Circulation for the 11 issues distributed between July 2023 –June 2024
Net total: 3,159
United Kingdom: 3,159
Season’s greetings
So, here we are again! It feels but a moment since I was mocked by my lookalike Tom Allen during the IAAF annual dinner and awards. Last year’s extravaganza was an absolute triumph. I mentioned it at the time, but I thought 2023’s event was the best one I had attended. Of course, there was the hilarious teasing from Tom – a highlight for many, but not for me! – but several of the speakers during the day stood out and made a genuine impact on me.
The one that I remember – remember most fondly – was that delivered by Claire Lomas MBE. Claire was the keynote speaker; in front of a full and completely absorbed audience, she spoke movingly and powerfully about the adversity she had faced in her life after a horse riding accident in 2007 left her paralysed. She spoke about the importance of resilience, the right attitude and approach, which enabled her, five years after her accident, to become the first paralysed person to walk a marathon using an exoskeleton suit. She achieved this unbelievable feat in 17 days.
Motorbike and pilot licences followed, while skiing became one of her favourite hobbies. A mother of two, Claire’s charity campaigning raised almost £1 million – all in aid of raising awareness and finding better treatments of paralysis and spinal injuries.
She spoke for an hour, but I could have listened to her all day. Her mindset, tenacity and brilliance were utterly captivating. I bought both of her books and read them during the Christmas break. They were written from the heart; her way of writing reflected her speech delivery. It was authentic, emotional and inspirational.
I was, therefore, deeply saddened and shocked to learn of her death in August. Of course, I didn’t know Claire personally, but that was the influence she had on me – and, judging from some of the tributes I’ve read, my sadness was shared and felt by many. My condolences to Claire’s friends and family.
Before I sign off for the last time in 2024, I wanted to give automotive charity, Ben, a shout. Among its many projects, all in the name of protecting the interests and helping the lives of automotive professionals and their families, for the fifth year running, the charity will be continuing its Christmas families campaign (page six).
The project started in December 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, when many automotive families were struggling to afford the basics at a more expensive time of year. Since then, with Ben’s support, hundreds of automotive families have been able to pay their basic living costs, give Christmas gifts to their children and have a festive lunch together.
More than 700 adults and children have benefited, and, last year, Ben supported 265 automotive families, including 120 children. It’s expected that the charity will help even more people this year. Fantastic effort and long may it continue.
All that is left for me to say – well, write – is thank you for reading Professional Motor Factor in 2024. I hope you’ve enjoyed the contributions from everyone over the last 12 months and you’ll stick with us in 2025. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Ben offers Christmas lifeline to automotive families for the fifth year running
Ben has announced the continuation of its Christmas families project in 2024. The initiative aims to support families facing difficult financial decisions, such as choosing between heating their homes, putting food on the table or providing gifts for their loved ones.
The project started in December 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, when many more automotive families were struggling to afford the basics at a more expensive time of year. Since then, with Ben’s support, hundreds of automotive families have been able to pay their basic living costs, give Christmas gifts to their children and have a festive lunch together.
Over the past four years, almost 700 adults and children have benefited from Ben’s Christmas families project. Since 2020, Ben has seen these figures grow by 208%.
Last year, Ben supported 265 automotive families through the project, including 120 children. It’s expected that the charity will help even more people this year. Here are some quotes from families that Ben supported in 2023:
“Thank you so much for the food vouchers; it will make a huge difference to our Christmas. It’s been a really hard year, but this will lift the whole family. We have some treats to make it more special.”
“Thank you so much for the Christmas support. The food vouchers will make an amazing difference. It’s been a long road this year and Christmas seemed impossible to reach, but we got here with some great help. Although we’ve had lows, Ben has given us some highs. Now we’ll have a great Christmas day with treats, dinner and the kids will have some lovely presents.”
“I was so overwhelmed by Ben’s kindness that I just burst out crying. You’ve made us so happy in what’s been a rough time. I can’t thank you and everyone at Ben enough for what you’ve done.”
To anyone in the industry who is struggling with cost-of-living pressures or find themselves in crisis, please reach out to Ben, your automotive industry charity.
Ben Chief Executive Officer, Rachel Clift, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have helped hundreds of automotive people through our Christmas families project over the past
“Over the past four years, almost 700 adults and children have benefited from Ben’s Christmas families project. Since 2020, Ben has seen these figures grow by 208%.”
four years. Of course, Ben’s not just for Christmas – we’re here for automotive people all year round, and we help
■ Ben is here for automotive industry people this Christmas, so if you work or have worked in the automotive industry and require support, the charity urges you to get in touch now via its free and confidential helpline. Don’t suffer in silence – contact the helpline: 08081 311 333 or use the webchat at www.rdr.link/FAL001
If you would like to show your support for Ben and your automotive family, visit www.rdr.link/FAL002
thousands of families each year. At a more expensive time of year, we want to make sure no automotive family goes without the opportunity to have a Christmas meal together and a gift for their children.
“We recognise that times are still really tough for many. No-one in our automotive family should face homelessness or have to make impossible decisions about whether they can afford to put food on the table or heat their homes. We’re here for those struggling or in crisis. We provide lifechanging and, often, lifesaving support to many families and individuals who can’t afford the basics. We urge people to contact our helpline. We want everyone in the automotive industry to know that Ben is here for them. Please don’t struggle alone, get in touch today.”
Garage Hive reveals rebate initiative for Euro Car Parts customers
Garage Hive has announced a new rebate programme for users of its LKQ Euro Car Parts integration. The initiative provides an “industry-first” opportunity for garages to earn back up to 3% on their parts spend.
Garage Hive Managing Director, Ray Dilsons, said: “As the only garage management system offering a rebate on LKQ Euro Car Parts purchases, Garage Hive continues to stand out by focusing on community-driven value.
“By offering a percentage back on spend, we’re not only supporting garages financially but also empowering them with access to exclusive training and events that can drive their business forward.”
The rebate can be redeemed as digital reward points, which garages can use towards a variety of exclusive benefits, including Garage Hive’s classroom training and refresher courses.
To qualify for the rebate, garages must be
connected to the LKQ Euro Car Parts catalogue integration on Garage Hive and place at least 30% of their parts orders digitally through the garage management system.
Garage Hive users can access LKQ Euro Car Parts’ catalogue of products, with real-time pricing and availability shown from within the system. Users can select the ‘basket’ of parts required and add them to a job sheet. A purchase order can then be generated and sent from the system straight to branch.
GSF Car Parts launches Get Your Motor Running competition
GSF Car Parts has announced the launch of its Get Your Motor Running competition to help drivers get their cars back on the road.
The initiative invites entries from anyone who knows a friend, family member or coworker struggling with car issues or for those facing difficulties themselves. Three winners will be selected to receive a full restoration of their vehicle, including the cost of parts and labour.
GSF is encouraging entrants to share their stories, asking them to describe in around 200 words why they, or someone they know, deserves to win the prize. By highlighting these narratives, the national motor factor aims to ensure that the prizes go to those who truly need support in getting their vehicles fixed.
GSF CEO, Steve Horne, said: “We understand that a car is essential for many aspects of daily life, from commuting to work to weekend adventures. With our Get Your Motor Running competition, we aim to support drivers facing challenges by providing the parts and assistance they need to get back on the road.”
Competition entries can be submitted on the GSF Car Parts website: www.rdr.link/FAL003
LKQ UK and Ireland aim to cut carbon emissions after solar panel installation
LKQ UK and Ireland, the company behind LKQ Euro Car Parts, LKQ Bodyshop, LKQ Leisure and Marine and Digraph, has installed nearly 6,500 solar panels on the roof of its central logistics hub.
The update reveals the progress made towards LKQ Corporation’s global goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
The installation covers the roof of the 792,000sqft T2 building at Birch Coppice Business Park, Tamworth. The site is one of the largest commercial buildings in the UK, holding more than 100,000 SKUs. The facility sends out more than 55,000 orders daily and services 40,000-plus garages across the UK every week.
LKQ UK and Ireland claims the 2,948kWp solar array system will allow the business to offset energy consumption at T2 by up to 32% and has the potential to prevent the emission of 12,554 tonnes of CO2 over the system’s 25-year lifespan. That is the equivalent of taking almost 3,000 passenger vehicles off the road for one year.
The move is the latest in a series of investments by LKQ UK and Ireland into reducing its scope one and two emissions. These include the installation of LED lights in 188 of its branches and warehouses to improve energy efficiency, and a pilot scheme for the use of escooters and cargo pedal bikes to deliver stock to customers across London and Southern England.
LKQ UK and Ireland Chief Executive Officer, Kevan Wooden, said:“We recognise the important role we have to play in driving sustainable growth, across our own business and when it comes to helping our customers to operate more sustainably. As market leader, it’s our responsibility to lead the way and share what we learn as we do.”
NEWS
Autowave and YMF Car Parts bolster partnership with key solutions added to offering
Autowave, a leading supplier of car keys and programming equipment, has revealed an expanded supply agreement with YMF Car Parts.
This strengthened partnership, following demand from YMF customers, now includes an increased range of Autowave’s remotes, keys, and transponders, which are available at all seven YMF branches – York, Malton, Selby, Scarborough, Poppleton, Harrogate and Thirsk – with same-day delivery.
The updated range includes car remotes compatible across various makes and models, offering quick and accurate replacements for customers. It also features key blanks, which are physical keys designed to accommodate inserted transponders, and transponders themselves, providing secure vehicle immobilisation options, from individual chips to programmable key blanks. Additionally, key shells are available, allowing customers to rehouse old or
damaged remote casings.
Autowave’s extended motor factor network enables more workshops and locksmiths to place and receive orders quickly. For YMF customers, they will receive
same-day delivery and don’t need to hold stock on-site – reducing overheads and improving efficiency.
Autowave’s Ravi Kotecha said: “Our increased collaboration with YMF strengthens our commitment to providing the motor factor with quality products quickly and conveniently to support endusers. The team at YMF are easy to work with; they understand the opportunities they have in selling replacement keys and related services. Naturally, I am delighted to see YMF expand its offerings.”
YMF Car Parts Managing Director, Lee Jones, added: “YMF Car Parts are always on the lookout for new products and services that enable us to better support our garage customers, so when we got the opportunity to partner with Autowave and offer its highquality car keys and programming equipment to our customers, we were very keen to do so.”
VLS welcomes publication of the new 2024 ACEA Heavy-Duty Engine Oil sequences
The Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS) has welcomed the publication of the 2024 edition of the ACEA Oil Sequences for Heavy-Duty Engines.
Released by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), the new sequences reflect advancements in engine technology and the increasing demand for emissions reduction, aligning with European legislation that requires emissions from new trucks to be 15% lower by 2025 and 30% lower by 2030.
VLS Chairman, Harald Oosting, said: “We welcome any initiatives which support emissions reduction. Although heavyduty vehicles comprise a small percentage of the vehicles on our roads, they are responsible for a much larger share of CO2 emissions. Engine and lubricant manufacturers are working hard to reduce emissions from existing diesel engines, as well as develop electric and hydrogen solutions, to help achieve net zero targets.”
The 2024 ACEA Oil Sequences include the introduction of a new category, F01-24, designed specifically for road vehicles. This category features lighter XW-30 engine oils with lower hightemperature high-shear (HTHS) viscosity requirements of 2.9 to 3.5, offering improved fuel efficiency. This contrasts with the widely adopted E11-24 oils, which maintain higher viscosity and broader compatibility. The F01-24 category addresses the emerging need for more fuel-efficient lubricants in heavy-duty vehicles while supporting the drive to meet emissions targets.
The new sequences replace the 2022 edition and claims against them can now be made. From 15 October 2025, all new lubricant claims must comply with the 2024 ACEA Oil Sequences. However, VLS has highlighted a potential challenge with “backwards compatibility”.
Harald added: “Operators must be aware that, as with the lightduty sequences with lower HTHS limits, backwards compatibility could be an issue. Workshops need to be vigilant and ensure they are using the correct lubricant for each and every vehicle they service.”
Draper and EXCELR8 team up to support the next generation of mechanics
Automotive tool brand, Draper, and British Touring Car Championship outfit, EXCELR8 Motorsport, kicked off the new academic year by meeting hundreds of apprentices and aspiring mechanics and engineers on a tour of several educational facilities.
Starting at Shrewsbury Colleges Group in September, the series of pop-up events saw the two brands bringing BTCC driver Nick Halstead’s car to each location, allowing the students to get up close to a real-life race car and find out about being a race technician or engineer.
Alongside this, the students were able to put their mechanic skills to the test with Draper’s interactive ‘Find the 10mm socket’ game, as well as get hands-on with the company’s range of automotive tools and equipment. There were also chances for the students to win prizes on the day, as well as an ultimate mechanic’s tool kit giveaway to enter.
Commenting on the event, Andrew Lee, director of employer engagement at Shrewsbury Colleges Group, said: “Having the continued support of EXCELR8 and Draper at the start of each year during our induction week really kicks the new term off with a bang. We’ve had some fantastic feedback from the students, who enjoyed the chance to find out more about careers in motorsport, and, of course, they
loved the games and giveaways from Draper too.
“The hands-on experience and the engaging sessions really inspired them and got them thinking about where their qualifications could take them in future.”
The series of pop-up events is part of an annual education programme from EXCELR8, supported by Draper, and went on to include visits to the automotive departments at Chesterfield College, Barnsley College and the University of Derby.
Draper Tools PR and Partnerships Manager, Fran Weeks, said: “We know that
skills shortages are a real issue facing the future of the sector, so together with EXCELR8, we’re keen to play our part in supporting and nurturing the next generation going into the automotive industry.
“It really was great to connect with so many future mechanics and engineers; we hope they all had fun whilst finding out a bit more about tools and maintaining race cars. More than that, we also hope it has helped get the students excited about their future careers. We’re grateful to the colleges for hosting us and want to wish the students all the best as they embark on their automotive journeys.”
eBay: Two thirds of motorists claim they have never changed a headlight bulb
A new study by eBay claims that the majority of UK motorists (67%) have never attempted to change their vehicle’s headlight bulbs.
The research also found that nearly one in five (17%) drivers rarely check their headlights and rear lights, despite their importance for safety and legal compliance. In a win for the aftermarket, 38% prefer taking their vehicles to a garage, while 37% feel they lack the knowledge. Other reasons include not having the right tools (19%) and fear of damaging their vehicle (19%).
However, the study also revealed a willingness among some drivers to tackle
the task, with 43% expressing confidence in their ability to replace a blown bulb. Of the 33% who have replaced bulbs, 65% did so to save money, 61% found the process quick and easy, while 21% enjoyed the DIY experience.
As part of its research, eBay contacted 15 garages across London, Liverpool and Birmingham to understand the average cost to replace a single headlight bulb on some of the UK’s most popular models. Data showed motorists could be paying £29 more for a garage to carry out the work. Meanwhile, eBay claims that one garage contacted quoted up to £83 to fit a new bulb.
Smart inventory, stronger sales –what’s
the
winning strategy on stock efficiency and supplier partnerships?
In this issue, we tackle effective stock inventory management – from maximising potential and minimising wastage to monitoring seasonal trends and working with suppliers. We hear from both motor factors and suppliers – Tom Henman reports:
Istart my report by sharing a conversation I had with Auto Spares Wales’ Steve Jones. Generously, Steve managed to find a window of opportunity to talk to me, with preparations for the opening of a third branch nearing a conclusion. In return for his insights, I promised to pay him a visit in the New Year, to see the freshly painted and newly opened store in Merthyr.
Auto Spares Wales is a PDP member and has been in business for nearly four years. Steve, though, has been a fixture of the automotive aftermarket for a lot longer, having played a significant role in Fast Parts Wales’ success.
Steve conceded from the outset, perhaps modestly, that Auto Spares Wales
Steve Jones
“isn’t as efficient as we could be” but steps are taken to reduce stock wastage throughout the year. For instance, the factor employs a 30-day returns policy where any overstock from the calendar month can be sent back.
But what constitutes ‘overstock’? Steve explained: “If it’s something we sell more than three or four times-a-year and we’re just overstocked by one unit, we’ll keep it. But if an item sells three times or fewer, we’ll send it back in that calendar month.”
I was curious to learn if Steve thought that was standard practice for motor factors. Albeit he is using a small sample –namely businesses in the local area – he believes many don’t, relying on a yearly stock cleanse instead.
He added: “We still do yearly stock plans too, but we also have this monthly return system. It’s something we established years ago when we were at Fast Parts, and we’ve continued it here. Otherwise, we could end up with £50,000 to £60,000 worth of overstock, which takes up space and impacts cash flow.”
One would assume suppliers don’t want to receive returns – it’s probably something they don’t actively promote! – but Steve claimed the suppliers Auto Spares Wales partner with have never complained.
He continued: “Most suppliers are willing to work with us. We rarely encounter issues. When we explain that we want to do 30-day returns, we’ve never had a supplier refuse. They’re usually open to it, though it’s not something they actively promote. The only downside is that we typically cover the return shipping costs. But for the sake of cash flow, it’s worth spending £10 on shipping to free up that money.”
Steve alluded to the strong relationships he enjoys with the majority of suppliers, building trust and rapport over decades, meaning they’re more receptive to sensitive suggestions. That may not necessarily be the case with inexperienced, new businesses in the industry.
Are seasonal trends a reality or myth?
This time of year, one might expect battery, rotating electrics and wiper sales to be on the up, and while I was fortunate to have Steve on the phone, I wanted to ask him about the perceived spikes in demand; for example, Professional Motor Factor product features are largely based on seasonality. During the warmer months, we’ll have an air conditioning feature, but, when the temperature drops, we’ll focus on batteries – but is that the reality of a motor factor?
Steve responded: “Some products are still seasonal, like batteries, starter motors and air conditioning units, but it’s less pronounced than it used to be. We still see spikes in items like antifreeze and batteries during cold weather.”
Different trends in different locations
While seasonal trends still exist, Steve believes they are not as distinct as they used to be – but what about different trends in the products sold by branch? Auto Spares Wales, albeit for not much longer, operates out of two branches – Oakdale and Newport – which are only 10 miles apart. Given their proximity, one might assume there wouldn’t be many anomalies.
Steve said: “The demand can vary significantly. For instance, in Newport, we stock a lot of Toyota parts, especially for hybrids, since they’re popular with local taxi drivers. But in Oakdale, we don’t see demand for those same parts, so we don’t keep them there.
“In another example, Oakdale has more
older Ford Transits, so we stock certain oil grades for them there, while in Newport, there’s more demand for different oil types due to newer vehicle models.”
Lenco Motor Spares goes a different direction
To enrich this article further, I connected with Jane Galea from Lenco Motor Spares, based in Royal Tunbridge Wells and also a PDP member. Like Steve, Jane has featured in the magazine before – but when she made her appearance last year, she was wearing a different uniform! Onto pastures new but still the same bubbly Jane, she offered a contrasting approach to inventory management and supplier collaboration.
Jane has managed stock and relationships in the automotive aftermarket for over two decades, so she was wellplaced to share some seasoned perspectives on optimising inventory and adapting to market demands.
When asked about Lenco’s approach to overstock, Jane noted that, unlike Auto Spares Wales, her team takes a more flexible approach without strict monthly returns.
She explained: “We rely on longstanding relationships with suppliers to manage any excess, but we don’t automatically return stock each month. Instead, we do a thorough quarterly audit. This lets us observe real sales trends before deciding which products might need adjusting or returning.”
Jane noted that this approach, while perhaps less regimented, has worked well given the trust Lenco has cultivated with suppliers.
She continued: “Our suppliers understand our rhythm and give us room to try out different inventory levels. This way, we avoid prematurely returning items that may have had a slower month but could pick up later in the season.”
On seasonal trends, Jane was quick to confirm that some seasonal variances remain evident, but she also echoed Steve’s sentiment that the shifts are less predictable than they once were.
Jane confirmed: “Batteries and antifreeze still sell better in winter, but we’re seeing that customers’ buying habits can fluctuate unexpectedly. We keep a close eye on data from the previous years and adjust for local demands. For instance,
Jane Galea
Autosupplies
Group’s
David Clarke: “Minimising dead stock is an ongoing focus for us to ensure we maintain an efficient and profitable inventory. By leveraging sales data and trends, we can proactively flag products that aren’t performing and take appropriate action – whether that’s offering promotions, bundling them with more popular items, or negotiating return options with suppliers.”
we might stock more brake pads leading up to summer, as we notice drivers often prepare their vehicles for holiday trips.”
Where Steve at Auto Spares Wales sees some significant demand variations by branch, Jane feels the localities Lenco serves are consistent in product demand but are heavily influenced by brand preferences and customer loyalty.
She said: “In our area, we serve a lot of repeat customers who expect certain brands, especially for items like filters and lubricants. As a result, we’ve streamlined our offerings to match those expectations, minimising excess stock while keeping our customers happy.”
Jane also shared that Lenco’s strategy of building solid relationships over the years helps the business navigate both competition and demand without constantly adjusting inventory: “If we continue to offer reliability and quality, we find our customers are less swayed by competitor promotions. It’s about consistent service, and our inventory choices reflect that.”
Autosupplies Group focuses on investment
Head up the motorway for a couple of hundred miles, there sits Autosupplies Group, an employer of 200 staff, and its managing director, David Clarke. David has
Clarke
David
been an ambassador and contributor of the magazine over many years – I’ve interviewed him at least twice! – so I was confident he would be willing to add his views to this particular piece. He didn’t let me down!
Starting by quizzing David on any successful tactics to optimise inventory, improve cash flow or streamline operations, he pointed to investment as being key in the business.
He said: “We’ve made investments in stock availability, people, high quality products and importantly, getting products to customers on time to help manage inventory, cashflow and our operations to meet our ultimate goal of being a one stop shop.
“Add to this competitive pricing, excellent customer service and resolving issues in a professional manner, we have been successful in turning the business into one of the nation’s leading – and most popular –independently-owned motor factors.”
Another important part of Autosupplies Group’s investment strategy is David’s commitment to visiting customers, which he does every Monday. He also spends time out on the road with the external sales team to “ensure we are all fully invested” in customers’ successes. It also allows David to listen and act on feedback and recommendations.
David highlighted increased stockholding as another key strategy due to “poor stock availability from some suppliers”, which means the motor factor “always has an option for our customers”.
Autosupplies recently renovated its Leisureways of Rotherham offices and retail area, installed new van bays to grow its van fleet from 10 to 20, all in the name of improving customer satisfaction and meeting demand. David believes it is “all part of our commitment to continuous developments to help optimise inventory, improve cashflow and streamline operations”.
Reducing dead stock
While increased stockholding plays a pivotal part in Autosupplies’ operation, what about decreasing the amount of obsolete stock? David, like Steve and Jane, acknowledged the importance of regularly reviewing stock turnover rates and identifying slow-moving items:
“Minimising dead stock is an ongoing focus for us to ensure we maintain an efficient and profitable inventory. By
leveraging sales data and trends, we can proactively flag products that aren’t performing and take appropriate action –whether that’s offering promotions, bundling them with more popular items, or negotiating return options with suppliers.”
David highlighted the “close relationships” with Autosupplies’ suppliers to “maintain flexibility in ordering and returns”, which allows the motor factor to adjust its inventory more effectively.
MAM Software’s Andy Garratt: “Our customers can leverage Autopart’s real-time data to understand both current sales and missed opportunities. They can anticipate demand more accurately, minimise stockouts and avoid tying up resources in excess inventory.”
Regular stock audits and clear communication internally are crucial; doing so ensures that the business isn’t overstocking items that may become obsolete due to a change in demand or product updates.
David added: “Regular stock cleanses with every one of our suppliers is another key strategy to help manage our inventory. We are continually analysing and amending our ordering points and stock ordering regularity – this includes daily stock orders with our mechanical suppliers and twice a week with others. This all helps to reduce our dead stock.”
Forecasting demand
To David’s point about changing demands of product, I was curious to ask him about any data-driven approaches that are implemented to assist the motor factor with inventory requirements. He’d already acknowledged its use in helping reduce dead stock, but what about new stock potentially coming in?
He responded: “We have great relationships with our suppliers and receive regular new-to-range updates, showing the car parc and suggested stock to keep. We offer at least two or three backup suppliers per product group to ensure availability is always at a premium for our customers.
“We look at both sales and stock – and as a motor factor that has a pick rate of 9.5/10, so more than 90% availability – we have to make sure that all popular parts are stocked first and foremost, and, secondly, that they are sold. We do this via a lost sales log, where we look at lost sales and decide whether to keep the product in stock or not.
“There’s a traditional statistic that 25% of what’s on the shelf is not sold. Suppliers have to work together with distributors to make sure they have the greatest availability of the most popular parts – that works in favour of both parties. And that is important for us at Autosupplies to ensure we are managing our data to help forecast demand today and in the future.”
Are we moving to a ‘digital-first’ future?
Switching from a motor factor perspective to one from MAM Software. The company believes the sector isaccelerating towards a “digital-first future”, withbusinesses seeking smarter ways to improve inventory, reduce waste and maximise profitability.MAM Software is confident Autopartprovides robust solutions that tackle pain points,such as demand forecasting, dead stock
reduction and cash flow management.
Keeping stock levels balanced to meet demand without overstocking is, from talking to our contributors so far,a challenge. It can lead to dead stock that ties up cash and consumes valuable warehouse space, whilst understocking risks losing customers to competitors due to unavailable parts. MAM Software’s Autopart boasts “advanced demand forecasting tools” which canaddress this by harnessing real-time transaction data to deliver precise, data-driven insights. This means youcan adjust inventory based on actual purchasing trends, rather than relying on guesswork or outdated patterns.
MAM Software Product Specialist, Andy Garratt, claimed: “Our customers can leverageAutopart’sreal-time data to understand both current sales and missed opportunities. They can anticipate demand more accurately, minimise stockouts and avoid tying up resources in excess inventory.”
This predictive capability means that businesses can serve customers more reliably whilst driving long-term customer loyalty,givingmanagers the opportunity to
make informed decisions about which items to reorder and which to phase out.
Kabir Hussein of Bradford Auto Parts is one such motor factor that has utilised the strengths of Autopart: “Wehave complete control of our stock, and we can see what we are and aren’t selling at a glance. We can also see what our customers have paid for products in the past. This functionality is handy when building those long-standing relationships with customers.”
Christy Deegan, the managing director of Radius Components,added: “It’s easy to navigate around Autopart, and it’s a very captive system,which means we can update records quickly and effectively.The real-time, accurate view of our inventory allows us to give our customers the very best service.”
In addition, Autopart’srecommended returns process allows customersto return slow-moving items to suppliers for credit.
Managing money
MAM Software continued its insights by stating that handlingcash flow is another common challenge for companies that struggle to balance order costs with
customer demands– but Autopart simplifies the process with automated electronic ordering capabilities that integratewith supplier systems. The feature allows users to instantly check stock availability, compare prices and place orders at optimal times, reducing reliance on manual purchasing processes that can be slow, error-prone and costly.
Andy from MAM continued: “Many Autopart users have reported significant reductions in manual order times and improved cash flow due to more strategic purchasing decisions. By automating routine tasks, Autopart frees up staff to focus on value-added activities that drive revenue.”
Ultimately,MAM Software believes that, in a sector where margins are tight and customer demands are high, data-driven insights can be the difference between growth and stagnation.
Furthermore, in a marketplace where efficiency and responsiveness are key, adoptingtoinnovative solutions allows for reductions inoperational costs, increases in service quality and the foundations for growth.
Movers & Shakers
PMF introduces this month’s movers and shakers, as they begin a new stage of their career.
Duckhams
Duckhams is pleased to welcome two new appointments to its strategic leadership team.
Graham Lane has joined the business as head of commercial, while Shweta Singh has been appointed head of HR.
With 25 years of experience in the lubricants industry, Graham has worked in marketing and commercial roles for Comma Oil and Moove Europe. He has led business intelligence and CRM projects, developing and managing systems, tools and KPIs to achieve international growth objectives. Most recently, he was the business intelligence and sales support manager at Moove
Europe, managing sales support activities and delivering business intelligence across all revenue lines.
Meanwhile, Shweta, with over 13 years of experience in strategic leadership, organisational development and talent management, has a proven track record of aligning HR strategies with business goals, strengthening employee relations and executing effective change management. Shweta has worked as HR manager at Gulf Petrochem, ASPAM Indian International School and MAG Lubricants.
These two appointments come during a year where Duckhams, celebrating its 125th anniversary, has
strengthened its senior leadership team by welcoming CEO, Mike Bewsey, Head of Marketing, Rajat Moitra, Head of Technical and Procurement, Chris Clarkson, and Head of Sales in EAME, Henrik Hansen.
On the latest two appointments, Mike said: “I am delighted to welcome Graham and Shweta to our expanding global team. Graham has a wealth of experience, having worked in customer services, commercial and product marketing roles before specialising in financial
planning and analysis. I look forward to his support for our go-to-market strategy as we continue our global expansion.
“I am confident Shweta will provide boundless support in managing our greatest asset, our people, as we grow our business. Her expertise in HR practices has driven innovation and enhanced organisational effectiveness. She is a strong communicator and collaborative leader dedicated to creating a positive and thriving workplace culture.”
To connect with Graham on LinkedIn, www.rdr.link/FAL004
A1 Automotive Group looks to future with modern rebrand and expanded network
A1 Automotive Group is confident its recent rebranding and strategic updates reflect its dedication to a future of strength and growth for its members.
In recent months, A1 Automotive Group has embraced a series of positive transformations that it hopes signal an exciting new chapter in its journey. Previously recognised as A1 Motor Stores, the group’s rebranding represents a significant shift, one that shows a commitment to “growth, unity and professionalism”. The buying group believes this goes beyond a name change; it is a new, strategic initiative that connects the group with its broader vision and ambitions.
With the launch of new company branding, an enhanced website (scheduled to go live shortly), and a refreshed corporate image on social media, A1 Automotive Group is hoping to increase its reach and transform its public perception. By creating a more cohesive and contemporary brand, the group hopes to generate new opportunities while preserving and strengthening longstanding trusted relationships that have been crucial to its success.
A1 Managing Director, Simon Salloway, said: “A1 Motor Stores has come a long way since we started out in 1983, and we’re
proud of the reputation we’ve built for quality products and outstanding service. Over the years, we’ve grown alongside our members, adapting to the changing landscape of the automotive retail sector. Today, we’re thrilled to announce a new and exciting chapter as we expand our focus on the automotive component sector.
“Since day one, we’ve aimed to deliver the very best products and services, initially in retail, and now in a wider variety of components that have attracted many motor factor businesses. This shift has allowed our existing members to better navigate the aftermarket’s increasing complexity and capitalise on new opportunities. With the demand for highquality components and tailored solutions at an all-time high, we’re providing the resources and tools our members need to thrive in a competitive industry.”
Simon also pointed to A1’s relationships with both its suppliers and independent workshop customers, all pivotal in creating a strong and resilient supply chain.
He continued: “One of the key factors driving our success has been building
strong relationships with some of the automotive industry’s most trusted suppliers. By working closely with them, we ensure that our members have access to the latest innovations and a wider selection of parts than ever before. These partnerships not only bring competitive pricing and improved availability to our members, but they also give us the flexibility to respond quickly to market shifts and changing needs.
“Supporting independent garages has always been at the core of A1, and as we continue to expand our offerings, this commitment remains stronger than ever. Whether it’s providing strategic guidance, reliable supplier relationships, or just being a trusted partner, we’re here to help our members succeed in a dynamic market.”
Elevating opportunities
As part of A1’s growth strategy, as reported in a recent issue of Professional Motor Factor, it recently announced its new status as a shareholder in International Trading Group, Global One Automotive.
Global One Automotive, with 18
GT Motor Factors, A1 Group’s newest member.
shareholders and members spanning 22 countries and a combined turnover of €4.65 billion, offers a “robust platform for collaboration and growth”. The alliance possesses a supplier base comprising over 80 OE and aftermarket brands, providing A1 and its members access to a wide range of products and market insights.
A1 is confident the decision to partner with Global One Automotive will strengthen its presence and competitiveness in the UK automotive aftermarket, and that it will bolster its members’ positions and equip them with enhanced resources and networking opportunities.
Expanding the network
Not only is A1 Automotive Group protecting its members’ best interests, but it is also committed to further expanding its network, with its most recent addition to the group being GT Motor Factors, a new factor business in Swansea.
Wayne Thomas, the owner of GT Motor Factors, revealed that the wide range of brands and products available, meeting the needs of the motor factor, made joining A1 Group an “easy decision”.
He continued: “I was also impressed by A1’s partnership with Global One Automotive, which will expand the product portfolio for the members, giving us access to additional suppliers as well as enhanced terms.”
So, how have the first few months transpired? Wayne answered: “The support from the staff at A1 has been overwhelming, reflecting their desire to assist and support members in all aspects of the business. From marketing efforts to attending our opening evening back in August, they have all been phenomenal.
“This year’s A1 overseas convention in
“Since day one, we’ve aimed to deliver the very best products and services, initially in retail, and now in a wider variety of components that have attracted many motor factor businesses. This shift has
allowed our existing members to better navigate the aftermarket’s increasing complexity and capitalise on new opportunities. With the demand for high-quality components and tailored solutions at an all-time high, we’re providing the resources and tools our members need to thrive in a competitive industry.”
Lanzarote was one of the best I have ever attended, providing members with a chance to connect more closely with suppliers and strengthen relationships, which is key to our success. The A1 Group has certainly become an extension of our business, and their passion for success matches our own, which is exactly what an independent motor factor needs. Simon should be proud of the team at A1 HQ – a friendly and helpful group. Well done to him and the entire team!”
Engaging connections
Wayne’s mention of the A1 overseas convention is a neat segue to the next section of this article! Held in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, it united 100 delegates, including members, suppliers and A1 Support Centre staff, in an incredible setting to strengthen relationships.
The convention was designed to maximise networking opportunities, starting with a welcome evening where delegates could connect in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Throughout the event, structured gatherings, such as the member AGM and the supplier network event, provided platforms for members to share insights and suppliers to showcase their latest products. This all culminated with the gala dinner and awards ceremony, where achievements across the A1 network were celebrated in a five-star setting.
Embracing the road ahead
A1 is embracing the future ahead, committed to evolving in ways that, it believes, reflect both its heritage and vision. Central to this is the imminent launch of a new public-facing website, designed to offer a clear, engaging introduction to the group. Showcasing A1’s updated branding, the website will provide a refreshed look and more accessible
information on the group’s offerings and values, designed to help current and potential members, suppliers and partners connect more effectively.
Looking ahead to 2025, once again, A1 will host its annual spring trade show at the prestigious St. George’s Park in Burton upon Trent in March. After an event last year that attracted over 250 attendees, the trade show has become a cornerstone for the A1 community. A1 promises that the show will be even more impactful, providing members and suppliers with opportunities to connect, explore new products and discuss trends.
Simon concluded: “As A1 Automotive Group looks to the future, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead. Our ongoing collaboration with our Global One partners and the relationships we’ve built with local suppliers mean we’re wellpositioned to keep delivering value for our members. This journey of growth and innovation is something we’re passionate about, and we can’t wait to see where it takes us next. We’re honoured to be part of the success stories of so many independent motor factors and automotive retailers, and we’re committed to providing the support and resources they need to continue thriving for years to come.”
Amy Blick is the founder and owner of exhilHRate, and over recent editions, she has enlightened you with valuable HR tips, trends and takeaways. In her final column of 2024, she delves into the emotive impact of social media in the workplace:
Agony Amy: Is social media in the workplace a friend or foe?
Speak to any HR professional and say the words ‘social media’ and watch them shiver in fear. Social media quickly became a beast that was out of an employer’s control for a long time. As with most technology, a lot of troubleshooting and tricky situations have to happen before boundaries and rules are made.
I have worked for businesses that embrace social media and ask their people to share content about the company; however, on the other side of the coin, I have worked for businesses that simply forbid it. I have written Contracts of Employment that state social media guidelines when working for companies, I have written social media policies that highlight the duties as an employee, and I have partnered with IT departments that have locked all access to social media on work computers. Ultimately, these rules come into force
when you have to act as an employer –and let me tell you, a lot can go wrong on social media.
Early in my HR career, I worked in a company with a call centre. The call centre teams, powered by a dialler, had down times from the relentless calls and during these times they would ‘stalk’ other team members on social media. Yes, believe it or not, not just an angry ex can deep dive into your socials.
I have also partnered with HR departments, building a new people strategy as part of their referencing process. Checking LinkedIn to cross examine a CV, looking on Facebook as it comes up on a Google search (trust me!) and even looking through Instagram. It is a finely honed skill to check people through social media and it begs the question – is this reasonable and should it be part of the workplace?
Undeniable pros for social media to carve a space in your business with your teams:
Promotes company culture and employee recognition – you can use it as a shop window for your business! It is a brilliant, free way to showcase company and employee achievements, not to mention milestones, and I have seen some incredible businesses use social media to build an enviable online reputation with employees, suppliers and clients.
Facilitates networking and professional development, and I cannot recommend this enough. People think LinkedIn is just for
the job seekers, but that is just a tiny piece of the pie. Using social media to expand your network and make connections is a form of professional development.
Boosts team collaboration – and I see you scratching your chin on this one! It encourages cross-departmental connections. Teams that may not have the opportunity to connect in their day to day roles can use social media to build connections.
Strengthens brand advocacy through employee social media engagement – this is brilliant for recruiting! – and I have clients that actively ask their teams to share webinars and resources through their social media. Again, it is free, so why not use it!?
What goes up, must come down! I have seen some challenging, toe curling issues arise from social media:
Can lead to distractions and reduced productivity, particularly if you are guilty of ‘doom scrolling’ and end up down a social media rabbit-hole.
Potential for negative or inappropriate content sharing – and other colleagues seeing this and raising concerns and potentially grievances! There is a risk of conflicts or misunderstandings. I have recently seen a grievance that was raised due to a post that was shared that caused another employee distress and concern. Ethical and moral boundaries can be crossed on social media quickly – make sure everyone is aware of this.
It can blur personal and professional boundaries, and I have seen this happen time and time again. Friends with a colleague on Facebook? Don’t be friends with them if you cannot keep your messaging and social presence professional.
Do what works best for your business
Often the best place to start is creating a policy to outline the expectations you have for social media – you can use this policy to include employees but also contractors, suppliers, clients, as examples. Having clear guidelines on your expectations is key and remember: this policy is relevant to people that are connected to your business, and they are an advocate for your business by association. I would also be tempted to add into your social media policy about IT use and security expectations. This is simply good practice and keeps you protected from the unknown. My last nugget of advice: have a process in place for when something goes wrong. Be fair, transparent and unbiased in your policy and make sure it applies to everyone. Update everyone on the expectations and iron out any details that may need tweaking, as sometimes you can’t get it right first time! Ensure your employees are empowered and confident to raise concerns they have seen on social media. Finally, make sure your managers are prepared to handle a situation if it is raised.
Are you ready for a ‘power hour’?
If after reading this you can see gaps in your business, let’s arrange an online ‘power hour’ to set you up for the year ahead. In the last two years, I have seen the most agile and brilliant businesses using my power hour to bring expert HR advice into their world. We can agree on the agenda beforehand and arrange it at a time that suits you. It’s like having a full-time HR professional tearing apart your challenges, arming you with the confidence that expert practical advice confers. So, if you’ve read this and are scratching your chin in a ‘where do I start?’ manner or your ‘people pillars’ are not where they should be, a power hour is perfect.
Klarius: ‘Keep customers coming back with quality exhaust systems’
Loyal customers are the lifeblood of any motor factor business, and supporting garages with dependable parts, when they need them most, only strengthens relationships. One proven way to ensure customer satisfaction, according to Klarius, is by supplying high-quality components, especially performance-critical parts, like exhaust systems. Here’s James Ellison, sales director, to tell you more:
Being nestled under a vehicle, exhaust systems face some of the harshest conditions, and even the best parts will eventually need replacement. While some car owners might prioritise the cheapest option, experienced technicians know that low-quality exhausts often lead to repeat repairs.
Inferior exhausts, usually made with lowgrade materials, are more susceptible to wear on challenging roads, resulting in premature failure and an unhappy customer. This scenario not only costs the vehicle owner more in the long run but can harm a garage’s reputation. By offering durable exhausts with a manufacturer warranty, you can help garages protect their customers and keep them satisfied.
Quality means efficiency
With fuel prices fluctuating and emissions regulations tightening, we believe customers are more conscious than ever about vehicle efficiency. Supplying quality aftermarket exhausts helps you support garages in delivering the efficiency that
motorists expect.
On the other hand, an ill-fitting, nontype-approved exhaust can reduce engine performance, increasing fuel consumption and emissions. In severe cases, poorly designed replacements may lack necessary emissions-control technologies, leading to MOT failures and the need for additional repairs. Stocking type-approved exhausts provides garages with parts that ensure efficiency, protect emissions compliance and preserve fuel economy for their customers.
Fit first time for faster turnarounds
A key factor in retaining garage customers is quick, quality repairs. Inferior exhausts can often lead to fitment issues, adding time to repairs and frustration for both the technician and the customer. Typeapproved exhausts are designed to fit specific makes and models without modification, ensuring a fast and straightforward installation. This helps garages complete more jobs in less time
“With fuel prices fluctuating and emissions regulations tightening, we believe customers are more conscious than ever about vehicle efficiency. Supplying quality aftermarket exhausts helps you support garages in delivering the efficiency that motorists expect.”
and means that customers spend less time waiting – a win-win!
Partnering with Klarius for quality and reliability
You can rely on Klarius to supply dependable, high-quality aftermarket exhausts, backed by a fit first time guarantee and a two-year warranty across the range. As the UK’s largest provider of aftermarket exhausts, we offer over 11,000 products, all manufactured from aluminised steel to ensure durability and reliability.
Type-approved by the VCA in the UK or TÜV in Europe, each product assures garages and customers alike of performance that protects engine efficiency and maintains emissions compliance.
With next-day delivery for orders placed by 5:30pm, we can help minimise wait times and maintain excellent service standards. Supporting garages with reliable parts keeps their customers coming back, driving loyalty and satisfaction for all involved.
For more information about Klarius, www.rdr.link/FAL007
Ring corrects ‘misinformation’ surrounding glare and dazzle
After the topic of glaring headlights hit the national media, Ring is reinforcing facts to bring understanding to this topic.
Ring revealed earlier this year that, during a routine test it undertook of bulbs in the marketplace, 33 bulbs from five manufacturers were tested, with 16 – almost half – found to be illegal.
However, the topic of glare and dazzle from headlights continues to be discussed, with Ring believing that many do not understand the underlying causes.
What are the causes of glare and dazzle?
The most common is, unfortunately, inconsiderate drivers who are not dropping from high beam to low beam. While there is a time and place for high beam, inappropriate use is down to driver behaviour, not due to the car or its headlights.
Another cause is misalignment. If a bulb has not been fitted correctly, it is not set in the headlight unit correctly. This
might cause dazzle for drivers instead of putting light on the road as intended, as the bulb is pointing in the wrong direction.
There are also more SUVs on UK roads than ever before, and their lights are naturally higher than on conventional vehicles and, although this shouldn’t cause dazzle, the effect may be accentuated when driving up or downhill.
Retrofitting bulbs is an unregulated market, so anyone can replace their regular bulbs with cheap HID kits or LED bulbs bought online and that are not designed to conform to legal regulations. Whilst some comply with the law, others are illegal and may be throwing out too much light in a less controlled way.
The final, and most worrying reason according to Ring, is poor quality bulbs, of which there are many, as brands cut costs by producing cheap and unregulated bulbs with no research, testing or quality control.
Mythbusting
Ring believes there is also confusion over LEDs causing glare on the road. LED bulbs are currently not road legal and should not be confused with LED light units that are a non-replaceable component. Many new vehicles that use these LED light units have been homologated with the headlamp units. These LEDs are road legal. LED bulbs, however, are not road legal. They have not been designed to work with the headlamp units for halogen bulbs and so cause glare.
There are brighter bulbs in the market that are popular, which do put more light onto the road; however, Ring claims that’s only where the light is needed and does not cause glare or dazzle. High quality materials and detailed engineering ensures the light output is maximised onto the road, conforms to the legal cut off marks and is not scattered across into the other lane to dazzle. The whiter lights used in these are more noticeable and the human eye is drawn to notice whiter colour temperature light, but that is different to causing glare.
“We
have also found that drivers are asking their technicians or factors about the issues, so we wanted to explain all of the possible causes, so that they can be fully informed and pass on the message to drivers who are concerned. It’s important that we educate the market wherever we can, and this is just one instance where we have knowledge to share and are happy to do so.”
“A lot of misinformation out there”
Ring Marketing Director, Henry Bisson, said: “Glare and dazzle continue to be a massive discussion point among drivers, so we are regularly asked about it. However, there is a lot of misinformation out there. We feel that it’s a duty of ours to comment on these issues and use our knowledge and expertise to convey the facts.
“We have also found that drivers are asking their technicians or factors about
the issues, so we wanted to explain all of the possible causes, so that they can be fully informed and pass on the message to drivers who are concerned. It’s important that we educate the market wherever we can, and this is just one instance where we have knowledge to share and are happy to do so.”
For more information about Ring, www.rdr.link/FAL008
What’s been making online headlines in 2024?
As we prepare to wave goodbye to 2024 and welcome in a brand new year, do you want to look back at what made headlines on our website? Here, we review some of the most-read stories over the last 12 months.
A look at GSF Car Parts’ overhauled leadership team
Perhaps unsurprisingly, when GSF Car Parts revealed its new leadership team – spearheaded, of course, by Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia – it generated headlines. The business was acquired by private equity firm, Epiris, and the Ahluwalia family office in November 2023.
Steve Horne was appointed as CEO, Sukhpal as executive chair and Martin Gray as chief talent officer.
At the time, Sukhpal said: “I am delighted to be working alongside such an extraordinary leadership team. We have some of the aftermarket’s biggest juggernauts, all of whom have a proven track record for success, innovation and rapid growth, which are three objectives firmly on the agenda for GSF.”
www.rdr.link/FAL009
Our visit to Arnold Clark Autoparts
We paid Arnold Clark’s Glasgow head office a flying visit back in January, keen to understand the strategy behind Autoparts, the car retailer’s motor factor arm. Editor, Tom Henman, and Senior Account Manager, Alex Dilleigh, were chaperoned by Arnold Clark Group Factor Manager and IAAF President, Craig McCracken. Donning the famous red and blue tie, the proud Scot was a fantastic host. Tours can be slow, tedious, but this was the opposite; Craig was on fantastic form, full of fun but mixed with experience, professionalism and leadership qualities.
Craig said: “Arnold Clark focuses on meeting the needs of our customers and motorists, hence placing big emphasis on future mobility, be it electric or any other powertrain technology, in order to remain competitive and innovative.” www.rdr.link/FAL010
Duckhams Oils examines the ICE-ban delay
Jabir Sheth, Duckhams Oils’ chairman, delved into the possible effects of an ICE ban delay:
“According to a What Car? survey of in-market car buyers, nearly two-thirds of UK drivers (60.1%) were in favour of the UK government’s decision to push back the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles to 2035. Their reasons varied from concerns over the lack of charging infrastructure to the cost of EVs, range fears and those who simply prefer driving petrol or diesel vehicles.
“EVs are generally more expensive to buy than petrol or diesel vehicles. Cheaper running costs are expected to offset these higher upfront costs, but higher insurance, the end of the vehicle excise duty exemption from April 2025 and soaring electricity costs may narrow the gap. The sector is making good progress regarding workshops for EVs, but data from IMI reported a potential shortfall of 16,000 qualified technicians by 2032.” www.rdr.link/FAL011
How RS Automotive Core is securing motor factors
Back in the spring, RS Automotive Core Managing Director, Alastair Whatmore, revealed that the core dealer was continuing to secure more motor factors.
He said: “We are delighted at the growing number of motor factors who are seizing the opportunity to make RS a new customer.”
At the time, Alastair thought distributors of varying sizes were seeing the commercial benefits of selling a new product, applying a “modest green surcharge”, having the unit returned and enjoying a further margin with a sale to RS. Alternatively, where a factor wanted to steer away from traditional surcharges, RS had observed some factors offer a ‘green credit’ for all returned cores; in fact, this method was used by some as a sales tool.
www.rdr.link/FAL012
What has caused
Autospares’ JLM sales to skyrocket?
Kalimex has been trading with Autospares since 2009, when it began supplying the factor with K-Seal Permanent Coolant Leak Repair. Sales have always been steady, but in 2021 the factor decided to try out some JLM products, initially Diesel Emission Reduction Treatment.
Kalimex helped support the factor with marketing resources to grow the business and sales began to climb, with Autospares adding more products from the range, including DPF ReGen Plus. Autospares was also expanding its business online and was perfectly placed to satisfy the growing demand – trade and retail – for JLM products from across the country. www.rdr.link/FAL013
TALK OF THE TRADE
Let’s start with EEC, whose technical trainer, Stuart Still, got to the bottom of a DPF issue affecting a Vauxhall van. This diagnosis came following a visit to an EEC distributor – perhaps you’re one of them?
For one last time in 2024,Talk of the Trade is here to show you what stories taken from PMM have caught the eye of readers. In this instalment, we feature European Exhaust and Catalyst (EEC), Pico, Sealey and Traction Direct.
Stuart said: “It started when the distributor’s customer limped into his garage with two fault codes – DPF070 and DPF059 – and ‘emissions’ illuminated on the dash. The technician diagnosed a DPF problem and fitted a new EEC DPF. He reset the ECU and removed the fault codes, but did not carry out a forced regeneration as directed in our fitting instructions. His customer collected the van and drove for about 20 miles, then all the same fault codes returned.
“At this point, I visited the garage with my distributor and explained that there is nothing wrong with the DPF. With this van having a Renault engine, what he needed to do was carry out an engine oil and filter change, reset the ECU (using the Renault CLIP machine or a tool with the same capability) remove all fault codes and then complete a forced regeneration, followed by an ECU reset. He was then advised to go for a drive for about 20 minutes at over 2500RPM, which resolved the issue.
“It is always advisable that when any DPF related fault code appears, to check the engine oil for diesel contamination. This is a common problem that can occur during the DPF regeneration process, which operates by sending up to eight times the amount of fuel through the engine into the DPF. This acts like a furnace, raising the temperature to over 550°C that burns off all the particulate matter.
“A build-up of carbon on the injectors, inlet valves, exhaust valves, turbo, EGR value and glow plugs are the major contributor to a blocked DPF.”
www.rdr.link/FAL014
The PicoScope is a well-known diagnostics tool, but when is the right time to use it? Pico is here with a guide on how and when technicians should use it for the best efficiency. Hopefully, you’ll strengthen your knowledge too:
“Make no mistake, a PicoScope is not required for every diagnostic challenge! Like every tool at our disposal, there is a time and place to use a scope in the workshop. Knowing when and where to apply the scope will provide a return on investment within days, rather than years.
“If we consider a typical diagnostic process, a sequence of 12 steps quickly generates considerable information and measurement data. This creates the evidence required to make an informed diagnosis or a request for additional diagnostic time, if economically viable.”
• Correctly identify the vehicle
• Interview the customer to better understand the symptoms
• Verify the complaint
• Use a scan tool to obtain DTCs and the parameter data
• Check for technical bulletins (software updates)
• Apply any initialisation or calibration routines if applicable
• Refer to the technical literature provided to acquire system description and operation
• List the possible causes
• Create an action plan based on accessibility and probability
• Apply the PicoScope initially (non-intrusively)
• Apply the PicoScope intrusively if required, based on the repair process
• Confirm the repair with the scan tool and verify with the PicoScope www.rdr.link/FAL015
Statistics reveal winter breakdowns increase substantially in comparison to summer – but many are preventable with proper servicing and basic checks. Here’s Sealey’s advice to workshops:
“Modern sealed batteries often fail unnoticed. Cold weather reduces cranking power and increases electrical loads. Batteries typically last five years; slow starting signals a check is needed. T the Sealey BT105, simplify checking battery condition and alternator output. Keep terminals clean, tight and coated with anti-corrosion compound.
“Inspect alternator belts for wear and correct tension, replacing or adjusting as necessary. Coolant diluted by water lacks corrosion inhibitors, risking costly repairs. Maintain coolant strength per manufacturer recommendations with a refractometer, like the Sealey VS005, which also measures washer and battery fluid strength. Add quality antifreeze to washer systems, clean jets and replace wipers if needed.
INSIDE THE ISSUE
“Winter demands higher tyre performance. Maintain pressures and monitor tread depth – 3mm tread reduces wet stopping distances by 25% compared to the 1.6mm legal minimum. Winter tyres improve grip on snow and ice and may be required in some EU countries. Tools, like the Sealey SA375 digital inflator, ensure accuracy, while the VS0565 measures tread depth for peace of mind.”
www.rdr.link/FAL016
Choosing the right battery charger isn’t as easy as it used to be, according to Traction Direct, but here are a few tips designed to help make the right decision:
“There was a time when choosing a battery charger was all about finding the biggest and heaviest you could find. Automotive batteries had to be checked weekly and topped up, and they’d last about a year or two. Today’s batteries are a different animal. They are smaller, lighter and more powerful. They’ve had to keep up with modern automotive technology including sophisticated electronics, new battery types and the increasing demands of a modern workshop.
“At Traction Direct, we are battery technology specialists. We have been at the forefront of charging technology since the 1980s with the introduction of our MPL range, the first charger to correctly charge the then new calcium/calcium and calcium/silver lead/acid batteries. We also developed a patented sulphation recovery process which still features in our MPL range, and our latest project is developing charging technology for the new LiFeP04 lithium-ion batteries found in the newest cars on the market. When it comes to choosing the right battery support equipment, we’re well placed to guide you.” www.rdr.link/FAL017
MOTOR FACTOR
For all the latest industry news, features and business advice from the only magazine aimed solely at trade motor factors
As we enter the final chapter of 2024, Factor Sales, the leading automotive aftermarket measurement data provider, takes an overall look at the sector to offer a conclusion on how the last 12 months has transpired in comparison to previous years. Here’s Alex Jenner, the business development manager:
Factor Sales: Automotive aftermarket enjoys year of modest growth
Firstly, let’s analyse the calendar year in terms of unit sales within the aftermarket (Fig 1): while the industry has enjoyed growth in 2024 – admittedly, we are projecting final numbers given I am writing this in mid-November! – progress has slowed in comparison to 2023.
Week-to-week numbers under the microscope
Expanding on 2024’s figure, diving into the overall weekly unit sales tracker, again, this and last year’s peaks and troughs are largely the same – they’re consistent – with 2024 tracking marginally above 2023 most of the time.
healthy 8.2% increase from 2022 to 2023, there was a modest 3.09% increase during the last months – again, consider that this is based on 11 months’ trading, not 12.
Last year, 147,500,000 aftermarket parts were sold, while this time around, the industry is on course to record 152,000,000 units.
That is a step up in comparison to the hike that occurred between 2022 and 2023, with the number of aftermarket parts sold two years ago just shy of 135,000,000. It is impossible to give a definitive answer, but it is likely the industry was still recovering from the effects of the COVID19 era so isn’t a surprise.
Ultimately, the industry experienced an increase in units sold – growth is always a good thing – and it will be fascinating to see if the market enjoys a nudge or shove in 2025.
There are some anomalies, one being that 2023 experienced a spike at the beginning of May (week 20), whereas the same outcome occurred several weeks later in 2024 – perhaps weather was a factor? Curiously, judging by the transactional data from participating motor factors – 40% are signed up to Factor Sales, by the way –there was less suffering around the two MOT seasons this year and the sector recovered from the slump quicker. Also, the common summer drop in sales materialised, but no more so than the previous year, despite what we previously reported regarding a reduced trend in ‘seasonal’ items sold. This is still the case, but figures were held up by other contributing factors.
We know that figures drop off a cliff –quite literally looking at Fig 2! – during the festive period, so while, of course, we’d like to see those sales pick up, all the signs indicate that the sector is stable and healthy as we push into a new year.
Do units sold translate to monetary value?
In our final look at 2024, we can report that there has been a slowdown in the average ‘sell out prices’ across the sector. After a
Scrutinising individual catalogues (Fig 3), we can see that Body & Exhaust, Electrical and Miscellaneous (consumables, ad-hoc ranges etc) markets are dragging that average up. It is important to note here that we previously reported that the Body & Exhaust segment suffered lower unit sales this year, and while that is still the case, our data is showing us that large units are selling well; it is tyres and smaller items, like trims and adhesives, that are falling in sales numbers.
Conversely, Cooling & Heating is showing the complete opposite! This category has recorded improving unit sales but has fallen in terms of pricing.
Conclusion
On a personal note, I would like to thank those motor factors that share their data with us, enabling us to produce articles like these and regular reports for them to utilise in their day-to-day operations. Furthermore, I am grateful for the suppliers that continue to put their trust in us – we hope you’re maximising the potential of our transactional insights.
We’ll be back in 2025, but, in the meantime, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
To view a demonstration or request more information about Factor Sales, e-mail Alex Jenner at alexjenner@pearsonhamgroup.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.
Fig 1 Fig 2
Fig 3
What are the stages of remanufacturing?
OE-approved remanufacturers restore old parts to like-new – or, according to Carwood, sometimes even better – condition, complete with a matching warranty. Here, the company explains its belief of quality parts not costing the earth.
According to leading industry associations, including The European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA), Motor & Equipment Remanufacturers Association (MERA), and Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA), remanufacturing is defined as a “standardised industrial process by which cores are returned to same as new, or better, condition and performance. The process is in line with specific technical specifications, including engineering, quality and testing standards. The process yields fully warranted products”.
Carwood, with this definition at the forefront of its strategy and process, ensures that every single one of its parts – whether a fuel injector, starter motor, engine or turbocharger – and regardless of its destination – a VM, fleet or independent garage – goes through the exact same process.
Core inspection: Every unit is inspected against its acceptance criteria to assess its suitability for remanufacture. Carwood guarantees only good cores are used, because what is put in at the start has a bearing on what comes out at the end.
Disassembly: The units are then stripped down – any products with cracks, scrapes, faulty connectors, missing components, heavy corrosion etc are rejected and the material recycled. No gaskets or seals are reused.
Cleaning: All reusable parts are put through a rigorous multi-stage cleaning process to remove any unwanted particles and contaminants – this includes ultrasonic cleaning, hot water and sandblasting.
Reinspection: Carwood’s experts then inspect again, which includes the measurement and testing of individual components to ensure they are within OE tolerances.
Part replacement: All wearing parts – and any that are deemed unsuitable – are replaced with like-for-like OE parts.
Assembly: Carwood’s team then reassemble the units following OEapproved build specifications and processes. Its fuel pumps and injectors, for example, are assembled in an ISO certified, Class-7 clean room, capable of filtering down to 0.5 microns.
Test and calibration: All units are end-ofline tested using modern test equipment and test plans – Carwood insists no product will leave its factory until it has met OE performance standards, as a minimum. In the case of common rail injectors, a new calibration code or trim code is generated to improve the precision and timing of the injected fuel for optimum engine, fuel consumption and emissions performance. This code should be programmed into the ECU when the injector is installed in the vehicle.
Carwood believes that it is only through this “highly engineered, rigorous process” can it be confident that every remanufactured part has been returned to VM original factory specification. It is ensuring a product is just as good as new, sometimes better, with a warranty to match – whilst also being a positive for the environment.
For more information about Carwood, www.rdr.link/FAL018
As the year draws to a close, Autoelectro, a remanufacturer of starter motors and alternators, pauses to assess current trends in the automotive aftermarket ahead of 2025. Harnek Bhogal takes the lead:
Autoelectro assesses balance between quality, affordability and sustainability
Our pillars of quality, range, sustainability, availability and technical support remain as strong and robust as ever. Throughout the year, we’ve been in constant contact with our customers, with the aim of not only reiterating our support and updating them of our offering, but to strengthen our understanding of what you and workshops really want from a supplier, like Autoelectro.
Balancing affordability and quality is not a new issue; it remains an important one and, anecdotally, that balancing act is more sensitive than ever. It is clear that economic pressures are a tough reality.
Price-sensitivity has been exacerbated by recent surges in inflation, while cost-ofliving challenges are still real for many. The economist in me has noticed that this shift mirrors what was observed in 2008 when the financial crisis wreaked havoc. Customers changed their purchasing habits; they began to either “buy down” for budget-friendly products or “buy up” for premium quality. This trend saw discount supermarkets, such as Lidl and Aldi, thrive alongside premium brands like Waitrose and M&S.
According to The Grocer, when the financial crash struck, Aldi and Lidl had
been in the UK for more than a decade, but their combined market share was less than 4%. Six years later, when inflation stabilised, Aldi’s sales were increasing 32% year-onyear, Lidl’s were soaring 20%, and their “combined pull” accounted for almost £1 of every £10 spent in British supermarkets.
At Autoelectro, we’re being told consistently by motor factors that the market is experiencing a similar scenario, with particular onus on lower-cost, lowvalue and low-quality products. With these appealing to certain garage customers even more than previously.
It is no secret that copy products manufactured in the Far East can fulfil the desire for low-cost products – and they definitely have a place in a competitive market. That said, these particular products are often made to a basic level with minimal customer support from a technical standpoint.
At Autoelectro, we aim to strike a balance; we want to produce products that are a premium quality but don’t cost the world – quite literally! Our recent ISO9001 reaccreditation emphasises our commitment to quality processes, thus, providing you and your customers with the confidence needed when selling or fitting. Our products always align with stringent OE standards, with the technical support to match.
While selling a cheaper product might have benefits in the short-term, those benefits could turn into long-term ramifications. Should a budget product let the motorist down, attention turns to the motor factor that sold it and mechanic that fitted it – bringing unwanted warranty and returns forms to fill out, not to mention an irritated customer that thought they were striking a bargain.
The issue here is that starter motors and alternators are now incredibly technical, complex components – they need to be supported by a knowledgeable, experienced and professional team. At Autoelectro, our technical support extends beyond the point of sale; given we inspect, test and remanufacture old cores, we believe that grassroots manufacturing pedigree should give you an added layer of confidence when recommending our products.
This level of service – and I can’t emphasise this enough – for complex components is vital for repeat business. Many motor factors have realised this and have seen the immense value that comes with being offered an OE-quality alternative to their customers, alongside a budget offering. They know that, in the current
competitive landscape, being able to have an offering that covers almost every enquiry they may get is vital in maintaining support from their garage customers.
Ensuring comprehensive range and reliable availability
Availability is another important piece of the puzzle, especially in light of the recent and well-documented supply chain challenges that have impacted many sectors – not just the automotive industry. For suppliers that rely on low-cost, mass-produced items that require a container to be shipped, over long distances, there is a fragility in their route to market. They are more susceptible to price increases and disruptions, which can result in stock shortages and, consequently, delays for the customer.
Reassuringly, Autoelectro, as a volume remanufacturer, employs a totally different model, one that hands us complete control over our supply chain. We remanufacture inhouse in Bradford, using the latest OEspecification test equipment. Having numerous positive partnerships with core suppliers all around the world, gives us
great availability and the ability to turn around enquiries quickly – without needing to rely on circumstances beyond our control. Whether it’s building a starter motor or alternator to order, or remanufacturing and returning a customer’s own unit to OE specification, we can cater to demand –quickly. It also means that we can handle and accept every enquiry that is sent to us.
Don’t forget the circular economy
Naturally, the circular economy is a topic that all of us at Autoelectro are aware of –for me, though, it is a passion. As we head toward a new year and the warnings surrounding the climate crisis and the need to put the brakes on it grow louder and more vociferous, it is clear that environmental responsibility is weighing heavier on all of our shoulders. At Autoelectro, I am confident we are leading the way; remanufacturing is at the heart of our operation – giving a product another chance of life – which aligns with principles of the circular economy. So as a remanufacturer, we significantly reduce waste and cut the need for raw materials, thus, decreasing our carbon footprint and making sure we are playing our part in creating a greener future.
Moving forward with confidence
So, while the year is nearing its conclusion, the hard work is far from over. In 2025, we will be back championing the pillars of our business – quality, range, sustainability, availability and technical support –providing the support that both you and workshops need to confidently sell and fit starter motors and alternators.
Brake Engineering determined to push remanufacturing standards
Brake Engineering is confident it has built a reputation in the automotive aftermarket that reflects its dedication to quality and expertise in remanufacturing brake components – a commitment over four decades.
During that time, the brand has committed to sustainable practices, innovative processes and rigorous standards, all qualities that it is confident have earned the trust of motor factors and workshops alike.
At the heart of Brake Engineering’s approach is its remanufacturing process, evident in its 10-stage core process for brake calipers. Each caliper undergoes a meticulous transformation, from rigorous testing and careful rebuilding to complete traceability throughout the process. This detail has been honed over 43 years, establishing a process that prioritises both safety and quality.
Safety is a primary concern for Brake Engineering, and recent findings emphasise the critical need for robust standards across the industry. A study conducted by the brand examined new aftermarket brake calipers from three competitors and uncovered 29 defects, each failing to meet OEM standards.
While these products may have
appeared structurally sound, according to the company, closer inspection revealed potential weaknesses that could compromise braking performance. Such findings highlight the importance of rigorous testing and oversight within the industry – especially for components as safety-critical as brakes.
Centre of Excellence plays ‘vital role’
Brake Engineering’s Wrexham facility, designed to handle high volumes, allows the brand to meet growing demand for remanufactured calipers. Each unit that passes through the centre is subject to a detailed assessment and rebuild process that combines labour-intensive craftsmanship with quality-focused protocols. The company claims this approach aligns with industry standards and has produced more than eight million calipers to date.
The brand’s emphasis on environmental responsibility reflects broader trends within
“At the heart of Brake Engineering’s approach is its remanufacturing process, evident in its 10-stage core process for brake calipers. Each caliper undergoes a meticulous transformation, from rigorous testing and careful rebuilding to complete traceability throughout the process. This detail has been honed over 43 years, establishing a process that prioritises both safety and quality.”
the industry. By prioritising remanufacturing, Brake Engineering minimises waste and conserves valuable resources, an effort that reduces the demand for raw materials and keeps products in circulation longer. This focus on sustainability not only supports a more responsible aftermarket but also aligns with growing consumer and regulatory pressures to lower the industry’s environmental impact.
Beyond remanufacturing calipers
Brake Engineering’s ‘original aftermarket’ programme, meanwhile, is designed to simplify product selection. Its catalogue allows you to identify “compatible, highquality parts efficiently”, helping your customer deliver “effective, reliable braking solutions” to their customers.
As the industry evolves, Brake Engineering notes it is committed to advancing its processes and exploring new avenues for sustainable innovation. With an ongoing focus on research and development, the brand is poised to continue its march in remanufactured braking solutions, providing both you and workshops with products that meet robust quality standards and contribute to a more sustainable future.
For more information about Brake Engineering, www.rdr.link/FAL020
AS-PL takes ecological and economic a pproach to remanufacturing
AS-PL has made remanufacturing a strategic focus of its operations. This approach reflects the company’s commitment to ecological sustainability, strong supplier relationships and economic efficiency. AS-PL Marketing Manager, Jakub Rewiński, explores the key motivations behind this focus on remanufacturing:
At our core, AS-PL’s remanufacturing philosophy is about maximising value while minimising waste. By giving alternators and starter motors a second life, we align ourselves with growing global demands for sustainability. The remanufacturing process, carried out at our production plant in Poland, involves reusing as many components as possible from existing parts, which significantly reduces the environmental impact of producing new components.
Instead of contributing to landfill waste, we ensure that more than 80% of the original parts in our Premium Line products are reused. The process also conserves resources, such as energy, water and valuable raw materials, emphasising our ecological responsibility.
Remanufacturing allows us to produce parts with performance on par with OEM equivalents, meeting the high expectations of our global customer base. This creates an appealing balance: providing environmentally friendly solutions without compromising on quality.
Relationship with core suppliers
The success of our remanufacturing efforts depends heavily on partnerships with core suppliers. These suppliers provide the essential used alternators and starters that form the foundation of the remanufacturing process.
We work closely with specialised companies to source high-quality cores. Rigorous inspection and testing processes are applied to these cores upon arrival to determine their suitability for remanufacturing. Only cores that meet our standards proceed to the disassembly and refurbishment stages.
This collaboration with suppliers ensures a steady and reliable flow of materials, enabling us to maintain production schedules and deliver consistently high-quality remanufactured products. Such partnerships are built on
trust and shared goals, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem.
Cost and business benefits
The remanufacturing process offers a host of economic advantages for us here at ASPL, our suppliers and customers:
Cost-effective production: Reusing components reduces the need for raw materials and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. The products are a cost-effective alternative to buying new parts.
Improved efficiency: Initial testing of cores ensures that damaged or unusable components are eliminated early, reducing unnecessary strain on machinery and labour. This streamlined process boosts productivity and resource allocation.
Reliable products: Each remanufactured part undergoes rigorous testing, including final validation, ensuring that customers receive reliable, high-performing products. This strengthens our reputation for quality and may reduce warranty claims.
Global market reach: With operations spanning multiple countries and a vast product catalogue of more than 27,000 different products with a total of almost 720,000 reference numbers, we can cater to diverse markets.
Sustainability as a differentiator:
Customers increasingly prioritise ecofriendly solutions. Our commitment to remanufacturing aligns with this trend.
Our pursuit of remanufacturing is rooted in a vision of sustainability and operational excellence. By leveraging strategic relationships with core suppliers and optimising our processes, we reduce waste, save resources and deliver costeffective, reliable solutions to our dedicated customers.
For more information aboutAS–PL, www.rdr.link/FAL021
Nissens Automotive highlights exhaust gas recircula tion system solutions
Nissens Automotive believes that with the environment and related issues in the sights of governments around the world, there is a collective responsibility to ensure that all ICEs currently in the vehicle parc are operating to their optimum efficiency. Central to this objective is the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, which actively reduces the emissions that these engines naturally produce.
Jan Zieleskiewicz, Nissens’ marketing manager, offers a perspective:
As with every component, due to either natural wear or the effects of other faults that occur within the engine’s systems, over time their performance reduces, so they or their associated parts will need to be replaced. This is where we are able to provide you with a premium-quality aftermarket solution.
Nissens is a highly respected aftermarket supplier, and as part of our ongoing development strategy, we continue to establish a solid footprint within the green automotive systems sector, which seeks to reduce the environmental impact of the ICE. We, therefore, offer a
wide range of components within our efficiency and emissions product group, which now consists of not only EGR valves, modules and coolers, but also intercoolers and turbochargers, as well as a throttle body offering.
This means that factors supplying products from us can now benefit from being able to source a comprehensive range of EGR parts from a single supplier and under a brand that instils confidence with professional installers across Europe.
EGRs have “high rates of failure” As VMs strive to limit the impact that the ICE has on the environment, the majority of new vehicles are equipped with an EGR system, which subsequently provides opportunities for the aftermarket, particularly as due to how they are driven and the quality of the fuel they use, result in a high rate of failures and, consequently, a growing demand for replacement components.
Therefore, we are looking to strengthen our position, with the ongoing aim of assisting technicians to successfully service and repair these vehicles and by providing you with a wide range of premium quality components to allow them to do so.
As mentioned earlier, reported EGR system-related problems are increasing and a fault with the valve, for example, can
lead to severe OBD errors. This can result in the engine being set to ‘limp mode’ and may provoke failures in other parts of the system. Common reasons for EGR system failure include unclean combustion, frequent short-distance travel patterns, excessive thermal stress and moisture/contamination of the fuel.
As a further reassurance, in common with the rest of the products in the Nissens range, all of our EGR system components are characterised by excellent product quality to allow them to conform to our genuine Nissens quality standards. These benchmarks include undergoing a wide variety of tests, carried out both internally and externally, and incorporate many design and material improvements that contribute to their high thermal performance and overall durability.
Replicate performance and fitment of the OE
Collectively, our EGR system components are premium aftermarket products that replicate the performance and fitment of the OE component to provide an extended, trouble-free function in the harsh
■ The entire engine efficiency and emissions programme now encompasses EGR valves, modules and coolers, turbochargers and oil feed lines, intercoolers and a throttle body range, and consists of 1,403 individual products, catering for more than 7,600 OE part numbers and serving the majority of the European PC/LCV parc.
Factors already supplying our parts will be aware of the wide ranging additional technical support the company provides and that makes the difference for those in partnership with us. A broad spectrum of technical information, from training modules and videos to best practice procedures and product information, is available through the Nissens Experts portal – www.rdr.link/FAL022 – which provides a further sales tool.
conditions to which they are exposed, resulting from the frequent temperature and pressure fluctuations within the exhaust system.
A further benefit comes with our first fit concept, which, in common with every component in the range, means that whenever extra parts are needed for a EGR cooler’s correct installation, for example, these are automatically included in the box, not only making them easy to install, but also adding to their sales appeal.
For more information about Nissens, www.rdr.link/FAL023
Understanding 5-wire wideband oxygen sensors – with febi
Precise engine control is paramount for optimising performance, emissions and fuel economy, according to bilstein group. A component that plays a key role in this balance is the 5-wire wide-band oxygen sensor – here’s Charles Figgins, technical marketing manager, to explain:
Found in modern diesel and directinjection petrol engines, these sensors offer a range of benefits to ensure the ECU can accurately gauge fuel mixture and make real-time adjustments.
Let’s dive into the technology behind 5wire wide-band oxygen sensors, their structure, operation and importance in engine management:
Unlike traditional narrow-band sensors, which measure only rich or lean conditions around the stoichiometric air-fuel ratio (14.7:1), wide-band sensors provide data across a broader air-fuel ratio range, from 8:1 to pure air. This range allows the ECU to make precise fuel and timing adjustments, resulting in better fuel economy, enhanced performance and reduced emissions.
How it works…
Both wide-band and narrow-band sensors share a core principle: the use of zirconium dioxide as a solid electrolyte that becomes conductive at high temperatures. In narrow-band sensors, a catalytic layer of platinum facilitates oxygen molecule dissociation, allowing oxygen ions to migrate through the zirconium dioxide when there’s a difference in oxygen levels between the exhaust and the air. This migration creates a potential difference, generating a voltage signal to the ECU.
Inside the sensor…
The 5-wire wide-band sensor consists of two
Nernst cells, each with a distinct function:
• Measuring cell: This monitors oxygen levels between the reference air chamber and the exhaust gas sample.
• Pumping cell: This actively pumps oxygen in or out of the sample chamber to stabilise the oxygen level to a reference state.
By applying a specific voltage to the Nernst cell, oxygen is pumped through the zirconium dioxide, allowing for real-time adjustment based on the exhaust gas composition. The polarity of the applied voltage determines the direction of the oxygen flow, thereby allowing the ECU to precisely control the oxygen level in the sample chamber.
Operational process and maintaining stoichiometry
To maintain a stoichiometric air-fuel mixture (lambda 1), the wide-band sensor adjusts the oxygen level in its sample chamber so that the measured cell voltage remains stable at 450mV.
When the oxygen level in the exhaust rises, the black-yellow Nernst cell voltage drops, causing an imbalance in the op-amp circuitry. This prompts the pump circuit to drive current through the sensor, moving oxygen out of the sample chamber until stasis is restored. Conversely, when the mixture becomes rich and exhaust oxygen levels drop, the pump circuit moves oxygen
into the sample chamber to maintain the stasis condition.
This balanced stasis condition, represented by a zero voltage output from op-amp B, allows the ECU to make realtime air-fuel adjustments based on exhaust conditions.
Importance of the heater circuit
The performance of a wide-band sensor is temperature-sensitive, requiring a steady operating temperature of around 760°C. To achieve this, the sensor relies on a heating circuit, powered by the vehicle’s battery voltage and controlled by the ECU through pulse width modulation. Temperature fluctuations affect the sensor’s resistance, so the ECU uses a diagnostic pulse to monitor resistance changes and adjust the heater circuit, maintaining optimal sensor performance.
Diagnosing sensor health
Faulty sensors can lead to inefficient combustion, resulting in higher fuel consumption and increased emissions. Regular diagnostic checks on wide-band sensors are essential for ensuring optimal performance and environmental compliance. A typical sign of a failing sensor is a disruption in the fuel mixture, often indicated by an increase in fuel consumption or unexpected emissions spikes.
New
PSA spec engine oil Comma has announced the launch of Comma Eco-PS 0W-20. It meets ACEA C5 standards, ideal for highperformance engines requiring low SAPS oil. It also meets PSA B71 2010 standards, meaning it can be fitted to some of the latest Peugeot models, including the 3008 and 5008.
In total, Comma Eco-PS is recommended for nearly 200 different models, across marques including Peugeot and Citroën. It also marks the first product in the Comma range to feature its brand-new label design, which uses its new branding and has been specially designed to make finding the right oil easier.
Comma Product Manager, Petra Märzinger, said: “Comma is proud to bring a new product driven by engine technology direct to the aftermarket. Eco-PS 0W-20 is the newest addition to our product line. Everything we do is made for mechanics, and so we want to ensure we are equipping them with high-quality oils and lubricants to help their workshops and customers’ vehicles run smoother.”
WWW.RDR.LINK/FAL025
Focus on LCVs
Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions has put the focus on LCVs by highlighting the wide range of parts it offers for the popular second-generation version of the Mercedes-Benz Vito van in a recent REPXPERT e-shot.
The continuing growth in home delivery services continues to increase the number of LCVs on our roads.
One popular example is the Mercedes-Benz Vito Series 2 (W639), manufactured for the European market between 2003 and 2014 before being superseded. The vehicle is still a very common sight in a wide variety of guises, including box van, minibus and camper van variants. It is also often employed as a taxi, with one version approved as a licensed London black cab.
Parts offered by Schaeffler VLS for the most popular CDI variant include several LuK RepSet clutch kits and DMFs, INA FEAD kits and FAG wheel bearings and steering and suspension components.
WWW.RDR.LINK/FAL026
What's New?
Increase in camshaft and crankshaft ranges
Valeo has nearly doubled the size of its camshaft and crankshaft ranges in the last 18 months, with a particular focus on hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) coverage. The company also boosted its exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensor and mass airflow meter (MAF) sensor offering, as part of an overall strategy to increase support for independent garages working on hybrids.
One hundred and eighty new references were added to Valeo’s camshaft and crankshaft range in 2023, with another 85 references introduced since April 2024, taking the total up to 570 references overall. Vehicles covered by the range expansion include the Hyundai Kona Hybrid 48V and the Citroën C5X plug-in-hybrid. The entire range now covers 230 million vehicles across Europe.
The company’s EGT sensor range has also doubled in size since May, with 145 newly added references bringing the total EGT portfolio up to 265 references, which cater for 79 million vehicles in Europe. Vehicles covered by this range expansion include the Audi Q5 Sportback mild hybrid and Volvo XC60 II mild hybrid.
Valeo’s MAF sensor range has also almost doubled, having grown by 150 to 240 references in June. The range expansion means vehicles, such as the Volvo XC60 II T8 plug-in hybrid and Peugeot 408 II Hybrid 225, are covered. In total 166 million vehicles across Europe are now catered for.
WWW.RDR.LINK/FAL027
What's New?
New-to-range updates
Shaftec Automotive has expanded its new-to-range portfolio for October, with 25 new brake calipers and two driveshafts added.
Key applications for the brake calipers include the BC11561 for the Jaguar E-PACE (2017onwards), and the BC12060/BC22060 for the Tesla Model S (2013-onwards). Key applications for the driveshafts include the AU526LR for the Audi A4/A5 (2008-onwards) and the R477R for the Dacia Logan (2010-onwards).
The latest additions to the range join 32 brake calipers, eight driveshafts, three steering columns, and one steering rack that were added in September. Here are some signs that your brake calipers might need changing:
• Reduced stopping power: If a motorist notices their vehicle is taking longer to stop than usual.
• Pulling to one side: A brake caliper might be seized if the car pulls to one side while braking.
• A sticking caliper could cause the brake pads to wear unevenly.
• A stuck caliper could cause a grinding noise when braking.
• Damaged caliper seals can cause the vehicle to leak brake fluid which can be dangerous.
WWW.RDR.LINK/FAL028
Diagnostic updates
Tyresure has announced the latest additions to its product range: the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)-enabled Hamaton H57, ATEQ VT47 and VT57 diagnostic tools.
Offering “functionality and flexibility at an affordable price”, the H57, VT47 and VT57 diagnostic tools can also read BLE TPMS sensors for approximately five million Tesla 3, Y, S, X and Cybertruck models around the world.
The H57 BLE and VT57 BLE can read 100% of OE and aftermarket sensors and program all T-Pro and EU-Pro Hybrid sensor generations, and they can also relearn over 90% of vehicles via the OBDII module included with the tool. With a five-year software subscription, WiFi capability and real-time updates powered by Live Sensor™, the latest vehicle coverage and protocol will always be at users’ fingertips. Designed to be user-friendly, the VT47 BLE guides the user when replacing and servicing TPMS sensors and provides manual and OBDII relearn procedures alongside the trigger and diagnosis of the majority of OE sensors on the market. With a built-in OBDII for quick TPMS resets on over 90% of car models, and an OBDII Quick Connector for ECU resets in less than two minutes, the VT47 BLE offers functionality at a “cost-effective price”. The VT47 BLE can also program over 20 TPMS sensor brands and uses WiFi and Live Sensor™ real-time updates.
WWW.RDR.LINK/FAL029
EV battery integrity pressure testing
Modern EVs rely on HV battery packs, typically mounted beneath the vehicle’s floor, which must remain fully sealed to protect them from environmental hazards, such as water ingress, road debris and temperature fluctuations. In vehicles, like the Hyundai Kona EV, Jaguar I-Pace, Kia Niro EV and Nissan Leaf, these batteries are integral to performance, safety and longevity. To ensure these sealed units maintain their structural integrity, manufacturers recommend conducting a pressure test, often referred to as an “integrity test”.
Laser Tools’ EV battery integrity pressure test kit (8467) has been specifically designed to facilitate this essential maintenance procedure for qualified technicians. The kit enables the user, following the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions, to perform a precise and controlled pressure test on EV battery packs, ensuring that no leaks exist in the seals, particularly along the crucial large top seal surrounding the battery’s perimeter.
As well as a pressure gauge, the kit includes a pump, adaptors – for Hyundai Kona EV, Jaguar I-Pace, Kia Niro EV and Nissan Leaf – and sealing tape to ensure all battery breather and electrical connection ports are safely sealed during testing.
WWW.RDR.LINK/FAL030
Simply Brands unveils new line of ‘performance’ bulbs
Simply Brands has an extensive range of “competitively priced bulbs”, with new products introduced for the performance market, including 100% and 200% bulbs.
The company has recently launched new, eco-friendly bulbs – available in 100% or 200% brighter options – to meet drivers’ needs. Packaged in sustainable cardboard instead of plastic, these bulbs align with the Simply Brands’ commitment to sustainability and provide an ideal upselling opportunity for motorists seeking replacements.
As best practice, Simply Brands recommends replacing bulbs annually and in pairs to ensure drivers do not suffer a blown bulb in the middle of the night, particularly on country roads, where lighting is negligible.
specification to ensure durability and reliability, and they are, arguably, priced competitively.
Consisting of 160 references, Simply Brands’ range of bulbs includes performance, auxiliary, LED auxiliary, headlight, LED headlight and fog light bulbs. All bulbs are made to OE
For optimum margin and best performance for customers, Simply Brands suggests its performance range, such as the Xenon high performance bulbs. This provides the driver 50% brighter and whiter light, and also features a quartz glass UV filter, which is designed to cast a cleaner light beam from the vehicle and protect the headlight glass from damage due to direct light exposure.
Simply Brands Business Development Manager, Sam Robinson, said: “Bulbs are vital for every vehicle, and while drivers usually wait until something fails on their car before fixing it, we encourage prevention rather than cure, suggesting drivers replace them at least once a year. It’s important that factors and
“Factors and technicians should relish this opportunity, as this small conversation between staff and customer can easily lead to a new sale or an increased margin. In particular during the darker months, it’s easier to demonstrate the difference in visibility with upgraded bulbs.”
technicians discuss drivers’ lighting needs, including checking with them to see when the last time their bulbs were replaced, as well as explaining the benefits of higher performance bulbs.
“Factors and technicians should relish this opportunity, as this small conversation between staff and customer can easily lead to a new sale or an increased margin. In particular during the darker months, it’s easier to demonstrate the difference in visibility with upgraded bulbs. With the Simply programme, there’s a bulb to suit every driver.”
Product Spotlight
Petronas bringing motorsport pedigree to the aftermarket
Formula 1 represents the pinnacle of motorsport, and drivers, according to JRP, should strive to reflect this level of performance in their own vehicles. This makes selling Petronas a clear and logical choice, according to the distributor.
As the trusted partner of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team, Petronas has been synonymous with unprecedented success, contributing to an era of dominance that saw seven consecutive double drivers’ and constructors’ championships from 2014 to 2020, and an eighth constructors’ title in 2021. With such achievements, the brand has become well-known, not only among Formula 1 fans, but among motorists and enthusiasts too.
For drivers outside the racetrack, Petronas brings its Formula 1 expertise to products that help vehicle performance and engine cleanliness. Petronas’ Durance line offers a range of high-performance additives designed to enhance engine efficiency, cleanliness and longevity:
Petronas Durance DPF Treatment helps reduce particulate matter and carbon deposits, keeping the DPF efficient for longer. This treatment quickly cleans the supply system, improving ignition speed and lubrication.
Diesel Complete Cleaner thoroughly cleans the fuel system, eliminating deposits and raising the octane rating for more complete
combustion, boosting engine efficiency and response.
Injector cleaners – for both petrol and diesel engines – are designed for modern engines, like TDI, HDI, CDI, DCI and JTD. These cleaners target injector deposits, improve fuel lubrication and maintain optimal injector performance.
Petrol Complete Cleaner has been specially formulated to meet the demands of directinjection engines while strengthening performance in traditional engines. The cleaner protects discharge valves, offering a thorough clean for high-performance engines.
Hybrid Special Cleaner is tailored for hybrid and bi-fuel vehicles. Suitable for start/stop systems and compatible with catalytic systems, it maintains the fuel, injection and exhaust components essential for hybrid performance.
If you’re interested in the Petronas Durance range, JRP offers a retail display unit with 72 bottles, providing a complete selection of products.
For more information about Petronas Durance, www.rdr.link/FAL032
For nearly 150 years, the Lucas brand has illuminated our paths –long before the Ford Model T rolled off the production line, and even before the first Mercedes ‘horseless carriage.’ From the seas to the streets, Lucas lighting has been trusted by generations. Now, the brand is poised for its next chapter with a new generation of bulbs.
Need a boost? Lucas bulbs might be the answer!
Behind this innovation is ELTA Automotive, based in Birmingham which is the birthplace of Lucas. As the longeststanding Lucas licensee, ELTA has launched a three-pronged strategy to propel the brand. By forging global manufacturing partnerships, implementing rigorous quality assurance through testing facilities and revitalising the Lucas brand image, ELTA is bringing 150 years of heritage back into the spotlight.
In a clear sign of progress, Halfords has selected Lucas as its premium bulb
Product Spotlight
offering. With prime positioning across nearly 400 stores, ELTA is confident Lucas is once again top of mind for British motorists.
Brighter or whiter?
That is the question!
Leading the charge in Lucas’s 2024 bulb lineup are two flagship upgrades, designed to meet the demands of today’s drivers: Brighter or whiter? With this simple choice, upgrading vehicle lighting has never been easier, according to ELTA.
Brighter? The Lucas LightBOOSTER, now offering up to 200% more light on the road. With options for 100%, 150% and 200% brightness increasing, there’s a solution for every budget. Whether drivers need halogen or HID, they’ll enjoy enhanced visibility, all while staying 100% road-legal and e-marked for safe driving.
Whiter? Enter Lucas WhiteBOOSTER, its most advanced blue mask technology to date. It’s engineered to filter out yellow light at the brightest points of the premium filament, delivering 5000K white light for
halogen bulbs, and up to 6000K for roadlegal HID. The result? A crisp look that offers both style and a modern look.
By focusing on two clear upgrade paths, ELTA believes Lucas has simplified the decision-making process for drivers, cutting through complexity to boost sales conversions and improve customer satisfaction.
The Lucas bulb wall chart is back!
ELTA has announced the return of the new Lucas bulb identification wall chart. Featuring the latest bulbs and 3D-rendered images, this literature has been upgraded to offer greater value.
Each bulb now includes a QR code, giving instant access to detailed information, such as images, technical specifications, packaging options, part numbers and barcodes.
The chart also showcases Lucas’ latest upgrade ranges, including 5000K white, 200% brighter and LED options. Plus, the large A1 sheet doubles as a Lucas LightBOOSTER poster on the reverse.
Product Spotlight
While, understandably, there has been a great amount of work, time and focus on Comline Group’s move to its new global headquarters, work has been continuing at pace behind the scenes too, with product range developments bubbling away as part of continuous discussions between product managers and customers.
Comline reveals substantial braking update
Comline can reveal more than a dozen new coated brake disc and brake pad part numbers, all of which are now available.
This updated lineup includes a range of brake discs, such as ADC4079, designed for the rear axle of the Suzuki Swift (2017onwards), and ADC4081 for the rear axle of the Hyundai i30 (2017-onwards), among others. Highlights also include ADC5038V for the front axle of the Citroën C-Zero (2010-onwards) and Peugeot Ion (2010onwards), and ADC5051V, compatible with the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (2017onwards) and Outlander (2012-onwards). Additional products cover various models, like the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Tesla Model Y.
In the brake pad portfolio, Comline has introduced part numbers including CBP03969 for the rear axle of the Citroën Dispatch (2016-onwards) and SpaceTourer (2016-onwards). Other significant additions are CBP03970 for the DS Automobiles DS9 (2020-onwards) and CBP33967 for the front axle of the Kia Soul (2019onwards). The list further extends with CBP33984 for the Suzuki Jimny (2018onwards) and CBP33985 for the Hyundai i10 (2020-onwards), among others.
Tried and tested solution
Comline has built its success on a ‘real world performance’ philosophy. It has focused on quality and affordability to meet
the demands of everyday drivers. By using advanced production methods and carefully selecting raw materials, products are durable and reliable.
Obviously, braking solutions play a crucial role in vehicle safety; therefore, testing is vitally important – and Comline doesn’t shy away from that. Every brake pad, for example, undergoes ECE R90 testing to ensure performance within 15% of original parts, along with hot shear, noise and wear testing for added assurance.
Meanwhile, Comline’s brake discs feature a corrosion-resistant coating for durability and simple installation, while brake calipers come in both lightweight and traditional options, all meeting OE specifications and backed by a two-year warranty.
Comline’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in its development of copper-free brake pads, recognised by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association with its ‘N’ rated leaf mark. This eco-friendly approach supports the brand’s goal of reducing environmental impact while maintaining performance standards.
Additionally, as hybrid and EVs become more prevalent, Comline is actively expanding its product offerings to meet the needs of these new automotive technologies, as referenced in the new-torange update.
