Automotivation Magazine

M O T I VAT I O N Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA

Winter 2008

inside:

celebrity chat credit crunch product focus special offers technical features plus lots more…!

Fight to Repair The changes to Block Exemption – and how you could benefit!

Right to Repair special issue celebrity sound-off What’s eating actor Ricky Tomlinson about the UK aftermarket!

POWER TO THE PEOPLE

product focus: BULBS

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Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

WELCOME

M O T I VAT I O N TOMORROW’S TRADE NEWS, TODAY! FROM UKPA

Welcome to the all-new and much improved Automotivation, the magazine that keeps you in touch with all that’s going on in the UKPA.

be more efficient AND enjoy running your

Rather than giving our magazine a facelift,

business too.

Winter 2008

inside:

celebrity chat credit crunch product focus special offers technical features plus lots more…!

Fight to Repair The changes to Block Exemption – and how you could benefit!

Right to Repair special issue

we’ve totally redesigned it, so that it’s like

Meeting the increasing demands placed on the modern car battery

Turning the spotlight on the state-of-the-art in bulb technology

offering tips and advice on how you can

What’s more, Automotivation keeps you

But it’s not just its appearance that’s changed,

in touch with everything going on at the

because the contents have too.

UKPA. The aftermarket needs stronger communication more than ever, because you,

At a time when our industry is under threat

our customers, need to know what we’re up

from legislation and a lack of cash in motorists’

to, and how we’re looking at helping you keep

pockets, we have to be more prepared than

your workshop running smoothly.

ever before to weather the financial storm.

So

What’s eating actor Ricky Tomlinson about the UK aftermarket!

PRODUCT FOCUS: BULBS

your workshops under the spotlight, plus

an all-new model gleaming in the showroom.

CELEBRITY SOUND-OFF

POWER TO THE PEOPLE

and putting different cars passing through

…AND LOTS MORE!

** 4588 AUTOMOTIVATION issue 1v11 1

30/10/08 15:40:12

enjoy

the

all-new

Automotivation.

And that’s where Automotivation can help:

And as with any new product, we welcome

It’s here to help you run your business

your feedback. If you’ve got something to say,

more profitably and, at the same time, be

drop us a line, as your thoughts are always

more enjoyable. We’ll be including tips on

welcome.

the business side, as well as looking at different market sectors such as lighting,

Inside this issue …

UKPA NEWS

04

The latest industry news to affect the automotive aftermarket

CRISIS? WHAT CRISIS?

07

11

In this edition, actor Ricky Tomlinson of ‘The Royle Family’ expresses a personal opinion on an issue affecting the aftermarket

FIGHT TO REPAIR

12

The impact of Block Exemption on our industry – and how it could benefit you

it’s good to talk

18

product offers

19

Deals that are too good to miss – exclusively from UKPA members!

How you could turn the global economic downturn into a business opportunity

celebrity chat

a day in the life

This edition: ‘The Apprentice’, with Richard Yale of Eurofit in Wolverhampton

16

Coverage of the Allparts conference, tackling current issues such as the Right to Repair campaign

training

23

The importance of giving your staff training when using diagnostic equipment

BACK TO THE FUTURE

24

Jonas Zambakides and Mike Owen talk in-depth about the Right to Repair campaign

THE CAT’S WHISKERS!

28

In this edition a little piece of England, the Jaguar X-Type

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT

29

Turning the spotlight on the state-of-the-art in bulb technology

The boring legal stuff … ©2008 UK Parts Alliance All material published in Automotivation is copyright and unauthorised reproduction is forbidden. Automotivation is published on a controlled circulation basis. Whilst due care is taken to ensure the content of Automotivation is accurate, the publishers and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions.

Enjoy the magazine, UKPA

30

emissions

The importance of emissions testing, described

by Bosch product manager Barrie Flemming

power to the people

32

Meeting the increasing demands placed on the modern car battery

35

oil in one

Oil giant Shell stresses the importance of specifying the right high quality lubricants

36

TeA break

Put your feet up and relax with these puzzles

dates for your diary

37

Notable up-coming automotive events

finishing line

38

An out-of-breath Automotivation catches up with sprinter Jamie Baulch

Unit 4, Rabone Park, Rabone Lane, Smethwick, West Midlands B66 2NN Tel: 0121 565 6100 Fax: 0121 565 6101 Email: enquiries@ukpa.net Website: www.ukpa.net

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

foxy lady drivers’ club

NEWS PAGES

WIN!

WIN!

Girl Power!

Foxy explains why it’s different from other schemes

Hot on the heels of the motor industry-

“The reality is that few motorists know how

backed

all-new

to identify their best local garages and many

women

pick one for convenience and a friendly

•W e’re independent of the trade and

motorists a better deal at the workshop.

receptionist. Choose one that has signed

have done our homework the hard

With women making up half the country’s

the female-friendly Foxy Promise instead

way

motorists, there’s still plenty who feel

and you now know they are offering superior

•O ur

workshops aren’t looking after them

standards

as well as they do male drivers.

to those who can’t commit to our promise,”

independent

Garage

Services

Guide helps motorists do their buying

Motorcode

website

promising

comes to

an

give

signs of quality and explaining the

www.foxychoice.com

main differences between dealerships

of Steph Savill, and rather than being just

and independents

a list of workshops, it offers users an insight

is

the

brainchild

into the differences between franchised

sign the female-friendly FOXY Promise

dealers

to never overcharge, patronise or sell

showing what standards (such as Motorcode

customers services they don’t need

or

or want

those workshops might be working to.

and

Good

independents,

Garage

Scheme

as

well

as

programmes)

than just garage services - we include

The site’s idea dates back to 2002 when

details of leading garage networks,

Steph Savill’s stepdaughter experienced over-

caring customer services and female

charging for some work she had carried

friendly facilities

out on her car. Concerned by the manner

should things go badly wrong with any listed business and promises to de-list serious offenders

Winter 2008

care

compared

is getting things right for women drivers has raised its game because we know what we want, are used to getting it and go elsewhere if we aren’t happy. In a society where so many women decide where to spend the domestic budget, which businesses can afford not to be female-friendly in today’s testing times?”

While not a standard like the Motorcode

•O ur business entries cover a lot more

• FOXY Choice will support motorists

customer

Savill says. “Any garage or dealership that

homework by identifying the latest

•A ll garages and dealerships listed

of

some

garages

treat

women

motorists,

or the Good Garage Scheme, any business signing up with the website will have to show its female-friendly credentials, such as being close to shops, higher-quality reception areas and toilets, and baby-changing facilities.

she established the Foxy Lady Drivers’ Club (currently

boasting

10,000

members),

which later evolved into the Foxy Choice programme.

More details from

www.foxychoice.com

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

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Products

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Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

AFTERMARKET OPPORTUNITY?

CREDIT CRUNCH • Good news for the aftermarket

• Spending moves from the franchised dealers

• Introduction of workshop schemes

• Motor Industry Code of Practice

Crisis?

What crisis?

Richard Barnett

CO

2

But any economic slowdown can be good

they’re using is up to scratch. After all,

– not bad – for the aftermarket. If people are

if they’re already used to a gleaming

looking at reducing their weekly or monthly

service reception, the thought of standing

Credit crunch or economic slowdown, it

spend, they’ll look for cheaper alternatives to

in

all adds up to the same thing: people are

what they’re already spending on, and one

that appealing. These first impressions

tightening their belts. Or are they?

of these will be their car’s running costs.

count, even though the workshop and its

Richard

During

a

cramped,

scruffy

office

isn’t

all

technicians might be the best in the area, Barnett

programmes,

and

looks the

at

workshop

just-introduced

Industry Code, to see if they’re helping workshops generate and retain business

motorists

previous have

economic questioned

slowdowns whether

with greater skills’ than those at the main dealer down the road.

a franchised dealer service bill represents good value for money. Independent garages

So step forward the various workshop

can work on cars still under VM warranty,

schemes that help raise the quality of

If there’s one thing the media likes, it’s a good

there’s even greater possibilities of earning

service an independent workshop can offer,

negative story. It’s easy to focus on doom and

more, as drivers decide the franchised

and, in the process, build up customer

despondency, and adopt a ‘The End is Nigh’

dealer’s invoice is too big for their liking.

confidence. Irrespective of whether there’s

approach. So the possibility of a credit crunch

a credit squeeze or not, plenty of work is out

makes for good stories, and of course the

Those drivers might however, want some

there, and independents are in a stronger

aftermarket ends up drawn into it.

assurance that the independent workshop

position than ever before.

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

CREDIT CRUNCH

AFTERMARKET OPPORTUNITY? “People are cutting back on how much

in turn leads to safety and reliability issues.

they spend, but from that we see the more

Figures

progressive and forward-thinking workshops

seller organisation have shown that, of

picking up work. The work is out there, with

15,306 motorists polled, 10 per cent have

30 million car services being carried out every

cut back on their car’s servicing, with those in

year,” says Good Garage Scheme managing

Yorkshire, Humberside and the East Midlands

director, Bob Welch. “We’ve aligned ourselves

most likely to have cut back.

from

with those workshops, rather than those who see doom and gloom.”

the

breakdown-to-insurance

CO

2

“Using a BSI Kitemark garage means that drivers can be ensured that they will not be

Welch remains unfazed by the just-launched

ripped off and that they will get an honest,

Motor Industry Code, which

fair and safe service,” a statement says.

is backed by trade bodies the SMMT

A BSI executive believes independent

and the RMI.

workshops can benefit from an economic slowdown, and that the Kitemark helps instill customer confidence. “With the credit crunch now upon us, motorists need to be sure that they are spending their money wisely.

“Car servicing and repair is an expensive business and consumers need to know that they are being treated fairly. However, it is “We

important.

Not getting your car serviced

aren’t in

could increase the risk of breaking down or,

competition

even worse, running an unsafe car. Kitemark

with the

shows us where we can get this confidence

Industry

and quality of service,” says BSI Kitemark

Code and

Services general manager, Steve Hamon.

garages have to look

With just 130 workshops in the Kitemark

at what’s

scheme, the BSI programme has a long

on offer, and

way to go to catch up with the GGS’s 2600

achieve what

members, but the arrival of a new kid on

they want through

the block could make for an interesting

their image, promotion

showdown.

and structures.”

Step forward the Motor Industry Code of Welch believes whether they belong to a scheme or not, almost all workshops

Repair, notably unveiled at the end of August at the Office of Fair Trading (see box-out).

have business processes which help increase profitability and raise service standards.

Initial take-up has gone well, according to

“The repair side of a workshop’s trade

Motor Industry Code director Chris Mason,

gives structures and systems, but any

but needless to say some businesses are

programme has to give something to

more keen to get involved than others. “We’ve

independents.” Welch says.

Providing the customer with a high standard of service, coupled with value for money, is crucial to business success

Winter 2008

not had anyone complaining or wanting to keep away, but some in the sector need time

According to the AA, fewer motorists

to engage and let it click through their minds.

are having their cars serviced, which

It’s like a good set of tools and confirms what

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

CREDIT CRUNCH

AFTERMARKET OPPORTUNITY?

they’re doing, and for some businesses it’s aspirational,” Mason says.

In an AA survey of 15,306 motorists, 10% had cut back on their car’s servicing due to the pressure on household budgets

But, more importantly, this could be the last chance the industry has to clean up its act before the government wades in, as Mason explains: “There have been 17 attempts in the past 30 years,” he says.

CO

2

The Code follows a 2005 discussion paper launched by the National Consumer Council, who in turn appointed the SMMT to draft, develop and refine a code. It took three years, after which Motor Codes Ltd was spun off from the SMMT into a separate and independent body.

Costing

£75

to

subscribe,

the

Code

undercuts the BSI Kitemark and also has no ‘soft-franchise’ element that some say the Good Garage Scheme has. The Code also looks to self-regulation rather than using an iron fist to ensure members maintain their standards. Mason also says there will be no mystery shopping, but there will be an

Assessment Panel which will meet every

Speaking at the OFT presentation, Mason

independent inspection carried out by RAC

three months to discuss expulsions and

made it clear this could be the final attempt

Inspection Services.

amendments. Self-regulation is the way

at

forward and we’re left to look after the Code,

than one backed by legislation. “Why do it

Furthermore, the Code isn’t set in stone:

but we’re monitored by the OFT so there’s no

now? The answer is that there are clear,

“We

closed door,” Mason says.

growing messages that this is the right

have

an

Independent

Compliance

an

industry-policed

standard,

rather

thing at the right time. The Code is also both confirmational and aspirational for workshops,

Background to the Motor Industry Code of Practice

12 November 2007: Retail Motor

and acceptable for important stakeholders,

Industry Strategy Group gives SMMT

including the OFT, Trading Standards and the

thumbs-up to house Code body and

Government,” Mason says.

continue development For all independent workshops, there’s November 2007: Consumer Minister

NationalConsumer Council publishes

probably a standard to suit them, and as

Gareth Thomas MP is reassured that this

paper “at a crossroads – getting the

consumers start getting tougher in the way

is a means of addressing the estimated

UK car servicing and repair sector back

they spend their cash, they’ll want to know

£4billion a year cost to consumers

on track” – claiming shoddy repair work

they’re getting value for money.

through shoddy service and repairs

was costing the consumer £4billion a year. NCC called for the industry to

May 2008: Development continues

obtain and maintain full OFT approval

with the Code launching to the trade,

or be subjected to legislation

starting with the subscription process

Industry acknowledges poor perception

29 August 2008: Code completed

of the sector and starts development

stage one of the OFT’s Consumer Codes

on strategy to alter positively the views

Approval Scheme, the first step to OFT

of consumers

approval, and went live to consumers

To date the economic slowdown hasn’t affected independent workshops as greatly as franchised dealers, and the current climate can also be used to independents’ advantage a

–

first-rate

showing

they

service,

using

can

provide

high-quality

parts – but at a more wallet-friendly price.

Perhaps, once it has passed, independent garages will be grateful for the credit crunch after all.

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

CELEBRITY chat

WITH RICKY TOMLINSON

Main dealers

...my arse!

Ricky Tomlinson talks exclusively to Automotivation

There’s also that strong link

What’s

more,

it’s

often

said

in

the

between the independent and

trade that a technician working in an

When I started

their customers. Technicians get to know

independent workshop has more skills

Royle Motors with Harry

the owners of the cars they’re working on:

than

Walsh, there was a feeling we could

they know how the car is used, where it’s

and that’s because they’re under the bonnet

do better than the local main dealers.

been and what sort of budget the owner

of so many different makes and models.

There were many reasons behind that,

has, so they’ll do their very best to keep the

but the general feeling was that we could

bill as low as possible.

one

working

in

a

main

dealer,

You’ll find plenty of skills in an independent garage, but you’ll also find friendly service

do better – on pricing, quality of service It’s also important for independent garages

and a bill that’s much more wallet-friendly.

to highlight the fact they’re using the latest

So if you’re running such a business,

For example, it’s not just a myth that

diagnostics equipment – just the same

make sure you’re properly promoting it.

franchised workshops are expensive –

as you’ll find in a swanky main dealer’s

There’s never been a better time to be

it’s true! If you’re running your own garage,

workshop.

running an independent garage!

and quality of parts used.

ring around the main dealers and find out just how much they charge…

But there are other reasons why motorists should seriously think about using an independent workshop if they’re not using one already, especially as we’re seeing people tighten their belts – and that’s just better value-for-money all-round.

Yes, independent garages are cheaper.

But they also use the same quality parts as a main dealer, and at a lower price.

Independent garages also try to keep motorists’

costs

down

by

not

having

expensive buildings lined with pot plants and fancy furniture, which drivers end up paying for every time they’re presented with the bill.

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

11

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

Less freedom of choice and diminution of consumers rights in a post-2010 world

12

Winter 2008

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

block exemption

RIGHT TO REPAIR • Changes to the rules on Block Exemption

• Introduction of EU Type Approval standards

• The ‘Right to Repair’ campaign

• The view from two independent workshops

Fight to Repair The changes to Block Exemption – and how you could benefit!

Richard Barnett

But key aftermarket suppliers aren’t happy

Without an equivalent – or better still, more

with the current situation, and believe the way

robust – alternative to the existing provisions

forward is by supporting the Right to Repair

of BER, all the evidence points to less freedom

Do independent workshops face a tricky

campaign. “Allowing Brussels to remove

of choice and a diminution of consumers’

future, or do changes in Block Exemption

Block Exemption legislation will be of benefit to

rights in a post-2010 world. There are also

offer a bright future? And how does this

no-one. It is increasingly clear that mechanics,

wider ramifications in terms of possible

tie in with the Right to Repair campaign?

garage workshop chains, and automotive part

restraint of trade, environmental impact

Richard Barnett investigates…

stores will all be effectively paralysed if the

and job losses in the overall independent

Block Exemption regulations are not renewed

parts and servicing sector,” Bewsey says.

Slowly British motorists have woken up to the fact that even with a new car, they can take it wherever they wish to have it serviced.

It’s been a long time coming, and in many ways franchised dealers still do a good job in convincing car buyers to bring their motors back.

Exemption rulebook about to be torn up? And if so, where does that leave the independent workshop and the factor that supplies it?

An SMMT spokeswoman says that under proposed 2010 changes it’s business as i.e.,

manager, Paul Hannah.

Hannah also believes that the only group to benefit will be the VMs: “The proposed

His views are supported by Comma Oils

regulation change will also be of precisely

managing director Mike Bewsey, who says

zero value to consumers. Klarius Group

any restriction to a motorist’s freedom

supports the view of the Right to Repair

of

Council Campaign that creating a situation

choice

will

have

a

serious

impact

on the aftermarket.

But as the tide begins to turn, is the Block

usual

in 2010,” says Klarius business development

independent

workshops

can

continue to service cars that are still under VM warranty. The only change (and one that doesn’t affect legislation) is that the regulations coming out of the EU affecting vehicle servicing will now be covered by general regulations rather than being motor industry-

“In an automotive market that is constantly evolving, it’s critical that today’s garages are fully aware of the jobs they are able to undertake…”

where consumers are stripped of choice, will feasibly have to travel further, and will be charged more money just for the privilege of getting a vehicle fixed is a ludicrous one!

And for a country insistent on offering the widest choice for consumers, it is beyond comprehension.

SKF’s

marketing

manager, Block

Mark

Exemption

and

business

Dolloway, changes

support

says have

that

opened

up opportunities for independent workshops, as well as factors and diagnostics equipment suppliers. “As a respected parts manufacturer and supplier that works hard to maintain a

specific. And for 2009-on cars, technical

“As a major supplier to the UKPA and an active

strong relationship with its garage customers

information will have to be made available to

supporter of the Right to Repair Campaign,

when it comes to offering technical support

the independent workshop sector.

Comma does not support any proposed

and general guidance, we strongly support

changes to the existing BER, nor substituting

the Block Exemption Regulations.

“It will make things easier for consumers

it with legislation that might in any material

and

be

way limit or constrain consumers’ freedom

“In an automotive market that is constantly

removed,” the SMMT says. “It’s a case of

workshops

–

no

rights

will

to have their vehicles maintained, serviced

evolving, it’s critical that today’s garages are

simplifying things.”

and repaired in the workshop of their choice.

fully aware of the jobs they are able

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

13

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

block exemption

RIGHT TO REPAIR

Comma MD Mike Bewsey on Type Approval “Type Approval… …In the case of lubricants, the universally observed (and constantly evolving) benchmarks are the relevant ACEA and API Service Classifications. Increasingly, these have become elaborated on with individual vehicle manufacturer’s engine specific formulations that are mandated for use in the aftermarket as ‘warranty critical’. Comma protects independent workshops servicing vehicles under the provisions of BER with a unique written guarantee

covering

all

lubricant,

coolant and brake fluid products listed in its Application Guide.

“Because of the complexity of the existing legislation and the proposed changes, this is not an immediately ‘accessible’

issue,

even

for

those

working in the aftermarket who have the

most

at

stake

commercially.

Unsurprisingly then, it does not yet

“By making sure all replacement car parts in the UK are made to the manufacturers and EU approved specifications, the bar for quality, environmentally sound products is immediately raised”

seem to have much traction with the

public

at

large,

although

the

excellent work and co-ordinated efforts of the r2rc can hopefully change that situation over time.”

to undertake and the scope they have

under the manufacturer warranty if they are

for working on newer vehicles. Garages need

seeing a newer vehicle in their workshop,”

to know where they stand so that they don’t

Dolloway says.

Independent Aftermarket need to ensure

turn away work that they are fully entitled to carry out.

“At the same time, companies in the that only Type Approved Products are being

“It seems the only group within the automotive

supplied and fitted to guarantee the quality

sector

of repairs leave the vehicle at least as good

supporting

the

removal

of

the

“Block Exemption helps parts distributors like

regulations are the vehicle manufacturers

us, garages and motorists alike. Although

themselves.

we offer OE-quality parts to the aftermarket

as they would be guaranteeing a long-

and

the

“By making sure all replacement car parts

term revenue stream, but they are taking

vehicle assemblers, it is in our interests

in the UK are made to the manufacturers

a particularly short-term view of the situation,”

to support BER because the independent

and EU approved specifications, the bar

Hannah says.

for quality, environmentally sound products

also

OE-specification

parts

to

It

is

understandable

garages are going to be fitting our parts

is immediately raised. This in turn will prove Hannah

14

as when it was first produced.

why,

lobbying

to the decision makers in the EU that

Age of cars on the road – Source: SMMT

towards more Type-Approved parts in the

we are truly meeting and even exceeding

Less than three years old:

7,159,203

Three to six years old:

7,727,679

aftermarket:

the

Six to nine years old:

6,717,831

Nine to 12 years old:

5,142,739

More than 12 years old:

4,358,536

Winter 2008

says

VMs “Car

should

be

manufacturers

in

the

UK should be investing their time more wisely

standards

of

the

original

vehicle

manufacturers and service centres.”

in lobbying the government to introduce European

Type

Approval

UK parts manufacturers.

standards

to

Comma’s Bewsey says it’s essential suppliers should be supporting their factor and

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

block exemption

RIGHT TO REPAIR workshop customers: “In common with many

the motorist. Says SKF’s Mark Dolloway:

of any initiative that is trying to protect

other aftermarket suppliers, Comma’s success

“We regularly interact with the UK’s garages

the future of the independent aftermarket

is inextricably bound up with the success

through our many training initiatives and BER

because it has a valuable role to play in the

of its independent distributors and their

is a topic that regularly comes up and we are

repair of vehicles both new and old, and gives

independent workshop customers. Certainly,

happy to address.

consumers greater freedom.”

we will do everything within our influence to ensure their prosperity and resist anything

“And in order to ensure we highlight the

that threatens their progress. The alternative

importance of BER to as many people

is quite stark: without them, Comma simply

in

doesn’t have a business. That’s why the

produced a leaflet in conjunction with the ADF

r2rc is so vital to us all.”

that serves as a no-nonsense guide to BER

the

trade

as

possible,

we

recently

and what it means – in simple terms. There Maintaining and developing the r2rc will lead

is no complicated legal jargon, just a simple

to stronger relationships between workshops

interpretation of the regulations that everyone

and their factor customers, but ultimately

in the industry will be able to understand.

it’s essential the message gets down to

“As a company, we are fully supportive

WORKSHOP VIEW 1 Based in the seaside town of Llandudno, North Wales Jaguar Centre has built a strong reputation among Jaguar drivers for its quality of service and workmanship. Matthew Norbury took over the business when his father retired, and customers come from as far away as Scotland and the South East of England to have their cars worked on.

Since Block Exemption changes were introduced more cars under warranty are being serviced, as Norbury explains: “When it was initially introduced we didn’t see many, but over the years it has grown to a substantial amount.

Around 30 percent of new customers are within their warranty period. An ever-increasing number of customers are now aware that we are able to carry out routine service and repair without effect on their warranty.”

Some owners of more modern Jaguars have contacted North Wales Jaguar Centre asking if their car can be serviced, despite it being under warranty. “On a number of occasions potential clients have got in touch regarding their service work, unaware of the block exemption rule, always asking the question ‘will it invalidate my warranty if you carry out my service?’ After a brief explanation of the benefits and savings by not going

to a franchised dealer potential clients are turned into actual customers!,” Norbury says.

But for business to increase and to raise awareness among motorists, Norbury says the Right to Repair campaign needs to raise its profile. “The next step should be a national campaign to raise awareness of Block Exemption and Right to Repair, as it is still a commonly unknown subject. The consumer has the right and the need to know they have the choice as to where their vehicle is maintained,” Norbury says. “The Right to Repair campaign will inevitably bring

“The next step should be a national campaign to raise awareness of Block Exemption and Right to Repair…” more business our way. Over the coming years, as it becomes more widely known, people will certainly reconsider the need to use franchised dealers, and yes, they will make the switch and use a specialist like ourselves.”

WORKSHOP VIEW 2 Harry Walsh co-owns Liverpool’s Royle Motors with TV actor Ricky Tomlinson. The business started 18 months ago and has taken advantage of Block Exemption, and Walsh says being a member of the Good Garage Scheme has helped generate trade.

“I’m happy with it, and I find I’m getting work through the GGS website.

It doesn’t cost us anything to belong, and I like both the rating system and the customer feedback,” Walsh says.

He also disagrees with those who say the scheme is too closely linked to its backer, Forte Lubricants.

“…Block Exemption changes have been helpful for us, but it’s surprising how many drivers go back to the franchised dealers,” Walsh sees plenty of new and nearlynew cars through the workshop: “We get 07- and 08-plate cars, and Block Exemption changes have been helpful for us, but it’s surprising how many drivers go back to the franchised dealers,” he says. “We’ve recently spent £6000 on Snap-on diagnostic equipment because we can’t afford to be left behind.”

Royle Motors is gradually establishing itself with motorists, and generating repeat business. Says Walsh: “We’re still finding our feet but people are coming back to us. We’ve not grown as quickly as I would have liked but the GGS has helped. Plenty of work comes to us via word-of-mouth.”

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

15

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

RIGHT TO REPAIR

allparts conference

It’s good to talk…

Mark Darvill

Steve Scofield

Nigel Buchanan

Brian Spratt

High Wycombe-based Allparts Automotive

opened each conference with the stark

and

ran a series of customer conferences

warning that Brussels-driven laws will affect

(ATC), which employs a dedicated team

aimed at tackling the issues affecting

all levels of the aftermarket supply chain

of

the aftermarket, which attracted more

and workshops in particular. The two-hour

garage

than 500 delegates during its three

seminar gave delegates an insight into Block

and

sessions.

Exemption, the Right to Repair Campaign,

A conference-supporting exhibition area

ATA Accreditation, 4-2-2 MOTs, good business

offered further pre- and post-presentation

With the main focus being on the Right

practice, corporate manslaughter and the

information.

to Repair campaign, other subjects up for

new industry Repair Code of Practice.

discussion included diagnostics, training and

the experts

Allparts to

advise

equipment,

advances

Technical

in

on

training,

Centre

diagnostics, information

technical

products.

“We have had a really positive response from

Garage Association (IGA) supremo Mike

“…positive response from customers...”

Owen, Bosch divisional manager (training)

Workshop delegates were also updated

garage has a strong future” said Steve

Nigel Buchanan and Jonas Zambakides,

on the latest business solutions which

Patten, Allparts marketing director. “We

vice-chairman of the IGA.

are designed to increase profitability: the

are delighted to have invested in these

Allparts Connect marketing programme;

conferences to help support our independent

Alliance Autocentres, Bosch Car Service

customers’ future in the industry.”

good business practice. Speakers included ADF chief executive Brian Spratt, Independent

Allparts managing director Mark Darvill

16

Winter 2008

customers across the whole conference programme, with many refreshing attitudes determined

to

ensure

the

independent

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

GARAGE PROGRAMME

ALLIANCE AUTOCENTRE

Running a quality, legal independent

We at the Alliance Autocentre are very

garage today is not what it used be, the

aware of the challenges that are not only

or commercial business insurance? Would

days are long gone when all you really had

prevalent in today’s marketplace but are

you like to increase your consumer business

to do was open the door in the morning,

literally just around the corner. Working in

through

repair motor vehicles all day long and

conjunction with industry specialists in their

facing website portraying the right image

then close the door in the evening, sound

field our business partners can assist your

to your customers? Are you considering

familiar?

business and can help you where required

updating or investing in courtesy cars for

make sure that the challenges that lie ahead

your business?

The independent garage proprietor now

are more of an opportunity rather than

has to be many things, a Health & Safety

a threat!

Are you paying too much for your telecoms

the

web?

Is

your

consumer

If you can answer yes or are considering any of the above then we would love to talk

expert, a specialist in Employment Law,

to you.

be a financially astute business person aware of forecasting and be able to understand

Our Modular Route to Garage Licencing

and manage profit & loss, be a specialist

compliance will ensure that you become

The

in customer retention, be skilled in all areas

95% plus compliant for any code of practise

network of quality independent garages

of people development and a specialist

that may become mandatory in the UK.

focusing on providing business solutions

in marketing their business! Oh... we almost

If growing your people is a top priority then we

for its members, want to find out more?

forgot, a skilled technician with access

can assist in this area with our government

to quality technical information so you can

funded National Apprenticeship Programme

Check our website

actually do the job!

and adult leaning programme.

www.allianceautocentre.com.

Alliance

Autocentre

is

a

national

D R I V I N G S E R V I C E & R E PA I R F O R WA R D

The Alliance Autocentre a Partnership in Developing & Growing Your Business Check our website www.allianceautocentre.com for more details

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

17

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

A DAY IN THE LIFE

APPRENTICE RICHARD YALE

• Eurofit Apprentice

• Progression within the company

• Life-time passion

• Courses arranged by Delphi

From fan to fitter!

Apprentice Richard Yale talks to Automotivation about his love of the trade

Richard Yale and Mo Rashad at work

Richar d Yale is an appr entice at Wolverhampton-based Eurofit. He’s a lifelong car enthusiast, and now combines his passion with a career.

to college for two years, where I did a motor technician’s course. It was full-time – there wasn’t any day release.”

Eurofit has two branches, as well as a tyre centre and an exhaust centre. Founded

by Mo Rashad, his fellow managing director

From college Richard went straight to Mo Suliman’s Eurofit, and since joining he’s learning his way around engines, gearboxes

he says. “I did my GCSEs and then went

“I originally started just changing oil, plugs and tyres, but I’m working up” is Mo Suliman, who joined the business six years ago.

At 20 years old, Richard Yale’s been into his cars as long as he can remember.

“At school I was always interested in them, and decided I’d like to work with them too,”

18

Winter 2008

– everything that goes into making a car work.

“I’m moving up into more complicated jobs as I get more confident: I originally started just changing oil, plugs and tyres, but I’m working up,” Richard says.

These days Richard arrives at work and starts on whatever cars have been brought in. Lunch is whenever he’s ready.

“We work from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 3pm on Saturdays. Eurofit offers MoT testing, but Richard says he’d rather be a technician than a tester.

Meanwhile Richard goes on courses organised by air conditioning, brake and suspension supplier Delphi. “I go on them every few months and it keeps me on my toes!,” he says.

Useful Contacts •

Delphi Training Contact: Dan Main Tel: 01926 472666 Email: dan.main@delphi.com

• ProVQ

Ltd

Tel: 01743 762055 Email: info@provq.com Website: www.provq.com

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

MAYWOOD

PRODUCT OFFERS

NEW Force 30

• Low maintenance

Cascos 2.3

• 3 tonne Electro-Hydraulic

• 3 tonne Electro-mechanical 2 post

• 2 post lift with baseframe

lift with baseframe

• Manufactured in Europe

• Columns made from hot-rolled steel

• 3 phase electrics

for extra strength • Wider door opening for getting out • Automatic arm locking • 3 phase electrics

Cascos C120

List Price £3485 Offer Price £2835

• 2 tonne single post lift • Space saving

(single phase available at extra cost) List Price £2987 Offer Price £2429

• Hot-rolled steel column and full safety system • Automatic arm locking • Single phase electrics only List Price £4550 Offer Price £3699

Cascos C125 • Same as above but 2.5 tonne • 3 phase electrics only

Cascos 3.5 • 3.5 tonne Electro-mechanical lift with base frame

List Price £4044 Offer Price £3299

Europa 3000 • 3 tonne Electro-mechanical lift with baseframe • Manufactured in Europe • Automatic lubrication • 5 year warranty on lift nuts

• Full safety system with columns made

List Price £3045 Offer Price £2475

from hot-rolled steel • Door protection and wider door opening for getting out • Automatic arm locking • 3 phase electrics (single phase available at extra cost) List Price £3775 Offer Price £3070

MTF 3000 • Hofmann 2 post lift without baseframe • 3 tonne capacity in 3 phase only • Electro-mechanical operation • Nylatron lifting nuts with 10 year warranty List Price £3599 Offer Price £2925

Cascos C430

Europa Short Lift

• 3 tonne 4 post lift

• Low profile short platform mobile

• Single phase available at extra cost

scissor lift

• Automatic lock/unlock system

• 2.5 tonne capacity

• Speed limiting valve and pneumatic

• Electro-hydraulic operation

levelling locks • Foot protection and integrated safety system • 3 phase electrics List Price £4897 Offer Price £3979

• Height when lowered only 95mm • Separate control/pump unit • Lifting height 930mm • Single phase electrics List Price £3055 Offer Price £2485

Prices exclude VAT and are subject to availability General enquiries calldetails 0870 242on 4278 log offers on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info Winter 2008 For further the above please contact your local UKPA Member

19

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

product oFFERS

FACOM AND BRITOOL Inspection Creeper

• V tubes for maximum shoulder clearance • High density foam padded cushion and head rest • Easy movement – 6 high load castors

Timing Belt Tension Gauge

Offer Price £49.00

• For checking new and old belt tensions • Complete with 6 interchangeable

Inspection Creeper w/Lean Function

ends, a belt thickness gauge and calibrating strip Offer Price £59.95

6 Drawer Economy Roller Cabinet • Drawer dimension: 3x70 + 3x130mm • Effective drawer dimensions:

• Head rest with lean

L: 535mm

function for intensive use

D: 360mm

• Specially designed frame allows

H: 70/130mm

maximum shoulder clearance

• RAL: 3020

• 2 tool trays

Red & 9006 Grey

Offer Price £89.00

• 65kg Offer Price £278.25

Probag Soft Tote •M anufactured from 1200x1200 denier fabric for maximum resistance • Integral pockets, pouches and clips for maximum tool storage • Kangaroo pouch fold away cover – to protect tools from dirt and rain

Fast Action Oil Filter Wrench • The fastest and best oil filter wrench on the market • Automatically adjusts to filter diameters 66-105mm • Ideal for difficult to access filters • Extra torque function for small or stubborn filters

Offer Price £39.38

Offer Price £30.45

Prices exclude VAT and are subject to availability

20

Winter 2008 General enquirieson call 0870 242 4278above log on www.automotivation.info email enquiries@automotivation.info For further details the offers please contactoryour local UKPA Member

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

FACOM AND BRITOOL

PRODUCT OFFERS

Quality Since 1908

9 Pc 440 Series Combination Wrench Clip

6 Pc Stubby Ratcheting Combination Wrench Clip Contains:•1 5˚ offset

Contains:-

ratcheting

• 15˚ offset

combination

combination

wrenches: 8-14mm

wrenches: 8-19mm

•6 0% shorter than standard combi’s

• In folding

for greater

wrench clip

accessibility Offer Price £44.10

Offer Price £34.65

3/8" SD Rotator Ratchet Pack

3/8" Square Drive Flexible Headed Ratchet

1/2" Square Drive Swivel Handle

• Rotator design – can be used as a

• 72 Tooth high strength twin pawl

• 600mm Long for exceptional leaverage

standard 3/8” ratchet or can be operated by handle rotation where space is restricted

mechanism

• Polypropylene handle – resistant to

• Polypropylene handle – resistant to

hydrocarbons

hydrocarbons

• Designed by

• Flexible head for increased access

professionals, for professionals • Features Rotator ratchet,

Offer Price £24.00

Offer Price £23.00

sockets and extension

11 Drawer Limited Edition Toolbox Stack

Offer Price £38.85

• Heavy duty construction designed for heavy use • Heavy duty ball bearing drawer slides

6 Pc Protwist Screwdriver Set – Slotted & Phillips®

• Drawer liners included

Contains:-

3 Drawers

W: 169 x D: 272 x H: 50mm

2 Drawers

W: 569 x D: 272 x H: 50mm

1 Drawer

W: 569 x D: 272 x H: 75mm

®

•S lotted screwdrivers: 3.5x75 – 4x100 – 5x175 – 6.5x150mm • Phillips® screwdrivers: #1x100 #2x125mm Offer Price £21.95

Tool Chest Overall dimensions: W: 660 x D: 307 x H: 386mm

Roller Cabinet Overall dimensions: W: 676 x D: 460 x H: 860mm 3 Drawers

W: 569 x D: 412 x H: 75mm

2 Drawers

W: 569 x D: 412 x H: 155mm

Offer Price £410.00

Prices exclude VAT and are subject to availability General enquiries calldetails 0870 242on 4278 log offers on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info Winter 2008 For further the above please contact your local UKPA Member

21

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

product oFFERS

express equipment

AC Delco Chargers

CT1499 30 LED Worklamp

Charges most lead acid batteries & Gel,

• High impact rubber housing

AGM, Marine and Deep Cycle.

• 30 super bright LED’s • Hanging hook • 1 Hour mains quick charger

Range of Fully Automatic Battery Chargers (I-7011)

Sell Price £35.97

• Fully automatic “pulse cycle” charging • Reverse polarity protection

G689 Pro-Lift 2.25 Tonne Garage Jack

• Short circuit & over-charge protection • Desulphates battery plates to extend battery lifetime or increase ability to accept a charge • 2, 4, & 6 Amp charging rates.

• Automatic 6V & 12V selection

PL003 Magnetic Worklamp

• 2250kg lifting capacity

• 3 Superbright LED’s

• Manufactured to TUV/GS standards

• Adjustable angle

• Heavy Duty reinforced steel construction

• Magnetic base. Can

• Built-in safety valve provides

be mounted on tubes

‘over pumping’ protection

Sell Price £6.75

• Swivel saddle and

Sell Price £37.47

swivel rear castors for easy positioning and safety Sell Price £84.68

I-7012 Same Features as I-7011 Plus: • Battery maintenance/reconditioning reactivates sulphated and flooded lead

CT1368 3.5 Tonne Low Entry Garage Jack

acid batteries

• 3500kg Lifting capacity

• Battery optimisation function

• Low entry: 4"/10cm

• 2, 6, 10, 12 & 15 Amp charging rates

Sell Price £59.35

• Max lifting height

PL026 Foldable Magnetic Work Lamp

of 21"/43cm

• 3.6V 1500mAh Li-ion Battery • 21 LED Worklight

Sell Price £94.50

• 5 LED Spotlight

I-7015 Same features as 7011 & 7012 Plus: • Multiple battery charge function • 2, 10, 20, 30, & 40 Amp

• Magnetic base • Hanging hook • Mains quick charger Sell Price £20.97

charge rate Sell Price £121.68

G493 Pro-Lift 3 Ton Garage Jack • 3000kg lifting capacity • Manufactured to TUV/GS Standards • Heavy Duty reinforced steel construction

PL1200C • 12 metre extension reel • 1 metre leader cable

• Built-in safety valve provides ‘over pumping’ protection • Swivel saddle and swivel rear castors

• 12 metre extension cable

for easy positioning

• Auto retract

and safety

Sell Price £44.97

Sell Price £98.22

CT1643 Under Bonnet Light • 230V Power source • Heavy Duty High Impact body • Can be used as ordinary inspection lamp Sell Price £37.47

Prices exclude VAT and are subject to availability

22

Winter 2008 General enquirieson call 0870 242 4278 above log on www.automotivation.info email enquiries@automotivation.info For further details the offers please contactoryour local UKPA Member

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

personnel development

training • Ensuring staff have sufficient training

• Many workshops falling behind

• Increasing number of cars using computers

• Courses that come to you do it, but they’re doing those jobs on price.

Working with newer technology means a better return, whereas working on older cars means less return. For example, it might take three hours to do a job, but the workshop will only be able to charge for an hour.”

To train or not to gain It’s all very well investing in diagnostic equipment, but that investment can be wasted if technicians have insufficient training. Without the necessary skills to get the most out of that equipment, (and to understand what goes on in a modern car) the purchase price is wasted to some degree.

Training is a vital part of any workshop’s activities, as Bosch divisional manager (training) Nigel Buchanan explains: “There used to be a time when training was desirable rather than essential, but with the explosion of technology cars are computers on wheels, because those computers are controlling not only the engine but the steering, suspension and brakes.”

Buchanan says that with the way technology is moving forward, garages can either keep up to date, or be forced into smaller-earning, easier-to-accomplish jobs on older cars, but even these are starting to fall away. “Some garages are being caught out, because while in the past new technology only applied to top-of-the-range cars like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7-Series models, when VMs were trying to outdo each other, it’s found on all cars today,” Buchanan says.

“Now, legislation is causing VMs to use more technology, and that means it is being fitted in volume models: the stop-start system used by BMW will be fitted in two million cars in 2009, including the Mini, 1- and 3-Series.”

If workshops needed proof they have to keep their training up to scratch, last year’s Top 10 best sellers hold 19,000 fault codes between them – cars that will soon be in independent workshops. This is no time, however, for staff to bury their heads in the sand.

“In many cases workshop owners see themselves as technicians first and businessmen second, and they think if they skip a training course in one year their skills will stand still: they don’t, and they end up falling behind, which means they are reducing their earning potential. Without training, businesses will fail,” Buchanan says.

For those workshops who decide to avoid training, they face a life of those simpler jobs that consequently pay less. “If you look at the numbers of garages working on older technology you will see they can all

“Some workshop owners think sending technicians on a course is a tick-box exercise – an easy solution – but with new developments in cars arriving almost every day it’s essential that technicians’ skills also develop. Owners do think about tax and VAT, but they also need to think about the training their staff require,” Buchanan says.

He reports how training course attendance is 30 percent up on the same time last year, but at an average cost of £150 per day it’s money well spent. Bosch takes its courses around the country so staff don’t have to spend time and money travelling to the firm’s Buckinghamshire head office. Says Buchanan: “It’s a case of making workshop owners aware of the value of training, and the industry needs to realise it needs to make training available across the country.”

Workshops should now be planning their technician training for 2009. Without it, they reduce their chances of succeeding in a competitive market, one where it’s no longer the case of the survival of the fittest, but one where the fittest might survive. “It’s not a difficult decision,” Buchanan says.

TOP TIPS • Remember a car is a computer on wheels •B eware of the risks of doing nothing training-wise, as you put your business in jeopardy •T raining brings the benefits of being able to work on the latest cars, and that means greater customer satisfaction and retention. It can also bring in work from other, local workshops

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

23

By not investing in the latest equipment and training, workshops risk being left behind and losing valuable business

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

GOOD BUSINESS PRACTICE

RIGHT TO REPAIR • Re-evaluating your business

• Arrival of the Motor Industry Code of Practice

• Getting the message through to your customers

• Workshops need to plan for their future

Back to the future Bringing your garage up to date with the Right to Repair Campaign Richard Barnett

an independent workshop can usually get

message across to consumers and make

the job done well, how they treat their

the case for Right to Repair while there’s still

customers might need attention. “To focus

an opportunity to do so,” Owen says.

The Right to Repair Campaign isn’t just

on mending cars is wrong: it’s about mending

about the access to technical information

relationships with the customer, and that

Alongside the Right to Repair Campaign,

– it’s a way for workshops to sharpen-

means whoever’s dealing with that customer

there’s the arrival of the Motor Industry

up their act. Richard Barnett meets up

has to be competent,” Owen says.

Code of Practice, the voluntary scheme which, if not adopted, could spell the start

with two leading figures in the campaign, Right

of licences for workshops. Says Zambakides:

deputy chairman and managing director

to Repair Campaign? “We’ve done all we

“The independent sector is the biggest sector

of

Maztech)

need to do and it’s now up to workshops

other than the VMs, and workshop owners

Association

to take this opportunity and deliver it to

need to get together to be a force for the

motorists. The campaign has limited funds

future. But, they need to communicate with

and if a workshop buys our £10 supporters’

each other.”

Jonas

and

Zambakides

Porsche

(Right

specialist

Independent

to

JZ

Garage

Repair

Head of Aftermarket, Mike Owen.

So

how

does

this

sit

with

the

There’s a lot more to the Right to Repair

pack kit it helps us, and also helps give them

Campaign than being able to get technical

a future,” says Zambakides, the owner of

The Right to Repair Campaign isn’t functioning

information about the latest models coming

a Porsche specialist in Hertfordshire. “Getting

like a trade union, but Owen says independent

into an independent workshop – it offers

our message across costs money, and while

workshops need to speak with one unified

them an opportunity to re-evaluate the whole

they might think they can sit back and we will

voice, and those that aren’t involved need

structure of that business, from the way the

protect their business, that can’t happen.”

to be, otherwise there’s a bleak future. “We aren’t going to ram this down everyone’s

customer is greeted to the type of diagnostic equipment

used

through

to

the

hourly

rates charged.

But, in order to do that, it’s important for workshop owners to make time to look at how their businesses run, and identify where improvements can be made. “It’s not a question of being cheap, but being a suitable

“…being too cheap can give an impression of not offering the right value for money.”

alternative to the main dealer workshop,

throats but it’s an opportunity to change a few things. I liken it to Jamie Oliver’s campaign to get people eating more healthily, because we need to become a more profitable and professional industry, and get that message out,” Zambakides says.

Owen believes that with the next stage of the Right to Repair Campaign, workshops will face a choice of two options: “There will be

and that doesn’t mean they should look solely at their hourly rates,” says Mike Owen. “It’s

Which means workshops have a pivotal

a fork in the road where they can either take

a case of charging the right price and being

role in maintaining and promoting the Right

on more investment and training, or stay

too cheap can give the impression of not

to Repair Campaign, and getting the message

as they are and take a continually shrinking

offering the right value for money.”

through to motorists. As Zambakides and

section of the business. There are many

Owen say, limited funds means there’s only

businesses that need new equipment but

As people start to curb their expenditure,

so much the campaign can achieve across

rather than investing, the owner is sitting on

they’ll be looking for cheaper ways of having

the industry: now it’s time for workshops

the business and waiting for the value of their

their cars serviced and repaired, and while

to do more. “Workshops need to get the

premises to increase.”

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

25

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

GOOD BUSINESS PRACTICE

RIGHT TO REPAIR

It’s a case of getting the message to drivers

by a properly fitting one, those hours are then

that an independent garage is perfectly

lost forever, and the workshop can’t charge

capable of offering a service well beyond that

for them,” Owen says. “So in many ways the

offered by a main dealer, and that fancy coffee

quality of that part is much more important

cups, leather seating and potted plants aren’t

than the price.”

a prerequisite for that better-quality service.

Messed-up jobs like this can create great

Jonas Zambakides – Right to Repair deputy chairman

But for workshops there’s no escaping the increasing complexity of new cars, and that means those businesses need to wise up to new equipment and staff training if they want to continue trading. As Owen says, cars have changed, but so have customer expectations.

It’s

hardly

surprising

that

many workshop owners are perplexed when it comes to training and buying new equipment, but they need to know what they should and shouldn’t be doing. Says Zambakides: “Even good businesses will need help, and smaller businesses might face some pretty hard issues.”

“Every workshop needs to plan for its future,

problems for a workshop, because it’s not

but not all of them will. The problem is that

only out of pocket, it’s possibly damaged

a workshop owner ends up stuck in their

its reputation. Says Owen: “That workshop

office doing the accounts, and they have

could already be on the way to upsetting its

no time to get away, read the trade magazines

customers, so it’s essential that workshops

and think about how they should be moving

have a service level agreement with the

forward. Those people need half a day

factors supplying them. The new Service and

a month to think and plan,” Zambakides says.

Repair Code talks about a car’s warranty,

“For example, there comes a point when they

and if that independent garage working

need to delegate, and that means taking

on it is going through the self-certification

on another member of staff, and so fill as

process, there is a need for parts suppliers

many workshop hours as possible.”

to play a role.”

“Every workshop needs to plan for its future, but not all of them will…”

Zambakides agrees, saying: “There’s a need to stop the cheap mentality some workshops have, and they have to be aware of the dangers of undercutting, which we’ve seen with so many supermarkets.”

There’s also a role for the motor factor

Undercutting or not, the Right to Repair

and parts supplier to play a part in the future

Campaign

of every independent workshop. With the

opportunities

pressure on to get the job done as quickly as

workshop. But to make the most of those

possible, a high-quality part is far more likely

opportunities, workshop owners must make

to fit first time than a ‘white-box’ equivalent.

time to step back and evaluate their business.

“Parts supply is very important, as is the

Into 2009 and beyond, there’s a great future

quality of that part. A poorer quality part might

for the independent workshop, but it will need

not fit properly, need removing and replacing

commitment from those businesses.

offers too

challenges for

the

and

great

independent

It’s important for workshops to become more proactive in highlighting their services – traditionally the owner of a small workshop

Jonas Zambakides’ well-equipped Porsche workshop

has been highly accomplished when he’s on the spanners, but when it comes to running the business – bookkeeping, recruiting and marketing – he’s not so good. But if workshops want to make the most of opportunities created by the Right to Repair Campaign, they need to act pretty sharpish.

Zambakides, Porsche

whose

workshop

highly proves

successful it’s

possible

to succeed with a marque built on its franchised dealer network strengths, accepts many workshops aren’t good at attracting new customers, even though once they’re through the door, they might be impressed.

26

Winter 2008

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

G O O D

E X P E R I E N C E

All you need from a single source: Elring provides complete gasket sets, individual gaskets and accessories for passenger cars and commercial vehicles for professional engine repairing.

Of course in original Elring quality – from ElringKlinger, one of the world’s leading development partner and series supplier for the automotive industry. By maintaining a strong presence in more than 140 countries, the Elring service team ensures quick availability of the entire Elring product range. www.elring.de

PIERBURG

ORIGINAL SPARE PARTS for

Emission Control Air Supply Fuel Supply Vacuum Generation

M065a_PG-Power-Brands_4c_210x1541 1

12.06.2007 17:00:46

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

JAGUAR X-TYPE

know how?

• A little piece of England

• ABS problems with 4-wheel drive models

• Reliable petrol engines

• Structurally sound

The cat’s whiskers!

There’s never been a better time to buy

four-wheel drive, the range expanded to

Having been around for seven years, plenty

a little piece of England for a bargain price,

include a 2.2-litre front wheel drive base

of X-Types have fallen out of the main

because cut-price Jaguar X-Types can put

model, as well as a pair of front-wheel drive

dealer network and into the independent

the junior Jag on many motorists’ driveway.

diesel-engined models, using 2.0- and 2.2-

sector, but what goes wrong with them?

litre engines. Estate variants later joined the

Are they as reliable we’d like to think?

Introduced in 2001 as a saloon with

line-up and increasingly found favour as a

North

2.5-

good-looking and highly capable load-lugger.

Norbury gives us an insight…

and

3.0-litre

petrol

engines

and

Engine “The petrol engine has to be one of the most reliable on the road – we are starting to see them at 180,000 miles and still running sweetly, with no dramatic loss in fuel economy.

The diesel is a similar

Wales

hard-wearing,

boss

Matthew

“Unfortunately, the auto box is not very

are

reliable. We have had numerous cases

rears do tend to wear, causing knocking

of them requiring replacement at as little

noises.

as 50k. A re-con gear box, to supply and fit,

common cause of MoT failure and also

is approx £2900, plus VAT. This is the

rear tyre wear, and are a ‘MUST CHECK’

biggest weak point on the X-Type.”

at every service.”

story: reliability-wise they are very good,

very

Jaguar

although

the

Rear control arms are the most

Electrics

though they do suffer some diesel pump and injector problems as they clock the miles up,

“Electrical systems tend to be quite good,

especially if it hasn’t had regular fuel filter

and although suffering from door latch

changes.

and key fob faults, the rest of the system seems to be standing up quite well, with

“Yes, the petrol engines do have a few ‘tricky’

no major faults found over the years. Again it

and a touch ‘long in the tooth’ jobs, such

comes down to the software required to find

as rear lambda sensors being awkward to get to, and it’s the same with the spark

“X-Types

plugs!

and rectify, and often the problems can only

Brakes

be rectified by the dealer or a specialist.”

aren’t

very

heavy

on

brakes:

I suppose this all depends on how you “Although they are not the most complicated

drive, but the average X-Type can expect

of engines to work on… without a JDS

20 – 30,000 miles from a set of brake

or Autologic diagnostic machine they can

discs,

become impossible.”

change – although the rears do require

and

they’re

relatively

easy

to

special tooling. But again, that’s not a great expense when it comes to having it done. Rear brake pipes over the back axle are one to keep an eye on, and it’s quite common to find signs of surface corrosion.”

Bodywork “No problems… The X-Type is structurally the best car Jaguar have ever made.”

Steering and suspension “The

28

ABS

four-wheel problems:

drive Most

models common

suffer is

the

Clutch and gearbox (Manual and automatic)

n/s/r outer CV joint, and this is not

“To change a clutch on an all-wheel-drive

The ABS on the four-wheel-drive is an

a problem on the two-wheel-drives.

manual is a monster task... It involves

MoT-test issue, and with CV joints readily

removing the front axle, engine and gearbox

available, are no more than a couple

assembly, which is a good two days’ work.

of hours to fit. “Front shock absorbers

Winter 2008

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

know how?

BULBS

• Changing bulbs beyond most DIY motorists

• Bulbs to suit all applications

• High-quality bulbs that last

• Complies to ECE Regulation 37

The future’s bright Osram: The technical side There are bulbs, and then there are good quality bulbs…

All bulbs for the outside of a car must comply with ECE Regulation 37, which ensures they are interchangeable, and give the correct output. That means the as well as upgrades, Osram has all types of demand covered.

It’s not as easy as it used to be – choosing the right bulb, and fitting it. But that’s good news for workshops, because even a headlight bulb change is getting beyond

manufacturing process of a better bulb involves a higher level of quality control than some cheaper bulbs might receive.

Night Breaker offers 90 percent more light on the road, as well as 10 percent whiter light, and its beam can be up to

even the most accomplished DIY motorist.

35 metres longer than a conventional bulb.

With more sophisticated lighting, there is

light and a 20 metre longer beam.

Silverstars offer up to 50 percent more

Osram

uses

cameras

all

along

its

production lines to control quality levels: “Any part that is not up to these stringent standards

is

automatically

removed

and the central brain for the machine then makes the necessary corrections,”

more money to be made, but it’s absolutely vital to fit a high-quality bulb that will last

For drivers who are style-conscious, Osram

the distance, otherwise an early failure will

has its Cool Blue and Diadem offerings.

mean yet another replacement.

Cool Blue has the illuminated appearance of Xenon bulbs and Diadem, which is an indicator

a spokeswoman says. “During production, every bulb is subjected to extensive testing to check for correct power consumption, light output and leaks. Samples are

upgrade, is ideal for clear lens units.

also taken regularly and subjected to

sophisticated cars – lift the bonnet, release

Drivers who use their vehicle’s headlights

standards. These include life tests and

a couple of clips, slide the bulb holder out

for long periods can benefit from the Light@

vibration tests to ensure the highest

and hey presto, job done. But as cars have

Day bulb, which has three-times longer life

performance is achieved in service.”

had to become more aerodynamic, and as

expectancy than a standard Osram bulb,

engine bays have become more crowded,

and are ideal for daylight running. Truckstar

Vitally important, especially as the nights

changing a headlight bulb takes a lot longer

is Osram’s HGV application, and through

get longer, is the bulb’s filament position.

than when it took as long to roll a fag as it

single-coil technology offers 100 percent

Says Osram’s spokeswoman: “Filament

took to get under the bonnet and replace

longer life and 100 percent more light.

position is critical if the correct beam is

Until the early 1990s it was pretty easy to

a full programme of tests to carmakers’

change a headlight bulb on even the most

that bulb.

to be achieved, particularly in modern The

change

in

car

design

has

given

headlights. Bulbs such as the H7 have

Today’s technical changes mean more work

workshops an extra revenue stream, but

the filament position set with cameras

coming into a workshop, and there are other

it’s important to fit a good quality bulb when it’s time for a replacement. Using an Osram

measuring and positioning to a fraction of

opportunities along the way – namely the lighting upgrade. Today’s bulb suppliers offer

bulb means a longer lifespan, so there won’t

more than just an OE-spec replacement,

be a disgruntled motorist back complaining

and UKPA supplier Osram is no exception.

that the bulb you fitted last week has packed

With a range of 12- and 24-Volt bulbs,

up – again.

a millimetre in 5 axis, before lasers weld the cap in place. All of this happens in half a second, but this precision helps to ensure the best beam pattern possible.”

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

29

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

EMISSIONS

Diagnostic equipment

CO

2

• Emissions – an essential MoT test

• Getting the most out of diagnostic equipment

• Bosch BEA850 – an approved emission anaylser

• Equipment training for technicians

Coming clean (with Bosch)

2 7 5 4 1

BEA 850

AT A GLANCE

A flexible exhaust-gas measurement system with a modular design

3 6

Emissions testing isn’t an essential part of a service, but it’s critical to a car passing or failing at MoT time. Richard Barnett talks tech with Bosch product manager Barrie Flemming The past was a time when every car service saw some carburettor-tweaking to ensure the air/fuel mixture was just right, both for cold early-morning starts and sustained high-speed motorway running.

Those days have long gone for most workshops, thanks to the rise in on-board diagnostics and electronic fuel injection: with a variety of electrical systems controlling all aspects of the engine, misfires, rough running and poor emissions just don’t occur like they did in the days of points, rotor arms and carburettors.

So does that mean the car’s emissions can be totally ignored, or should it be checked every time a car is in the workshop?

“There is no need to check every time a car is serviced because the on-board diagnostic system is doing that 100 times a second and if a fault causing an increase in emissions is detected, the MIL light on the dashboard comes on and a fault is stored in the ECU. An emissions test is a mandatory part of the MOT test. It is, though, important that the car’s electronic systems are checked for fault codes at every service and this is now

30

Winter 2008

specified in most vehicle service schedules.”

It is therefore essential (See training feature, page 23) for workshops to use the right equipment if they want to get involved with diagnostics: “It’s all very well for a tool to show a fault code, but some cheaper scantools can let the technician down with inaccurate values,” Flemming says.

But as engines have changed, and the tools needed to work on them have changed accordingly, technicians’ skills have too – and not always for the better. There is some consensus in the trade that technicians rely too much on diagnostics equipment, and in the meantime have forgotten too many engine basics, often because diagnostics tools do part of the job for them. Where the diagnostic tool/technician relationship breaks down is when it comes to knowing what is causing the fault, and how the fault can be rectified.

Says Flemming: “Understanding gas analysis has taken a back seat: Top diagnostic technicians take the fault code and then use an oscilloscope to confirm their suspicions before replacing the part, and by using gas values in engine diagnostics, they have an insight into what’s happening in the combustion chamber. It’s not rocket science, but if technicians haven’t been trained they won’t understand the values being shown by the tools they’re using.”

So to get the most out of their diagnostic equipment technicians might want to recap on some of the lost or forgotten

1 Printer: With dustproof cover 2 Engine

measurement technology module: With clearly arranged mounting for all sensors and lines 3 Diesel smoke meter:RTM430 – the national standard reference smoke meter 4K eyboard: Mounted on a convenient fold-way tray 5 Computer module (PC): High-performance and robust 6T rolley: Stable and easy to move skills and select from a range of training courses on offer from Bosch, such as the ever popular ‘Essential Test Procedures’ or ‘Diagnosis Using the Oscilloscope’, both acting as a springboard on to more advanced courses. Which courses a workshop sends its technicians on depends on how much they already know, and how much diagnostics work that business wants to do.

“Does every workshop need to be involved with diagnostics? It depends on how deeply they want to be involved – some might just want a code reader, but if they’re looking to be more involved they will need a scan tool and an oscilloscope for fault diagnosis and repair,” Flemming says.

TOP TIP For the latest guidance and legislation visit

www.vosa.gov.uk

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

TE

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Yuasa batteries - 100% availability and vehicle parc coverage for the automotive aftermarket Yuasa’s rapidly growing reputation is built not only on their first class customer service, but also on the guaranteed range availability of OEM specification batteries for the automotive aftermarket.

We won’t go on, unlike our batteries that do, time after time.

To discover more call Yuasa Battery Sales (UK) Ltd on 08708 500 257 or visit www.yuasa-battery.co.uk

www.yuasa-battery.co.uk enquiries@yuasa-sales.co.uk

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

batteries

product fOCUS • UKPA appoints Yuasa Battery Sales UK

• 70 years’ experience

• OE supplier to leading car makers

• 31 manufacturing facilities around the world

Yuasa Batteries

time (and despite far more efficient charging

Rather

systems), even the highest-quality battery

China is now holding back most of the batteries

will give up the ghost.

it makes to meet demand from domestic car

engine bay is taken for granted day after

For factors and independent workshops,

day and in all conditions, and these days

that’s good news: higher value contents

it has a lot more to do than crank over

mean

Ye t t h e n o t - s o - h u m b l e b a t t e r y w i l l always come to the front of a motorist’s thoughts when the engine won’t start; Then it does get a lot of attention.

But as motorists and their passengers

being

a

battery

exporter,

production, and it is also importing batteries

That poor little black box sitting in the

the engine and make the lights work.

than

and

batteries consequently

are

more

greater.

factors and workshops that presents a major headache – do you buy now, and hope values

a

continue to rise, or buy now and regret the

workload,

are

The result is spiralling battery prices, and for

At the same time, because they’re facing heavier

margins

expensive,

made elsewhere.

batteries

now

fail

all year round, not just in the winter.

decision if values start to fall?

That plateauing of demand is good for the trade as it reduces winter stockholding

Alongside decisions of purchasing, there’s

headaches, but the major downside is an

the

increase in part numbers, with batteries

battery for the job. UKPA has recently

becoming much more model-specific.

appointed Yuasa Battery Sales UK as its

have demanded more convenience items,

conundrum

of

supplying

the

right

chosen battery supplier, and its wide range

the pressure on a battery has grown.

And while part numbers are on the increase,

of products combined with rapid delivery

Power

sunroofs,

so too are prices, brought about by a dramatic

times, means motorists shouldn’t be left

not to mention heavy-duty sound systems and

increase in demand for lead – and one country

stranded this winter. As an OE supplier to

DVD players up the workload, and after a

is at the forefront of that demand.

leading car makers including BMW, Ford,

32

seats,

windows

Winter 2008

and

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

batteries

product fOCUS

Did you know…?

The new battery range from Yuasa

?

• Yuasa was founded in Tokyo in 1985

•B y volume it is the world’s largest battery manufacturer • It has a $2.5 billion annual turnover •1 2,000 employees around the world

•S upplies 93 percent of OE motorcycle batteries

•3 1 manufacturing facilities around the world

Daihatsu and Mazda, as well as motorcycle manufacturers

Ducati,

Harley

Davidson

and Yamaha, Yuasa’s batteries bring high quality to the aftermarket.

Yuasa Battery Sales UK

During 2008 Yuasa was able to offer 100 percent availability (up from 98.4 percent

•5 50,000 sq/ft site based in Ebbw Vale, South Wales

in 2007). As well as next day delivery, each pallet layer is photographed before dispatch, to enable traceability.

The current range consists of the Elite,

Both

Professional,

HD

Leisureline,

Cargo

and

Cargo

Classic,

plus

the

HD, motor-

cycle line-up.

are offers

Cargo’s marine

maintenance-free, 180

120.

cycles

Leisureline

applications,

and

but

Cargo

compared also just

to

targets

two

part

numbers offer 100 percent coverage, Yuasa Elite, 30

which percent

is

maintenance-free, more

power

offers

than

its

rivals, and six part numbers offer more than 80 while

percent

car

Professional

parc

offers

says. The Classic range is aimed at older cars

and

offers

traditional

looks

with

maintenance-free, deep cycle performance.

coverage,

100

percent

Early 2009 sees an important addition to the

Japanese coverage as well as complete

Yuasa range – Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM)

Ford terminal coverage. There are 43 part

batteries. These are fitted in BMW 3- and

numbers in the range, giving 99 percent

1-Series, as well as the Mini, which feature

vehicle parc coverage.

an engine cut-out when the car is waiting at a set of traffic lights or in stationary traffic.

Cargo just

and cover

Cargo

HD

commercial

types vehicles,

don’t but

agricultural, plant and marine applications.

Offering 40 percent more starting power than

conventional

batteries,

two

part

• Has 70 years’ experience designing and manufacturing batteries for the UK and European vehicle manufacturers • Offers sales and distribution of automotive, industrial and motorcycle product • 62 employees • £67 million annual turnover •5 .2 million batteries sold annually •U K and European market leader on Industrial batteries •S upplies 23% of the UK automotive aftermarket, ie, 1.2million batteries

numbers cover all AGM fitments.

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

33

Developed with

AN INFERIOR OIL WOULD NEVER GET PAST HIM Formula One is amongst the most demanding engineering environments on earth. Here, reputations are won and lost by millimetres and fractions.

But, perhaps, the most extreme challenge of all is Schumacher himself.

Winner of 72 Grands Prix, the greatest driver of all time has driven us to develop the engine oil that exceeds even his stratospherically high standards.

And, now you know which oil he used on the track, can you guess which oil he uses on the road?

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

shell lubricants

product fOCUS

Oil in One

are you keeping your CUSTOMERs SATISfied?

and Mercedes-Benz for their Low SAPs and long-life requirements, plus it also ‘meets’ Renault, Citroën and Peugeot’s Low SAPs requirements.

Shell Helix Ultra Extra • Is formulated for use in new diesel engines with particulate filters (‘approved’ by leading European OEMs to ‘meet’ their engines’ Low SAPs and long-life requirements) • Is designed for use in gasoline engines with catalytic converters • Covers extended service level interval From keeping up with vehicle technology

requirements (‘approved’ by the leading

to

winning

German OEMs)

an

independent

The

industry,

customer

trust,

operation

running

is

tough.

Shell have been interested to discover what motorists expect when their car is serviced, and commissioned a survey* to find the answer to this question.

Two key factors were found to be vital in gaining the motorist’s trust: – t hat the garage has third party accreditation (67%); – that the garage provides high levels of customer service (67%).

Following on from this, it was found to be important that any certification that the garage has is clearly displayed.

Interviewees also indicated the five key points that they felt were crucial to good customer service: •T ransparent and clearly explained billing (79%);

the

In addition to the specific product benefits

struggled

of the Shell Helix range, the company also

• Prompt and efficient service (71%);

with an image problem for a long time.

aims to help independent garages in the

Furthermore, as the car parc widens

way in which they manage their lubricants.

• Clear explanation of technical jargon (66%);

to encompass a greater number of

Recognising

newer vehicles, independents are having

to buy in the right product and that garages

to contend with new technologies.

also need somewhere to store it, Shell

aftermarket

and

particularly

sector,

has

that

it’s

not

enough

just

has introduced its new, purpose-designed It is in response to these sorts of challenges

Workshop stand. Independent garages that

that a product like Shell Helix can help.

are interested in finding out more should

With Shell Helix Ultra, for example, Shell

ask their local UKPA member for details.

is helping to make life easier for independant garage

operators

as

they

contend

with increasingly sophisticated lubricant technology – something independents will need to do more and more as motoring technology advances.

formulation lubricant which covers three existing Shell Helix grades: Helix Ultra VX; Helix Ultra AP and Helix Ultra AX. It is of engine oil a whole lot simpler for independents. What’s more, Shell Helix Ultra

So whether concerned about increasingly

Extra – as with the whole of the Shell Helix

complex modern lubricant requirements

range – is ‘approved’ by leading European

and

OEMs whilst other oil suppliers’ lubricants

or

‘meet’

technologically about

managing

advanced their

Shell Oils are developed with Ferrari, and used exclusively in their racing cars

products,

business

as

requirements.

efficiently as possible, independents should

Specifically in the case of Shell Helix Ultra

be looking to Shell Helix as their number

Extra, this means VW, Audi, Skoda, BMW

one lubricants choice.

OEMs’

Motorists were reassured by the use of “named” brands, thinking that the workshop wouldn’t cut corners (65%), whilst 63% felt their car would be treated well as a consequence. Stocking premium brands can result in an increase in revenue, with 67% of those questioned prepared to pay more.

*ICM Research on behalf of Shell Lubricants conducted a nationwide survey of the attitudes and behaviour of a sample of 739 motorists from across the UK in February 2008.

therefore designed to make the business

same

• A dedicated member of staff to greet customers upon arrival (27%).

Findings such as these can prove vital to the independent garage owner in aiding him to keep existing customers and, crucially, attract new ones.

Shell Helix Ultra Extra is an advanced

the

• A flexible approach to customer needs (46%);

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

35

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

JUST FOR FUN

tEA break SUDOKU

Difficulty Level: Medium

BRAIN TEASERS Car related quiz

Make yourself a coffee, put your feet up and enjoy this issues Q1. T he prancing horse is the Q5. W hat was the name of the puzzles, enjoy! emblem of which F1 racing team?

Volkswagen Beetle which Q2. W ho designed the first modern petrol-driven internal combustion engine for the car? hat make of car featured Q3. W in the film “Back to the future”?

made it’s first appearance in “The Love Bug”?

Q6. I n which year did Czechoslovakia become the first country to make seat belts compulsory?

Q4. W hich historical make of car was nicknamed the Tin Lizzie?

GUESS THE CAR

ANSWERS: BRAIN TEASERS Q1: Ferrari Q2: Gottlieb Daimler Q3: De Lorean Q4: Ford Model T Q5: Herbie Q6: 1969 Guess the car: Aston Martin DBS

miratec ad 185x131mm.indd 1

36

Winter 2008

28/10/08 13:43:55

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

EVENTS CALENDAR

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Automotivation’s spotlight on the best in automotive events, both nationally and internationally

2008

2009

Classic Motor Show 14-16 November 2008, NEC, Solihull

Classic Car & British Bike Restoration Show 4 January 2009, Donington International Exhibition Centre

British Grand Prix (Formula 1) 21 June, 2009, Silverstone British Grand Prix

Aftermarket Show/Autosport International 8-11 January 2009, NEC, Solihull Aftermarket Show/ Autosport International

Goodwood Festival of Speed 3-5 July 2009, West Sussex

Classic Motor Show

Gaydon Mini Festival 4-5 July 2009, Gaydon

Mechanex 18-19 November 2008, Sandown Park Rally of the Tests 20-23 November 2008, Bournemouth to Llandudno

Wales Rally GB 5-7 December 2008, Cardiff

Wales Rally GB

Retromobile 2-15 February 2009, Paris Automechanika Moscow 3-5 March 2009, Moscow

Gaydon Mini Festival

Geneva Motor Show 3-15 March 2009, Geneva

Silverstone Classic 24-26 July 2009, Silverstone

Automechanika Istanbul 16-19 April 2009, Istanbul

Gaydon Mini Fortnight 3-16 August 2009, Gaydon

CV Show/Workshop 2008 28-30 April 2009, NEC, Solihull

Goodwood Revival 18-20 September 2009, West Sussex

Manx TT 30 May-12 June 2009, Isle of Man

Equip Auto 17-18 October 2009, Paris

!

London International Performance and Modified Car Show 29-30 November 2008, Alexandra Palace

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General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

Winter 2008

37

Tomorrow’s trade news, TODAY! FROM UKPA M O T I VAT I O N

THE LAST WORD

WITH JAMIE BAULCH

• Positive light on the credit crunch

• Block Exemption is continuing

• Customers moving away from franchised dealers

• New code for garages

Jamie Baulc h – Olympic Sprint Athlete and Sports Pers onality

Jamie Baulch

To the main dealer, a motorist is just another customer: to the independent that motorist is Mr or Mrs Jones, or whatever their name

There’s no doubt that if you’re a factor or a garage owner, times are a bit tough – people are definitely being more careful with their money, but take a step back and you have to ask: Is that really so bad?

The reason I say that is because, as motorists start trying to save money, they’ll shop around for the best deal when their car needs servicing or a repair. And if they start doing that, there’s every chance they’ll start moving away from franchised dealers and into the independent sector.

happens to be. Independent workshops get to know their customers, they try to be more flexible, and that’s why I’ve come across plenty of independents who have been looking after cars for several generations of the same family!

Of course it makes sense for workshops to

value

their

motorist

customers,

and now it appears Block Exemption is continuing, that’s a useful shot-in-the-arm for independents. And it’s a useful boost for UKPA members too.

Meanwhile we’re also seeing the introduction

38

Winter 2008

After all, we know an independent garage

of a new code for garages, which aims to

can look after a car every bit as well as

raise standards and increase customer

a franchised dealer. But they can also supply

confidence.

equally high-quality parts to do the job, and

it works or not, but like me I’m sure you’ll agree

then there’s that feeling of being welcomed

anything that helps the independent garage

you always get at an independent garage,

definitely has to be good for motorists.

but hardly ever at a franchised dealer.

That’s it for me this time, see you next year!

Only

time

will

tell

whether

General enquiries call 0870 242 4278 log on www.automotivation.info or email enquiries@automotivation.info

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