42 Brakes 46 Diesel 48 Oils and lubricants 52 TPS: Quantum Leap PLUS... 54 Competition/General products 55 On the road: IAAF Annual Conference 58 Garage visit: AAK Autos 58 EVs and hybrids 60 Training update 64 Recruitment 66 Teabreak BLUE MAN GROUP Editor | Alex Wells alex@aftermarket.co.uk | +44 (0) 1732 370 345 Head of Sales | Angela Lyus angela@aftermarket.co.uk | +44 (0) 7823 736 629 Managing Director | Ryan Fuller ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk | +44 (0) 1732 370 340 Contributors Neil Kennett | Frank Massey | Ben Nicholls | Phil Peace Operations Manager | Emma Godden-Wood emma.godden-wood@dfamedia.co.uk | +44 (0) 1732 370 340 Marketing Executive | Hope Jepson hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk | +44 (0) 1732 371081 Finance Department accounts@dfamedia.co.uk | +44 (0) 1732 370 340 Chief Executive | Ian Atkinson ian.atkinson@dfamedia.co.uk | +44 (0) 1732 370 340 Published by | DFA Aftermarket Media Ltd 192 High Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1BE Alex Wells, Editor Average net circulation July 2022 to June 2023 17,274 @aftermarketmagazine @aftermarket01 @aftermarketmagazine ISSN 2516-9149 Aftermarket is published 10 times a year and is sent free of charge to applicants meeting the publisher’s criteria. All others may subscribe at £60 per anum, £120 Europe and £150 rest of the world. While every care is taken to provide accurate information, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or ommisions, no matter how caused. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent of the publisher. The views of contributors do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Copyright: DFA Media Group 2024. Welcome to the first edition of Aftermarket for 2024. We hope you had a good Christmas and New Year break. It’s always great to get away from the grind and get some perspective. That being said, you can never entirely switch off. Even when I am on my hols, I take note of automotive businesses. If I see a little garage, I will pass my eyes across it as I walk by. My family and I were in Granada in southern Spain over Christmas. We visit regularly. At the start of the 2010s, a Peugeot dealership that conformed to the marque’s then-current Blue Box corporate identity programme opened in the city. This saw dealers across the world setting up shop in, yes you guessed it, a building that was essentially a blue box. The dealer in Granada can’t have been there for more than 18 months before shutting the doors though, and the site lay dormant until a couple of years ago. It has come back to life as a Chinese-run supermarket, a typical discount retailer seen in Spain where you can buy almost anything that can be shipped in a crate from Shanghai or Guangzhou; Imagine a decentralised Woolworths, running amok. My son, for example, within a few moments found all the components necessary to emerge from the aisles dressed as a Mexican Grim Reaper. The front of the shop was in what would have been the showroom, and was a good enough size. When I ventured through and down a flight of stairs to where the workshop would have been though, I gasped in amazement. It was vast, huge, enormous. Cavernous even. There was merchandise as far as the eye could see. It was so big I half-expected an employee in overalls to come around the corner pushing the crated Ark of the Covenant on a trolley. “How many bays did they have in here?” I asked myself out-loud. “How many technicians were on staff?” It was at this moment that I realised some of the reasons why this dealership may have packed up. While dealers exist to sell cars, much of the income would emanate from the aftercare; Servicing, repairs etc. When a car is under three years old and most likely to be visiting the dealer, the work being performed is unlikely to be that lucrative. So how were they affording the staff to work in this huge area? I guess they weren’t, in that the site was now given over to selling waving cats, plastic foliage, lurid ladies fashions and 1,001 other useless things. So, what is the lesson here? I think it is this; Know your market, set your labour rate correctly, and keep your workshop profitably active, which is not the same as busy. Oh, and if somebody asks you if you want to move your currently solvent business into a giant blue money pit, say: “No.” Of course, this being the start of the year, you want to kick off in a positive fashion. Say “Yes” to life and all that. With this in mind, accept the challenge and take part in Top Technician and Top Garage 2024. Both competitions are open, and Top Garage now includes yet another grouping to widen participation in the form of Mobile Mechanic of the Year. All the details on entering are in News on pages 4-7. It’s not all fun and games however, as the UK’s SERMI scheme should starting soon. You can find out more about how this will affect you in Big Issue on pages 8-11. Enjoy!
NEWS In association with: Top Technician and Top Garage 2024 are now both open, so enter now! The first rounds for both competitions take place online. The closing date for entries is Friday 19 April. As usual, Top Technician will have three online rounds and a live semi-final where the 10 semi-finalists are reduced to five. Things are changing in Top Garage though. Alongside the existing size-based groupings, Top Service Advisor and the Ben Health and Wellbeing Award, there is the all-new Mobile Mechanic class. Both competitions will run through the year, with the finals set for Saturday 26 October at Delphi Academy in Warwickshire. Winners for Top Garage will be announced at the Top Technician and Top Garage Awards Evening, being held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Coventry. This takes place in the evening after the finals. Winners will receive big prizes including cash, tools and equipment. For Top Technician and Top Garage 2023, the total prize fund was in excess of £40,000. To enter Top Technician or Top Garage 2024, visit www.toptechtopgarage.co.uk click on the appropriate tab, and follow the instructions. Top Technician and Top Garage 2024 come to you in association with the Garage Equipment Association (GEA), the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) and the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). Full Event Partners: Snap-on, TOPDON, JLM Lubricants UK and Delphi. To hear more from Top Technician and Top Garage 2024 Full Event Partners TOPDON, turn to page 18. 4 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 www.aftermarketonline.net Top Technician/Top Garage 2024 now open! Full Event Partners: Snap-on “thrilled” to be 2024 TT/TG Full Event Partner As reported in the December/January issue of Aftermarket, long-term Top Technician and Top Garage supporters Snap-on have returned once again, signing up as a Full Event Partner for both competitions through 2024. Commenting on their continued support, Mark Ost, General Manager of Snap-on Diagnostics & Garage Equipment UK, observed: “I am thrilled to express Snap-on's unwavering commitment to Top Technician and Top Garage. As the General Manager of Snap-on Diagnostics & Garage Equipment UK, I am proud to say that we have been sponsors and supporters of the event since inception. At Snap-on, our philosophy and focus revolve around delivering premium tools to the automotive industry and giving unwavering support to technicians and independent garages. The Top Technician and Top Garage event perfectly aligns with our company ethics and ethos, providing us with the ideal platform to celebrate and uplift the automotive industry's skilled professionals.”
GEA backs Aftermarket Event MONTH 2017 AFTERMARKET 3 www.aftermarketonline.net FEBRUARY 2024 AFTERMARKET 5 Follow us on Facebook @aftermarketmagazine Ben promotes positive change Industry charity Ben is encouraging staff in the sector to take active steps to address any health, wellbeing or career concerns. Rachel Clift, Health and Wellbeing Director at Ben, said: “Ben is revealing new ways for automotive people to make positive changes to their lives for 2024 and beyond. Ben’s Coaching Service can support individuals to progress in their career, boost their confidence and improve their lifestyle including eating habits, self-care and work-life balance.” Rachel added: “People can sometimes feel stuck in their personal lives and in their career, but that’s why our coaching service is so valuable - our coaches help you work out what you want in life and how to move towards or achieve this. They help give individuals the vision and the motivation they need to make positive, lasting changes. We also have some fantastic and fun events happening this year which might tick the box for many of our automotive family in terms of giving back, increasing physical activity levels and enhancing overall wellbeing.” For more information, visit: www.ben.org.uk/lifecoaching HELLA and TMD Friction agree on Hella Pagid takeover by HELLA HELLA is buying TMD Friction’s 50% stake in the Hella Pagid joint venture for an undisclosed sum. The move will enable TMD to bring the Pagid brand back into the TMD Friction portfolio. Pagid sales from TMD will begin from 1 October 2024. Stefan van Dalen. Managing Director Lifecycle Solutions at HELLA commented: "With the planned complete takeover of Hella Pagid, we want to sell brake products under the strong HELLA brand in the future and continuously expand the brake business moving forward." Clement de Valon, Executive Vice President Independent Aftermarket at TMD Friction, added: “The opportunity to offer the Pagid OE premium-quality product brand globally fits perfectly with our multi-brand strategy and provides us with utmost flexibility.” Staff at Hella Pagid, which was originally established in 2013, will transfer to HELLA. The Hella Pagid portfolio will then be sold under the HELLA brand. TMD Friction will continue to manufacture brake pads for HELLA. www.aftermarketonline.net Automotive aft software desig Business mana e easy- reporting processes in on s, stock mana Integrate your sale termarket gned for the agement age. -to-use pack d gement, accounting an factors Motor 7/10 Used by 7 Autopart For further information or to request a demo, pleas www.mamsoft.co.uk/autopart or call us on 01226 35 se visit 52901 NEWS In association with: Sector organisations are getting on board with the Aftermarket Event, which is taking place from 2-3 October, and the Garage Equipment Association (GEA) has beaten the pack to be the first to declare its backing for the new show. Key suppliers from right around the industry have been taking slots at the show. In total, the Aftermarket Event will include up to 150 exhibitors, with 50 speakers fielded across two theatres themed around the Top Technician and Top Garage competitions. The event will also be co-located with another show, Safety, Health & Wellbeing Live. This will mean Aftermarket Event visitors can also learn more about workplace safety and occupational health. Aftermarket Event is taking place at Farnborough International on 2-3 October 2024. For more information, visit: www.aftermarketevent.uk
6 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 www.aftermarketonline.net New car sales up 9.8% across 2023, but BEV sales nosedive in December New car sales for 2023 were up 9.8% year on year, led by fleet investment, according to the full-year figures from the SMMT, with 1.903 million new cars leaving dealer showrooms. While overall sales were still 17.7% under the levels seen before the pandemic, 2023 was the best year for new car sales since 2019. 817,673 of the totals were sales to private buyers. In terms of drivetrain, hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) sales were up 27.1%, achieving 12.6% market share. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) saw a 39.3% surge, hitting 7.4% of the total. Battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales were up 17.8% for the year, but in December BEV sales fell 34.2%, which has been attributed to confusion among carbuyers due to the Government pushing the ICE ban back to 2035. Commenting on the figures, SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes said: “With vehicle supply challenges fading, the new car market is building back with the best year since the pandemic. Energised by fleet investment, particularly in the latest EVs, the challenge for 2024 is to deliver a green recovery. Government has challenged the UK automotive sector with the world’s boldest transition timeline and is investing to ensure we are a major maker of electric vehicles. It must now help all drivers buy into this future, with consumer incentives that will make the UK the leading European market for ZEVs.” Mark Oakley, Director of AA Cars, observed: “The new car market ended 2023 on a high having weathered a turbulent economic backdrop. However, to keep the momentum going, manufacturers must continue to adapt to changing trends and the increasing take-up of EVs.” LeaseLoco CEO John Wilmot concluded: "Adding to the concern, changes to the UK-EU Rules of Origin in 2024, could lead to heightened EV prices, potentially discouraging consumers from transitioning.” The ZEV mandate kicked in on Wednesday 3 January. As a result, vehicle manufacturers are now required by law for 22% of the vehicles they produce and sell in England, Scotland and Wales be zero-emission. Northern Ireland is not covered by the Mandate. VMs will face a £15,000 fine per non-compliant car sold if they fail to do this. The proportion is intended to keep increasing until it hits 100% in 2035. However, carmakers who do not meet their targets will have the option taking the excess percentage from those who have a surplus. Commenting on the introduction of the mandate, NFDA Chief Executive Sue Robinson said: “The automotive retailing sector has been supportive of the Government’s targets for netzero in 2050 and as such has invested heavily in driving the electrification of the vehicle parc. Nevertheless, there is still more that needs to be done by Government to maintain the positive electric vehicle trajectory in registrations and increase public confidence in these greener, cleaner vehicle types.” Sue added: “Whilst the ZEV mandate is certainly a step in the right direction, the Government needs to offer more attractive price incentives and look to improve EV charging infrastructure across the country to increase consumer confidence in electric and help drive the country towards its net-zero commitments.” According to David Hall, VP of Power Systems, at Schneider Electric UK&I, for carbuyers to get on board, there needs to be a major improvement in charging infrastructure, along with the electricity generating capacity to back it up: "Conversations about diversifying the UK’s energy system have been ongoing for decades, yet the UK is still on the back foot when it comes to energy resiliency. Projects to support the energy transition are being rolled out at a fraction of the necessary pace required to support modern day energy demands.” For more on EVs and hybrids, turn to Aftermarket’s regular round-up on pages 60-61. ZEV Mandate comes into force across the UK NEWS In association with: Friends of JLM worldwide campaign launched JLM Lubricants has launched a new global PR and social media campaign, with 2022 Top Garage winners A&J Fleetcare one of the first subjects of the drive. Friends of JLM will promote independent workshop technicians to both global and domestic audiences. Gilbert Groot, CEO, and founder of JLM Lubricants explained: “The multi-award winning A &J Fleetcare based in Leeds are one of the first Friends of JLM. Alan and Jeanette fly the flag for our products. They stand for everything that is great about independent workshops with their strong ethos on customer service and commitment to a first-time fix.” Mike Schlup, MD of Kalimex, the UK distributor for JLM Lubricants added: “We are delighted to be part of this first initiative, with A&J Fleetcare very much worthy of the title Friends of JLM. More friends of JLM from the UK will be announced in the coming months but to start the clock ticking, we really are going with the best of the best.” For more information, visit: www.jlmlubricants.com
NEWS www.aftermarketonline.net FEBRUARY 2024 AFTERMARKET 7 Follow us on Facebook @aftermarketmagazine Changing of the guard at LKQ Euro Car Parts Andy Hamilton, formerly LKQ UK & Ireland CEO has become Senior Vice President of LKQ and President and Executive Managing Director of LKQ Europe. He has been succeeded in his previous role by Kevan Wooden, who was Chief Commercial Officer for LKQ UK & Ireland, who has been with the company since 2019. Andy joined Euro Car Parts in 2010, shortly before it was acquired by LKQ Corporation in 2011. He held a number of senior roles before returning to the UK & Ireland business in 2019 to become Chief Executive Officer. Commenting on his new role, Andy said: “I’m excited to be returning to LKQ Europe at such a pivotal moment in the aftermarket’s future. The LKQ UK & Ireland group of companies are being left in exceptionally good hands with Kevan, who has been a key partner to me during the transformation of the businesses over the last four years.” LKQ President and CEO Dominick Zarcone added: “Andy's extensive experience, including several years as our pan-European Chief Commercial Officer and then as CEO of our largest and most profitable European operation, makes him a natural selection to lead our European team.” For more new appointments, turn to pages 64-65. The IAAF is set to kick off a new Right to Repair campaign, which will seek to explain to motorists the choices available to them through the automotive aftermarket. The intention to run a new campaign was initially revealed at the IAAF Annual Conference in December. Explaining more about the upcoming drive, IAAF Chief Executive Mark Field said: “Following the successful lobbying by IAAF as part of UK AFCAR, now is the time to take on a longer-term approach to raising awareness of our trade and the benefits of choice the automotive aftermarket provides. “Through legislation, the aftermarket has secured important gains in the reviewed Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MV-BEO) ensuring effective competition and choice for millions of UK motorists, which includes full access and recognition for independent garages, parts distributors, suppliers and manufacturers to full repair and maintenance information and data from vehicle manufacturers. There are now significant improvements for motorists to benefit from, which are detailed in law, and clearer definitions to support the way vehicles are diagnosed, repaired and maintained.” Mark continued: “The automotive aftermarket is a leading provider of choice and takes care of millions of motorists every day. It is also a vibrant, entrepreneurial, significant economic contributor to the UK economy with both large and small businesses leading the way. The right to repair campaign will celebrate this – it’s time to come out of the shadows.” IAAF to launch new Right to Repair campaign NEWS In association with: GSF Car Parts: Supercharged for success through 2024 GSF Car Parts Executive Chairman Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia and CEO Steve Horne revealed plans to invest and expand the business at a recent staff conference, including multiple branch openings set to take place through 2024. Speaking at the Supercharged for Success event, held in Birmingham in December, Steve Horne said: “There’s a real passion, sense of genuine pride and energy about GSF and where we’re going in 2024 and beyond. By investing, expanding and improving our business, we will transform GSF from a sleeping giant into the partner, seller and employer of choice in our industry.” Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia added: “It’s so good to be back in the industry and helping to lead GSF forward. By working with our industry’s best suppliers, recruiting and retaining the best people and delivering every element of the basics through exceptional service to customers, we will supercharge GSF and take this business to the next level in the years to come.”
8 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 BIG ISSUE www.aftermarketonline.net One of the advantages of Brexit was that the UK would no longer be arbitrarily beholden to rules created in the European Union. However, this has been balanced out by the disadvantage of being beyond the EU’s jurisdiction when something useful is instituted. This is the situation the automotive sector finds itself in with regards to the European Security-related Repair and Maintenance Information (SERMI) scheme. Eventually, businesses in all EU countries will be able to use a single portal to obtain certification that allows access to security information across all vehicle manufacturers. This is being gradually rolled out across Europe. Sweden was the first country to come under SERMI in October, with Finland, Norway and Denmark next up during February. More countries will follow during 2024. The UK is, naturally, outside SERMI, but a UK scheme is being set up. More on this later. Significant shift Hayley Pells, the IMI’s Policy and Public Affairs Lead commented: “As Europe rolls out the SERMI scheme, the UK's automotive aftermarket faces a significant shift. This change, profoundly influenced by Brexit, requires technicians to gain authorisation to access vehicle security-related information, a move with far-reaching implications for garages across the UK. “The UK's approach to integrating SERMI, particularly in the context of a voluntary scheme, is still under development. The lack of a definitive approval framework raises concerns about potential barriers for businesses, especially the smaller independents that form a vital part of the sector. This is where organisations like the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) play a critical role, providing guidance and support to these businesses and government.” According to Hayley, the implementation of the SERMI scheme could potentially impact the sector in several ways. One consequence could be the raisings of standards and vehicle security across the board: “With technicians needing authorisation to access securityrelated vehicle information, there's likely to be an increase in the quality and safety of vehicle repairs and maintenance. Enhanced control over security-related information could also improve vehicle security, benefiting motorists in terms of reduced vehicle theft and related issues”. However, there could be cost IS THE AFTERMARKET READY FOR SERMI? Is the emergence of the SERMI requirement going to be a headache for garages, a blessing in disguise, or both?
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implications: “The additional training and certification requirements for technicians could lead to increased service costs, which might be passed on to consumers.” Access is a key issue as well: “The scheme might affect the availability and diversity of repair services, particularly if smaller independent garages face challenges in meeting the new requirements.” Hayley continued: “Businesses are grappling with the need for additional training, certification, and the associated costs, all of which are essential for compliance with SERMI. Another significant concern is the potential for vehicle manufacturers to use SERMI as a tool to restrict access for independent operators, which could upset the competitive equilibrium in the aftermarket sector.” There are expected to be regional variations too, connected to the consequences of Brexit: “In Northern Ireland, bound to follow EU regulations, including SERMI, due to the Northern Ireland Protocol, the situation is uniquely complex. This regulatory difference within the UK underscores the need for a strategic approach to ensure uniformity and compliance across different regions.” Hayley added: “As the industry prepares for this transition, collaboration among various stakeholders, including the development of a UK-specific SERMI scheme, becomes essential. The focus is on easing the sector's adaptation, ensuring access to necessary information, and maintaining a competitive and fair market. The resilience and adaptability of the UK's automotive aftermarket will be key in navigating these regulatory changes, ensuring the sector's sustainability and growth in a rapidly evolving landscape.” Roll-out Neil Pattemore, IAAF and UK AFCAR Technical Director, said: “At last, the roll-out of the SERMI scheme across Europe has begun, which provides a standardised framework and accreditation scheme for independent workshops that is then used by all vehicle manufacturers to provide access for independent operators to security related repair and maintenance information, anti-theft related, which could have wideranging implications for garages. The requirement to have technicians cleared to access security related items for a vehicle could cause major problems for individual businesses and the whole sector if not implemented correctly. “The Department for Transport is proposing that it be a voluntary scheme, but the scheme needs to be implemented correctly and used by all vehicle manufacturers, otherwise independent businesses in the industry could find themselves at a disadvantage.” “The leading aftermarket associations, such as the IAAF, are calling for it to be referenced in legislation, not only for the scheme to be fully implemented, but also because it is likely that the framework will be used for other requirements in the future such as cybersecurity certificates or for verification of technical competency requirements.” On the potential impact of the scheme in its current form, Neil said: “If the scheme is voluntary, then this could mean that vehicle manufacturers do not use the SERMI scheme, but implement their own arbitrary requirements, which may be more restrictive and more demanding.” With the vehicle manufacturers themselves keen to gain a further foothold in the aftermarket, how would the SERMI scheme help independents? Neil observed: “It is important to remember that the SERMI scheme is a sub-set of the rights of independent operators to access repair and maintenance information. These rights are in legislation to ensure that a competitive marketplace that supports consumer choice is possible. With vehicle manufacturers now increasingly active in the aftermarket, providing both direct and indirect services to the vehicle owner or driver, without the SERMI scheme being fully and correctly implemented, there is a real risk that the market could be distorted.” Neil added: “An open discussion needs to take place with the key stakeholders, that would include the aftermarket associations, the organisations that provide the SERMI framework, the vehicle manufacturers and the UK Government, to explore the details of why the SERMI scheme is needed, both now and in the future, and if a voluntary scheme is still a possible solution. They also need to explore what needs to be in place to ensure that the legislative requirements are fulfilled correctly.” Agreement In the UK, the SERMI scheme is set to be delivered for the industry by RMI Standards and Certification, which is a Type A ISO17020 body, owned by the IGA’s parent organisation, the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI). IGA Chief Executive Stuart James observed: “It's an RMI-owned company, but it is completely separate and impartial from membership of the trade body. It's a level playing field for all parties involved.” Stuart continued: “The European SERMI standard has been rolled out in a couple of countries so far. It's moving quite slowly at these early stages, but it is embedded in European law and other countries are manoeuvring themselves to pick it up in the near future. As we are now outside of the EU the positioning is 10 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 BIG ISSUE www.aftermarketonline.net
FEBRUARY 2024 AFTERMARKET 11 www.aftermarketonline.net different for the UK. We have worked alongside the European SERMI Committee, and gained permission for us to have the SERMI standard in the UK from them. “We will be mirroring the European SERMI standard in the UK. We have support from a number of vehicle manufacturers to do this, and just before Christmas we had a stakeholder committee meeting where it was agreed that the European standard would be suitable for the UK.” The final challenge to overcome is for United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) to agree to be the inspection body. Stuart observed: “We are hoping that the agreement reached with all the stakeholders will be enough for UKAS to agree to starting the audit process of our business.” So, the SERMI scheme could be up and running quite soon, the IGA reached an agreement with UKAS during 2023 to enable garages to register their interest, so once everything was in place they could rapidly sign up. Stuart commented: “We asked businesses interested in being involved in SERMI to let us know. We have a large number of independent garages, locksmiths and other companies that have a genuine need to access this information that have applied to enrol. We have gone through the verification process and the audit process with many of those businesses. All we need is UKAS to audit us and accredit our business.” While some garages might experience some anxiety at what they might see as a new bureaucratic barrier to assail, Stuart pointed out that the SERMI scheme will actually free-up garages: “Up until now, an independent garage has needed to enrol with each manufacturer individually, and some are easier than others. It's a very difficult challenge to get access to each separate vehicle manufacturer, let alone to also get the security level access. The VMs have been managing that process themselves individually, which is a burden on them. “The SERMI scheme will be a ray of light where garages have one login to a single portal for all vehicle manufacturers.” SERMI is enshrined in European law, so all the VMs are on board, but in the UK, it is voluntary. “We'll be starting with about 60% of manufacturers,” said Stuart, “and hopefully, others will come on board in time, when they see how robust the system is. “Vehicle crime still happens and anybody that has this information would potentially have the power to be able to steal, so this system has to be robust. I personally have been on this challenge for many years. We are setting it up on a not-for-profit basis for the UK. Our proposal is currently £25 per month on a five-year licence. These payments only start when the system is live and is inclusive of all Without the SERMI scheme... there is a real risk that the market could be disorted. ”
site audits that come within the standard period. It saves so much time and effort. “ Stuart added: “There is nothing in the UK like this. It is a good thing for garages and it's also a good thing for vehicle manufacturers and also the Government, because this will have an impact on vehicle theft. It is also good for consumer confidence. A motorist will be able to look up a garage that is accredited to the SERMI standard and say ‘I know that garage business has been checked properly against a DBS and other integrity checks’. This is a positive tick in every aspect.” For more information, visit: https://independentgarageassoci ation.co.uk/trade-topics/sermi/ Clear understanding Of course, the launch of the scheme is only the beginning. Laurence Abbott, Managing Director at Autotech Connect commented: “As the roll-out of SERMI across Europe commences, the IGA has created a UK framework enabling independent businesses the same access to SERMI as their European counterparts. “Under the proposed UK framework, garages will be audited and accredited to access securityrelated repair and maintenance information (SERMI). Without this access, many independent businesses will be unable to retrieve vital diagnostic information, training, and installation methods. Consequently, they face being left out in the cold and losing customers. “Having this access may, however, be a double-edged sword for many. The increasing number of digital touchpoints on a vehicle is expanding the attack surface for malicious hackers to exploit and infiltrate a garage's systems, exposing customer data and the freedom to access OEM data could represent a significant risk for many. Car-generated data is considered highly lucrative, with expectations that data-based services will provide billions in additional revenue for vehicle manufacturers. Unfortunately, as a consequence, it is making the industry an increasingly attractive target to cybercriminals. “Any hack raises the question of liability. Who is ultimately responsible for the breach and will business insurance cover the cost? Potentially not. Insurance companies recognise the significant risk and business policies could be jeopardised if the right digital infrastructure to mitigate an attack is not in place. “So many automotive companies have been devasted by cybercrime as the financial and data losses have inflicted irreparable damage. Simply reacting to an attack is not the answer. Implementing a strong digital defence, which is regularly tested and updated is the goal. This is where, currently, the weak spot may be for the independent sector. Put simply, many independent aftermarket businesses are dangerously unprepared for the risks brought on by connected vehicles.” Laurence concluded: “While working against the backdrop of an ongoing skills shortage, many have had little time to embark on training or invest in new technology and are at risk of exposing themselves to cybercrime. Therefore, while access to SERMI will allow freedom for UK independent garages, the process needs to ensure that these businesses have robust defences in place and a clear understanding of the cybercrime risks to safeguard their future survival.” 12 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 BIG ISSUE www.aftermarketonline.net For more information, visit www.autotechconnect.co.uk For more on SERMI, turn to Repairify on page 28. SERMI checklist To prepare for SERMI, the IMI suggests that aftermarket professionals could: • Gain Awareness and Understanding: Stay informed about SERMI's requirements • Training and Certification: Invest in training for technicians • Engage with Industry Bodies: Collaborate with organisations like the IMI, IGA, and IAAF • Upgrade Technology and Equipment: Adapt to necessary technology when required • Develop Partnerships: Form collaborative networks, including manufacturers, to facilitate the fast updating of new products and repair techniques • Financial Planning: Prepare for potential increased costs • Specialisation: Consider becoming more specialised in certain vehicle types or repair services • Collaborative Working: Work collaboratively with other independents to share resources and expertise.
FEBRUARY 2024 AFTERMARKET 13 www.aftermarketonline.net With winter here, car owners are dealing with the cold. Winter tyres are being purchased, good quality lights are being considered to combat the early nightfall and health checks are being carried out to ensure that their vehicle is ready for the cold. There is no better time for businesses in the automotive aftermarket to take a look at their business management software to ensure they are utilising all necessary features to prepare for the winter rush. Adaptable to suit individual business requirements, Autopart has been specifically designed to help motor factors, parts retailers and distributors maximise sales, control costs and improve profitability. From increasing revenue with restructured pricing to reducing costs from effective ordering, Autopart is packed with a host of features that can help increase your revenue and ensure you are fully prepared for Winter. Reduce your inventory costs: Slowmoving and unprofitable products can eat into your margins more than you think. Autopart can analyse sales trends across single or multi-site locations and adjust your stock levels accordingly. Leaving you with more profitable stock and less unnecessary purchases. Increase your average order value: This is a great way to improve your profits from your existing customers. Autopart makes it easy for you to take advantage of cross-sell and up-sell opportunities by linking relevant products together for your staff to recommend at the point-of-sale. Protect your margins: Strict margin control is essential if you want to maintain a profit. Autopart provides you with tools to enforce margins when your staff are selling products at the counter or pricing stock for resale. Control your pricing: The key to profitable sales is a pricing strategy that reflects your customers' varying pricing needs. Autopart can help you define and manage complex pricing models or run special offers tailored by item, product group, customer and/or BUSINESS Ensure your business is prepared for winter with Autopart date. Cut your communication costs: Many businesses still rely on costly inefficient paper communications. If you're sending invoices, statements or promotional material by post, Autopart can save you money by communicating with your customers directly via email and SMS text messaging. Improve your operational efficiency: Companies of all sizes can leverage technology to improve productivity. From smart delivery planning, to automated invoice matching, Autopart contains a wealth of innovative features that can save you time and help your business run smoothly. Autopart is designed to digitise your business, going paperless and streamlining all processes at the same time. With winter here, many timeconsuming jobs can be actioned with ease. It is the best time to evaluate software and decide whether it is protecting your margins and maximising the potential of your business. COLD COMFORT: MAKING THE MOST OF THE WINTER OPPORTUNITY BY Ben Nicholls, Sales Manager at MAM Software
Above: Steve Howat, Head of Technicial Services at Continental Tyres UK and Ireland 14 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 BUSINESS www.aftermarketonline.net Many garages still do not make the most of the tyre opportunity. Beyond making sure customer vehicles are as wellshod as possible with the best tyres, there are wider prospects. For example, most drivers in the UK have never thought about changing their tyres with the seasons, something that is much more common in other European countries. This is just one facet of a larger market where independents are wellplaced to take a foothold. To find out more, Aftermarket spoke to Steve Howat, Head of Technical Services at Continental Tyres UK and Ireland. What’s the difference between premium and budget tyres? One of the key factors that pushes the performance of a premium tyre forward is the ever-increasing technical requirements from the vehicle manufacturers. They have to meet stringent emissions requirements – like WLTP regulations – which have a direct impact on the technical requirements of the tyres they specify. Rolling resistance – and its effect on fuel economy and range – is a key consideration from an environmental point of view, but at the same time wet grip performance and other safety requirements cannot be compromised. A high level of technical capability is required to find the right balance and achieve these requirements on all fronts. At Continental we have more than 150 years of experience in developing tyres, which gives us a wealth of knowledge and experience that budget tyre manufacturers can’t compete with. We use advanced polymer technology and innovative materials in our tyres, to enhance their performance, and to deliver sustainability benefits. As an example, we were the world’s first tyre manufacturer to launch recycled polyester yarn which is obtained from PET plastic bottles. This highperformance material is known as ContiRe.Tex. Earlier this year we also launched our most sustainable tyre to date, the UltraContact NXT. With up to 65 percent renewable, recycled and mass balance certified materials, it combines a remarkably high share of sustainable materials with maximum safety and performance. What's the difference between EV and ICE tyres? We don’t categorise our tyres as EV or ICE-specific, because of the risk of over-simplification and confusion around which tyres can be fitted to which vehicles. There is huge variety within both vehicle types. If we look at EVs for example, a Renault Zoe is very different to a Tesla Model S. That’s why we always recommend identifying the right tyres for each vehicle on a case-by-case basis. The best way to go about it is to Q&A: CONTINENTAL Aftermarket speaks to one of the experts at Continental about the seasonal tyres opportunity and how garages can capitalise on this
JULY 2017 AFTERMARKET 3 www.aftermarketonline.net opt for a like-for-like replacement for the tyres the ICE or electric vehicle came with when new, otherwise known as OE (original equipment) tyres. This means the vehicle remains as the manufacturer intended – covering everything from safety to performance and emissions. Nine of the ten most successful manufacturers of electric vehicles worldwide chose Continental as their original equipment manufacturer thanks to its technological expertise. Why do EVs need tyres with special features and characteristics? Our EV original equipment is specified by nine of the ten highest-volume EV manufacturers in the world, with features designed to address any concerns about excess load, range anxiety and cabin noise. Our latest generation ranges feature an ‘EV compatible’ logo to indicate their suitability for battery powered vehicles. Tyres for electric vehicles can carry a heavier load and have to withstand high instant torque, which can lead to higher tyre wear, meaning tyres with stronger constructions and more robust rubber compounds are needed. With high instant torque, increased weight, the demand for a long range and lower emissions comes an even greater need for minimal rolling resistance, so tyres for EVs offer a smoother, more energy-efficient and low-impact ride. What are the key differences between summer and winter tyres? Composition and tread pattern are among the fundamental differences between summer and winter tyres, and they go hand in hand with changing temperatures and weather conditions. The operating temperature range of a tyre’s compound depends on the ratio of materials it’s made from, designed to achieve the ideal blend for the intended environment and use. When you leave a plastic bucket outside during the winter, it will crack or break more easily compared to when you leave it outside in warmer weather. It’s not that different with tyres. When temperatures approach freezing, winter tyres contain more natural rubber and remain more pliable and softer than summer tyres, meaning better traction and performance, and reducing your stopping distance when you brake. Conversely, summer tyres become hard and brittle at low temperatures, with consequences for grip and wear. The same is true in reverse. The winter tyre compound is too soft for dry asphalt, meaning it will wear out quicker in summer – not to mention the increased rolling resistance increasing your fuel consumption and road noise. Summer tyres on the other hand are designed to deliver excellent grip on wet and dry roads when it’s warm. Now, onto the tread pattern. It’s deeper on a winter tyre, to clear away slush and dig into snow for greater traction. Summer tyres have a more streamlined tread in comparison, with fewer grooves for water clearance, maximising the contact patch with the road and delivering superior traction and braking during drier, warmer weather. A last word, just to throw all-season tyres into the mix – a hybrid solution which combines the benefits of both summer and winter models. They’re less tailored to the specific conditions at either extreme but can be an excellent compromise in climates like ours, with relatively mild winters. Should garages stock more winter tyres and offer them to customers? We recently surveyed 2,000 UK motorists and found that just 8% think they have summer tyres fitted – when in fact it’s 91%. Summer tyres dominate the UK market even though arguably we have an all-season climate. There is no legal requirement in this country for drivers to have winter capability unlike on the continent, which can be achieved with all-season or winter tyres. Safety is our primary concern and the same should be true for retailers. It’s important to understand what drivers intend to use their vehicles for and to recommend a tyre that will deliver in terms of safety as well as performance and sustainability. Nine times out of ten this means specifying the OE approved tyre for the vehicle. Summer tyres will ultimately perform best from a handling and braking performance perspective in normal UK weather conditions – and are the best option for drivers looking to get the best out of high performance vehicles – but their lack of winter capability can present challenges during extreme weather events. FEBRUARY 2024 AFTERMARKET 15
2024 Event Partners Brought to you by Are you a seasoned expert or a rising star in the world of automotive technology? Do you run a garage that stands out for its innovation and customer service? It's time to showcase your skills and elevate your garage to new heights! Introducing the Top Technician & Top Garage Competition – a thrilling showdown where automotive excellence meets innovation and development! Awards Categories Top Technician: • Winner • Runner Up Top Garage: • Mobile Mechanic *NEW* • 1-3 Employees • 4-6 Employees • 7-9 Employees • 10+ Employees • Multi-site • Top Service Advisor • BEN Workplace Health & Wellbeing Rev up your Engines for THE Ultimate Technical Challenge!
How to Participate: 1. Entries now open for both Top Technician and Top Garage, enter online at www.toptechtopgarage.co.uk. 2. Showcase your unique expertise and/or garage through a series of multiple choice and open ended questions via the online portal. 3. Follow us on social media @aftermarketmagazine and use the hashtag #TopTechTopGarage to build excitement and connect with fellow contestants. 4. Winners will be announced at the Top Technician & Top Garage Awards Ceremony – an event you won't want to miss! Held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Coventry on October 26th 2024. Join the Competition and Gear up for Greatness! Whether you're a seasoned technician, a garage owner, or a passionate automotive enthusiast, the Top Technician & Top Garage Competition is your chance to stand out and be recognized for your exceptional contributions to the automotive universe. Get ready for a celebration of automotive excellence, innovation, and community spirit! Are you up for the challenge? Show us why you or your garage deserves the title of Top Technician & Top Garage! Find out more: www.toptechtopgarage.co.uk In association with
TOPDON has been dedicated to propelling the development of the automotive diagnostic industry. In addition to consistently intensifying our research and development efforts, TOPDON has been an unwavering supporter of automotive skills competitions throughout the years. Sponsoring the 2023 Top Technician and Top Garage aligns perfectly with TOPDON's ethos. We admire top-tier technicians and workshops for showcasing their achievements in the global automotive industry. We firmly believe that through these competitions, we can not only showcase technological excellence but also ignite a greater drive for excellence among technicians and businesses. In the 2023 Top Technician and Top Garage events, TOPDON awarded the winner of Top Technician’s finals with an UltraDiag (2-in-1 diagnostic scanner and key programmer), the Top Garage winner with a Phoenix Smart (High-level intelligent scanner), the semi-finalists of Top Technician with TopScan (Pocket-sized scanner), and the finalists of Top Technician with TC003 (Thermal camera) to inspire their outstanding achievements. TOPDON aims to support the automotive industry and innovation as a whole. These awards celebrate and encourage the hard work these technicians put in day in and day out. We also aim to provide technicians with more advanced products and technical support. Moreover, this event highlighted the importance of comprehensive after-sales service and robust technical support. As automotive technology advances, technicians encounter more complex challenges. Effectively utilizing diagnostic products to solve diverse issues remains a key concern for both Top Technician and Top Garage. TOPDON aspires for every technician to fully comprehend and make the most of their equipment, which is why TOPDON has established a robust series of after-sales and technical support. This commitment is reflected in TOPDON's formidable after-sales service team, ensuring users receive the assistance they require, whether it's technical support, product inquiries, or practical demonstrations. The official TOPDON website hosts a variety of product videos, covering diverse topics such as unboxing, product introductions, and case studies, 18 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2024 TOP TECHNICIAN AND TOP GARAGE 2024 www.aftermarketonline.net providing users with a comprehensive insight into their purchased products. The Vehicle Coverage feature enables users to verify product compatibility with different vehicle models. Moreover, for any technical inquiries, TOPDON's professional customer service team is prepared to deliver prompt technical support. With the expanding market for electric vehicles, we are acutely aware that future technicians will face more challenges from new energy sources. TOPDON is prepared to join technicians in learning the skills required to handle the next generation of vehicles. The latest accessory, the EV Package, empowers Phoenix Max and Phoenix Smart to diagnose electronic components in electric vehicles, ensuring coverage for Tesla, Audi, BMW, and more. The progress showcased in Top Technician and Top Garage reflects the continual advancements in the automotive diagnostic industry and among repair professionals. TOPDON is not just a witness but an active participant and companion in this journey of evolution, standing by technicians every step of the way and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. TOPDON: DRIVING EXCELLENCE IN THE AUTOMOTIVE DIAGNOSTIC INDUSTRY Three-time TT/TG Full Event Partners TOPDON discuss how they look to help promote diagnostic best practice in the industry Full Event Partners:
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