autotechnician magazine Jan/Feb 23

Driven by ENERGY

Bosch starters and alternators stand out for their high reliability and long service life. They are manufactured in line with the high Bosch quality standards and undergo a rigorous approval process. These high-quality products suit a variety of passenger cars and commercial vehicles. They ensure reliable starting and consistent power supply – even under extreme conditions.

boschaftermarket.co.uk

What drives you, drives us

P4 Industry news

P8 IAAF Conference

P11 Autotech Live: Workshop takeover

P12 Andy Crook: Fix this next

P16 The Mechanic’s Mentor

P18 Tom Denton: Prepare for EV business

P24 Clutch: Current trends & advice

P28 Steering & Suspension: Fitting tips

P32 Air suspension: Compressor replacement

P34 Batteries & Chargers: Market update

P40 Vehicle & Workshop lighting

P46 Parts, Tools & Tips

P51 Training: Nissens Automotive

NICOLA ST CLAIR, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nicola@autotechnician.co.uk 07904 521 923

PAUL DEARING, COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Paul@autotechnician.co.uk 07808 077 611

ROB MARSHALL, TECHNICAL EDITOR

NATHAN WISE, DIGITAL BRAND MANAGER Nathan@autotechnician.co.uk

MIKE SMITH, EDITORIAL ASSISTANT admin@autotechnician.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS:

Dee Blick, Andy Crook, Tom Denton

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DEAR READER,

Welcome to the first edition of 2023 – we hope the Christmas break gave you the chance to recharge so you have hit the ground running. We focus our attention on power in this magazine, in both the literal sense – with our technical features on clutches, steering & suspension, batteries & chargers, and lighting – and also in the wider sense. Taking back the power and overcoming adversity was a central theme at the recent engaging IAAF conference. Former SAS paratrooper and veterans’ campaigner Robin Horsfall described his incredible life journey which began in a challenging home environment and continued with bullying in the early days of his army career, but good leadership inspired him to create silver linings throughout adversity. IAAF Technical Director Neil Pattemore also took to the stage at the event to explain how independent workshops can get involved in reclaiming some power back from the VMs in relation to technical data and restrictive practices.

Andy Crook, Dee Blick and Tom Denton are responsible for empowering workshop owners this month; to prioritise business needs, to take your place in the spotlight, and get EV ready and attract new business.

We are excited to announce the date and release tickets for Autotech Live – where guests will be charged with leading diagnostics on live faults at a workshop takeover in Cheltenham. Trainers will be on-hand to provide guidance and just-in-time learning, see page 11 for more. There’s plenty to get your teeth into, we hope you enjoy!

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industry

AUTOMECHANIKA BIRMINGHAM RETURNS

TO THE NEC IN JUNE

The UK’s largest automotive trade exhibition, Automechanika Birmingham, will take place from 6 to 8 June 2023 at the NEC Birmingham with new brands exhibiting, features and training hubs for collision repair, EV, ADAS and more.

Sponsors include ZF Aftermarket, Bosch and LKQ Euro Car Parts, and more than 500 exhibitors, with many other wellknown aftermarket brands showcasing new products, services, and technical support. More than 12,000 visitors are expected to attend.

Visitors can expect special show deals, offers and competitions as well as access to more than 168 hours of free skills training, technical talks and topical discussions on current industry issues and new technology, as well as live demonstrations from industry experts.

https://automechanika-birmingham.uk.messefrankfurt. com/birmingham/en.html

WORKSHOPS URGED TO WARN MOTORISTS OF THE RISKS OF SKIPPING OIL MAINTENANCE

Recent surveys have found that motorists are considering skipping vehicle maintenance as the costof-living crisis bites but the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS) is warning motorists not to put off essential oil changes and top ups, despite pressure on household spending.

The trade body says workshops can play an important role in helping customers understand just how vital oil servicing is.

Mike Bewsey, Chairman of VLS, says, “Customers might think because they haven’t done many miles this year, the oil change and filter replacement are not required. But sticking to the recommended service interval is crucial to maintain and protect the vehicle, which is likely to be worth a lot more than the cost of the oil change. Frequent short trips can be even more detrimental to the oil than higher mileage due to the accumulation of water and fuel, and the formation of sludge during start/stop and cold phases.”

GARAGE OF THE YEAR AWARDS NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES

Entries are open for the Independent Garage Association’s (IGA) British Independent Garage of the Year Awards 2023, which will be held at Leicester City Football Club on Friday 22nd September 2023, recognising Britain’s best independent garages, industry suppliers and stars of the sector.

Independent garages and industry suppliers can enter online now at http://independentgarageassociation.co.uk/tradetopics/the-big-awards-2023

Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive, comments: “Following the fantastic feedback received from the inaugural BIG Awards in 2022, we feel privileged to support the sector by bringing high-profile recognition to even more independent garages

and suppliers next year. We have introduced nine new award categories to ensure that all areas of the independent sector have the opportunity to be recognised, however their business excels.

“We all know that every independent garage offers something unique and works incredibly hard for their local community, so I encourage garages of all types and sizes to highlight their achievements and enter today.”

All shortlisted garages will receive two complimentary tickets to the awards ceremony at Leicester City Football Club on Friday 22nd September 2023. Entries close on Tuesday 28th February.

REPXPERT ACADEMY LIVE HEADS TO HORNCHURCH

Schaeffler’s next roadshow will take place at New City College Hornchurch on Saturday 4th February 2023 and will follow the usual REPXPERT Academy LIVE format, with breakfast and registration from 9am and group training sessions starting at 10am until around 4pm.

Matt Selby, Sales & Marketing Director for Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK) said: “REPXPERT Academy LIVE is the perfect platform for technicians and garage owners to enhance their knowledge of the latest products, tools, hints and best practice tips from Schaeffler, with topics this time including LuK double clutch transmission systems and INA timing drive systems, including information on new technologies such as hybridisation and electrification”.

Several instructional and interactive group sessions will include demonstrations, hands-on participation, and theory. One of the two guest sessions at the event will be presented by workshop owner Tim Benson, who has been running the high-quality Oldfields Garage business in Leominster for many years and will provide best practice business advice.

SURVEY RESULTS CONFIRM NEW YEAR CHALLENGES

A Motor Ombudsman poll of independent garages and franchise dealer workshops has revealed that rising operational costs, taxes and energy bills are the biggest operational challenge for 90% of businesses in 2023.

Nearly two-thirds (63%) of businesses that took part in the research said they will have to contend with motorists putting off essential vehicle repairs this year due to the squeeze on household incomes. 59% of participants stated that paying more for replacement car components due to shortages and inflation would be another obstacle in 2023.

According to the findings, fewer customers being able to afford routine vehicle maintenance, such as servicing, poses another threat to footfall and revenues for 57% of garages and workshops in 2023, whilst just under half (49%) explained that they will be looking to avoid passing on higher operating costs in the prices charged to customers due to the challenging economic climate. When asked about the difficulty in recruiting qualified staff during the coming year to expand capacity, 43%

stated that adding experienced technicians to their team would continue to be a challenge.

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing Director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “Following the festive break, it is a case of picking up from where we left off in 2022, as the findings from our research show that garages and workshops will have to contend with a multitude of challenges this year. At the forefront of these will be navigating a rise in operational costs at a time when many consumers are feeling the strain on their finances, meaning vehicle maintenance and repairs could take a back seat.”

Bill added: “As the headwinds facing the economy and households show little sign of abating in the short term, remaining competitive, retaining customers, and finding new revenue channels, will therefore be crucial for businesses in order to deliver a positive bottom line.”

www.TheMotorOmbudsman.org

For peace of mind always use a Garage Equipment Association member.

GEA accredited engineers work to an industry code of conduct. Your assurance their skills and knowledge have been independently assessed.

IMI ANNOUNCES CLASS OF 2022 SKILLS

COMPETITIONS WINNERS

From a strong and diverse group of more than 500 students and apprentices, the Institute of the Motor Industry has announced 23 winners across four categories: Light Vehicle Technology, Body Repair, Refinishing and Heavy Vehicle. All finalists now go forward to the World Skills International competition to be held in Lyon in September 2024. “2022 has been another challenging year for the sector, yet we have seen a cohort of highly skilled automotive apprentices, of all ages, step forward,” said Richard Hutchins, Competitions Manager at the Institute of the Motor Industry. “The applicants and finalists come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and from groups that are generally under-represented in automotive. This makes the Class of 2022 even more inspirational, as we work together to make the sector more representative of cultures, genders, ethnicity, visible and nonvisible disability, and sexual orientation.”

Ewan Griggor of AM Philip Truck Tech, pictured here, won Gold in the Light Vehicle Technology category, with Robert Griffin

RMI ACADEMY SITE OPENS IN CHELTENHAM

The RMI Academy of Automotive Skills has opened a new training site in Cheltenham, offering a range of MOT, electric vehicle, and technical training to local automotive businesses.

Stuart James, Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) Director, comments: “We are delighted to be opening our fifth academy in our mission to ensure that all garages can access high quality, affordable training to grow their business, upskill their staff and improve the skills shortage in our industry. We look forward to supporting many more local garages and technicians with top quality training and development opportunities, including a range of hybrid and electric

vehicle courses to help prepare for the increasing number of high voltage cars on our roads.”

The new RMI Academy in Cheltenham joins established facilities in Runcorn, Southam, Lincoln and Winchester. It is open to all garages in the motor trade. Preferential course prices are available for RMI members. Members of the Independent Garage Association (IGA) currently receive Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Repair Level 3 training at a heavily subsidised rate of £250 + VAT.

Courses begin in February 2023 and are available to book now by calling 01788 538 399.

LKQ EURO CAR PARTS CEO SETS OUT KEY THEMES IN 2023

Andy Hamilton, CEO of LKQ Euro Car Parts, says there are four key areas set to dominate the industry, “Firstly, there will be a renewed focus on enhancing the customer experience. Independent garages and bodyshops can look to displace franchised operators if they can add a more professionalised experience to their more competitively priced offerings,” comments Hamilton. “A welcoming reception area, a clean workshop and a modern and functioning online presence can give motorists looking to make their money go further the confidence to work with an independent operator.”

Providing cost-effective solutions is a second key area of focus. “Being able to offer lower cost alternatives to OEM brands without compromising on quality, for example, may offer a more cost-effective solution while showing empathy for the customer’s own financial situation,” Hamilton explains. “This is why one of our own major areas of focus this year will be bolstering the range of options available to garages and bodyshops, through our popular, quality brands like

Starline and MPM.”

LKQ Euro Car Parts’ third key area of focus in 2023 is the ongoing fight to protect the interests of the independent sector. The threat of an extension of the mandatory MOT period remains, and there is uncertainty around whether an equivalent of SERMI will be introduced in Great Britain, as it will be in Northern Ireland.

Hamilton says that training and talent gaps must be addressed this year: “Leaving aside the race to get EV-ready and the need to build a sustainable future, which may rightly or wrongly feel like a problem for another day, the arrival of ADAS-equipped and even hybrid vehicles in the aftermarket is very much upon us – an issue exacerbated by the decline in new car sales.

“Where they can, garages and bodyshops must continue to invest in the skills, people and equipment needed. There is even an opportunity to help take market share from franchises if they can service more sophisticated vehicles.”

of Cecil & Lerter Volvo taking Silver and Charlie Taff-Lavill of Volkscraft achieving Bronze. A full list of winners can be found at https://tide.theimi.org.uk/industry-latest/news/imiannounces-class-2022-skills-competitions-winners.

INDUSTRY EVENT

Overcoming adversity

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) provided a detailed look at the challenges of Brexit, Covid-19 and supply chain issues, highlighting the

at its annual conference

The event was hosted by IAAF’s chief executive, Mark Field, who outlined the changes that have been happening in the Federation, including introducing the IAAF’s new training academy and its work with UK AFCAR in lobbying government regarding MOTs and Block Exemption Regulations. Mark concluded his welcome speech explaining: “It’s time for the aftermarket to come out of the shadows and promote itself better to attract the best talent and highlight its brilliance.”

Neil Pattemore, from UK AFCAR & IAAF Technical Director, focussed his legislation update on the access available to industry data and the ongoing battle to ensure the independent aftermarket has the same opportunities to provide services for motorists as the Vehicle Manufactures – an increasingly unlevel playing field as technology drives remote services. Neil spoke of how the way in which vehicle data is used has fundamentally changed in recent years, enabling the

to deliver bespoke services using vehicle data in a way the aftermarket cannot. Embedded applications and telematics within new vehicles provide the manufacturer, and its dealer network, with real-time data, enabling prognostics and direct in-vehicle quotations to the driver. Motorists no longer have to enter a workshop when a light pops up in the dashboard as the situation can be anticipated and intercepted by the dealer network.

opportunities available to aftermarket businesses,

VMs

Quentin Le Hetet, from aftermarket trends analyst GIPA, provided details of their latest report on motorist behaviour to highlight opportunities for the independent workshop

“It’s time for the aftermarket to come out of the shadows and promote itself better to attract the best talent and highlight its brilliance.”

Mark Field, IAAF Chief Executive

Garages urged to provide evidence of restricted access to VM data

The UK AFCAR alliance of trade associations and commercial organisations was formed to lobby the UK government on upholding the rights of the independent aftermarket and it needs your help to document evidence of restrictive practices.

Independent garages can now register any restrictions they face on access to vehicle manufacturer repair and maintenance information with a new form produced by UK AFCAR.

Mark Field, UK AFCAR chairman and chief executive of the IAAF, said: "We've responded to the regular communications we’ve had with garages on the difficulty they have in accessing information required to carry out work. As part of the intensification of UK AFCAR and IAAF lobbying, we're pleased to provide a solution to collect data from garages so we can redouble our efforts with UK legislators."

The form is available here: https://www.surveymonkey. co.uk/r/UKAFCAR

overcoming adversity. A challenging home life with his mother and stepfather affected his schooling so at the age of fifteen he joined the army. He experienced bullying by his peers but was inspired by good leaders along the way and went on to join the Parachute Regiment, served three tours of Northern Ireland and was accepted, on his second attempt, into the SAS. He was part of the counter terrorist team that stormed the Iranian Embassy in London in 1980, helping to rescue nineteen hostages who had been held for six days. His description of this event captivated the audience, as he explained how things

INDUSTRY EVENT

The IAAF says that any information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence and will only be used to provide the evidence needed to show a vehicle manufacturer’s noncompliance, or restrictive practices. Examples include denial of access to RMI information or data/functions in the vehicle, excessive charges, incorrect information, having to prove competency, having to go to a main dealer to complete a job, or when garages are unable to use aftermarket parts due to vehicle manufacturer’s restrictions.

Good leadership

The keynote speech delivered by SAS Soldier, veterans’ campaigner and creative writer Robin Horsfall was a truly inspiring account of what it takes to be an effective leader and

industry data went wrong from the start. One piece of bad luck meant that one of the team was left dangling in front of a window (and open fire) having got his hand jammed between his abseiling equipment and comms unit, which meant the team could not communicate. Thanks to their first-class training by an exemplary leader, they were able to successfully complete the mission.

available

I can highly recommend Robin’s autobiography Fighting Scared, which details a life full of ups and downs but shows how adversity and tough times can provide rich opportunities and offer different paths.

Silver linings

Quentin Le Hetet from GiPA then took the stage and presented the findings of the first IAAF Aftermarket Trend Index, offering an insight into the changing vehicle parc and mobility trends. One of the positives was the resulting acceleration of the vehicle car parc age following the significant reduction in car sales over the last few years, benefitting the aftermarket with the associated repairs and maintenance. Most cars on the road are over three years old, and by the end of 2024 the average age of UK vehicles is predicted to be 9.5 years old. Talking of age, GiPA’s survey concluded that the average age of an independent workshop owner in the UK is sixty-seven! A reminder that the industry must focus on attracting talent into the sector as a matter of urgency.

Matt Cleevely of Cleevely EV described the journey of evolving his family business into electric vehicle services and highlighted issues with sourcing EV replacement parts

Former SAS soldier Robin Horsfall delivered an awe inspiring keynote speech, discussing the importance of good leadership and overcoming adversity

Neil Pattemore, UK AFCAR & IAAF Technical Director, gave an insight into legislation affecting the industry, including the access

to

VIcky Pryce, Chief Economic Adviser and board member at the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), delivered a fascinating, yet depressing, economic overview

during 2023. However, much like New Year's Resolutions, most will go unaccomplished (75% fail according to yougov.co.uk).

How can 2023 be different?

Firstly, find out what is important to you, personally and professionally

Write down what you would like to achieve, then tell someone. Now you have made a commitment, ask that person to hold you accountable. This is the single most important thing you can do when it comes to achieving your goals.

Next, you need a plan

Any goal will require you to allocate resources in order to achieve it. Finding time, requires you to reallocate time that was previously used for something else.

What are you willing to give up?

Do a deal with yourself and plan rewards for incremental achievements.

Thirdly, you need to measure progress

Start with the end in mind and work backwards to where you are now. Imagine what it takes to achieve your goal and set way markers in your plan. For example, you want to read twelve books, ‘Leaders are Readers.’ This requires you to switch off the TV or Smart Phone for at least 30 mins every day. This is what you are willing to give up. The way markers could be, to select three books to read. Give the titles to the person who is holding you accountable. Read 1 Chapter per day and take notes if necessary.

When you finish the book, write a brief summary of what you learned to the accountable person. Have rewards at the end of each chapter, and the end of each book. You get the idea.

Set yourself a personal goal, write it down (hold yourself accountable) tell someone (they hold you accountable) and plan how you will achieve it, working backwards from the result you want. Set in place rewards to keep you motivated.

Setting Business Goals

Business Goals are a bit different because you need to find out what needs fixing in the business and in what order. As business owners, we are continuously firefighting, trying to solve all of the day-to-day issues. Everything is a priority, which means nothing is a priority.

This lack of focus is one reason why we may never achieve our goals.

By Andy Crook

‘Fix this next’ is a method of identifying what you need to fix in your business, and in the correct order.

This is based on the excellent book by Mike Michalowicz, with the same title. In the book, Mike identified a business hierarchy of needs, based on Maslow's Hierarchy of Human Needs, which was published in the 1943 paper titled ‘A Theory of Human Motivation’. Maslow’s hierarchy of physiological needs suggests there are five core needs that form the basis of human behaviour and decision-making.

The lowest level of need in the human hierarchy is air, food, water, shelter, sex, and sleep. These are called physiological needs.

The next level is safety. We need a secure and safe environment, both physical and financial security.

The next level is belongingness – friendships, love, community, and family. The human needs to belong to a tribe.

Then esteem, which is confidence, self-esteem, self-worth achievement and respect.

Finally, self-actualization; morality, creativity, self-expression and helping others to achieve self-actualisation

At the start of the year, plenty of business owners and technicians will set some goals and aspirations – what they would like to achieve

REPXPERT is Schaeffler’s award winning technical platform and loyalty programme that provides support to thousands of professional technicians every single day.

To celebrate 10 years since REPXPERT was launched in the UK, Schaeffler is planning to reward three members with ONE MILLION bonus points each during 2023.

The first of these ‘points millionaires’ will be randomly drawn from the pool of members that claim bonus points for LuK brand purchases made between February and April. It’s simple: the more LuK products you fit = the more points claims you make = the higher your chance of scooping the prize! For more information and full terms & conditions, visit: www.repxpert.co.uk/millionaire

www.repxpert.co.uk | aftermarket.schaeffler.co.uk |

Figure 1. Maslow's Hierachy of Needs

Humans automatically satisfy the lowest level need, for example, it is very difficult to self-actualize if someone is choking you because your lowest level need becomes air to breathe, and you revert to the lowest level need and satisfy that.

Mike argues that businesses have needs, they have lower-level needs and higher-level needs. Just like the human hierarchy, all the elements of the business hierarchy are always in play at all times. However, you should only concentrate your energy on solving one issue at one level at any one time. The golden rule is that you always satisfy the most essential need, the lowest level need before addressing any need above it.

The business hierarchy of needs levels are:

The creation of cash - Sales

The creation of stability - Profit

The creation of efficiency - Order

The creation of transformation - Impact

The creation of permanence - Legacy

My research has identified that most small businesses, and certainly micro businesses, have a sales level need. The average UK small business has negative cash flow for at least four months each year, with almost one in four (23%) experiencing it for more than six months each year. 94% of UK small businesses suffered at least one month of negative cash flow in 2021.

Because you must fix the lowest level need first, most businesses need to create a predictable sales generation machine. To create a business model that supplies a surplus of cash every month.

This requires your marketing, sales, performance, and the finance elements within your business to be optimised.

How to find your business's lowest level need I have created a ‘Fix this Next Worksheet’ to help garage owners identify the lowest level need in their business. You can access this here: Worksheet.pdf

Simply identify the current level of failure in your business, pinpoint the unmet needs at that level, and then apply levelspecific fixes and solutions.

There are five questions at each level.

These are the five needs that I have identified that you must satisfy at each level, which means there are 15 things in total that you need analyse within your business.

The easiest way is to use a highlighter. Highlight all the needs that you are not satisfying in red and highlight the ones that you are satisfying in green, and you will have a good idea of what you need to fix, and in what order in your business.

However, I have created a shortcut. For each of the GET Levels, I have one question.

If the answer for your business is no, then you have at least one need at that level.

For the sales level, does your business have positive cash flow every month?

If your business does not have positive cash flow every month, you have a sales level need.

At the profit level, does your business have more than three months operating costs in savings?

If you don't, you have a stability need and you need to fix that.

Once, you know the lowest level need of your business, you can prioritise that above all else. It will not fix everything in your business, and you will still be firefighting day to day, but it provides you with a focus. However, if you fix all the GET level needs (this can take years) your business will provide

predictable cashflow, use resources efficiently and provide time freedom for the owner(s).

For more ideas, advice and free training why not join the Garage Owners Network Facebook group?

www.facebook.com/groups/garageownersnetwork

For more information visit www.atomicsuccess.co.uk

The Mechanic’s Mentor: Time to claim the spotlight

By Dee Blick

A supply of good customers that genuinely value your experience and expertise has to be the Holy Grail of most mechanics. But if you really want customers and those prospects waiting in the wings to fill your pipeline it pays to share your expertise. It’s the surest way of moving from being a person who seeks work to being a person who is sought after. When people can see just how knowledgeable, experienced, and qualified you are they’ll regard you as a safe pair of hands; a business they can trust to deliver every time. And they’ll recommend you to their family and friends.

The fact is that within you is an expert. But I doubt you currently recognise this fact.

It may be struggling to get out because you’re too busy or you take your expertise for granted and don’t make such a big deal of it. But as an expert; a genuine person of influence you can cut through the clutter and stand out.

But are you hiding your light?

And so began my fourth mentoring session with Jeanette and Alan Landale of A & J Fleetcare, a business I have been mentoring since I met them at a one-day DPF Doctor event at Darren Darling’s HQ several months ago.

I was keen to find out just how much they valued and indeed recognised their expertise, experience, and qualifications. Were they talking about each strand to customers when relevant? Were staff aware that the business really was an exemplar in a competitive local market? The answer was as I suspected; in some areas they were happy to bang the drum but in others less so. I am yet to meet a business owner brimming with absolute certainty of all their assets. More often than not, I have to shine the torch for them to emerge from the shadows!

So, what had prompted this session with Alan and Jeanette?

I wanted them both to be on the stage at the JLM Lubricants distributor conference at the Sheraton Hotel, Amsterdam a few weeks ago. Darren Darling was facilitating a session with DPF Doctors including Barry Lawson of Ewan Lawson Motors and Keith Shanahan of Shanahan Auto Services. The Doctors would

answer several questions from Darren, ranging from how they conveyed their DPF Doctor status to customers and prospects and, which JLM products they used in the workshop.

When I asked Jeanette, her first response was to decline. What could she bring to the table that would be worthwhile? Why was I asking her? Likewise, Alan. After I had rattled off all the compelling reasons why they should say yes, the penny had dropped. I also explained that this was not just an exercise in sharing their experience, it was a confidence-building task. Because confidence is that magical thing which enables you to take risks in the certainty that you will succeed. It’s a big deal to step on to a stage and feel confident enough to be defined as a thought leader, as a respected business owner. But that deal had to be done!

The third article in an exclusive series where we look at how A&J Fleetcare are progressing on their mentoring journey with international bestselling small business author Dee Blick

"The fact is that within you is an expert. But I doubt you currently recognise this fact. It may be struggling to get out because you're too busy or you take your expertise for granted and don't make such a big deal of it"

I spent some time explaining to Alan and Jeanette that not only did they know more than enough to claim their seats on the stage, but it was also high time they stepped out of the shadows and into the spotlight (literally) I asked what more would they need in their personal toolkit to realise they had valuable insights to impart to the audience? The answer (after my gentle but persistent questioning) was the realisation they had more than enough ‘good stuff’ to share, such that audience members – JLM distributors from all corners of the globe, were likely to find it useful. I mean how often does a distributor of automotive workshop products get to spend in the company of top tier mechanics generous enough to share relevant insights from which they can learn?

So, armed with a newfound confidence and encouragement that they were a hot ticket, Alan and Jeanette took their place on the stage.

How did it go?

Jeanette was a complete revelation – she spoke with absolute confidence, certainty and conviction which was brilliant given she was the only woman on the stage. Alan, of course, has the benefit of being a topflight mechanic for 20 odd years. He also has a great voice, clear and confident, so that everyone

including those at the back could hear him. It was a real success. They both agreed it had given them the boost that they could accomplish even more in their business.

My parting messages to you are these…

• Please remove your modesty blinkers and audit your expertise. The idea is to make you realise just how good you are! Jot down at least 7 reasons why you are an expert in your field and memorise them so you can convince yourself and you’re not tempted to shrink into the background when an opportunity arises for you to share your expertise.

• Push out of your comfort zone. “I can” “I will” “I am” should be your phrases of choice in 2023. Ditch “I can’t” and “I won’t” from your language when presented with an opportunity to shine.

• Seek out opportunities to engage on a bigger platform with the people that need your expertise. Could you speak at an industry event? At a breakout seminar; at a conference as Alan and Jeanette did?

Because if you’re not sharing your greatness, you are guilty as charged of serious underselling. Make 2023 the year in which you truly shine.

Dee with Alan and Jeanette at the JLM Lubricants distributor conference

How to prepare for EV business

By Tom Denton

In the last issue of AT, (we explored the training, parts suppliers

world of EV repair – here, automotive author Tom Denton, outlines the steps workshops

Is your business in Electric Vehicle Ready Mode? It doesn’t have to be of course, but if you intend to do EV work then it needs switching on. There are a few steps you need to take now, or at least be seriously preparing for them. These include what qualifications you and/or the team will need, what equipment will be essential, and how will you market and price the new work.

You must first decide which is the best route for you and your business. You have three options:

1. Don’t work on EVs

2. Service and repairs to the low voltage side of EVs

3. Cover all aspects of EVs.

Some technicians dislike the EV revolution – that’s fine, we all have opinions. However, like it or not, they are coming. Government legislation is a key driver, and the latest sales figures do show a dramatic switch towards high voltage vehicles. Whatever you decide, do it soon. If EVs are going to be a part of your future, then you need to start learning more and getting qualified.

The current EV courses and associated qualifications are split into these levels:

• Level 1 Vehicle Awareness Know the potential dangers, even things as simple as how some EVs are very quiet when moving in the workshop. This level is ideal for valeters, sales staff, managers, and anyone who comes into contact with EVs in a working environment

• L2: Vehicle Routine Maintenance Activities Aimed at qualified or time-served technicians who will be working around the high voltage systems and are able to safely switch them off (de-energise)

L2: Hazard Management for Emergency and Recovery Personnel Ensuring first responders (breakdown, fire, police) are able to work safely

• L3: Vehicle Repair and Replacement For technicians working on the high voltage systems, with them switched OFF

• L4: Diagnosis, Testing and Repair of Vehicles and Components Working on high voltage systems with them switched ON, for technicians who have previously completed level 3.

To set a context here, the L1 course is usually just half a day and all the others are about two days (for already qualified/ experienced technicians). It is also important to maintain your competence (stay up to date) after completing training and getting the qualification. IMI TechSafe is the way to ensure this, and here is why it is essential. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and associated HSE guidance states:

“No person shall be engaged in any work activity where technical knowledge or experience is necessary to prevent danger or, where appropriate, injury, unless he possesses such knowledge or experience, or is under such degree of supervision as may be appropriate having regard to the nature of the work.”

and support available for those thinking of entering the

can take to get EV ready and attract new business

NEW ENERGY VEHICLES COMPONENT PROGRAMME

The number of vehicles with the newest technology is growing fast, so we are ready to support you with a competitive offering of thermal management replacement parts and technical expertise.

Explore the difference of our constantly expanding component programme for Hybrid and Electrical Vehicles

In simple terms, if you get this wrong as well as the injury, or worse fatality, as a business owner you become liable. IMI TechSafe identifies professionalism and safe working practice in the field of EV. To maintain recognition, you must carry out mandatory CPD. It is not onerous, and remember it is as much about keeping you safe, as it is meeting the regulations.

The tools for the job

The next important issue is what equipment you need. It is probably much less than you think, but this will depend on how much and what sort of EV work you choose to do.

In addition to the normal automotive-related PPE, the following are the minimum PPE recommended for work on high-voltage systems:

• Overalls with nonconductive fasteners

• Electrical protection gloves

• Goggles/visor.

You will need some simple plastic barriers, or posts and chains, together with suitable signs to warn others and keep a vehicle fenced off. This is particularly important if it is partly dismantled. Red and white, or yellow and black colours are usually used. It is recommended that one bay is set aside for EV work so you can surround the car with insulated mats and have the tools and equipment to hand.

High voltage insulated tools are necessary, but not as many as you may think when first starting out. An important safety feature of the EV tool range is the two-step colour-code system. If any of the red/orange-coloured outer insulation material is missing, a bright yellow interior is exposed, indicating that the tool is no longer safe for use.

You can build up the range bit by bit, as long as you have the essential items. You probably already have a good multimeter, but check that it is at least CAT III, which is the minimum rating that is safe for use on high voltages. An insulation tester will also be needed. EV systems produce fault codes and live data, just like everything else on the vehicle, so a good scanner is essential.

When you have done the training, gained the appropriate qualifications, bought the kit and set up the workshop, it is time to start bringing in the work by marketing your business.

Getting EVs through the door

One of the key things about marketing is that it should attract the type of work (and the type of customers) that you want. So you don’t miss anything, a useful way to plan you marketing is to use the seven Ps as a guide. These are shown, together with some notes and suggestions, in the graphic below:

The seven Ps of marketing

In this article we have looked briefly at what is needed to convert your business from ICE to EV. At the start, I encouraged you to make the decision about whether you will be working on EVs or not. Whatever you decide is fine, but do note the number of green stripe registration plates already out there! www.tomdenton.org

“In any proceedings for an offence consisting of a contravention of regulations, it shall be a defence for any person to prove that he took all reasonable steps and exercised all due diligence to avoid the commission of that offence.”

PPE and insulated tools in use on a Nissan Leaf battery pack

Having a charge point could be a good marketing strategy (Source: Bosch Media)

THE POWER TRANSFER

Working with

Last September, my neighbour moved into a care home. With his unused, moss-encrusted and battered Ford Fiesta languishing on the drive, his relatives were astounded by the 'generous' £250 that was offered by the nearest scrappies and asked if I would drive the car to its final resting place. En-route to the crusher, the car drove so nicely that I was convinced that it was not ready to face its final curtain. Instead, I took a gamble and fired the car straight in for an MOT Test. Not only did it pass but it sold fewer than 24 hours later for an extra grand more than the scrap man offered, which was put immediately towards the owner's care costs.

The point is that used cars remain in high demand. With supply and home budgets squeezed, people are holding onto their vehicles for longer. Of more relevance to you, cars are being repaired more, although some reports warn that servicing schedules are being neglected; something that any responsible technician should warn is a false economy. Perhaps this is one reason why Valeo, for instance, told us that its UK clutch sales have risen, although this could be down to a reduction in the availability of replacement clutch parts overall.

Naturally, decent equipment will make your life easier. These include proper lifting and supporting equipment to facilitate removing subframes, or kit that reduces the human exertion needed when handling the gearbox.

The benefits of a clutch centring tool are well established, especially on engines without a pilot/spigot bush/bearing in the crankshaft, or those with a crankshaft bore (into which the gearbox input shaft positions) larger than that of the clutch friction plate hub.

New Year Resolutions: Clutches

We all make mistakes but here are the top three ones that our partners have found throughout 2022:

1. Friction plate (centre hub) damage, from the gearbox's weight not being supported.

2. Excessive quantity of grease applied to the input shaft splines

3. Friction plate not facing in the correct direction (as pictured). Some non-OE designs do not have markings, so this is an understandable error. Check for any technical bulletins if you are unsure.

Taking the strain

Replacing clutches is one of the few remaining tasks on a modern motor car that is dirty and requires both physical and mental strength. It is almost impossible to answer a telephone call, when manipulating a gearbox in, or out, of an engine bay – especially when the task is made easier with another pair of hands. During such a difficult operation, it is very easy to let the transmission's weight hang on the input shaft. While you could damage the gearbox, it is more likely that the clutch plate would be bent – something that may not be discovered until the first test drive and resulting in you removing the gearbox again, while killing the profit opportunity for the business.

Power cannot be transmitted from engine to wheels without a decent and well-installed clutch.

Sachs, Valeo and First Line, Rob Marshall, provides details of current trends and advice

Replacing clutches and their related components is not the most pleasant of tasks: so get it right first time

Self-adjusting clutches require dedicated installation tools

IT’S BETTER TO GO ALL INCLUSIVE

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Yet, clutch technology has moved on. An advantage of the self-adjusting clutch is that pedal pressures are kept broadly even, regardless of wear. The technician, however, needs to be careful. One risk involves the pressure plate/clutch cover distorting as the bolts are wound in. You could also pull the threads out of the flywheel. The self-adjusting mechanism could also activate and, in many cases, it cannot be reset. A new clutch assembly is the only answer. The solution is using appropriate tooling to install these clutches properly, which compresses the clutch cover before it is bolted to the flywheel. An example of this is Sachs' clutch tool kit that can be used not just with its XTend self-adjusting clutches but also conventional units, too.

Being familiar with DMF evaluation will permit you to offer more competitive quotations

The stress reliever

Some owners and technicians view the Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) as an unnecessary source of irritation; others appreciate its value of (primarily) increased passenger comfort and driveline component protection. Yet, a customer may demand that you replace it with a single mass conversion kit to save money. Indeed, you could advise on the merits of doing so, especially if their driving style involves plenty of heavy towing, low-speed urban driving, or long periods of engine idling, which is common for certain emergency vehicles and taxis, for instance. Vehicles with 'chipped' engines can also experience premature DMF failure. However, it is worth informing drivers that there may be downsides, such as increased NVH levels.

Even so, it is worth evaluating the DMF's condition. You may be able to tell just by the clutch's condition if the DMF has been damaged. Bluing from overheating is an obvious example. Not changing the DMF, but checking that its tolerances are within specification, is a potentially useful way of keeping your charges low. Yet, ensure that you are familiar not just with the tooling but also data that details tolerances of the centre bush/ bearing and acceptable free-play between the two masses. Even on new DMFs, bush measurements can be 2-3mm more, compared to those fitted with bearings, so be wary of this difference, especially when assessing a new part.

Weakness equals leakiness

While many technicians understand the importance of replacing the Concentric clutch Slave Cylinder (CSC), it is easy to compress the unit's piston in error before fitting. This can damage the internal rubber seal. A further common problem occurs when the CSC's top hat seals are not removed before installing a new one, meaning that two seals are in place. The hydraulic fluid, therefore, cannot return as intended and so, when the pedal is depressed again, the CSC becomes overstroked. Consequentially, the clutch will not release properly. Interestingly, incorrect handling and bleeding are responsible for 90% of all CSC leaks.

Training

As mistakes kill profitability and occupy a ramp needlessly, it is worth spending time planning how and when to enhance your knowledge. At the time of writing (mid-December 2022), most companies were finalising their training plans.

ZF has confirmed that face-to-face training on transmissions will take place not just at its Head Office in Nottingham but also at a new state-of-theart facility in Solihull, West Midlands. Valeo is also planning training events but, until dates are finalised, it encourages AT readers to join its technical team on the company's (excellent, incidentally) online training webinars.

CNC installation and bleeding errors are the most common causes of clutch drag

To request your free Borg & Beck clutch poster from First Line, visit mailchi.mp/firstlineltd.co/posters

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

All the horsepower in the world is reduced to nought, if the tyres are not kept in contact with the road surface. Investigating how technicians can hone their skills, Rob Marshall teases out the latest advice.

Any technician that thinks the small but growing presence of high-voltage machinery means that their career will be over soon need not worry. Steering and suspension components are one of the few areas that remain relatively unchanged by EVs, although garages must still be aware of the subtle differences that exist.

Whether powered by combustion, or electricity, controlled by a human, or not (and we must emphasise that ADAS safety aids cannot be confused as being autonomous), the vehicle will still need to deal with corners and surface imperfections.

LKQ Euro Car Parts highlights that demand for chassis repairs is increasing due to an ageing car parc and the generally poor state of the UK’s road network. Therefore, workshops have nothing to fear but technicians should not be complacent. Improving your knowledge of how to complete the job to the highest standard and keeping aware of how quality parts brands are evolving, including how to use their catalogues and technical advice, will stand you in good stead.

Fitting Tips

Steering

When replacing EPS columns/racks, do not forget that many types require coding, or calibrating, so it recognises the straight-ahead position.

Protect bushes from unnecessary stress and premature failure, by tightening the fixings with the wheels supporting the vehicle's weight.

Who to trust?

In recent years, quality and profitable garages have avoided selecting the cheapest possible parts and joining the race to the bottom. Quality and availability appear to be more important, something that we hope a potential recession will not topple. Gradually, EVs are increasing and, while it is true that they also need repairs to their suspension and steering, choose a supplier that is aware of the differences that can occur between ICE and EV versions of the same model.

Generally, trust a decent brand name that insists on OE quality at least. Comline highlights that its parts are reverse-engineered from OE samples, produced in OE-approved manufacturing sites using processes that meet OE standards and backed up by a three-year/36,000 miles warranty. First Line told us that its steering and suspension products are also manufactured to OE specifications and possess a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Components from the ZF portfolio come also with a two-year unlimited mileage warranty, with quality assurance reinforced by the company being an OE supplier.

Comline reminds us that anti-roll bar links can become bent. One reason for this is strain caused by the driver traversing an obstacle (such as a kerb, or speed bump) with one wheel.

Garages should also ensure any brand has decent support and wide coverage. For instance: Comline's VRM look-up: https://www.comline. uk.com/vehiclesearch

First Line's WebCat: https://webcat.firstline. co.uk/Home

ZF's online catalogue: https://aftermarket. zf.com/en/aftermarket-portal/services-andsupport/catalog/#/

First Line states that Nyloc fixings should be tightened solely with hand tools not pneumatic, or electric impact wrenches.

When checking bushes, Comline advises that you should inspect them not just for movement and perishing but also for separation in the bonding between the rubber and metal components.

Consider that most suspension repairs dictate subsequent suspension geometry checks, which means a subsequent ADAS calibration. LKQ Euro Car Parts finds that offering ADAS calibration provides an opportunity for independent garages to take market share from franchises and this is an area in which future training should be focussed.

What a lovely pair!

Replacing the bush, rather than a complete arm, helps to save customers money. First Line says that the suspension arm bush housing must be both clean and undamaged, before pressing in the new bush. Should you have any doubts, renew the arm.

Comline, First Line and ZF concur that garages should replace steering and suspension components in pairs. As the recommendation allows them to sell double the quantity of parts, they would say that, wouldn't they? To be fair, they have a point – doing so preserves handling balance. While it is not illegal to replace parts singularly, you may have to advise customers that it is in their best interest to have, for instance, a pair of anti-roll bar links replaced, instead of one. Not doing so can also be a false economy, which is worth highlighting. Should a component on one side be worn out, its opposing number is likely to be in a similar state.

YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS WITH KYB

All KYB aftermarket shock absorbers are made on the same production lines, using the same materials, and subject to the same stringent quality standards as OE. Trusted by vehicle manufacturers, you can rely on KYB to provide the same world class quality for your replacement parts.

AIR SUSPENSION

WIND POWER

The electrically-operated compressor lies at the heart of an air suspension system, leading Rob Marshall to consult with Arnott and outline how you can replace them quickly and easily.

As the air compressor is designed to work only occasionally, it risks overheating and subsequent damage by having to compensate for leaking air springs. Should you encounter a vehicle that requires replacement shock/spring units, check that the compressor is in good order. Melted adjoining air lines/connectors indicate not only that the compressor has become too hot but also the valve block and switching relay may be damaged, too.

As air suspension tends not to require special tools and employs neither high voltages, nor super-high pressures, firsttimers need not be dissuaded. Yet, you should not be blasé. The following overview details compressor replacement on the third and fourth generations of Land Rover's Discovery and Range Rover Sport models, for which you should perform a software update if replacing the original Hitachi compressor.

1. Remove the air suspension compressor relay. It is good practice to renew the relay, regardless of its condition. Set the steering to its straight-ahead position, then raise and support the vehicle body.

2.

3.

Remove the three bolts that secure the compressor cover, ahead of the N/S/R wheel. Check the wiring for condition and disconnect the electrical connections.

While the orange air line is removed as the compressor is dismounted, depress the fitting and pull the blue connector's air hose carefully from the unit.

“As air suspension tends not to require special tools and employs neither high voltages, nor super-high pressures, first-timers need not be dissuaded"

4. Working from the front to the compressor's rear, disconnect the two other air lines. Ensure that dirt/grit cannot contaminate the system, by plugging the apertures.

5. Remove the three bolts and manipulate the combined motor/compressor assembly from the vehicle.

6. As the unit is lowered, disconnect both the J-shaped hose from the distribution block (pictured) and the aforementioned blue connector hose.

7. Arnott's replacement connector kit includes a replacement threaded connector for the hose, pictured in the previous step. Overtightening is a major cause of subsequent leaks, so do not exceed the 2Nm tightening torque.

8. Expect some compressor kits to include airline modification parts. Here, you need to cut the pictured air feed pipe and insert a brass ferrule, after greasing it sparingly.

10. This Arnott P-3431 kit includes a replacement cover, bracket and relay. Prior to fitting the compressor, fit the top cover section to the floor pan.

11. When installing the new compressor into place with its new bracket, note the anti-vibration rubber supports' positions.

12. Connect the hoses to the compressor and refit the electrical connections. Pictured is the compressor's air exhaust hose, which locates into the compressor's pressure release valve.

13. You may wish to leave refitting the lower cover half, until you have replaced the relay and allowed the compressor to power-up, while checking for air leaks. As mentioned earlier, this installation requires a post-fitting software update.

9. Additional air lines are supplied with this kit, two of which connect to the pictured lines on the vehicle, only one is pictured being fitted.

Knowledge is power and battery replacement will continue, so keeping up to date on the latest trends is not time wasted.

THE KEY TO POWER

Whether you are confronted with a thumping big V12, or a Citroën Ami EV quadricycle, none of them works without a functioning 12-volt lead-acid battery. Rob Marshall, therefore, approaches leading manufacturers to find out the latest post-lockdown news and tips.

When discussing this magazine's theme of power with Editor Nicola, we decided that we could not avoid discussing batteries, such is their vital technical importance. With so much focus within the news and elsewhere on high-voltage EV batteries, the reality is that most workshops deal with 12-volt lead-acid types on a far more regular basis, if not exclusively. The point is emphasised by LKQ Euro Car Parts' research, which states that 40% of national breakdowns are caused by battery failure. Closer to home, Ecobat's study into aftermarket workshops agrees. It found that 40% of cars that enter independent workshops either need their batteries recharging, or replacing. These findings are simply astonishing.

Market Update

The last time AT covered batteries, the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns had turned everything upside down. Cars were either unused, or were covering very short distances, both of which led to battery voltages dropping to such an extent that their lifespans were reduced considerably. Instead of dying batteries failing to start cars at the first sign of a late autumnal frost, replacement cycles started to even out throughout the year. However, even with new batteries installed, some companies predicted that the new replacement cycle would continue, because the new batteries would also suffer from premature degradation.

Battery sales mix

Out of the three different technology types, the standard SLI (Starter, Lights Ignition) remains the most popular type of replacement battery by volume. Considering virtually every new car in the UK is fitted with Stop-Start, the next most popular is AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat); Banner Batteries reports that 096 AGM is one of its fastest-moving product lines.

Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) are fitted to cheaper Stop-Start vehicles and offered manufacturers a cost-effective way of reducing their official carbon dioxide emissions figures. Generally, EFB sales are lower than those of AGM, although Ecobat reports that EFB sales have grown dramatically. Yet, never be tempted to fit EFB technology into a car designed for AGM. Overall, AGM sales are increasing annually, while those of SLIs are decreasing slowly, as a percentage of overall transactions.

“Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) are fitted to cheaper Stop-Start vehicles and offered manufacturers a cost-effective way of reducing their official carbon dioxide emissions figures"

VARTA® Battery Services give YOU the professional technician: the best tools and skills to FIND – TEST – SELL and FIT conventional and advanced Start-Stop VARTA batteries. The opportunity to join the growing team of VARTA Battery Experts who place their trust in Europe’s leading Original Equipment brand.

Top 5 Tips:

Making batteries a win-win situation

1. Test every battery that enters your workshop for state-of-charge (voltage) and state-of-health (amperes).

2. Disconnect the positive terminal before the negative. Doing otherwise can damage the smart charging system.

3. Fit like-for-like technologies. Varta reports that it sees SLI batteries fitted to Stop-Start vehicles repeatedly.

4. When replacing a Stop-Start battery, reset the charging algorithms within the ECU. Otherwise, the new battery will not be recharged properly. Do not forget to charge for this service.

5. Support the battery, when performing diagnostic operations.

Over the past twelve months, Varta reports that vehicles have been used more often, compared to 2020/21. School runs have resumed and many workers have returned to their places of work, albeit with degrees of home working. Varta finds that this situation has created a more regular replacement cycle than in 2020/2021, when record numbers of breakdowns were being caused by battery failure after months of inactivity.

Banner Batteries agrees that the pandemic saw a significant spike in battery sales but replacement cycles have since stabilised, as life started to return to some semblance of normality.

Ecobat adds that the post-pandemic scene has seen fuel costs rocket and this is why many vehicles have covered fewer miles than pre-COVID. In addition, the ageing vehicle parc is a further reason why new battery sales remain buoyant. Yet, the company reminds us that many batteries, fitted during the first lockdown of 2020, were not kept charged sufficiently and have failed early as a consequence.

Both Varta and LKQ Euro Car Parts highlight that 2022's hot summer damaged batteries that are approaching the end of their natural life. If these batteries have not been finished off in the pre-Christmas freeze, failure cannot be far away as we venture into 2023.

What garages must do

With most customers understanding that a 'flat' battery will leave them stranded, it is important to communicate the battery's condition. Banner Batteries implores technicians to test the battery on every single car that enters the workshop, irrespective of why the car is visiting.

As checks can be conducted swiftly (presuming that the battery is easy to access), free-of-charge testing has reputational and trust benefits, especially when you print out a report from proprietary testing equipment. After all, you are reporting an issue to the customer to save them from an emergency situation. Banner Batteries argues, quite reasonably, that testing is a preventative maintenance procedure and, because battery plates deplete by around 10% per year, even one kept well-charged will not last forever.

Electric Cars – The starting force

Despite most of the attention being on their highvoltage circuits, it is easy to overlook EVs' crucial 12-volt systems. Most ancillary circuits are similar to those of ICE vehicles, so the central locking/keyless entry, in-car infotainment, lighting, signalling and even the connectivity still rely on traditional 12-volt electrics. While battery charge is replenished by the high-voltage system, the 12-volt battery reduces voltage fluctuations, in times of high, or sudden, demand.

As dictated by legislation, the high-voltage system is isolated in the event of an impact. Therefore, in such emergencies, the 12-volt system must be sufficiently robust to support the brakes, power steering and even active emergency systems, from airbags to the eCall SOS system.

Perhaps of more interest to your customers is that the 12-volts circuit activates the high-voltage system. Should the lead-acid battery be discharged, the car will not move. According to OE battery manufacturer, Bosch, the German ADAC organisation found that over half of EV breakdowns were caused by discharged, or defective, 12-volt batteries.

Look into the improvements incorporated by some brands' batteries. Yet, this does not mean that you can downgrade the technology type.

Especially in cold weather, it is feasible that the car's alternator cannot replenish the energy taken from the battery to start the engine, especially when hungry, power-sapping accessories are also being used by the occupants. If the battery is in a discharged condition (i.e. its voltage is below 12.4 volts after any surface charge has been removed), you may recommend and offer an overnight charging service that will prolong overall battery life. You may wish to advise the customer how best to operate the car to try and keep the battery charge as high as possible. Varta advises that this includes using the vehicle regularly and avoiding trips that last under ten minutes. You may wish to show your customer how to connect a smart charger to their vehicle; some types include a wiring loom plug adaptor that can be wired permanently to the battery –something that you might wish to offer a non-technical owner.

Upgrading opportunities

If your tests reveal that a fully-charged battery has a state-ofhealth (SOH) reading that is less than 75% of the stated Cold Crank Amps figure, then advise replacement. Ecobat advises that sulphation build-up on the plates, which acts as a barrier to charge acceptance, would be very significant at this stage. Once the SOH falls below 25%, the starter motor will be unable to turn the engine over.

Putting the power back

While the topic of battery charging could take over this whole feature, Sealey advises that garages be aware of the differences between the traditional transformer-based 'linear' chargers and modern smart charger devices. It advises that you use smart chargers for modern cars, because they use programmed algorithms to supply the optimum charge rate, while protecting the vehicle's delicate electronics. As most batteries are sealed, smart chargers will power off completely, thus avoiding the risk of battery liquid electrolyte levels falling, through overcharging. As many EFB and SLI batteries are sealed and manual topping-up is impossible, this is an important consideration.

Old-fashioned linear chargers are not so sophisticated and overcharging is a very real risk. Furthermore, they do not possess charging modes that help to mitigate the damage caused by low voltages, such as sulphation. Yet, Sealey argues that these less advanced chargers still have their place, especially on historic vehicles. When using one, you will need to monitor the state of charge regularly and disconnect the charger, when the battery is recharged.

Sealey supplies linear and smart chargers for workshop and domestic use, which is worth considering, if you also retail accessories to the public. Ecobat, meanwhile, endorses the Swedish CTEK brand's new 'CT5 Time To Go' smart charger, should you be asked to recommend an easy-to-use but capable smart charger.

When recommending a replacement, both Banner and Varta endorse batteries from OE suppliers. One reason is that thicker lead plates are used, which leads to a longer service life thanks to a reduced rate of plate degradation. With household budgets under extreme pressure post-Christmas, you may have a task dissuading customers from unbranded, or lowerspecification alternatives, but explaining that such a false economy can leave them stranded may lead them to change their minds.

When looking to charge a battery on the vehicle, Banner Batteries advises that you should consult the instruction manual. on where the charger should be connected.

Consider quizzing the customer about their needs, because you may be able to endorse a higher-specification battery that will cope better with challenging usage patterns. Ecobat

advises that, for vehicles carrying out predominately repeated short journeys, you can recommend a higher capacity battery, along with the benefits of longer runs that facilitate a degree of recharging, before the battery becomes discharged excessively. Yet, it is also worth keeping up with refinements in battery development. Take Exide's Carbon Boost 2.0, for instance, which has carbon additives included on the negative plates, which improves charge acceptance and cuts charging times by up to half.

All battery retailers and manufacturers agree that you should never downgrade the technology type. Yet, you can upgrade. Varta says that this is useful, especially for modified vehicles. If any aftermarket modifications place extra demand on the electrical system, you could advise upgrading the technology type from a standard battery to an Enhanced Flooded type, or even an AGM, both of which do not have their SOH degraded as much by deep discharges.

Looking to find out more?

Banner Batteries carries out all training on request and so it is best to contact the company directly, should you wish to discuss any aspect of building your knowledge, including the topics of Stop-Start, smart charging, brake regeneration, e-boost and regenerative braking. Similarly, Ecobat is also a faceto-face training provider and highlights its recent developments with training for the road haulage industry, where 24-volt electrics are abundant. Meanwhile, Varta highlights its team of technical trainers that provide training and insight into factors and garages, which include live demonstrations of its Varta Partner Portal, https://www.varta-automotive. com/en-gb/varta-partner-portal/log-in, to which technicians have free and unlimited access.

The Battery Management System and the Electronic Battery Sensor (pictured) monitor the battery over its lifetime. They also assess both the state of charge and health, while controlling the charging rate.

Medway

autotechnician reader Terry Rouse from Medway in Kent swapped his worn-out, yearold inspection lamps for Ring Automotive’s MAGflex MAX500 and MAGflex SLIM500, and provided feedback after using them each day over the past month for his MOT inspections

My name is Terry Rouse and I do the MOTs here at MY Motoring, so I’m under the ramp inspecting all day, every day, so I need a good lamp. Here are my thoughts on Ring Automotive’s MAGflex MAX500 and the SLIM500…

The MAGflex MAX500 (RIL6200)

I had my old lamp for about a year, it's now held together with tape and there's bits missing off it. This MAGflex [MAX500] lamp feels substantial, well made. It's got some good articulation – you can stick it on things and direct the light to where you need to work. It's got a hook and it's also got magnets.

“To get between ten and 15 hours out of one

I think is quite impressive. It's the best one I've used over time.”

Valeo Service invites you to view a recorded webinar to learn why vehicle manufacturers are now fitting the Valeo Matrix Beam technology to their vehicles and the benefits of the technology to vehicle drivers. Simply click the play button on the right to view the webinar and also access technical documents that can be downloaded.

The Valeo Matrix Beam is a Glare-Free High Beam technology that provides a high level of visibility while avoiding glaring any other vehicles on the road. The technology is used in Audi A3 2016 models and is available to the aftermarket.

The Valeo Matrix technology introduced is composed of multiple LED segments. Each LED segment is driven by an independent chip. The obscured area is obtained by extinguishing one or more LED chips, for each of the headlamps, without any moving parts. This maintains maximum light output throughout the non-obscured area and can obscure several different zones at the same time.

In this smart matrix LED system, a camera is mounted within the vehicle that detects the light projected from other vehicles and relays this information to an electronic control unit. Using the information provided by the ECU, it then manipulates the matrix beam lighting to first dim the areas affecting the other vehicle drivers, before completely blanking it out as the vehicle gets closer to the matrix beam, preventing a ‘dazzling’ effect. The system can deal with multiple vehicles, illuminating only the gaps between the oncoming vehicles.

When it comes to longevity – it’s really very good. With my old lamp, I'd have to charge it every night. This one takes about four or five hours to charge, but I used it for a whole week without it going flat. When it got low it started flashing, giving me a 10-minute warning that it was going to cut out. When that happened, I charged it for around four hours and it was good for a whole week, which is very good. With my old lamp, if I didn’t charge it every night, it would not last to the end of day two. By lunchtime I’d be putting it back on charge again. You charge this via a USB C, so I can use my phone charge. The leads are supplied with it.

Useful features

Doing MOTs, it's all about inspection, so it's about getting the light into places to enable you to see gators, bushes, brake pipes and so on. Manufacturers don't like putting things in places that are nice and easy to see and get to. Wherever possible you need to at least look and try and get your hands in to feel what's going on with these parts you need to check. Having a tough bright light, you can wedge it into places without worrying it's going to fall apart. It has got different brightness settings. There's a second setting and it's got a UV light at the top. I personally don't use that, but it would come in handy for air conditioning.

Another thing I do like about this, that I don't like about other multistage lights, is you don’t need to scroll through to turn it off. Once it's on for say 20 or 30 seconds, you just press the button once and it'll turn itself off. You don't go to the next setting and then the next setting – you haven't got to keep pressing the button, which is handy.

Final thoughts

The light source is set down with reflective sides, so it doesn't cast much of a shadow. With these lights, you get a very sharp line but with the reflectors at the side, it kind of wraps the light round a bit more and you're not working in a shadow. You can see more without having to move too much to illuminate things, so I thought that was pretty good.

I have the light on for about three hours out of the day. To get between ten and 15 hours out of one charge, I think, is quite impressive. It's a little bit blocky compared to what I'm used to but it’s the best one I've used.

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• Integrated torch for directional focused light

• Magnets on the back and base of the lamp, plus rotating hook for hands-free working.

MAGflex SLIM500 (RIL 6300)

The little lamp is a lot lighter, and it doesn't last as long. I probably get about four to 5 hours out of a charge of this, but it's only used when I need to get into really tight areas, like through wheels, looking at pads and small areas. It feels quite flimsy, but it's proven to be quite robust. I've dropped it a couple of times with no damage, and it's got rubber mountings so if you do accidentally knock the light, it's not going to break. It's got some give before that happens. It's a good supplement to the MAX500.

But I wouldn't say I could use it all the time – I could if I had to, but I'd have to charge this every day. If you need to investigate further, this little lamp is perfect.

They work well as a pair.

Stock up on OE quality bulbs this Lighting Season!

The perfect way to stock and securely store OSRAM original equipment quality 12V and 24V bulbs is with a loaded AVS bulb cabinet. These two new bulb cabinets come fully stocked with the fastest moving headlight and auxiliary bulbs in the OSRAM ORIGINAL 12V and 24V range. The 12V bulb cabinet includes: 178 bulbs and the 24V bulb cabinet includes: 170 bulbs

These two new 12V and 24V loaded AVS cabinets are available to order now from your local OSRAM stockist.

Light is OSRAM

MAGflex SLIM500 (RIL 6300) features

500 Lumens output, slim design for smaller work areas

"It's a little bit blocky compared to what I'm used to but it's the best one I've used"

bay

Three Xperion 6000 flood lights, designed using feedback from a group of mechanics, join the Philips workshop lighting programme, enabling users to focus the beam where needed and play music while you work.

The Philips Xperion 6000 Flood and Flood Audio lights illuminate large, dark areas, producing 1,000 lumens from just 10 Watts of power within a wide beam. If less light and longer battery life are needed, the lamp can be dimmed to just 100-lumens. The compact Xperion 6000 Flood Mini delivers 500 lumens with the same adjustable beam as the Flood.

Every Xperion 6000 Flood light offers a variable beam and a focused beam that concentrates illumination within small areas, ideal for detailed inspections. “We worked closely with mechanics to design the beam adjustment mechanism from wide flood to focused illumination. Our collaboration resulted in an ergonomic smart-zoom knob that makes it easy to adjust the beam, even with gloves on,” said Pascal Charvat, Work Light Product Manager at Lumileds. The smart light also remembers a user’s last setting and restarts at this intensity.

can connect a phone or media player to the Philips Xperion Flood Audio and listen to music through its integrated speakers. Both the Flood and Flood Audio can be remotely powered on or off by waving a hand and the motion sensor only responds to a specific double-wave gesture and ignores unintended movements. They can also be used as a power bank to charge other devices, such as a phone. The smart handle can be used as a support to hold the light up by itself, as a hook to hang the light from, screwed onto a tripod, or attached to any metal surface with its integrated magnets.

The Xperion 6000 Slim inspection lamp features a wide 100° beam angle from its long slim lighting unit which rotates through 270° and has three different outputs. It offers a long operating time of up to 9 hours, depending on the levels of light required and has a magnet on the base and one on the rear. The Xperion 6000 UV Pillar has a host of features that mark it out as special. The lamp offers several light sources: a LED movable main light with three different outputs, a high Colour Rendering Index (CRI) light and a UV light which allows leak detection.

www.philips.co.uk/c-e/au/led-work-lights/xperion-6000

Bringing light and tunes into the darkest corners of the workshop or engine

Users

The XENARC NIGHT BREAKER LASER Next Generation HID range from OSRAM has been upgraded to offer up to 220 percent more brightness than required by law as the supplier urges motorists to ‘Check,’ ‘Change,’ and ‘Upgrade’ their headlights

These headlamp bulbs provide up to 20 percent whiter light, the light beam extends up to 250 metres and provides wider visibility for enhanced driver safety. The updated range of HID/ Xenon performance bulbs complements the existing halogen and xenon bulbs available in the NIGHT BREAKER series and come with a three-year guarantee.

The XENARC NIGHT BREAKER (Next Generation) range is available in D1S, D2S, D3S and D4S ECE bulb types and are available in single box and twin retail Duo Packs.

Its latest product catalogue covers its expanded range of lighting products across passenger car, motorcycle, and commercial vehicle applications.

This latest issue includes all recently launched products including the H11 NIGHT BREAKER 200, XENARC NIGHT BREAKER (Next Generation), NIGHT BREAKER SILVER and the new BRIGHT and INTENSE LEDriving HL ranges.

The catalogue includes a full bulb application overview providing information on the correct reference for a specific lighting application, and a guide advising consumers how

to check their latest purchase contains genuine OSRAM equipment with the OSRAM Trust Programme.

To view the latest product catalogue online click here

Parts, Tools & Tips

New products, fitting tips & technical advice to ease fault-finding and installation

GLOW PLUG SEASON

The sales of glow plugs spike in the winter months and their replacement should be part of the winter service as they play a leading role in a vehicle’s economy and emissions performance. NGK says that instead of changing one faulty glow plug, workshops should ‘upsell’ by replacing all of them.

If one plug fails, it is highly likely the remaining plugs will shortly follow. With the glow plug being an integral part of the engine management system, replacing the vehicle set ensures the starting and cold drive performance is kept at its maximum.

Glow plug tips

TIME FOR A BEST PRACTICE INSTALLATION

First Line has added a range of timing belt kits supplied with the relevant water pump, pulleys, tensioners and all fixing components necessary for a complete installation, as it is now common practice to replace the pump at the same time.

The range includes more than 40 references, for over 3,000 vehicle applications, including many popular manufacturers such as Citroën, Fiat, Ford, Mazda, Mercedes, Nissan, Renault, Seat, Toyota, Vauxhall and Volvo.

Technical layout drawings to aid the identification process can be found within its online catalogue, WebCat, where the full range can be looked up via application or cross reference.

Meanwhile, the parts supplier has produced 2023 wall planners for workshops and one for those providing CV fleet maintenance. Global Marketing Director Jon Roughley says: “Our large dual-brand wall planners are highly sought after every year and continue to grow in popularity amongst factor staff and garage technicians.”

The company have made it easy to request their wall planners, simply visit: https://mailchi.mp/firstlineltd/ wallplanners and fill in the form requesting the design and quantity required.

NGK says that in some vehicles, glow plugs are more troublesome to remove than others. If you’re unsure whether a glow plug can be removed without damage, if accessibility and time permits, apply penetrating oil around it, then a squirt of engine oil. The vehicle should then be continued to be used and plan to tackle the job another day – to allow the oil to penetrate and do its work. Remove the glow plug whilst the engine is still hot.

To avoid damage to a new glow plug, follow the installation advice on NGK packaging. Always install on to the taper seat by hand, do not over tighten the glow plug or the terminal if the electrical connection is secured via a nut.

Because glow plugs are now a vital part of the engine management system it has never been more important to ensure that the installer is fitting the correct specification item. Avoid budget alternatives as the engine management system can pick up very quickly the fact that they are not to the correct specification. The glow/engine management light will illuminate, vehicle performance will suffer, and consequential damage could result.

www.ngkntk.com/uk

TEST TO EARN INITIATIVE IS BACK

Following a summer of prolonged heat, garages are now experiencing a surge in battery failures and LKQ Euro Car Parts has relaunched its ‘Test to Earn’ initiative to encourage workshops to test batteries whenever any vehicle is brought in for service and repair to encourage customer loyalty and upsell opportunities.

“This summer we saw prolonged spells of searing heat, which can have severe consequences on the life of a car battery. Extreme temperatures can weaken the battery plates, limiting the amount of charge they can hold or supply on demand, and making them less effective,” explains Marketing Director Colin Cottrell. “As it gets colder and vehicles’ engine oil becomes more congealed, the engine will require more power to start. And at the same time, we rely more on features like lights, heaters and windscreen wipers, which use a lot of charge. That’s why battery issues often don’t present themselves until winter comes around.”

Exclusively available to LKQ Euro Car Parts customers, ‘Test to Earn’ encourages garages to test batteries as standard whenever any vehicle is bought in. Those who sign up will receive a battery tester worth £400, which is theirs to keep if they achieve a preagreed three-month target for batteries sold.

Cottrell adds: “Battery testing doesn’t take long to do and presents a win-win scenario for the technician: If the battery is in good shape then the customer can rest assured that they won’t be caught short, but if the battery is on its way out, the likelihood is that the customer will pay to have it replaced.

Engaging customers in the process will go a long way towards building trust – and with statistics showing that one in three vehicles entering a workshop requires a new battery, it also represents huge earning potential.”

LKQ Euro Car Parts partners with battery brands ERA, Bosch, VARTA and Exide, and recently announced the expansion of its own Starline battery range.

https://omnipart.eurocarparts.com/omnihub/garagesupport/batteries

PARTS, TOOLS & TIPS

NEW YEAR TOOL PROMOTION

The latest edition of Sealey’s Tool Promotion, valid from 1st January until 31st March 2023, includes 100 new lines and over 1,450 deals offering discounts of up to 80% off list price as well as a clearance section.

Savings can be found on the recent additions to its vehicle service range, including the VS0216 Brake Disc Lip Remover Set, designed to provide an easy method of removing the lip and corrosion build up on brake discs.

A new modular storage range includes the 15 Drawer Mobile Trolley, Top Hutch and Side Locker. They are rust and solvent resistant, hi-vis green, have a gloss finish and contrasting black anodized heavy-duty drawer pulls. www.sealey.co.uk

BEN LAUNCHES NEW TEXT SUPPORT SERVICE

Ben, the automotive industry charity, has launched a new text service to ensure people who are struggling or in crisis can access free and confidential help any time they need it, day or night. The text service offers support outside of Ben’s helpline hours (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm), in partnership with Shout. If you need support outside of Ben’s helpline hours, you can simply text the word BEN to 85258. You will then receive four automated messages which will connect you to the next available trained professional who will support you. You will then be able to chat over text about what is troubling you – be it feeling anxious, having relationship issues, experiencing problems with addiction or gambling, feeling lonely, low in mood or depression, dealing with bullying, or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Whatever is on your mind, the Ben team is on hand 24/7 to listen and help you to reach a calmer and safer place and figure out a plan for how to move forward.

Ben can help those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry and their family dependents. If you would benefit from some support or if someone you know might need their help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch via their free and confidential helpline: 08081 311 333, use the webchat at www.ben.org.uk or text BEN to 58258.

LIMITING RISKS TO ROAD SAFETY

Garages and workshops turn to personalised video to comfort motorists, drive increased footfall and ensure road safety as the cost of living crisis takes hold across the nation.

A recent poll by The Motor Ombudsman has shown that 91% of garages questioned said in order to curb costs motorists had cut back on taking their car in for its annual service with some motorists even skipping essential car maintenance such as replacing worn tyres and forgoing services. PECUVi, creators of My Service Trust, says personalised customer videos are one way workshops can ensure motorists see the value in having their cars repaired and well maintained, helping to turn the cost of living crisis into an opportunity for them and their customers.

Providing personalised customer videos break down technical boundaries with customers and demonstrate trust and transparency. Using them improves the customer experience, they help to convert more work at a time when workshops are competing for fewer jobs and they save motorists money in the long term.

Payment Assist is integrated into My Service Trust, which gives customers the option to instantly sign-up for finance and split their repair bill over four monthly instalments, interest, and hassle free.

You can contact the team to book a demo and get a free 14day trial at https://pecuvi.com/automotive-sector

WIPER BLADE REFRESH

In addition to wiper blade styles, sizes and applications, Denso’s new wiper catalogue also addresses attachment fixings on wiper arms and the differences between them.

The range includes OE quality flat, conventional, hybrid and rear blades, followed by a detailed explanation of the various arm type and fixings favoured by the vehicle manufacturers. After addressing how to diagnose common faults and spot signs of wear, and explaining how the part numbers are designated, the catalogue provides detailed fitting instructions.

The bulk of the publication comprises detailed application tables that bring all the necessary specification requirements together, to ensure the correct replacement blade is identified and supplied to the customer.

The complete DENSO aftermarket wiper blade programme covers almost 95% of the European vehicle parc and, in addition to the printed catalogue, is also available as a free download via this link: www.denso-technic.com/e-catalogue

MASTERS OF MOTION RESOURCES

Delphi Technologies, a brand of BorgWarner, is launching its Masters of Motion campaign following extensive consultations with technicians, to support and upskill technicians in today’s technology and set the foundations for future developments including connectivity and electrification. The suite of content will kick-off with a new digital portal, housing how to videos, graphics, and guides.

“At Delphi Technologies, we are striving to support the technician who is ultimately the backbone of the aftermarket. We want them to feel heard and understood as the experts that they are, and so Masters of Motion was born,” remarks Jean-Francois Bouveyron, VP and General Manager Aftermarket EMEA BorgWarner. He continues; “What was clear from our time with workshops is that they want assistance for new unfamiliar technology that’s coming, but they need that support to start with what is in their vehicle bay today. We don’t need to be afraid of the future, we just need to be prepared! We are delighted to launch Masters of Motion across Europe and move closer to a sustainable long-term aftermarket.”

IMMOBILISER AND KEY TOOL

The X-PROG3 from Launch Tech UK is a new vehicle programming tool that provides strong anti-theft system coverage and engine and gearbox reprogramming capabilities.

Working in conjunction with Launch diagnostic tools, including the PRO 5/PRO 5 Link and Euro Tab ranges, X-PROG3 can be used to read and programme Volkswagen Group, BMW and Mercedes-Benz immobilisers, and more, and rewrite data to new keys.

It supports engine ECU replacement or cloning, reading engine data directly from the key, for Volkswagen, Audi, and Mercedes MQB platform ECUs, and can backup and restore programming data for Bosch and Siemens ECUs.

All necessary adaptors and connectors are supplied and it features a vehicle key slot, DB26 used to connect to each anti-theft cables, key matching function, infrared slot, power supply status indicator and DC 12V used to connect to the power supply.

www.launchtech.co.uk/oem-level-vehicle-diagnostics/launch-x-prog-3-immobilizer-programming-tool

STAYING AHEAD OF THE CURVE

For more than three-and-a-half decades, Autoelectro has embraced rotating electrics and championed the environmental benefits of extending the life of components via its in-house facility, to produce starter motors and alternators of all generations.

As an increasing number of hybrid and electric hybrid enter independent workshop doors, Autoelectro has developed a programme of references for manufacturers such as Peugeot, Audi, Fiat, Mercedes, Ford, BMW and Volvo.

All of its parts include fitting instructions and, with certain part numbers, technical notes. Customers can search for part numbers, organise old core returns, chat to its in-house experts and track deliveries in real-time via its website: www.autoelectro.co.uk.

PARTS, TOOLS & TIPS

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF AUTOTECHNICIAN MAGAZINE…

We focus on 'Fighting the Fakes' within our technical features: Ignition & Engine Management, Filters, Oils & Additives, Exhausts & Cats, and Braking.

Gareth Davies provides a case study on a faulty Audi A3 and we introduce Julia Crawford from People Pillar, who begins a series of articles, providing pragmatic HR advice on all things people related – including contracts of employment, employment policies, recruitment, absence management and redundancies (plus a whole lot more).

Nissens Training Concept:

Onsite, live online training and self-learning modules for technicians

Michael

Ingvardsen, Global Technical

Training

Nissens Automotive, provides an overview of its knowledge platform

Manager at

Nissens Training Concept (NTC) is an educational platform created for technicians, workshops, and wholesalers. Its aim is to inspire and enable users to be competitive and proficient in the service and repair of thermal, engine efficiency and emission systems, to promote the growth of their business.

What is in the NTC?

Our educational platform offers knowledge in the following areas:

1. A holistic understanding of the system and components

2. Service best practice, including service procedures, troubleshooting, and component installation

3. Consumables and service agents

4. Trends and changes for future applications.

A choice of training formats

We offer personal, onsite, and online sessions or, whenever possible, live audience training conducted by one of our professional NTC trainers, which is available in 15 languages!

Technicians can also learn through our seven top-notch and captivating self-learning modules, available from any place and at any time. The online self-learning training is conducted via an advanced learning management system. Besides highquality visual content, most learning modules are interactive and utilise narration, sound effects, video and animation whenever needed. Each course taken via NTC's live onsite, online, or self-learning modules offers a personal certificate after passing a short test.

Technicians can also access Nissens' technical marketing materials, videos, bulletins, and guides in print and digital formats, available at www.nissens.com/experts

To enrol in one of the self-learning courses, or to request live training, visit www.nissens.com/ntc. All online training is free of charge to independent technicians.

What’s coming up in 2023?

Over the coming months, Nissens will update the NTC library of electronic learning media with New Energy Vehicle content. Several new learning modules are planned for development, including model-specific thermal management systems and component design, applied in the market's most popular vehicle applications. The update will also feature safety in highvoltage system service and new refrigerant topics.

Available training options

One or three-day onsite or online group training – Level 1 Climate Control (theory and assignments), including a review of the various systems, understanding the relationship between pressure and temperature, individual components, troubleshooting via pressure and temperature, AC oils, how to use trace substance, refrigerant status and focus on 1234yf, flushing/ cleaning of an AC system. Level 2 and 3 of this course delve deeper into these topics and include both theory and practical elements.

Examples of Level 2 and 3 live onsite or online sessions, ranging from 15 minutes to two-hours in duration, include Common AC problems, system diagnostics and units covering the individual system components.

Self-learning online modules range from 15 minutes to 2 hours’ duration covering climate control and turbo technology – modules include: Turbo fundamentals and installation, common issues, and troubleshooting.

To enrol in one of the self-learning courses, or to request live training, visit www.nissens.com/ntc.

Can we come and say hello?

Ben’s Outreach Team is on the road delivering free on-site visits to micro, small and mediumsized automotive employers. It’s our chance to tell you more about the many ways we can help you and your team – like our free and confidential helpline, extensive range of health and wellbeing resources and employer partnership programmes.

Learn more and request your free on-site visit at ben.org.uk/ben-on-the-road

Ben - Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund. Lynwood Court, Lynwood Village, Rise Road, Ascot, SL5 0FG. A charity registered in England and Wales (no.297877) and Scotland (no.SC039842).

Scan to request a visit from Ben