AM_March_2025

‘perfect storm’

3-5 June 2025 NEC, Birmingham

Start your engines… the most important event for the UK automotive sector returns and you’re invited to join us!

Why Attend?

500+ leading brands

150+ hours of technical & business advice, hands on demos in the Workshop and Aftermarket Hubs

50+ product launches, the best rates, discounts and giveaways

3 action-packed days of hands-on learning and business opportunities

Back by popular demand and better than ever! The Modern Garage, the Garage Awards with IAAF

This isn’t just any old trade show – it’s your front-row seat to the future of the automotive industry. You’ll gain more in a single day than you would in months from behind your workshop doors.

Why it’s not just the car that may need a service

Spring has just about sprung and if you’re anything like me you can’t wait. It’s been a gloomy old winter that seems to have dragged on, one dank dark day after another.

A bout of ‘man flu’ — which every self-respecting, self-pitying bloke knows when suffering is the most misunderstood of ailments — has not helped my mood as a write this month’s introduction to the magazine.

But, at last, spring is just around the corner (OK, maybe a bit of journalistic licence in that regard). I would not be at all surprised if Mother Nature still has a few surprises up her sleeve before this edition reaches you online and in print.

However, vehicles emerging from the ravages of winter present a business opportunity for garages as motorists finally give in and decide a service should not be put o any longer.

It’s also an ideal time to think of what we mean by ‘service’ in the widest sense of the word. Is the opportunity for some welcome

Editor

John Shepherd

john@aftermarket.co.uk

+44 (0) 1732 370 345

Head of Sales

Angela Lyus

angela@aftermarket.co.uk

+44 (0) 7823 736 629

Managing Director

Ryan Fuller

ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk

Marketing Manager

Hope Jepson

hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk

www.aftermarketonline.net

extra cash presenting itself on the forecourt motivation enough, or could we go beyond the proverbial extra mile in terms of customers, employees and ourselves?

In uncertain economic times it can be hard to be motivated. As we report in this issue, a recent poll suggests another challenging year lies ahead, but there are still opportunities to be seized to boost businesses, not least in areas such as training and customer service.

According to high-flying business mogul Sir Richard Branson: “Train people well enough so they can leave, but treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”

The same approach can work with customers too, as business coach and mentor Jay Wheatley writes this month on the subject of service advisors.

And even if the customer relations road gets a bit bumpy, there is still every opportunity to turn a negative experience into a positive one, as The Motor Ombudsman’s Bill Fennell explains in his article.

Keeping fairness in check in the

Production Design

Anthony Wi en

production@aftermarket.co.uk

+44 (0) 7851 612799

Finance Department

accounts@dfamedia.co.uk

+44 (0) 1732 370 340

Contributors

Jamie Akhtar | Martin Brown | Bill Fennell | Rebecca Pullan | Jay Wheatley

workplace is the theme of another of our food-for-thought motivational articles this month, by Carmaster Garage MD Rebecca Pullan.

Leadership and service was very much on the agenda too at LKQ UK and Ireland’s recent annual conference, where I had the pleasure of hearing from business guru Geo Ramm.

I hope you find plenty of inspiration in this month’s magazine to help you and your business spring into action for the new season. Enjoy the issue!

John Shepherd Editor

Published by DFA Media Group

192 High Street Tonbridge Kent TN9 1BE

+44 (0)1732 370340

Average net circulation July 2023 to June 2024 21,945

ISSN 2516-9149

Aftermarket is published 10 times a year and is sent free of charge to applicants meeting the publisher’s criteria. All others may subscribe at £60 per anum, £120 Europe and £150 rest of the world. While every care is taken to provide accurate information, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or ommisions, no matter how caused. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by

Bright headlights ‘force 25% of motorists to avoid night driving’

Aquarter of UK motorists are cutting back on driving at night because modern vehicle headlight systems are too bright, according to a new survey.

Headlamp alignment and changes in lighting technology — from halogen to bi-xenon and LED — are among the causes cited by drivers in the RAC survey released on February 17.

Around 75% of respondents who drive less do so because intense headlights make the experience uncomfortable or more difficult, according to the RAC.

Almost all drivers agree vehicle headlights can be too bright, while more than a third (36%) believe most are, with a further 59% saying some of them are.

Drivers aged under 35 are more likely to say most headlights are too bright (41%), as are those who drive conventional hatchbacks, estates and saloons. Of that group, 38% said most headlights are too bright, although it’s still the case that three-in-10 (29%) who drive vehicles that sit higher on the road like SUVs say ‘most are’.

Meanwhile, 61% of drivers who suffer from headlight

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glare said the problem had worsened in just 12 months, with only 26% disagreeing.

Looking at the colour of headlights, 72% of glare sufferers associated the problem with ‘whitercoloured headlights’ (which the RAC said are most likely to be LEDs or bi-xenon headlights), compared to just 3%, who thought the problem was ‘yellower-coloured ones’ (most likely to be halogen headlights).

One-in-10 (11%) said both headlight colours caused the problem, while 15% were unsure.

A governmentcommissioned project

and Edge, and webinar attendees will learn about wet belt deterioration, how using the wrong oil can accelerate wear, and the impact of incorrect oil use on diesel particulate filters. The experts will also

looking at issues most likely to lead to headlight glare is expected to report back by the summer, following campaigning by the RAC, The College of Optometrists and others.

Official government statistics show that since 2013, there has been an average of 280 collisions a year where dazzling headlights were a contributory factor.

Of these, six a year involved someone losing their life, the RAC said. However, this only included those collisions where a police officer attending could be sure that headlight dazzle was a factor.

RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “It’s undisputable that public concern is increasing, but the reasons for glare and what can be done to reduce it aren’t nearly as clear.

“The fact such a high proportion of people are also driving less at night, or wish they could, is remarkable and demonstrates the need for glare to be tackled.”

But Dennis said this does need to be balanced with the potential road safety benefits afforded to people driving vehicles with brighter headlights.

showcase Castrol Engine Shampoo — designed to remove harmful engine sludge and improve performance — and explain the importance of ACEA ratings.

For the latest industry knowledge, including product specifications and an OEM update on changing oil grades, use the QR code here, or on page 13, to register for the webinar on March 12, 2025, from 14:0015:00 GMT.

Survey says lack of information ‘barrier’ to hiring apprentices

UK garage owners say a lack of information is a major barrier for them in hiring apprentices, according to a new survey.

Nearly two-thirds of owners (64%) told the survey by FixMyCar that they did not have enough information or knowledge for hiring, while 34% said they would be interested in taking on an apprentice.

The sample poll of 112 independent garages on FixMyCar’s network, released last month, found that interest and enthusiasm for hiring apprentices was not the issue when it came to tackling the industry’s skills shortage.

More than a quarter (28%) admitted they had no idea about apprenticeships at all,

from how they work to how to set one up at their garage.

‘Investing’

This data highlights a significant barrier to entry that is negatively affecting not just the careers of young people, but the aftermarket itself, FixMyCar said.

Meanwhile, garages that already hire apprentices gave the thumbs up to opening their doors to the auto sector’s next generation of professionals.

Sunny Bhardwaj, of KAM Servicing in Derbyshire, said: “We believe that by investing in apprenticeships and apprentices that we are future proofing the company as we look to expand our services while moving forward with future technologies and ecological solutions.”

Tom Norbury, of Wilco Motosave in Lincoln, said: “We employ apprentices in the shops and also the fitting bays. We value our apprentices and spend a lot of time and money on training and developing their skills, as they are the future of our business.”

Neal Rhodes, head of technical training and apprenticeships at National Group Protyre Autocare, said taking on apprentices can be a complicated process. While garages are willing, they don’t always understand the commitment required,

he said.

Head of garage network at FixMyCar, Matt Wrankmore, said: “There is a clear knowledge gap that is creating yet another recruitment barrier for these garages.

“It’s more important than ever that this is recognised and acknowledged within the industry, as it is a responsibility we all share.”

Meanwhile, FixMyCar said it is providing all subscription garages on its network with an apprenticeship advice guide to help bridge this knowledge gap.

Niterra UK sparks 50th anniversary celebrations ALLDATA products boost with Würth

Niterra UK has unveiled special anniversary livery to mark the firm’s five decades of business in the UK and Ireland.

The custom design, which will be used throughout 2025, pays tribute to the firm’s innovation and success, taking inspiration from the

product that ignited it all — the spark plug.

The commemorative livery integrates key elements from Niterra’s leading brands, including NGK Spark Plugs, NTK Vehicle Electronics and Niterra itself.

Becca Knight, marketing manager at Niterra UK, said the milestone reflected the overall progression of the automotive industry in the UK.

The half-century celebrations will include a number of events during the year, such as Niterra UK’s presence at Automechanika Birmingham in June.

ALLDATA Europe is set to boost availability of its products under a partnership signed with Würth Spain.

The companies said on February 12 the agreement was historic for both as well as the independent Spanish repair sector.

The partnership enables automotive professionals to buy ALLDATA’s repair solutions via Würth Spain’s large sales team consisting of hundreds of employees.

ALLDATA is a prominent provider of original vehicle manufacturer diagnostic,

repair and maintenance data in Europe. Würth Spain is a leader in the distribution of fastening and assembly materials.

As vehicle technology evolves exponentially, with the growing influence of EVs and ADAS systems, diagnostic methods and repair techniques must also advance, ALLDATA said.

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Google ‘resolving’ garage reviews glitch, says GSO

UK garages affected by the recent disappearance of Google reviews are beginning to see their feedback restored as the tech giant works to resolve the issue, Garage Service Online (GSO) has reported. Independent workshops were among thousands of businesses globally that reported legitimate customer reviews being unexpectedly removed from their Google Business Profiles.

GSO, an online lead generating service for garages, suggested the

issue was likely caused by two separate problems at Google.

“Two key issues seem to have been at play here,” said Jim Lang, MD at GSO.

“First, a bug affecting the review count on Google Business Profiles. While the count might show a specific number of reviews, there could actually be more on the system.

“The second issue appears to be related to a recent update in Google’s algorithm, which seems to have affected both first-party and third-party reviews for some businesses.”

GSO said it believed that Google’s latest algorithm, designed to detect and remove fraudulent reviews, may have inadvertently deleted genuine feedback. This has left garages vulnerable, potentially damaging their online reputation and affecting their visibility in search results.

“From what we’ve seen so far, the original review totals appear to have been restored for a number of garages,” Lang said.

“It’s a positive sign that Google is addressing the problem. Online reviews play a critical role in

establishing credibility and trust with customers, so we’ll be keeping our clients updated as more information becomes available.”

Garage owners are advised to regularly check their Google Business Profiles for missing reviews and stay informed through Google’s official support channels. GSO clients are encouraged to contact the company for assistance if discrepancies arise.

Castrol in fast lane with Honda racing deal

Castrol has announced a new collaboration with the Honda HRC Factory Moto GP Team, set to compete in the 2025 MotoGP World Championship season.

Castrol, part of the bp group, will become Honda HRC’s main sponsor and will provide lubricants, fuels, and technical support — testing and developing motorcycle lubricants in the most extreme race environment.

The oil brand’s motorcycling association with Honda dates back to 1959, when Honda marked its first international motorcycle race at the Isle of Man TT. Over more than six decades, Castrol has supported several Honda teams in international motorcycle racing and helped deliver over 500 wins.

Honda’s history and success in Grand Prix motorcycle racing is

unmatched, with a track record of 25 premier class Constructors’ World Championships, 21 premier class Riders’ World Championships and 313 premier class wins.

Heading into the 2025 season, both Honda and Castrol are committed to reclaiming a leading position in the MotoGP World Championship.

Sandeep Sangwan, Castrol chief marketing officer, said: “Castrol has a long

history of using motorsport to showcase its technical capabilities and co-engineer new technologies.

“With our strong commitment to performance and innovation, and our passion for motorcycle racing, we are truly excited to collaborate with Honda for their new Honda HRC Castrol Factory Moto GP Team.

“This collaboration is a great opportunity for Castrol to connect even more closely with motorcycle

racing fans and bike enthusiasts. Castrol wishes the team lots of success for the upcoming 2025 MotoGP World Championship season.”

Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Corporation, said: “We have enjoyed great success with Castrol in the past and in other categories, so it was a natural fit. Everyone is working hard to bring success to the MotoGP World Championship in 2025, we must continue to remain focused and diligently walk the path ahead of us.

“With Joan Mir and Luca Marini (pictured left and right, respectively), we have two strong and talented riders to help us push forward on this journey. Racing is at the very core of Honda, and I am sure that we will achieve more success.”

Future of roads minister in MOT fee cap talks Brembo welcomes preliminary results

Garage industry

leaders are to hold crunch talks with the government in an ongoing campaign to resolve the “stagnant” MOT price cap that they say is causing significant financial strain to the sector.

The Independent Garage Association has been pushing for a meeting with ministers over the cap, which has remained unchanged for more than 14 years.

Now the association has been invited to talks with future of roads minister Lilian Greenwood, the IGA revealed.

The meeting will focus on the essential nature of MOT tests in maintaining the UK’s road safety record and improving environmental standards and stress how

the unchanging fee, amidst significant rising operational costs, threatens the viability of independent garages.

IGA chief executive Stuart James welcomed the chance for direct talks.

He said: “This meeting is a crucial step in highlighting how the unchanged fee, coupled with inflationary pressures and additional costs outlined in the recent autumn budget, creates an unsustainable environment for many independent garage businesses.

“The IGA is advocating for a fairer economic landscape that not only supports independent garages but also prioritises consumer safety and workforce development.”

The MOT test is a cornerstone of road safety

Lilian Greenwood: Parliamentary UnderSecretary of State for Future of Roads

and consumer protection in the UK, ensuring that vehicles meet essential safety and environmental standards, the IGA said.

But maintaining the quality and integrity of MOT testing in the face of rising costs and evolving vehicle technologies requires adequate funding.

Increasing the MOT fee is a pragmatic and necessary step to ensuring garages can invest in advanced equipment, infrastructure, and ongoing training for technicians, the IGA said.

TotalEnergies in MPD lubricants deal

Energy and petroleum giant TotalEnergies has agreed a deal to supply lubricants to specialist UK automotive parts distributor Motor Parts Direct (MPD).

Under the deal with TotalEnergies Marketing UK, MPD said its 14,000-plus

customers will be offered the latest in lubricant technology, featuring nextgeneration and sustainable products.

MPD, which was acquired by South Africa-based automotive group Motus in 2022, has a UK network of 181 branches, 15 distribution

hubs and a large delivery fleet.

David Valentyne, aftermarket sales manager at TotalEnergies Marketing UK, said MPD’s customers would benefit from the TotalEnergies’ nextgeneration Quartz range of automotive lubricants.

Brakes manufacturing giant Brembo has hailed the resilience of the company in the auto sector as it posted revenues of more than €3.8 billion (£3.2 billion) in preliminary results for 2024.

Brembo said on January 30 EBITDA was €661.6 million, also in line with the previous year’s figure and market guidance, representing 17.2% of revenues.

The company said the stable preliminary results came against the backdrop of what it described as a complex global scenario, marked by significant difficulties in the automotive industry.

Executive chairman Matteo Tiraboschi said: “These preliminary results confirm the solidity of Brembo’s business model despite the challenging times faced by our industry. Our strength lies in continuous innovation.”

The art of being social

Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman and MD at The Motor Ombudsman, on how garages can maintain a positive reputation through effective management of consumer complaints and negative feedback on social media

In the digital era, social media is a valuable marketing tool that can provide valuable free exposure to help drive customer footfall and business leads for garages.

At the same time however, these powerful online platforms can also bring unwanted publicity and compromise reputation, as they have become one of the primary channels through which customers can express concerns and complaints about a product or service they have received.

On this point, customers can be quicker to turn to the likes of X, Facebook, Instagram, or even LinkedIn, to express a grievance in such a public forum, than to give praise.

For garages, social media therefore brings parallel lands of challenge and opportunity, i.e. managing potentially reputation-damaging negative feedback in this virtual arena, whilst at the same time, capitalising on the many benefits that it brings for business development, publicity and customer loyalty.

Monitor user activity and comments

With social media being a 24/7, 365-day-a-year real-time communications tool, a key action is to keep a close eye on user interactions with your pages and posts.

This is especially relevant if your garage is highly active on these platforms, and uses social media as a key form of regular communication and as a ‘shop window’.

In fact, frequent monitoring allows timely responses, to both celebrate customer endorsement following a positive experience, but conversely, it allows any negative concerns to be swiftly ‘nipped in the bud’ before they

give rise to any unwanted escalation and amplification.

For example, this may include users tagging their members of parliament, ‘consumer champions’ in the press, or consumer complaints programmes on TV or radio, into their posts, in an attempt to bring further attention and impact to their concern and/or negative exposure towards a business.

Ultimately, how fast you respond can act as a gauge for consumers in terms of how reputable and customer-focused you are as an organisation, meaning time is often of the essence.

Respond publicly, resolve privately

Some consumers may choose to express their dissatisfaction publicly in the first instance to achieve greater visibility. This may be on your Facebook wall or through tagging your ‘@ handle’ on X so that the post is visible to others in their feed.

In these instances, it is essential to publicly acknowledge their complaint or comment to show that you’re

listening to them, but to then take the conversation offline to help ‘contain’ and diffuse the situation.

This is particularly important because, with social media being a public facing platform, any conversations published, are visible to any other user via this interface, used by millions every day.

Such a statement can be as brief as: “Dear X, thank you for bringing this to our attention. We are sorry to hear about your experience with us, and we will look to resolve this as quickly as possible.”

A short and empathetic reply in direct response to the consumer’s concern can show that you value the individual and understand the reasons behind their frustration, and that your business is willing to spring into action to put things right with an appropriate remedy. By demonstrating an open approach and a willingness to engage, this also gives a chance to diffuse the situation through more informal channels, and help offset the chance for the dispute to turn into an official complaint, which may be more substantial in nature and

call on a greater level of resource to resolve through in-house processes.

Protect personal information

After acknowledging the complaint publicly, taking dialogue behind closed doors can be through an invitation to a customer to send your garage an e-mail, or to make contact via a dedicated telephone number where their complaint can be addressed further.

Alternatively, the conversation can be brought to a private channel such as direct messages (DMs) on X, or to Facebook Messenger, for instance: “When convenient, and if you are happy to do so, please can you send us a DM / message with your full name and contact details so that we can look into this further for you.”

For data protection purposes, a customer should never be asked or encouraged to divulge personal information in a public facing area of a social media platform.

Individuals often use pseudonyms

or nicknames as their social media persona for a degree of anonymity when posting, meaning asking for identifiable information in a private environment, such as a direct messenger, is a legitimate request to be able to assist them further.

Maintain consistency and professionalism

When addressing complaints, either directly, or via a channel such as social media, it pays off to maintain a positive and constructive relationship with a customer for long-term loyalty and repeat business.

This can be achieved through a consistent, measured, and personable approach when handling complaints, thereby reinforcing the professionalism and credibility of your business.

Follow up after a resolution

Once the issue has been resolved, it is good practice to follow up with the customer to ensure they’re fully

satisfied with the solution that has been proposed. A simple message or call shows that your business is committed to high standards of customer care. Asking for feedback on how their complaint was dealt with can equally help improve internal procedures and services to avoid similar issues from arising in the future.

The effective management of complaints on social media is not just about damage limitation and ‘firefighting’, but is also about demonstrating your commitment to the upmost customer satisfaction and highlighting a positive reputation.

By adopting such a proactive approach, this gives the chance to turn potentially negative experiences into opportunities for growth and improvement, and to build loyal and long-lasting relationships with customers.

Visit www.TheMotorOmbudsman. org/join for more information about accreditation to The Motor Ombudsman’s Service and Repair Code.

Castrol

BGarages facing ‘perfect storm’ Garages facing ‘perfect storm’

Workshops face a challenging year in the face of tough economic headwinds, according to a new poll — but investments in sta , training and new technologies o er the promise of a silver lining

usinesses across the UK are braced for a year of heavy economic weather, not helped by the impending increase in National Insurance, and the automotive sector is no exception.

A new poll of independent garages and franchise dealer workshops has revealed that rising operational costs, taxes and utility bills are set to pose the biggest challenge for almost nine in 10 (89%) vehicle repairers this year.

According to The Motor Ombudsman’s (TMO) latest annual survey*, this is 14 percentage points higher than last year — suggesting firms may encounter greater financial strains in 2025 when compared to the previous 12 months.

This comes at a time when consumer purse strings are already being tightened, according to the poll, which will likely have greater urgency due to increasing energy prices.

Bill Fennell, TMO’s chief ombudsman and MD, said the survey showed an interesting juxtaposition of rising costs to operate on the one hand, and less revenue due to consumers delaying repairs and maintenance on the other — setting the scene for a more challenging

trading environment.

“This of course may be amplified by continued di culties recruiting qualified sta to meet customer demand, meaning some significant headwinds persist this year for the nation’s garages and workshops.”

TMO’s research of more than half

of repairers (56%) indicates motorists are expected to cut back on essential repairs in a bid to save money, with 48% saying similarly that they are forecasting vehicle owners to forgo ad hoc maintenance and routine maintenance, such as servicing, to cut running costs in the shorter term.

SMMT: More than 550 new apprentices have already joined the sector this academic year

The impact of rising costs will likely be felt further with the price of parts to repair vehicles also on course for an increase, according to 52% of those polled, with ongoing component shortages and inflation adding to the mix.

This risks piling on the pressure for the garage sector, with more than 40% of those surveyed explaining they will try to avoid passing on extra costs to customers this year.

Meanwhile, nearly half of repairers surveyed said recruiting skilled technicians and others would likely be another hurdle this year.

And when asked specifically about sta challenges, the majority (55%) said that they had to increase pay last year to both attract and retain existing employees.

However, 42% of respondents still plan to invest in the refurbishment of their premises, with 39% saying they intend to expand their workforce.

In addition, 29% of respondents said they are looking to review their opening hours this year to o er an improved work-life balance to sta . Around a quarter said that they plan to grow their pool of key suppliers to help drive down possible delays to the repair of customer vehicles.

The increasing popularity of new and used EVs is also proving to be a twosided coin.

With EVs requiring fewer mechanical parts than petrol and diesel models, maintenance needs are being reduced

Main operational challenges in 2024

69% raising prices to stay profitable

62% recruiting experienced technicians

59% higher energy bills & costs

53% customers skipping routine work

and 21% of repairers said batterypowered cars would provide less scope for extra revenue — dropping from 26% in last year’s survey, and the high of 32% seen in the same study about expectations ahead of 2023.

However, a separate survey by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) indicated that new technology is a silver lining that o ers promising opportunities.

Top employers in the UK automotive sector are investing in a major skills drive to grow apprenticeship numbers by almost a sixth in 2025, as manufacturers embark on a ‘green growth decade’, SMMT said in a February update.

More than £20 billion of investment has been committed to Britain’s EV transition in the past two years alone,

Motorists

expected to cut back on essential repairs to save money

Changes planned for 2025

42% to boost service & repair

24% expansion of key suppliers

21% training & webinar attendance

19% expansion of workshop & MOT bays

bringing with it demand for a highly skilled workforce adept in the latest technologies.

From R&D and manufacturing to the supply chain, maintenance and repair, there are hundreds of new and exciting opportunities up for grabs, with some highly skilled positions most in need including design and development engineers, EV technicians and specialists in batteries and power electronics.

SMMT said these roles reflect an evergreener industry, with more than 180 di erent zero emission vehicle models — cars, vans, trucks and buses — already available in the UK and more coming in 2025.

According to the SMMT, more than 550 new apprentices have already joined the sector this academic year, with an additional 740 apprenticeships still available.

Among the major automotive employers surveyed by SMMT, apprenticeship numbers are set to increase by 16%.

That growth builds on previous years, with a near 41% rise in new apprenticeship starts in 2023 alone, according to the latest full year of apprenticeship data. SMMT said this is a trend that will continue to bring longterm, well paid and rewarding careers in the UK over the next decade.

*Launched in 2022, TMO’s yearly poll is designed to give an on-the-ground ‘snapshot of sentiment’ of businesses operating in the UK’s service and repair sector. The latest survey, released earlier this year, saw 104 service and repair businesses respond online between November 4-22, 2024. Visit https:// www.themotorombudsman.org/usefulinformation/industry-insights for detailed results in the Motor Ombudsman Service and Repair 2024 review and 2025 outlook.

Many garages plan investment to improve service and repair experience

Going beyond bookings

In this second of a two-part article for Aftermarket, Jay Wheatley AAE MIMI, business coach and mentor at Absolutely Automotive, looks at how service advisors drive efficiency and satisfaction

Aservice advisor is more than just an intermediary between the customer and the technician. They’re the linchpin that ensures smooth operations, efficient workshop loading, and excellent customer service. But what truly makes an effective service advisor?

A highly effective service advisor doesn’t simply take bookings, they anticipate needs, manage expectations, and build lasting relationships. They bridge the gap between the customer and the workshop, ensuring a successful outcome.

Here we explore the key skills needed, and why their role is pivotal to both customer satisfaction and business profitability.

Understanding the customer, the secret to smooth repairs

One of the most powerful tools a service advisor has is the ability to understand who their customer is, not just which repair they need. Knowing a customer’s driving habits, how they use their car, and what they value most in service can lead to smoother interactions.

Let’s consider an example: Bob, a regular customer, has a report that shows his battery is failing. However, he declines the repair, explaining he’s never had any issue with it.

A typical reaction might be to let Bob go on his way, leaving the issue unresolved until the imminent breakdown. But should we stop there?

Our service advisor knows Bob uses his car to drive to the train station, where it remains parked all day. The service advisor explains how batteries often fail when least expected.

Replacing the battery now could prevent a frustrating non-start at the station on a rainy evening, preventing a smooth journey home.

Jay Wheatley AAE MIMI, business coach and mentor

In this example, the service advisor is guiding Bob to make an informed decision, rooted in his own personal situation. By focusing on how the repair aligns with Bob’s needs, we can deliver the best solution in a way that feels like advice rather than a hard sell.

When a service advisor takes the time to understand the customer’s lifestyle and tailor recommendations accordingly, customers are more likely to trust the garage, return for future repairs, and recommend the service to others.

Managing expectations, creating a smooth process

Another hallmark of an effective service advisor is their ability to manage workflow efficiently. This isn’t just about getting the day’s work done, it’s about ensuring the team is prepared, the customer is informed, and no one is caught off guard by unexpected delays or costs.

A skilled service advisor knows the importance of clear communication. They set realistic expectations,

explaining the timeline, costs, and potential complications from the outset. They understand the value of guiding the customer through the entire process. From booking the appointment to explaining the diagnosis, every step is part of the journey that strengthens the relationship. By aligning customer expectations with what is actually possible, the service advisor can prevent misunderstandings and maintain customer satisfaction.

The team player, supporting workshop efficiency

This is where a service advisor’s ability to support the technicians becomes invaluable. A highly effective service advisor doesn’t just pass jobs along to the workshop, they help ensure the team is well-prepared and wellinformed throughout the day.

Those who manage workshop loading effectively and communicate clearly with technicians help prevent delays and mistakes. They ensure that jobs are allocated the right amount of time, parts are ordered in advance, and they have the right tooling for the job. This eliminates unnecessary back-and-forth dialogue between the workshop team and front of house.

Moreover, the service advisor acts as the go-between, translating the customer’s needs and concerns into clear instructions for the technicians. This not only improves efficiency but also leads to better team morale.

Right customer, right job

The ability to assess which jobs and customers are the right fit is crucial to the success of the business. At times we should be able to turn away work that doesn’t align with the garage’s expertise or values.

For instance, some customers may have unrealistic expectations or bring

The service advisor acts as the go-between, translating customers’ needs and concerns into clear instructions for technicians.

in cars with issues that are outside the scope of the garage’s offering. While it’s tempting to take on every job, a savvy advisor knows that focusing on the right customers, and the right types of repairs, leads to better business outcomes.

By vetting customers and being clear about what the garage can and cannot do, service advisors protect the team from overburdening and ensure that the work done is high-quality, which in turn builds a better reputation.

Understanding profitability

Being able to understand and manage financial aspects of the job includes areas such as labour rates and margin on parts sales. A service advisor who is aware of the financial goals will make better recommendations and ensure that each repair contributes to the overall profitability of the business.

By understanding how to accurately cost a repair, advisors ensure that the garage stays profitable without overpricing customers. Additionally, they present estimates in a way that

A skilled service advisor sets realistic expectations, explains the timeline, costs and potential complications

highlights the value of the repair, helping customers understand why it’s necessary without feeling like they’re being ‘sold to’.

The unicorn, attaining a highly effective service advisor

When rolled into one, this all might sound like that search for a unicorn, but it’s not. With the right training, a service advisor can develop the skills and mindset needed to become highly efficient in their role. Everything from communication skills and defining

customers, to understanding workshop dynamics and profitability. It’s about developing them to handle any situation, from the everyday to the complex with confidence.

My passion for this topic led to a collaboration with Technical Topics to co-develop specific service advisor training. It ensures we can give them the tools and skills they need to succeed.

High-impact role that drives the business

The highly effective service advisor is a game-changer for any garage. We want them to be the best they can be, after all they are the face of the business. If they have the skills needed, they can cement your team into a cohesive unit and deliver a service that customers keep coming back for.

To contact Jay directly, scan the QR Code

Time to keep fairness in check

Carmaster Garage MD Rebecca Pullan on the twists and turns involved in ensuring fair’s fair in the workplace

Are you fair? Or do you think, ‘Well, life’s not fair’, and are content with that being a valid justification?

It is true, sadly, that life is not always fair, but employees expect employers to be fair. And rightly so. It’s an unwritten rule.

But fairness is a strange thing, like a sixth sense. Psychologists consider fairness is an emotion built-in from birth and can be a driving force for behaviours, both rational and irrational.

How does this relate to business? Well, as an employer, you have to run a fair business. But that can be easier said than done.

The first type of fairness you may think about as a garage owner is most likely: Are your employees being fair to you?

If you have had an issue with an employee not being fair to you, then you can talk to them and resort to the correct disciplinary channels.

For example, if an employee turns up late every day, you can start by talking to them, begin to document their lateness, and then (please take HR advice on the subtle points of this) you can embark on disciplinary action.

Or perhaps you’re not happy with an employee’s work. Once again (although maybe not so easy to sort), you have plenty of options… perhaps at wage review time! Fairness is back on track for you.

The second type of fairness is ‘are you treating employees fairly’? This depends on you as a person, but if you run a successful business, you probably strive to achieve this. A fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.

Treating people with respect is also important, such as offering training to all and not having ‘favourites’. So far, so good. It feels good, doesn’t

it? Last challenge… The third and hardest type of fairness — to achieve.

Here’s another example. Your best tech, Jimmy, is always five minutes late. He gets in at 8.35am but he is always the last to go home. Isn’t Jimmy a star? It’s give-and-take, isn’t it?

Then there’s young Bob, your apprentice. He is fine, nothing special (yet). He might be as good as Jimmy one day, but he certainly doesn’t make you money like Jimmy does. You are probably still funding his training and he regularly eats up everyone’s time, asking them how things work. But he’s pleasant.

So, what happens when Bob is late? Maybe you let one incidence slip, but then the next day, Bob is late again. Ironically, Jimmy arrives just after him. Now today, you’re feeling the stress and decide to have a ‘proper talk’ to Bob as this cannot continue. He’s been late for two days in a row and you do not want this to become a regular thing.

In a private meeting, you start by telling him that, if it continues, you’ll be embarking on disciplinary action, blah blah blah…

However, Bob cries foul. “Jimmy is always late and you never say anything to him.” He is right, isn’t he?

The hardest part of fairness is the fairness between employees. How can you say that you don’t mind one employee being late just because

he helps to lock up and is more experienced?

What then if Bob offers to help you lock up too? Now, your whole workforce is coming and going whenever it suits them!

You simply have to resolve the situation.

The third type of fairness is just as important as the other two. My partner has a lovely saying about our customers and front-of-house staff: “Anyone can look after the easy customers, but it takes real skill, knowledge, patience and experience to look after the hard ones.”

The same principles apply here. To be a good boss is to be able to deal with all the difficult situations. You need to be better than good — you need to be an amazing boss.

So, speak to Jimmy and explain why the lateness cannot continue. Say you don’t want to set a precedent that’s not good for team morale and ask if he could try coming in earlier. Tell him how amazing he is and how much you value his help, but if he can’t make it on time, you will have to find another solution.

Will he consider changing his start time to 8.35am? Then, hey presto, he will be on time every day, and the fairness will be rebalanced.

Now, Bob knows that everybody must be at work by their start time, it’s unacceptable to be late and everybody is being treated the same.

And after explaining Jimmy’s later start to Bob, it’s heads down and off we all go back to work. Everybody’s emotions are back to a regular level, and life is once again fair at work, as it has to be.

As employers, we have certain responsibilities to ensure that our businesses are fair and we have to ensure that our employees work fairly as a team.

But it isn’t easy, I know!

Why aftersales should not be an afterthought

A simple text reminder about servicing and MOTs could be key to boosting your business

Over two-thirds of car owners would welcome proactive contact from retailers about upcoming service and MOT due dates, according to new research from digital marketing experts Marketing Delivery.

The findings highlight the importance of accurate customer records and ongoing communication for driving aftersales conversions and retention.

In the survey of 1,000 UK car owners, 68% said they ‘completely agree’ or ‘somewhat agree’ with the statement: ‘I would be more likely to book my vehicle in for a service or MOT with a dealer that monitors the date on which it is due and makes the effort to contact me about it in advance.’

Only 5% of respondents said they would not be influenced positively by this type of bespoke reminder.

Notably, younger car owners are most receptive to receiving aftersales reminder messages. Almost threequarters (74%) of 17-to 25-year-olds agreed with the statement, compared to 57% of drivers over the age of 76.

These statistics come in the wake of a recent survey by The Motor Ombudsman of independent garages and franchise dealer workshops, which found 56% of businesses expect motorists to delay essential repairs in 2025 to save money, while 48% foresee a drop in ad hoc and routine maintenance bookings.

For some, putting off essential repairs will not be possible, meaning it is more important than ever for workshops to position themselves as the first choice and exceed customer expectations.

The Marketing Delivery analysis gives cause for greater optimism about aftersales demand — provided customers are prompted.

Marketing Delivery’s VoiceBox

marketing platform, which has been developed specifically for motor retailers and workshops, integrates with a retailer’s DMS to send automated, customised, and timely messages via email and SMS on behalf of both the sales and aftersales departments.

It can access DVSA records to retrieve correct MOT dates and, with its approved partner agreement with Keyloop, can automatically update them within the DMS, offering significant time savings for data administration teams.

VoiceBox can then be used to send automated messages to remind customers of an upcoming MOT or service, as well as amber follow-up work where appropriate.

Data from Marketing Delivery’s 500 UK retailer clients shows that combining MOT and service reminders, when both appointments are due within 30 days, have an increased conversion rate of 39% compared to sending the MOT and service reminders separately.

Jeremy Evans, chief executive at Marketing Delivery, said: “The recent findings from the Motor Ombudsman report point to a lack of confidence among retailers and workshops, but our research highlights that many customers will happily commit to repairs and maintenance when encouraged to do so.

“It’s crucial to reach out to the right people at the right time with the right message. VoiceBox can automate this process to boost workshop utilisation and maximise retention.

“It also gives workshops a way to drive other forms of revenue growth whilst providing a solution for the customer, such as by highlighting aftersales payment plans or encouraging customers to consider changing their vehicle.”

Visit www.marketingdelivery.co.uk for more information.

Keeping ahead of the hackers

As Mercedes-Benz halts potential hackers from exploiting access to vehicles’ AI-powered infotainment systems, cybersecurity expert Jamie Akhtar tells Aftermarket the move is a wake-up call

Areport published in January by security researchers from cybersecurity giant Kaspersky said they had discovered a total of 13 vulnerabilities in the firstgeneration Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system.

The Kaspersky Security Services research revealed how some of the vulnerabilities could be exploited by hackers.

Researchers claimed hackers could, if they had physical access to the vehicle, unlock paid services and even disable anti-theft protections.

CEO and co-founder of CyberSmart, Jamie Akhtar, told Aftermarket the report is a stark reminder of the evolving attack surface presented by connected devices and embedded systems in modern vehicles.

“This incident highlights the increasing convergence of cybersecurity and the automotive industry, where software vulnerabilities can expose both users and manufacturers to significant risks.

“It underscores the urgency for robust security measures to be integrated at every stage of development, from design to deployment.”

According to Akhtar, while this breach may focus

on a specific vulnerability, it reflects a broader issue within the industry: the challenge of managing complex, interconnected systems.

As vehicles become smarter, they also become more susceptible to exploitation, particularly when security is treated as an afterthought rather than a foundational principle.

“Manufacturers must prioritise security-bydesign principles, ensuring regular patching, real-time monitoring, and rigorous testing protocols are in place to protect users and their data.”

Akhtar said the incident should serve as a critical lesson for both automotive manufacturers and regulators.

“In an age where vehicles are essentially computers on wheels, cybersecurity cannot be left to chance. It’s essential for the industry to

adopt a proactive approach, collaborating with experts, adhering to best practices, and fostering transparency to build user trust and minimise the risks of future exploits.”

Kaspersky said its report was based on analysis of the first generation MBUX. “Researchers used a combination of diagnostic tools, a certain hardware interface and a corresponding software application to communicate with the vehicle through the hardware device. This setup allowed us to establish communication over DoIP (Diagnostic Over Internet Protocol).”

A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz told Aftermarket the security of its products and services had a high priority to the car maker and it valued the work of researchers.

“They can contact us via the Vulnerability Disclosure Program and provide

information and findings in order to contribute to the development of even better and more secure products and services in addition to the company’s own experts.”

According to MercedesBenz, a team of external security researchers contacted the firm in August 2022 regarding the first generation MBUX.

“The topic described by the researchers requires physical access to the vehicle on site as well as access to the interior of the vehicle,” the spokesperson said.

“In addition, the head unit has to be removed and opened. Newer versions of the infotainment system are not affected.”

The vulnerabilities have all now been patched.

In the UK, the National Franchised Dealers Association warned last October that the benefits of technological transformation in the automotive industry, including connected vehicles and autonomous driving systems, also came with cybersecurity risks.

Modern cars are more than just machines, they are increasingly complex networks of software and data, connected to the internet and external systems, the NFDA said.

“This connectivity opens the door to potential cyberattacks.

Problem

Coolant loss and engine misfiring, but only when the engine is at operating temperature and under load. Engine management lamp illuminated.

Cause

Due to thermal stress and engine drive cycles with dramatic changes in temperature, the coolant expansion tank becomes brittle and discolours, leading to cracks appearing in the plastic, sporadically leaking coolant.

Under certain conditions this can result in hot coolant being forced under pressure over the engine, soaking the ignition leads and spark plugs with coolant. This leads to the engine misfiring.

Solution

Check the condition of the coolant expansion tank. If it has discoloured then the plastic has become brittle with age and could be at risk of cracking and leaking. If found in this condition

PRO TIPS

In this issue, replacement car parts pioneer febi focuses on the coolant expansion tank…

during routine maintenance, replacement is advised before any coolant loss issues occur.

If the vehicle is displaying symptoms of an engine misfire, check for any fault codes stored in the engine control unit and then remove the ignition leads. Inspect for corrosion and condition and for any coolant buildup around the spark plugs, replacing parts as required.

To fit a new coolant expansion tank it may be necessary, depending on the model, to remove the headlamp for ease of access. Unclip all hoses and pipes, drain the excess coolant, then free the expansion tank from the metal tags securing it to the inner wing.

Replace with new febi expansion tank 188342 and cap 105933, clip into place, and refit all hoses and pipes. Top up the cooling system with fresh coolant mixture and refit the headlamp as required.

Start the engine, check for any leaks and the smooth running of the engine.

PROFESSIONALS

Everyone wants to get what they paid for. Aftermarket is independently verified by ABC, because we want our advertisers to know they’re getting the exposure they’ve been promised.

17,274 Average Circulation per issue, July 22 - June 23. ABC. See it. Believe it. Trust it.

21,945 Average Circulation per issue, July 2023 - June 2024

www.abc.org.uk

‘Don’t

touch that stuff… it will ruin your car’

When Kalimex managing director Mike Schlup attended the SEMA show in Las Vegas he met Doug — whose fascinating story about K-Seal is told here…

I’ve owned a 1971 Plymouth Road Runner for 15 years and during this time have meticulously brought it back to life. When I obtained the numbers-matching big block engine, I knew it had to be reunited with the car.

In 2020, I had the engine completely rebuilt and installed. The car ran like a dream. However, there was a slight problem. Building the engine to stock specifications meant adding the original style exhaust manifolds. Off and on heat cycles brought about the tiniest, pesky coolant leaks around the manifold flange.

A friend told me, short of taking the manifolds off, I was stuck with it. Not being inclined to accept this, I spent hours researching. This just flagged up the over-the-counter radiator leak fix, snake oil. A little later I was watching the 2020 NASCAR Truck Race at Daytona.

The finish was one for the history books as Jordan Anderson drove his Silverado across the line in one of the closest finishes in truck series competition. The sponsor’s name on the hood? K-Seal! After more homework, I became sold on K-Seal’s benefits.

However, after pitching K-Seal to my car buddies as the solution to my manifold issue they said the same thing: ‘Don’t touch that stuff! It will ruin your car.’ Of course, I took some of this to heart, but then thought about

I decided to trust the product as well as the abundance of customer information provided by K-Seal, purchased a bottle and followed the directions. After a drive cycle, there was not a leak in sight. I was sold!

K-Seal came to the rescue in a big way, silencing the sceptics. I love it; it does what it promises, unlike competitors’ products which may damage your vehicle. If I can put it into a priceless muscle car, don’t think twice about putting it into yours. K-Seal is the real deal!

Schlup said Doug’s feedback came as the team was putting the last touches to the 2025 K-Seal ‘Heroes Campaign’.

In celebration of 12,000,000 global sales, Kalimex will be highlighting some of the professional motor factors, workshop technicians and motorist fans that have been using K-Seal since it launched 21 years ago.

Did you know that trusted trade professionals worldwide refer to K-Seal

as ‘the miracle in the little blue bottle’? In 2024, it reached the No.1 bestselling in-category product in the US, after years of market dominance in the UK.

Schlup said: “Is there any better way to acknowledge K-Seal’s global reach and success than with this campaign, not to mention Doug’s feedback as a great starter for 10?

“As you can see, he’s not alone in flying the flag for our workshop hero product. There may be subtle differences in how we promote K-Seal in the more than 20 countries now selling it, but the universal language of our miracle in the little blue bottle is the same.

“K-Seal is quite simply the best, independently evaluated permanent coolant leak repair product you can buy — with a formula that has not changed since we launched it in 2003.”

Users worldwide agree. Anita, in the US, said last October: “All I can say is, wow! I’m still shocked that K-Seal took care of my head gasket leak in my 2011 Toyota RAV 4. I had two garages tell me I needed a new engine. One quoted me $3,700 to replace the head gasket. Figured it was worth a shot to try K-Seal. Turned out to be the best $28 I’ve ever spent!”

Visit www.kseal.com for more information, email help@kseal.com or call 01273 891162

How green workshops can drive sustainability

Sustainability and environmental responsibility have become essential priorities for businesses in the auto sector. Repairify Innovations director Martin Brown highlights how companies are rising to the challenge

One of the most impactful ways businesses are addressing their environmental responsibilities is by incorporating green parts into the repair process. While it may seem like green parts are hard to source, they’re widely available.

The reason they are is because they come from end-of-life and written-off vehicles, which serve as a treasure trove of reusable components that include engines, transmissions, lights and doors, to name but a few.

Instead of letting these vehicles go to waste, businesses salvage undamaged and reusable parts, inspect them, and refurbish them for repairs. This approach is not only eco-friendly but also highly efficient.

Unlike new parts, which require intensive raw material extraction and lengthy manufacturing processes, green parts make use of existing resources, significantly reducing their environmental impact.

In addition, they are available at a price

End-of-life vehicles can be a treasure trove of reusable components

level that makes the repair work more accessible and potentially profitable for the business.

Alongside this, the use of green parts can open new sales opportunities enabling businesses to offer previously unavailable repairs to their customer base.

There is also an efficiency aspect when it comes to green parts because some parts have a long lead time, so if the business can get the same part quicker via the green part route, it reduces key–to–key times for the work.

This means the repair will cost less as there are no additional fees to store the vehicle and the vehicle is back out on the road quicker.

These benefits are all well and good, but there are a couple of issues relating to green parts that businesses need to be aware of.

One of them is that a rather large number of green parts have an electric module in them that is programmed for a specific vehicle or chassis.

This means that if it is installed on a new vehicle, there is the possibility it may block the vehicle from starting. There is a solution that ensures the part is calibrated and programmed correctly, but generally there is OE software and approval that enable this work to be done.

Green parts are a compelling solution to reduce the cost of repairs and help move the industry towards a more sustainable future.

However, it is important that businesses, no matter their size, continue to keep abreast of technological advancements both from a vehicle and tooling perspective so they can use green parts for repairs in the future.

Start your journey to take the challenge…

Sign up today to put your skills to the test as the race gathers pace to honour and reward our 2025 champions

Top Technician, Top Garage and Top Apprentice competitions are the ultimate platform for celebrating excellence, innovation and talent within the automotive industry — and Aftermarket magazine’s search to find our champions of 2025 is underway.

Whether you’re a highly skilled technician, a standout garage business, or an ambitious apprentice, this is your opportunity to shine.

The journey starts with just a few clicks on the Aftermarket website and with last year’s prize haul for the contests amounting to more than £40,000, there are rich rewards for those who stay the course.

And as judging veteran Ian Gillgrass (pictured) points out, the competitions also unlock invaluable access to the years of knowledge, skill and support from our line up of prestige technicians — as well as sharing knowhow from your peers.

“The competition as a whole will test the very best and is a real challenge, but one that is well worth it and I encourage everyone to sign up,” Gillgrass said.

“Every year gets more challenging for the judges too, in terms of setting up the faults on the vehicles that will test the skills of the entrants as they move forward into the

advanced heats.”

Gillgrass said all of the judges bring their own individual expertise and approach to the competitions. “We always want to make sure we have a wealth of knowledge being pooled behind the scenes to make sure we get the very best out of those taking part.”

Adding to that expertise for the first time this year is Colin Denton, chief executive of the North London Garages Group Training Association. Colin will be head judge for Top Apprentice, which is being held for the first time alongside Top Technician and

Top Garage.

Full event partners already lined up to support this year’s competition once again include LKQ Euro Car Parts and Delphi — whose state-ofthe-art academy facilities in Warwick will again host Finals Day in November.

The involvement of the Delphi Academy ensures contestants that make it through to the later stages of the contest benefit from a state-of-the-art facility equipped with cuttingedge tools and resources, designed to meet the high technical demands of the competition.

TOPDON and VARTA are

also among the valued Event Partners and cloud-based garage management system, Garage Hive, is among the latest organisations to confirm its support as a sponsor.

And shortly before Aftermarket magazine went to press, Snap-on confirmed it would also be continuing its long-standing support for the competition this year.

Mark Ost, general manager of Snap-on Diagnostics & Garage Equipment UK, said: “I am thrilled to express Snap-on’s unwavering commitment to the Top Technician & Top Garage event.

“I am proud to say that we have been sponsors and supporters of the event since inception. At Snap-on, our philosophy and focus revolve around delivering premium tools to the automotive industry and giving unwavering support to technicians and independent garages.”

Ost said Top Technician and Top Garage perfectly aligns with the company’s ethics and ethos, “providing Snapon with the ideal platform to celebrate and uplift the automotive industry’s skilled professionals”.

To start your journey and put yourself to the ultimate test, visit https:// aftermarketonline.net/ toptechnician-topgarage/ to enter online today.

Remanufactured major units from Ivor Searle

Ivor Searle is a leading UK producer of quality remanufactured automotive major units, offering an all makes programme of petrol and diesel engines, cylinder heads, gearboxes and turbos for cars and LCVs.

Costing up to 40% less than OE, the Ivor Searle product range covers over 90% of the UK’s vehicle parc.

www.ivorsearle.co.uk

Ivor Searle also offers a customer own unit engine remanufacturing service for virtually any car or LCV application.

All Ivor Searle engines, cylinder heads and gearboxes are covered by a 12-month unlimited mileage parts and labour warranty, while a two-year warranty covers all turbochargers.

The remanufacturer holds

Autowave videos ‘key to hands-on guidance’

Autowave, the car keys and programming equipment firm, has updated its YouTube channel with six new videos covering unboxing sessions, introductions and demonstrations of three of its tools.

At Autowave headquarters, CEO Ravi Kotecha (pictured) has presented and recorded three new episodes. These focus on the OBDStar P50 airbag crash data tool, OBDStar key master G3 key programming tool and

www.autowave.co.uk

OBDStar DC706 module cloning tool.

Kotecha said: “Our videos bring real hands-on guidance, showing exactly how these tools work.”

comprehensive stocks across all product lines to ensure first class customer service and minimise vehicle downtime.

Free next day UK mainland delivery is also provided for stock items ordered before 3.30pm. Ivor Searle

has an extensive UK-wide distributor network, so no matter where you are, you’re never far away from a quality Ivor Searle product.

To find out more, visit www.ivorsearle.co.uk or call the Ivor Searle sales team on 01353 720531.

More brake calipers added to Shaftec range

Birmingham-based automotive remanufacturer Shaftec Automotive has increased its new-to-range with four brake calipers joining the collection.

The new calipers cover vehicles such as the Volkswagen Golf VIII (2020 onwards) and the Audi A3 Sportback (2019 onwards).

Shaftec marketing manager Adrian Kitchen said the firm’s commitment to remanufacturing

ensures parts not only match but often exceed the performance of newer alternatives.

Shaftec said it always recommends drivers ask for expert advice if they notice any issues with their vehicle.

WAI boosts high-demand part numbers

Rotating electrics supplier

WAI Europe has introduced 19 new references to cover in-demand parts across automotive, agriculture and industrial applications.

The part numbers include new starter motors and

alternators, part of its ‘firstto-market’ ethos to ensure the business is providing the

best in market, quality and availability at a competitive price.

www.waiglobal.com/uk

All of WAI’s new-torange references are available on TecDoc and in stock at its warehouse in the Netherlands as it offers customers greater availability from its European hub.

GSF launches rotating electrics under DriveTec

GSF Car Parts has launched a new rotating electrics range through its DriveTec aftermarket brand.

The range covers starter motors and alternators built with high quality components and precision manufacturing. This allows GSF to offer all SKUs in the range with a 36,000-mile, three-year warranty, so garages know they are installing a ‘fit-

and-forget’ product.

The units are manufactured with completely new parts and garages are not required to return old units with a surcharge. However, GSF offers a recycling scheme.

www.gsfgroup.com

First Line kicks off year with 82 new parts

First Line has made a strong start to 2025 by introducing 82 new parts to its ever-expanding product range.

Standout products in the steering and suspension range include a left/right rack end for the MG ZS SUV

and a left-hand suspension arm for the BMW X5.

There is a wheel bearing kit for the Mazda 3, providing coverage for this popular model, while Borg & Beck’s drive shaft offerings have been significantly enhanced.

https://www.firstline.co.uk/

www.aftermarketonline.net

Nextbase puts new dash cams in focus

Dash cam tech firm Nextbase has launched the all-new 385GW and 385GWX.

These cutting-edge dash cams were created following the success of Nextbase’s 380GW, which is supplied to global automotive partners such as Toyota, Lexus, Kia, Hyundai and VW.

The 385GW builds upon the expertise of Nextbase Automotive, the company’s dedicated division focused on delivering dash cam solutions directly to the automotive industry, the company’s dedicated division focused on delivering dash cam solutions directly to the automotive industry.

www.nextbase.com

Axalta evokes racing style with new colour

Axalta Coating Systems has unveiled its 2025 global automotive colour of the year – ‘Evergreen Sprint’.

This marks the 11th year Axalta has introduced an automotive colour and the second time it has featured a green shade.

www.axalta.com/color

Axalta said the colour is a rich, deep forest green that pays homage to the legendary British racing green.

While capturing the thrill of motorsport, the latest colour also brings a touch of sophistication to sedans and SUVs.

Niterra showcases flagship NGK plugs brand

Niterra UK has released a new catalogue for the company’s flagship brand, NGK Ignition Parts, showcasing its full range of spark plugs and glow plugs. With nearly 550 spark plug and over 140 glow plug part numbers, more than 9,000 vehicles are represented.

Niterra UK technical service manager, Ron Merralls, said in addition to covering more modern vehicles, and in recognition of demand for plugs for older

www.ngkntk.com

vehicles and the classic car market, the catalogue now includes applications from 1903 to 1990.

Decoding the world of remote diagnostics

Neil Hilton, technical sales director for Core Diagnostics, on how choosing the right remote diagnostics partner maximises the benefits of the technology

Less than 15 years ago, the idea of being able to carry out repairs on a vehicle that could be in another town, country — or even on another continent — might have seemed farfetched.

However, in today’s superconnected world, remote diagnostics brings enormous benefits to the service and repair sector.

As we know, there’s been a massive evolution in the automotive industry in the last 20 years with the proliferation of increasingly sophisticated electronic vehicle systems.

Workshops typically have to invest in an array of diagnostic tools to ensure wide coverage of the vehicle parc, as well as specialist ADAS calibration equipment, and of course they have to know how to use it.

Even then, there are many coding and programming procedures on common vehicle brands that can only be carried out with the OE diagnostic tool, for example ECU Flash Updates that a manufacturer has released to resolve issues or a Mercedes headlamp that requires coding to the vehicle. Remote diagnostics can be the perfect solution, as it allows a wide range of diagnostic, coding or programming tasks — and even ADAS calibrations — to

be outsourced.

But rather than waiting for a mobile auto electrician or third-party repairer to turn up in a van, workshops who use remote diagnostics can simply plug the remote interface in to the vehicle’s OBD port, allowing remote repairs to be carried out by a qualified technician based at our technical centre.

What’s more, with our Core Remote Ultimate, which is supplied with a Netgear high speed mobile Wi-Fi router, the remote interface doesn’t even need to be connected to the workshop’s Wi-Fi connection, also making it ideal for roadside repairs or dynamic ADAS calibrations.

However, while remote repair technology can offer huge benefits, there are wide variations in the service levels and capabilities of many remote diagnostic providers.

While most remote

diagnostics companies use a similar remote interface to be able to establish a remote connection with the vehicle, that’s often where the similarities end. So, it’s advisable to do your research and ask the right questions when choosing a remote diagnostics provider.

Smaller remote diagnostic providers may only have one or two in-house support technicians, although some do not have any. Either they will quickly reach the limit of the number of jobs that they can work on simultaneously or they will outsource some or all of the jobs they receive to a larger technical centre like ours.

This means that their customers will frequently face long waiting times or support queues, which can be very frustrating for the workshops as it will slow down their workflow.

Server capacity is the other side of the same coin. Remote programming requires a large amount of server capacity and significant extra bandwidth is needed to be able to work on multiple vehicles at the same time.

The IT hardware required to provide the capacity to do this is a costly investment that few remote diagnostic companies can afford to make. The result is the same — either more work has to be outsourced, or the customer has to wait in a support queue.

This is why Core Diagnostics has a large inhouse team of highly-trained remote technicians. They are the only ones in the UK with the Institute of the Motor Industry’s remote technician accreditation, a course we developed in partnership continued on page 30

Hella Gutmann introduces mega macs S 20

Hella Gutmann has announced the arrival of its latest diagnostic tool, the mega macs S 20.

Positioned as a costeffective successor to the mega macs ONE, the new vehicle communication interface (VCI) combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly simplicity, ensuring commercial vehicle workshops can efficiently handle the demands of modern vehicle diagnostics.

The mega macs S 20 is packed with advanced features, including support for diagnostics over internet protocol, CAN-FD protocols, and built-in security gateway access, ensuring compatibility with the latest vehicle systems.

“Commercial vehicle workshops need tools that are powerful, easy to use, and adaptable to their needs,” said Julian Goulding, head of sales at Hella Gutmann.

with the IMI — and our team includes auto electricians and auto locksmiths, as well as qualified specialists in ADAS and EVs.

We’ve also made a huge investment in IT infrastructure that gives us significant spare capacity to support our continued growth for several years to come and visitors to our technical centre are always impressed by the amount of technology that we have at our disposal.

This ongoing investment in people, training and technology has enabled us to make a clear commitment to our customers that all support requests will be

“With the mega macs S 20, we’ve created a solution that combines affordability, efficiency, and innovation, allowing technicians to deliver excellent service without breaking the bank.”

Technicians can use any Android tablet or smartphone to run diagnostics, connecting seamlessly via Bluetooth or USB-C. Simply plug the S 20 VCI into a vehicle’s OBD port, and the system is ready to go within seconds. Hella Gutmann’s S 20 package includes a rugged Android tablet for seamless diagnostics.

answered in less than 30 seconds, and they’ll never experience frustrating waiting times or support queues.

But this isn’t the only issue when remote diagnostics companies rely on outsourcing. That business model comes with other risks too. If a programming or coding procedure is carried out incorrectly and leads to the failure of a part — such as an ECU — where does the responsibility lie?

From the end-user’s perspective it would be with the workshop, who would have to have to make a claim against the remote diagnostic provider to recover any costs. However, this could be a

With cybersecurity management and ADAS functionality included at no extra cost, the S 20 allows workshops to bypass complex manufacturer registrations, offering quick access to vehicles protected by security gateways after a one-time setup.

With support for over 20 manufacturers, including Audi, BMW, MercedesBenz, Nissan, Renault and Volkswagen, the S 20 makes it easier than ever for workshops to service a wide variety of cyber-secure vehicles without additional

lengthy process. Meanwhile, the workshop is left to appease the customer. After all it’s their reputation that’s on the line.

Coverage of the vehicle parc is another important issue. It’s vital to know which vehicle brands your remote partner has the capability to repair in-house before signing up.

The coverage of vehicle brands can vary significantly between remote diagnostic providers. Many programming tasks require the OE diagnostic tool and very few remote service providers have all the tools in-house needed to ensure wide vehicle parc coverage.

hassle or expense.

The S 20 can be upgraded with HGS Data. From service schedules and wiring diagrams to component locations, HGS Data delivers the precise information needed for the vehicle being diagnosed, saving time and improving productivity.

Bringing flagship features from its premium diagnostic devices to a more accessible price point, the S 20 offers a scalable solution that ensures commercial vehicle workshops can stay ahead of evolving industry trends while maintaining a budgetfriendly approach.

For a limited time, the S 20 is available for just £2,150 + VAT with two years of software updates and an Android tablet.

Visit https://www.hella. com/techworld/uk/ Workshop-equipment/ Diagnostic-solutions/ mega-macs-S-20-101974/ for details.

To avoid outsourcing our support jobs we continually invest in the OE tools. We cover 66 vehicle brands and counting.

Vehicle brand coverage and service levels are the most critical things to look for when choosing a remote diagnostics partner. But as with any service provider, value-added extras that offer other benefits — such as improved convenience — shouldn’t be ignored. By using technology to our advantage there are many aspects of our service that we’ve been able to automate. For more information email sales@corediagnostics. co.uk or call 0151 559 3940

APOLLO+

It’s the sum that makes the difference. When you tap into the power of The APOLLO you’re tapping into the know-how of techs like Amanda. Her diagnoses and repairs are continuously updated to its system, adding to insights from over a 100 thousand records every day. Take a page out of Amanda’s book and solve problems with ease. Plus up your bay cred with the most advanced diagnostic capabilities.

Think innovation to revolutionise workshops

AI tools and remote diagnostics o er a potential solution to the automotive skills shortage, says Thinkcar UK

While the skills shortage continues to impact the automotive sector, innovative AI-enabled diagnostic tooling and increasing demand for remote support is revolutionising the way garages work — and Thinkcar UK says these trends are set to accelerate as the sector moves towards 2030.

Alex Gillbanks, MD of Thinkcar UK, said technology is changing the way technicians work, both in terms of what they face on the ramp and the tooling they use to deal with this.

Sta ng remains a major issue for garages though. The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) ‘Automotive Vacancies Report’ showed there were 20,000 vacancies across the sector last September, equating to 3.5 for every 100 employees.

At the same time, the

number of available jobs fell, compounding pressure on workshops. Job postings dropped by 38% between July 2023 and July 2024 according to IMI’s ‘Labour Market Report’.

New tech o ers a solution. AI has forged new pathways across countless sectors, and this is increasingly the case in the automotive aftermarket, thanks to Thinkcar UK.

“The AI-enabled tool range we launched in 2024 is set to expand rapidly over the next few months,” Gillbanks

said. “This will revolutionise the sector.”

The THINKTOOL Euro 399 14-inch diagnostic device was the first tool launched from the range.

“The 399 has been designed with a unique, optimised UI interface and operates on the powerful THINKCAR TCOS operating system,” said Gillbanks. “It also o ers split screen capability and provides dual vehicle diagnostics via an additional vehicle communication interface (VCI).

Game-changer for battery diagnostics

Cloud-based battery diagnostics software startup volytica diagnostics has won an award for its E-health Charge system, developed in collaboration with MAHLE Aftermarket.

The Germany-based firm took away first prize at in the startup session at the recent

Automobilwoche Congress in Berlin.

The system combines realtime battery diagnostics with EV charging, delivering accurate insights into battery health, performance, and residual value in just 15 minutes — a game-changer for any entity involved in buying, selling, or

servicing EVs.

This innovative tool empowers lessees, dealers, workshops and other industry stakeholders to ensure reliable service in today’s rapidly evolving automotive sector, the firm said.

Using advanced analytics and algorithms from daily

“Thanks to this, mechanics will be able to work on two vehicles at the same time, e ectively doubling output.” These innovations will continue to change the way independent garages work. Gillbanks said garage owners know that the rising tide of vehicle technology has been slowly drowning technicians in ever-more complex problems — but these solutions will change the game.

Visit https://www.thinkcar. uk for further information.

field data, volytica’s software provides insights into battery degradation, health status, anomalies, and safety risks.

Claudius Jehle, CEO of volytica diagnostics, said the firm’s award underlined the importance of battery diagnostics in the automotive industry.

TOPDON CarPal Honoured with two awards at 2025 BETTER FUTURE Design Awards

TOPDON is proud to announce that its CarPal Bluetooth Car Diagnostic Tool has been honoured with the Gold Prize at the 2025 BETTER FUTURE Australian Design Awards — and the Silver Prize at the 2025 BETTER FUTURE World Design Awards in the Product Design-Technology category.

This double recognition highlights CarPal’s innovation and impact on making vehicle diagnostics simpler and more accessible to all users.

CarPal stands out in a crowded market by o ering a comprehensive, all-inone solution for vehicle diagnostics, designed with everyday users in mind.

It provides full-system diagnostics, fault code reading and clearing, battery checks, real-time data monitoring, smog checks, and maintenance services — all through a simple, user-friendly smartphone app.

The CarPal tool connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, making diagnostics quick and accessible with its oneclick feature. AutoVIN technology automatically identifies the vehicle’s details, saving time and eliminating manual input.

Beyond its functionality, CarPal is celebrated for its sleek, modern design with a unique faceted structure, ensuring both form and function.

It’s made from recyclable materials and produced through eco-friendly processes, reflecting TOPDON’s commitment to sustainability.

“We are thrilled to receive the two awards at the BETTER FUTURE Design Awards, which reflect our team’s dedication to innovating automotive care,” said Mike Zhou, CEO of TOPDON Technology. “CarPal reimagines car diagnostics, making it simpler, smarter, and more sustainable.”

The BETTER FUTURE Awards is the largest network of design award programs across the globe. Within this network, the Australian Design Awards celebrate design-led projects that push boundaries in innovation and sustainability. Culminating in the World Design Awards, the most outstanding projects from regional programmes worldwide are recognized for their contributions to a better future.

ANNOUNCING A FASTER, MORE STREAMLINED SERVICE

Stellantis have recently opened an extensive new Parts Distribution Warehouse in Ellesmere Port, near Liverpool, to support its Distrigo operation in supplying parts to the Independent Aftermarket and its Authorised Repairers. With an internal covered space of just under 640,000 sq. ft and 223,500 sq. ft of external space, the purpose-built facility (pictured above) allows Stellantis to keep its Genuine parts, Eurorepar, SUSTAINera and Supplier Brand ranges under one roof, ensuring efficient transport flow.

This will noticeably upgrade their supply chain infrastructure and enable a more streamlined service to all Distrigo sites. Using the latest innovative technology, close to 100% of required stock can now be efficiently and promptly distributed throughout the UK to offer more products, enhance availability, and simplify administration. Scan the QR code to find your nearest distributor or visit distrigoparts.co.uk/dealer-locator

Aftersales cashing in on digital self-service

As UK dealers face an uncertain year ahead and customers have less disposable income, efficiency is key to ensuring profitability for dealerships of all sizes across the UK.

Many dealers have begun to embrace digital self-service solutions as they offer customers and dealer staff increased efficiency and convenience, which has a direct impact on dealer revenue growth.

This shift was particularly prevalent in 2024 and is set to grow this year. Tjekvik, a specialist provider of digital self-service solutions for dealer aftersales departments, collated its UK market data from last year, and it revealed strong customer engagement with its digital self-service tools, partly due to their ease of use.

By being offered a more efficient method of business, Tjekvik found that customers were more likely to pay for value-add products and services, creating hot leads for sales executives. The convenience of these tools creates new avenues for dealerships to generate revenue and meet customer demand more flexibly than ever before.

A common issue in aftersales departments is that customers arrive in the early mornings and late afternoons

to drop off or collect their cars. This results in queues that cut productivity by overloading staff and undermining the customer experience.

Tjekvik’s self-service systems create an efficient check-in and check-out process. Service, maintenance, and repair customers can avoid queues by checking in and out when, how, and where they want — whether at home, online or at the dealership using touchscreen kiosks.

Last year, over 640 UK dealerships using Tjekvik’s self-service solutions handled more than 2.5 million interactions. This rapid adoption shows how quickly customers are embracing self-service and how easily dealerships have integrated the system.

The most popular digital interaction for customers was home check-in, with 56% of customers checking in their vehicles for service, repair or MOT from the comfort of their own homes.

For those customers who preferred to visit the dealership instead, kiosk check-ins reached 26%, with a further 15,226 customers using tablets to check in their vehicles. For those customers who preferred to get on with their day after their vehicle had been seen, 82,207 customers used Tjekvik’s digital check-out.

Digital convenience isn’t just about

boosting efficiency, it’s driving revenue too. Our self-service solutions offer added-value products and services directly to customers, leading to increased upsell opportunities and additional revenue.

Last year, more than 240,000 UK customers bought value-added products or services, generating more than £9.2 million in extra revenue. The top-selling items were lubricants and additives.

While Tjekvik’s technology benefits aftersales departments, it also has a positive effect on retail teams. Digital check-in solutions logged over 126,676 vehicle valuation requests, creating hot leads for sales executives that generated further revenue opportunities.

Milestone for free garage data service

Average labour rates increased by 2.5% in 2024 and invoice values grew by over 5%, according to business performance data based on more than one million independent garage transactions.

Garage Hive, whose real-time data platform Garage Industry Trends tracks a range of metrics, said the transactions registered were a significant milestone for the service.

The service tracks average invoice value, future bookings, labour rates, net promoter score and shows demand for repairs and maintenance by vehicle age and fuel type.

More than 175 workshops have voluntarily shared anonymised data through 1,010,000 transactions since Garage Industry Trends launched in September 2022.

Garage Hive director Alex Lindley said: “This freely available data provides valuable benchmarks, helping owners and managers evaluate their performance and make informed decisions.”

Visit www.garageindustry trends.com to find out more.

Tech platform hailed for deferred work conversions success

Independent workshops are being given the most compelling evidence to utilise Auto3iii’s unique workshop eVHC and customer engagement platform, after a forward-thinking customer reported a 51% success rate in follow-up bookings.

The global software experts, new to the UK market, provide workshops with app-based software to identify more work, connect to customers and keep them coming back.

And in some of its most impressive results to date, Tyres Northampton reported significant success after trialling an outbound calling exercise.

Auto3iii is the only solution in the aftermarket to offer mileage-based vehicle maintenance plans — not to mention bespoke score-based customer reports — and it now has its most compelling evidence for adoption

of the technology, via the Pirelli Performance Centre in Northampton.

Using the amber work maintenance plan data, which accurately identifies vehicles that are due for follow-up work based on the vehicles daily mileage, 51% were booked back in, up by 27% on an industry average of 24%.

Tyres Northampton owner Malcolm Andrew said: “We knew of Auto3iii’s potential, but we didn’t think we’d translate quite so many deferred jobs into follow-up work.

“We’re a more efficient operation now. In addition, we’re a more professional one, with the bespoke customer reports helping convert more work on the day, and the dynamic maintenance plans now get

even more work booked in thereafter, which customers seem to really appreciate.”

The calls were carried out by the Worcester-based aftermarket specialist agency, Bamboo marketing. Owner Anna Meager said: “These results are pretty much unheard of in the industry and underline the potential that exists from the Auto3iii solution as a revenue generating digital tool.”

By adopting the software, workshops gain an added sense of transparency and professionalism. Visit https:// auto3iii.com to find out more.

You’ll receive actual bookings – not job enquiries

We only charge you for attended bookings

No time-consuming bidding or quoting for work

The customer pays you direct, not us

You have complete control of your availability, lead times & pricing Pay us just a small commission for the customer and they’re yours to keep and market to directly

Eureka moment boosts efficiency

How a transport management system is helping one company cut vehicle downtime and improve overall productivity

DG McArdle International is a family owned and run transport and logistics company, with more than 200 vehicles working on domestic and European freight.

Based in Inniskeen, County Monaghan, DG McArdle also has a Dublin depot and a maintenance workshop in Damastown. The company, which has been in business more than 30 years, uses Eureka’s leading transport management system across all key aspects of its operations.

“Eureka is a comprehensive system that helps us control many facets of our business from one platform,” said David McArdle. “It has undoubtedly made us more efficient and has significantly reduced vehicle down time.”

DG McArdle uses Eureka MoveIT as an end-to-end TMS. The platform is suitable for all types of haulage work, including full load, tipper, multi-drop, pallet and crane hire. It enables operators to effectively plan and implement transport operations, monitor them in real time, and measure performance.

Features include a customer web app, driver web portal, and automated job importing, plus job templates and schedules. The powerful electronic document interchange enables MoveIT to accurately import jobs from a variety of files and sources.

Hauliers can automatically allocate loads based on configurable rules such as vehicle capacity and location; or build loads quickly with drag and drop functionality. It also includes route optimisation to save time and fuel, and integration with telematics providers, as well as managing ferry bookings for overseas freight.

The ferry bookings management module enables real-time monitoring

Electronic document interchange imports jobs from variety of les and sources

and control over bookings, amendments and cancellations from within the TMS.

Features include real time status updates on ferry departures, as well as key events such as checked in, cleared customs, sailed, arrived, and disembarked.

Furthermore, the unique Eureka system can handle all rates, surcharges and rebates including those for different times of day, day of week and equipment type.

“The ferry booking module is an extremely useful feature for us,” added David. “It streamlines the whole process for the transport operator.”

Also, Eureka integrated its TMS with the Transics fleet management platform and TK Tracking for DG McArdle, offering real time insights and reports on drivers’ hours and vehicle ETAs. The haulier imports and plans jobs, then sends them to the drivers, who also have mobile

devices for EPOD (electronic proof of delivery).

In addition, DG McArdle uses Eureka’s MaintainIT module to manage its Damastown garage. MaintainIT allows the user to set up maintenance schedules based on dates, or odometer and fridge hour readings. The dashboard provides a user-friendly colour coded overview of fleet status. Features include creating job cards to allocate to mechanics, logging inspection checks for compliance, and an app for daily vehicle defects checks.

“MoveIT and MaintainIT work very well together and the usability for hauliers is tremendous,” David said.

“Combined, they give us great insights — we get fast access to the information we need and in the right format. The customer service from Eureka has been great and we would highly recommend them.”

Eureka is Ireland’s leading provider of transport management systems, with over 4,000 daily users of its software. The County Wexford-based company has been successfully developing TMS solutions for the transport and logistics industry for over 25 years.

Visit https://www.eureka.ie/ for details.

Aftersales cashing in on digital self-service

As UK dealers face an uncertain year ahead and customers have less disposable income, efficiency is key to ensuring profitability for dealerships of all sizes across the UK.

Many dealers have begun to embrace digital selfservice solutions as they offer customers and dealer staff increased efficiency and convenience, which has a direct impact on dealer revenue growth.

This shift was particularly prevalent in 2024 and is set to grow this year. Tjekvik, a specialist provider of digital self-service solutions for dealer aftersales departments, collated its UK market data from last year, and it revealed strong customer engagement with its digital self-service tools, partly due to their ease of use.

By being offered a more efficient method of business, Tjekvik found that customers were more likely to pay for value-add products and services, creating hot leads for sales executives. The convenience of these tools creates new avenues for

dealerships to generate revenue and meet customer demand more flexibly than ever before.

A common issue in aftersales departments is that customers arrive in the early mornings and late afternoons to drop off or collect their cars. This results in queues that cut productivity by overloading staff and undermining the customer experience.

Tjekvik’s self-service systems create an efficient check-in and checkout process. Service, maintenance, and repair customers can avoid queues by checking in and out when, how, and where they want — whether at home, online or at the dealership using touchscreen kiosks.

Last year, over 640 UK dealerships using Tjekvik’s self-service solutions

handled more than 2.5 million interactions. This rapid adoption shows how quickly customers are embracing self-service and how easily dealerships have integrated the system.

The most popular digital interaction for customers was home check-in, with 56% of customers checking in their vehicles for service, repair or MOT from the comfort of their own homes.

For those customers who preferred to visit the dealership instead, kiosk check-ins reached 26%, with a further 15,226 customers using tablets to check in their vehicles. For those customers who preferred to get on with their day after their vehicle had been seen, 82,207 customers used Tjekvik’s digital check-out.

Digital convenience isn’t just about boosting

efficiency, it’s driving revenue too. Our selfservice solutions offer added-value products and services directly to customers, leading to increased upsell opportunities and additional revenue.

Last year, more than 240,000 UK customers bought value-added products or services, generating more than £9.2 million in extra revenue. The top-selling items were lubricants and additives. While Tjekvik’s technology benefits aftersales departments, it also has a positive effect on retail teams. Digital check-in solutions logged over 126,676 vehicle valuation requests, creating hot leads for sales executives that generated further revenue opportunities.

Managing business more effectively

Chris Dalton, co-founder and CEO of the Midlands-based operational ERP software developer, jobmate, says even small businesses should consider a digital helping hand in the workplace

Businesses are fast becoming aware of the benefits associated with using an efficient ERP (enterprise resource planning) system, but they can be forgiven for not fully understanding how to select a solution that best fits their business model.

In broad terms, an ERP system should ensure increased productivity by automating all key business processes while providing management insight, control and agility.

The system should embrace reporting, IT requirements, accounting, e-commerce, labour, purchasing, HR and cost control, forecasting and job planning.

Most importantly, it should be a native-cloud SaaS where the operating system and data are in the cloud, allowing them to be simply integrated through APIs with other software, plus fully cyber-secure by being hosted in a reputable cloud software service.

So, how do you choose and what sets operational ERP apart from standard ERP systems?

Are you thinking: “I have heard of ERP, but I am confused by the many providers

who each offer a different suite of services.”

ERP stands for: Enterprise (the business), Resource (the employees, products, suppliers and assets of the business and Planning (the planning of the work and services the business offers).

Or put simply, it’s all about controlling every key aspect of your business through one operational software.

However, ERP is not to be confused with financial and CRM packages, which the common definition of ERP often creeps into. Buyer beware!

Traditionally, ERP has been the domain of large businesses. It can be expensive, inflexible, customised to a particular business requirement, and not always user-friendly — most likely because its user interface model is drawn from a spreadsheet design.

These ERPs are often known as ‘onprem’, which operate on a company’s own hardware/network infrastructure. Mobile ability is also limited or nonexistent as it requires special devices, not just an everyday Android or Apple mobile phone or tablet.

The software used is ‘compromised’, with feature modules that serve a

An ERP system collects nancial data, manages jobs, suppliers, stock and keeps costs down

purpose but were never best-in-class; hence, businesses may be liable to underperform by using adequate yet not wholly applicable or integrable software. The systems can be expensive to maintain and have high initial development costs, implementation fees and licences.

The evolution of ERP systems from traditional on-prem to SaaS nativecloud-based (operating software and data are in the cloud), particularly with the advent of native cloud hosting (AWS and Microsoft Azure), has significantly expanded ERP software’s reach through flexibility and lower costs for mediumand smaller-sized businesses.

This shift initially drove an app market based on singular features, but now, more complex native cloud ERP systems are available. Their advent is bringing down prices and improving accessibility through PWA (progressive web application) to mobile apps, which provides greater accessibility, control and cost reduction.

The key advantage of native cloud over on-prem software is that you can easily connect to other software through APIs while benefiting from a flexible and multi-functional solution. It also brings the peace of mind that comes with being virtually impervious to cyber-attack.

This change has created a best-inclass software pedigree.

Reman commitment is material investment

Ten years on from a major expansion, Shaftec is powering ahead and breathing new life into parts that power the aftermarket

Shaftec has been supplying remanufactured and new parts to the motor trade for nearly 30 years and is now firmly established as the leading transmission, steering and braking supplier to the UK aftermarket.

A full range of 25,000 part numbers available from stock includes driveshafts, CV joints and boot kits, propshafts, brake calipers, steering racks and gaiters, steering pumps, steering columns and electric steering.

Shaftec offers its customers the largest range of premium products, backed by the highest levels of availability and exceptional customer service.

As part of a multimillion-pound expansion programme, in January 2015 the business relocated its headquarters in Birmingham to new 50,000sq2 premises — to incorporate its remanufacturing facilities and warehouse into one site.

By carrying massive stocks, Shaftec is able to offer customers 95% availability on its whole catalogue with guaranteed next-day delivery. If Shaftec puts its name on the box, you can be certain that what’s inside is of the highest quality. To back this up, the company is also fully ISO accredited — ISO 9001:2015.

While Shaftec does offer new part programmes in areas that cannot be remanufactured, the company firmly believes in the process, as it results in components which are as good as new and perform in that way for the lifetime of the product. In fact, 60% of their sales are remanufactured parts.

This is the way forward on so many levels:

l It is better for the environment as it utilises less energy and raw materials, and gives new life to a part which could otherwise end up in landfill;

l It is a more financially efficient solution;

l It is often the only way to keep older vehicles on the road. An aging vehicle parc requires availability of parts long after the end of vehicle type production. Shaftec’s remanufactured parts go through stringent reverse engineering and

testing processes and then comes complete with the same warranty as a new part. Their warranties range from 12 months/12,000 miles to 60 months/60,000 miles, dependent on the product group.

To support our customers, our website features a Knowledge Hub, where a range of bulletins and support documents can be read and downloaded, including product information and fitting guides.

Returns acceptance criteria are also listed, including:

l Driveshafts: shafts should not be bent or snapped;

l For steering racks and pumps there should be no damage to the casting, and plugs/sockets should not be broken or missing;

l With brake calipers, the casting must not be cracked, broken or snapped off.

Although Shaftec carries a vast amount of stock on its shelves, their Reman and Return service is available for non-stock and more unusual items, where they have sufficient materials to do so.

This means that if the used core returned to Shaftec meets our returns criteria, the company will remanufacture and return that exact part to the customer — with the same warranty as the off-the-shelf, aftermarket product, with turnaround usually taking 5-7 working days.

Number is up for waste

New ‘Free-Cycle’ initiative by plates maker Tennants UK is designed to help garages clear away discarded number plates sustainably

With sustainability and waste management becoming a growing focus for businesses, Tennants UK is calling on dealerships, motor factors and retailers to take a proactive stance in addressing environmental responsibilities.

The company, a leader in number plate manufacturing, is championing the need for sustainable practices through its innovative FreeCycle number plate recycling initiative, designed to help businesses who produce a regular supply of number plates stay ahead of changing recycling regulations and reduce their carbon footprint.

Recycling regulations introduced in Wales in 2023 mandated businesses to separate recyclable materials such as metal, glass and certain plastics from general waste. While plastic number plates are currently excluded, consultations are underway to implement similar simpler

FREECYCLE

recycling legislation across England.

Tennants is encouraging its partners to act now, offering them a hassle-free solution to recycle old and discarded number plates responsibly and cost-effectively.

The company aims to reduce the environmental impact of discarded number plates by creating a sustainable loop that reuses valuable materials.

The Free-Cycle initiative simplifies the recycling process for businesses by providing free stillage bins to collect discarded number plates, which are collected and taken away by Tennants once they are full.

The waste plates are then sorted, cleaned and processed into materials that can be reused to create new, sustainable products.

This turnkey solution eliminates the need for businesses to pay for private waste disposal services, while ensuring full compliance with future regulations.

Stephen Archer, business development and marketing manager at Tennants UK, said: “We understand the uncertainty and costs businesses face with evolving recycling legislation. That’s why we launched Free-Cycle, the UK’s first dedicated number plate recycling service.

“By offering a free and seamless recycling solution, we’re not just helping businesses comply with upcoming regulations but also empowering them to lead the way in sustainability.

“Our initiative ensures waste is diverted from landfills, helping our partners

reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a circular economy.

“Businesses that embrace sustainability today are building a future-proof strategy for tomorrow. Our Free-Cycle service is a step towards a more sustainable aftermarket, and we’re proud to lead the way in supporting our partners through these changes.”

Tennants UK is a leading provider of number plate solutions, dedicated to helping automotive businesses meet compliance requirements while improving operational efficiency.

With decades of experience, we continue to innovate with initiatives like Free-Cycle, offering businesses the tools they need to succeed sustainably in a rapidly evolving market.

Visit https://www. tennantsuk.com/recycleyour-number-plates/ to find out more about our Free-Cycle recycling solution and how businesses can participate.

Yokohama rolls out tyre supply chain sustainability

A new initiative to get to grips with sustainability and traceability in the tyre supply chain is gaining traction thanks to Yokohama Rubber.

Yokohama tyres are distributed in the UK by Yokohama HPT for passenger car, 4×4, motorsport and commercial vehicle tyres. The company recently

held a seminar in Thailand to help natural rubber farmers improve the quality and productivity of the material.

Fifty farm households in the Surat Thani area participated in the event to learn more about the selection and planting of natural rubber seedlings, the aims and effects of applying fertiliser, and the

importance of preventing foreign substances from entering natural rubber.

This follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Rubber Authority of Thailand to cooperate in providing economic support for the farmers and to improve traceability to ensure transparency and soundness of the natural rubber supply chain.

The farmers who attended the seminar will provide rubber samples every month for one year for a programme tracking changes in the physical properties of natural rubber related to the use or nonuse of fertilisers and the impact of seasonal changes on trees selected as survey samples.

Brake Engineering showcases art of remanufacturing

Brake Engineering has partnered with Tim Shaw, presenter of TV’s Car SOS, to release the first in a series of three videos that delve into the intricate process of remanufacturing brake calipers.

Highlighting the importance of safety, sustainability and high-quality craftsmanship, the aims to educate the industry and drivers alike on the value of remanufactured calipers.

The campaign centres around a set of Ford Scorpio Cosworth rear brake calipers, which Shaw took to Brake Engineering’s Wrexham Centre of Excellence for expert remanufacturing.

The videos capture every step of the process, showcasing how worn

components are meticulously restored to perform as reliably as new.

This campaign is part of Brake Engineering’s commitment to highlighting the importance of prioritising remanufactured parts to reduce waste, minimise environmental impact and ensure vehicle safety.

Page Ad - ACT .pdf 1 28/01/2025 16:15

Remanufacturing plays a pivotal role in sustainability. By reusing core materials

rather than manufacturing entirely new components, the process significantly reduces waste and lowers the carbon footprint of replacement parts.

By remanufacturing at its Wrexham site, Brake Engineering saves 951 tons of CO2 emissions every year.

This not only benefits the environment but also supports a circular economy where resources are preserved and utilised

efficiently, the company said. Brake Engineering ensures that each remanufactured caliper meets or exceeds OEM standards.

In addition to promoting sustainability and safety, the campaign addresses industry challenges such as the influx of low-quality imported components that can jeopardise vehicle performance.

Brake Engineering said it stands firm in its commitment to providing reliable solutions while maintaining high availability, ensuring workshops and distributors have access to trusted, highperforming parts when they need them most.

Visit https://www.linkedin. com/company/brakeengineering/ to see the first video.

MAKES SENSE

Tim Shaw (left) with Paul Davies, senior UK operations manager and site lead ZF Wrexham

Technical expertise to sustain the aftermarket

Autoelectro’s Harnek Bhogal looks back at what shaped 2024 — from an industry and company perspective — and what will likely mould the British remanufacturer’s activities over the coming months

One of the most notable trends over the past year was the rise in demand for 48V mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs).

The Ford Puma and Kia Sportage were the two most popular new vehicles, according to recent figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturer and Traders, with both models offered in mild hybrid form.

At Autoelectro, a remanufacturer and supplier of starter motors and alternators founded in 1986, our figures were similar. We saw an increase in 48V MHEV enquiries too, particularly when dealer stock was unavailable or on extended backorder.

In these situations, customers have often been left with two choices: either wait weeks without a vehicle or turn to the aftermarket. We’ve stepped up to fill this gap, having parts readily

available consistently.

Quality is a critical consideration for these multifaceted and costly components; technicians cannot afford to fit substandard parts, especially when dealing with intricate systems.

Belted starter-generators (BSGs), for example, are incredibly complex units and differ significantly from conventional alternators. In fact, they are no longer referred to as just ‘alternators’ at all but as BSGs, to reflect their advanced functionality.

Whilst there is uncertainty surrounding whether there will be a new petrol and diesel car ban in 2030 or 2035, the government has confirmed that new hybrids will be available until 2035.

Consequently, we are confident that hybrids — and demand for them — will continue on the steep trajectory for years to come.

With experience spanning nearly 40 years and the increasingly specialist ability to remanufacture in-house, using the latest OE specification test equipment, we are well-placed to support technicians fitting our units daily by providing part-specific technical information — whether it’s contained within the iconic Autoelectro red box or sent following an enquiry.

Sticking with MHEVs and 48V technology, to illustrate the point, we have discovered that many warning lights and ECU control faults are mistakenly attributed to the BSG. In fact, they originate from the vehicle’s ECU system.

This type of information is vital for technicians, and we are committed to communicating these technical insights, not just for MHEVs either, throughout this year to ensure professionals are knowledgeable and confident.

At Autoelectro, as

the last British volume remanufacturer of starter motors and alternators, we have shown resilience.

We have complete control over production and supply chains; this has shielded us from delays and availability issues, giving us a significant advantage into 2025, where uncertainty in global logistics shows no sign of abating.

As the year progresses, we’re excited about several new initiatives, including our innovative part identification scheme.

Unique to Autoelectro, this service leverages our technical expertise, allowing us to identify starter motors and alternators for obscure applications through images shared via email or WhatsApp. It’s another example of how we’re using our knowledge to provide value to our customers.

Last year showed our ability to adapt, innovate and lead in a changing market.

Autoelectro stocks around 5,000 part numbers distributed throughout the UK and Ireland. As we look ahead to the rest of the year, we remain dedicated to supporting the automotive aftermarket with quality, expertise and sustainability at the heart of everything we do.

Visit www.autoelectro. co.uk for more information about Autoelectro.

Harnek Bhogal

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Academy sets course for essential know-how

Delphi adds to EV training support for garages in preparation for influx of Teslas into the aftermarket

Spring/summer dates for Delphi’s ‘Tesla Service and Maintenance’ course have been announced at the company’s recently expanded academy in Warwick, and technicians are being urged to sign up soon to secure their spot.

Dates for the one-day course, which provides participants with practical Tesla knowledge and handson experience, are now available in March, April, May and June.

Places are going fast though as more garages gear up for the growing opportunity, reflecting Tesla’s continuing dominance of the EV market.

Full-year new car sales figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) placed the Tesla Model Y as the fifthhighest selling car in the UK in 2024 with 32,862 examples hitting the road over the 12-month period.

The Model Y was also the top-seller in December, closely followed by Tesla’s Model 3 in second place.

“85,000 Teslas will enter the aftermarket over the next two years,” said Luke Garratt, UK technical services manager at Delphi. Training is vital though.

“These vehicles have very specific servicing and maintenance needs, and technicians taking the Tesla

Service and Maintenance course will learn what is required.”

Participants undertake hands-on, practical tasks that teach essential Tesla service techniques. Areas covered include Tesla’s service mode and accessing service documents, along with air conditioning and battery servicing, brake work, and tyre repair and replacement. Time is also taken for Teslaspecific wheel alignment and ADAS calibration.

“As both an OE and aftermarket manufacturer, we are increasing our efforts to support workshops,” Garratt said.

“Our trainers are seasoned technicians with handson workshop experience, ensuring our courses reflect real-world situations, practical scenarios, and diagnostic techniques.

“This course is proving to be very popular, so technicians should book as

soon as possible to guarantee the date of their choice.”

The next ‘Tesla Service and Maintenance’ course takes place on Monday, March 17 at Delphi Academy in Warwick, with five more dates available between April and June.

The Tesla Service and Maintenance course is one of a broad range of EVrelated training programmes available at Delphi Academy, including the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Hybrid and EV Awareness Level 1 and Level 3 Qualifications, IMI Hybrid and EV Hazards & Recovery Level 2 qualification and more.

With more mechanics taking on these courses every day, a 19-year-old tech working at Oldfields Garage in Leominster became the youngest technician in the UK to have been awarded the IMI Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Level 3 qualification, having completed the course at Delphi Academy last year.

Owen Lloyd achieved the milestone before completing his Level 3 apprenticeship, which he finished at Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College while gaining hands-on experience at Oldfields Garage in Leominster.

“I want to stay up to date, and it seems EVs are going to be increasingly important,” said Lloyd. During the inperson training, participants engage in both theoretical and practical instruction.

“Owen should be incredibly proud of his accomplishment,” Garratt said. “Completing the EV IMI Level 3 qualification at such a young age, and before even finishing his apprenticeship, is a testament to his dedication and hard work.”

Delphi Academy doubled in size last year, with a halfmillion-pound investment enabling the company to extend into a neighbouring unit and take the total floor space up to 1,430m2

Addressing industry needs, the extension features new state-of-the-art training amenities dedicated to hybrid and electric vehicle education.

Email training.uk@ PHINIA.com for more information and visit https:// booking.delphiautoparts. com/index.php for a complete list of in-person Delphi Academy technical training.

Cleevely Motors hosts first IMI-accredited training course

Cheltenham-based independent garage Cleevely Motors, part of the Cleevely Group, hosted its first IMI-accredited training course in February.

The course, held in partnership with Cotswold Diagnostics, was designed to equip vehicle technicians with IMI Level 2 and Level 3 EV qualifications.

Combining expert-led instruction with hands-on experience in one of the UK’s renowned independent EV workshops, the two-day programme aimed to address growing demand for skilled EV technicians.

Cleevely Group MD Matt Cleevely said: “Our IMI accreditation allows us to

support technicians at every stage of their professional journey. Hosting our first accredited course was an exciting milestone, and we were proud to partner with Cotswold Diagnostics.”

The course was led by Cotswold Diagnostics’

Alistair Finch, a highly regarded technical trainer

with extensive industry experience. He said: “We’ve developed this training to provide not only the technical know-how but also the practical confidence to thrive in a fast-changing industry.”

Cleevely’s first IMIaccredited training course marks a significant milestone for the family-run business,

which was a Top Garage winner in 2023, boasts a long-standing legacy in the auto industry and is a trailblazer in EV repairs.

It came as part of a wide range of IMI-accredited training now available at Cleevely Motors. Courses cover essential areas such as diagnostics, exhaust gas treatment and ADAS.

For technicians already holding IMI Level 2, 3, or 4 qualifications, Cleevely’s next ‘At Ease with EV’ training course takes place on March 29.

Spaces are limited, so early booking is highly recommended to secure a place. Visit https:// cleevelygroup.co.uk or call 01242 308006 for more information.

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Helping workshops go above and beyond in customer service

The prevalence of regenerative braking systems in EVs has led to a shift in how braking is implemented, with a high proportion now executed by the electric motor itself.

Consequently, hydraulic braking systems are used less. While this reduction minimises wear on hydraulic brake components, it also makes them susceptible to corrosion, posing risks to both the durability and efficacy of braking systems.

In response to these challenges, Brembo has introduced the Brembo Beyond product line — a

comprehensive range of aftermarket solutions designed to enhance the driving dynamics of the growing electric mobility segment while prioritising sustainability.

The Brembo Beyond EV Kit comprises a range of firstto-market pads and discs that are tailor-made for the most popular electric cars on the road. As battery electric vehicles use regenerative braking in addition to traditional dissipative braking, the friction brakes are used less.

Over time, this means the brake components can become rusty, affecting

safety and escalating maintenance costs.

Brembo’s goal was to create an EV brake kit that was effective, silent and long-lasting, as well as being lightweight and corrosion resistant. Beyond EV pads and discs are designed to meet these criteria, applying many of the technological advances we pioneered for the OE market.

To achieve these aims, each Beyond EV pad features a dedicated, highly durable copper-free friction material and galvanized backing plate which reduce dust and noise when braking.

Beyond EV discs also

Why garages should embrace new energy vehicles

Thermal management systems — air conditioning and engine/battery cooling — in new energy vehicles (NEVs), which include hybrid and fully-electric cars, are more advanced

than in their conventional combustion enginepowered cousins and so require specific attention when they are maintained and repaired.

This presents the

independent sector with a real opportunity, as there is great potential should they gear themselves up to offer the appropriate level of service and the replacement parts required.

receive a special anticorrosion treatment on their braking surface. Together, the combined system guarantees highly efficient, extended braking performance for electric cars, along with rust protection beyond 60,000 miles of road use, even in the toughest conditions.

The fact that Brembo has created a Beyond EV Kit for all the most popular battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road underlines their aftermarket potential.

For further Brembo Beyond information, visit www. bremboparts.com

Nissens Automotive head of marketing and group content director, Jan Zieleskiewicz, said: “Many NEVs’ thermal systems rely on heat pump solutions, which are more advanced

than a typical AC loop and these systems are crucial for an electric car’s mobility, range, battery, charging and driving comfort.

“Although there are many components within these thermal management systems, one of the central products is the condenser, because a fault with this part of the system can potentially render the vehicle immobile or least impact its comfort or battery cooling efficiency.”

Coupled with the fact that they are mounted where they can gain the greatest air flow, which means they are also exposed to the elements — road spray, debris and salt — they are among the components most likely to be struck by corrosion, Zieleskiewicz said.

“As a result, whenever an NEV enters the workshop, it would be wise to instruct technicians to make a visual inspection of the system, paying particular attention to the condition of the condenser.

“Useful tips include inspection of the condenser’s surface, joints, and couplings. Pay particular attention to the bottom part of the

condenser, where tubes and fins are mostly exposed to humidity and aggressive salt spray. If there are any signs of leakage or missing/ damaged fins, replace the condenser.”

Never ignore soiling and debris that may cover the condenser surface — remove if possible or gently clean the surface. Never use pressure cleaners on the fragile condenser surface. Stubborn soiling that is difficult to remove should result in condenser replacement.

In addition, eliminate sources of abnormal soiling on the condenser surface and repair any refrigerant leaks from the couplings. Should the condenser need to be replaced, so should the expansion valve. Irrespective of the need for the replacement of any of the system’s components, the cooling fan should also be checked.

Nissens Automotive’s NEV parts now comprise almost 1,000 items for the most popular applications and cater for more than 4,000 OE part numbers.

Visit www.nissens.com/ nev to learn more.

Castrol advances EV fluids and aftercare solutions

As electric and hybrid vehicles sales continue to grow, the aftermarket sector is evolving to meet the complex demands of servicing these advanced vehicles.

Castrol is taking the lead with innovative, EV-specific fluids that offer cutting-edge specifications that cover a wide vehicle-parc.

As the market continues to advance at increasing speeds, bolstered by the introduction of new car manufacturers that offer a range of different vehicles, garages can often be overwhelmed when finding the right products.

That is why Castrol is empowering workshops and technicians with the tools they need to stay ahead through a revamped online product finder, which provides an online hub that both workshops and customers can rely on.

The launch of Castrol ON EV Transmission Fluids W2 and W5 marks a significant leap forward in aftercare solutions for EVs, with these high-performance synthetic fluids being designed to address the specific challenges of wet e-motors.

Castrol’s new fully synthetic, low-viscosity formulations have been specifically developed to deliver low electrical conductivity and enhanced system protection, helping the e-motor run at cooler temperatures and at optimal efficiency. Both products have been designed and

tested to handle the high torque outputs that EV motors can generate, even from low speeds.

Castrol’s ON EV Transmission Fluid range is tailored to meet the specifications of leading automakers. The range builds on the success of fluids introduced in 2022.

Castrol’s first dedicated products for EVs in aftersales, these fully synthetic fluids are suitable for many EVs that operate powertrains with dry e-motors, offering high levels of gear and bearing protection.

Meanwhile, Castrol has relaunched its online product finder to streamline the identification and purchase of lubricants, fluids and coolants for specific vehicles such as EVs. This enhanced tool, available on the Castrol website and compatible with a range of devices, is designed to make finding the right product for any given vehicle more intuitive and efficient.

Visit https://www. castrol.com/en_gb/unitedkingdom/home/productfinder.html for details.

Innovation in the palm of your hand

Filtration giant MANN+HUMMEL combines smart design, easy-to-service fuel filter, with clean and efficient high performance product range

The parts kit for the innovative MANN-FILTER fuel filter PU 10 023/1 z KIT for pickups makes maintenance easier, thanks to the patented disassembly tool.

It offers a very high degree of particle separation and efficient water separation while also being ideally equipped for future fuel filtration requirements.

Superfine nozzles, high pressures, and cycle times in the millisecond range — modern engine injections are delicate systems that require extra clean fuel.

For these increasingly sensitive diesel injection systems, global filtration expert MANN+HUMMEL is developing ever finer fuel filters, which are available as MANN-FILTER products on the independent aftermarket.

Open and remove simple disassembly

Frank Bartel, product manager fuel filters at MANN+HUMMEL said the significantly improved handling of the PU 10 023/1 z KIT can be summed up as: “Efficient, fast, and clean.”

This is made possible by the innovative handhold developed by MANN+HUMMEL, which facilitates disassembly and is included with every filter, and by the modern and functional design of the filter element

and housing cover.

Changing the filter without this grip, however, requires a lot of force and is only possible with pliers or similar tools.

Resistant to dirt and water

The innovative filter has an extremely high separation efficiency of more than 96% with a particle size of four micrometres. This means that 9,600 out of 10,000 incoming particles are retained. For context, these particles are up to 25x smaller than a human hair.

It is not only impurities that can have a negative effect on the components of the injection system, but also water droplets. This applies in particular to modern common rail systems, which place high demands on fuel quality.

The MANN-FILTER PU 10 023/1 z KIT filters out more than 95% of the water contained in the fuel and operates in three stages. In the first step, the filter

medium reliably removes solid impurities from the diesel.

The second filter stage works with a coalescing fleece that absorbs the finest water droplets from the fuel/water emulsion and combines them into much larger droplets.

In the third filtration step, a water-repellent screen fabric ensures that the enlarged droplets do not enter the injection system.

MANN+HUMMEL has developed this screen fabric in such a way that it is elastic and can withstand the mechanical requirements of pressure and temperature both during operation and at standstill.

Bartel said: “Thanks to its flexible design, it can effectively absorb the forces that arise and so has proven to be particularly robust, including in situations such as when the fuel freezes.”

The seal materials of this fuel filter are resistant to standard diesel, biodiesel

variants, and novel synthetic diesel fuels such as hydrogenated vegetable oils (HVO). They have the corresponding OE approvals and ensure a permanent hold as well as the complete sealing of the filter.

Series supplier, patented design

MANN+HUMMEL has already started series production of this highly efficient fuel filter for a renowned vehicle manufacturer. The filter is available on the independent automotive aftermarket in OE quality as a PU 10 023/1 z KIT for various Ford Ranger pickup models and complements the extensive MANN-FILTER product range.

The technology leader has been granted a patent for the disassembly handhold by the German Patent and Trademark Office as well as in other countries.

Worldwide, more than 1,200 researchers and developers at MANN+HUMMEL work on pioneering solutions with the aim of creating real added value and optimally meeting customer needs.

To ensure that vehicles function reliably and efficiently for a long time, the fuel filter should be replaced regularly at the intervals recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

Visit https://www.mannhummel.com for more information.

Breathing easy in the cabin

UFI Filters says its advanced Argentium, HEPA filters and other cabin air tech mean more comfortable journeys for ICE and EV passengers

Of all the filters fitted to every vehicle on the road, the cabin air filter is the one most often overlooked… but wrongly, because while they aren’t essential for mechanical efficiency, they are vitally important to passenger health.

The cabin air filter’s purpose is simple: to improve the quality of the air that vehicle occupants breathe on board, banishing potentially harmful dust, pollutants, pollen, allergens, bacteria and mould that could be inhaled.

However, the choice of which filter to fit is not straightforward, as so many different types and qualities are available on the market.

UFI Aftermarket filters sales director and GM UK & Ireland, Karl Ridings (pictured), said: “As a company that has been developing filter products through continual innovation for more than 50 years, we cannot stand still and only offer customers the usual, traditional solutions.

“Vehicle technologies, like filtration needs, are changing — so new advances are essential for continual improvement.”

Thanks to the experience UFI has accumulated as an original equipment supplier, alongside the research and development strides

achieved by its dedicated innovation centres, UFI has devised six types of high-performance filter media. Together these are known as FormulaUFI. The company also manufactures all its filter media in-house, guaranteeing quality and consistency.

Technology to beat bacteria

One of UFI’s filter media delivers particularly exceptional results in a key area of cabin air health: bacteria. Used to produce the Argentium range, the revolutionary media has a powerful antibacterial function. These filters also feature the company’s innovative FormulaUFI. Stratiflex technology, which combines three filtration layers: antimicrobial, absorbent and structural.

Ridings said Argentium

Karl Ridings

filters are made with a revolutionary, non-woven filter media incorporating silver particles, which have a powerful antimicrobial action capable of inhibiting bacterial growth by up to 99%.

The triple layers of FormulaUFI.Stratiflex enable this advanced cabin air filter to do far more than block pollen, road dirt and dust, including particles produced by tyre wear and brake action.

HEPA filters help electric The transition to electric

mobility is affecting cabin air filters too. Like every other technology, they need to deliver more advanced technologies for EVs. Here too, UFI’s OE experience, and its research conducted means the group is ready to support the latest engine technologies with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters. While these are currently destined to be fitted as OE to batterypowered vehicles, these will also be available to aftermarket customers soon.

Manufactured using extremely high efficiency filtration media that is already used in the health and medical sectors, UFI’s HEPA cabin filters achieve an efficiency of 99.975% for particles smaller than 0.3 microns.

Visit https://www. ufifilters.com/en/ to find out more.

Garage Hive innovations highlighted in new episode of The Blend Podcast

The latest episode of The Blend Podcast takes a deep dive into Garage Hive’s latest advancements, showcasing how its community-led garage management system is transforming workshop operations.

Podcast host Mike Ruff is joined by Garage Hive’s operations manager, Dawn Metcalfe, technical manager Rhys Hill and head of training, Tom Langridge, to discuss new features designed to boost efficiency and improve customer communication.

One such innovation is the recent launch of Garage Hive Copilot, an AI tool built on OpenAI technology that simplifies communication with customers. Integrated directly into the existing workflow, it automatically drafts descriptions for vehicle health checks, sales invoices, and other tasks, translating complex vehicle inspection data into clear, customer-

Apprentices

friendly language.

The episode also highlights Garage Hive’s new partnership with ServiceSplit, offering predefined service plans that make it easier for customers to manage maintenance costs while giving garages a competitive edge against dealerships.

Another feature, realtime work status updates, reduces customer inquiries by keeping them informed about progress, allowing front-ofhouse staff to focus on more pressing tasks.

Garage Hive’s commitment to training and support is

evident through its IMIaccredited ‘Garage Hive Super User’ and ‘Garage Hive Service Advisor’ courses, available at its Nottingham training centre.

“We genuinely care about how our product is used and its impact on garages. It’s not just about making a sale,” said Hill on The Blend Podcast.

Metcalfe added: “Garage Hive is a powerful tool that helps streamline operations and supports business growth, even enabling some garages to expand into multiple locations.”

The company will showcase

go behind the brand at Delphi Academy for enrichment day

Delphi Academy opened its doors to a group of apprentice mechanics from Worcestershire in January, with the visit intended to demonstrate the growing range of career options open to young people within the automotive industry, and to show how those opportunities will continue to widen as the pace of technological change in the sector increases.

The visit, which took place

in January, was the first in a series of enrichment days being held by Delphi at its recently expanded academy in Warwick.

This initial event enabled nine second-year Level 3 apprentices from Heart of Worcestershire College to go to the 1,430 m2 training centre to d have the chance to learn much more about the industry.

They were accompanied by staff from the college,

including lecturer Dale Ruston. “Our students often exist in a bubble,” he said, “only seeing their workshop, and the college.

“Enrichment days like this show there is so much more to the industry, and that they don’t have to stay where they are now. This visit will be a real eye-opener for them.”

A number of topics were covered across the day including EV and hybrid technology, diagnostic

these innovations at major events throughout 2025, including the Castrol Service Conference in March, Automechanika Birmingham in June and Thistle Auto Revival in August.

The Blend Podcast is a must-listen for independent garage owners, offering expert insights and practical advice from industry peers. The next episode will explore the topic of employee pay vs performance, featuring Jennifer Webb of HR Vitals.

The Blend’s annual conference for independent garages in the UK and Ireland takes place on Saturday, October 18 in Birmingham.

Meanwhile, Garage Hive has launched an IMI-approved course for front-of-house service advisors at its training centre in Nottingham.

Langridge said: “Service advisors are often the first point of contact for customers and play a critical role in shaping the garage experience.”

tooling and much more. The group were also shown how independents are set to continue capitalising on the petrol and diesel market. There was even time for a look ahead at hydrogen tech.

The day was led by Delphi’s UK technical services manager Luke Garratt, who kicked off proceedings with an informal address. “You all work in garages, but behind you is a huge industry, with so many opportunities.”

Parts development was covered first, before the focus shifted towards diesel technology, diagnostics, tyres and beyond. The cohort was then able to find out much more about EVs, and the opportunities that exist for garages that can undertake repairs on these vehicles.

Through the day, the nine apprentices had the chance to use the academy’s many facilities and were also able to see the on-site recording, photography, and 3D scanning studio where Delphi produces training content, including videos for its Masters of Motion online training hub.

The visit proved to be illuminating for the apprentices, all of whom work at independent garages. “I’ve learned a lot about the industry today,” said Joshua Jennings from Mintro

Padmore Garage in Worcester. “A job in parts development wasn’t something I ever considered, though I am planning to stay where I am.”

Tyler Humphreys from Worcester Mobile agreed.

“I’ve seen a lot of cool stuff. It was really good. Today has shown me that having the right qualifications can open many doors. I’m going to finish my apprenticeship, get my Level 3, do my MOT course and then go from there.”

Leo Reed from Pershore Service Centre in Pershore said: “I learned a lot today, and the event has given me fresh ideas on what I could do in the industry.”

At the end of the visit, Luke added: “You know Delphi as a brand, and you have used the brand. Now you have seen what happens behind the brand. I hope we have enlightened you, so you can

see what this industry is really about.”

Reflecting on the importance of engaging with those just beginning their careers, he concluded: “Life can seem hard when you first step into this industry, which could put some people off before they really get started. However, once you see what is possible, this industry becomes very enticing.

“Today’s group were reticent when they arrived, but by the time they left, they

Bosch training pledge as UK launches apprenticeship week

Bosch Mobility Aftermarket has pledged to push ahead with training future generations of the auto industry.

Bosch’s Automotive Apprenticeship programme takes three years to complete and is delivered through a series of 17 training blocks at one of the

three Bosch Service Training facilities. These are at the company’s UK headquarters in Denham, Doncaster and Motherwell in Scotland.

Apprentices are in paid employment at a local independent workshop alongside their practical studies. Among the topics covered by the course are

electric vehicle technology and the use of diagnostic tools to repair and maintain the latest vehicle technologies.

Sales director of Bosch Mobility Aftermarket UK, Kevin Kelly, said: “We’re proud of our Automotive Apprenticeship programme and it’s going from strength to strength. Bosch has long been known as a leading supplier of parts and diagnostics and we’re now becoming a leading business in training too with more than 300 apprentices learning at our centres each year.

“Our Automotive Apprenticeships have industry-leading content

were very enthusiastic about what they had seen. This is so important, and we are looking forward to doing this again very soon.”

The enrichment day was arranged by Delphi in collaboration with the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation. A visit for third-year students on the same course was also held in January, with more enrichment days set to take place over the coming months.

and it’s satisfying for all of us to see the number of people taking on the apprenticeships continuing to grow. The UK has a significant skills shortage in the automotive industry and we’re doing all we can to help plug that gap.”

Bosch Mobility Aftermarket will be exhibiting its latest technology at the Automechanika Birmingham show at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham in June.

The company will also take part in Motorvate, the new not-for-profit event that will run alongside the show to help tackle the UK automotive industry’s skills shortage.

AFrom surviving to thriving From surviving thriving

Lancashire garage shares how its commitment to training, investment and working with key industry leaders and organisations is driving success

&S Car Care Centre has always been a forwardlooking business, ever since it was established in 2010 by Mark Williams and his father.

Today, Mark wholly-owns the Bolton firm, which still runs very much as a family enterprise with family members working within the business that is committed to investment for the future.

A&S supplies ICE vehicle services and specialises in advanced diagnostics while a second site in Bolton — run as a separate business, Williams EV Specialists — supplies purely EV services.

A&S works mainly with Alliance Automotive and has been an AutoCare garage for the last 10 years. Mark

In the last 12 months we’ve spent £45k on training alone

also works with James Dillon, Garage Services Online (GSO), and Garage Hive as tech partners. He’s also worked with Andy Savva and considers Andrew Crook an inspiring peer.

Mark said A&S has a reputation for fixing faults other garages have been unable to remedy — but have still charged for.

This can leave A&S’ customer service department with a tough job. The team will work hard not just to find the fault, but to regain customers’ trust in garages and the wider industry.

MOTs are an essential, ‘bread and butter’, part of the business and Mark is a strong proponent of raising the cost of the test.

It’s been the same for 15 years and every other cost involved has risen — from the minimum wage and overheads to equipment and regulatory costs. Garages cannot simply keep absorbing the costs, Mark said.

He believes the cost should be around £75 and at that, still thinks it would be cheap. A&S charges less than the standard £54.85 because there’s so

much MOT competition locally.

The business breaks even on the MOT fee, so if a vehicle passes, it’s not really profitable. However, it is a service that’s essential for the firm’s loyal repeat customers so must be o ered for customer retention.

It does become profitable if repair work is required, and Mark says this is where integrity sets good garages apart from the others.

However, this has not stopped Mark investing heavily in the business, including training, a website and a new garage management system.

Eighteen months ago, A&S was operating from one site with three bays and attracting lots of low-profit work. The garage was operating in survival mode even though the owners regularly worked a 70-hour week.

But it now has two sites, employs eight sta , and has increased its hourly rate by 150%. A healthy 90% of its work yields an optimum profit margin and it’s also attracting trade work from prestigious car sales companies.

Mark has found the best way to build

and retain a team is to grow it himself and invest a lot in training. All the team have been trained one-to-one by Mark —apart from his father!

Mark takes them on as an apprentice and trains them ‘his way’; he calls it ‘the A&S ladder’. Once qualified, they can also train for everything from MOT testing to Mastertech. There is now a total of nine sta across the two businesses.

In the last 12 months, Mark has spent £45k on training. “The best tool we have is our brains. You can have the best equipment money can buy, but without skill, it’s useless.”

To recoup that cost, you’ve simply got to attract the right customers, the ones that want their vehicles fixed properly, not just make do and mend,” Mark said.

To do that, it was crucial to upgrade the website to one that could get to the top of Google search results for the profitable work the garage wanted to be found for.

“GSO came highly recommended and

designed a website that literally does just that.” Mark then combined the online strategy with the introduction of a garage management system from Garage Hive.

“The website and GMS work together to make the customer journey seamless. From the moment they find us online, to leaving a Google review, the customer experience is one of complete professionalism. We’re now considered one of the top three garages in town.”

The investment in the subscriptionbased website pays for itself 50 times over every single month, Mark said.

“By getting clear on the profile of work we wanted, we could tell GSO exactly what jobs the website needed to pull in. It worked straight away. When the website went live, we had our best month’s turnover ever. Since then, its continued to almost double every month.”

Mark said the techs are happy too, because they’re doing work that

Turnover continues to increase after the launch of our new website

utilises a lot of their specialist training such as complex mechanical repairs and diagnostics.

The business is also seeing a lot of EV work coming through from all around Lancashire and as far away as Yorkshire.

“Working with GSO has enabled A&S to come from what was perceived as a back street garage, to one that competes with main dealers,” Mark said.

“They’ve made a massive di erence to our business. If we didn’t have the website we’d be surviving, but certainly not succeeding.”

Visit https://ascarcarecentre.co.uk to check out A&S online.

Leading from the front

John Shepherd reports from LKQ UK and Ireland’s annual conference where leadership and service were on the agenda

Around 800 LKQ UK and Ireland colleagues, customers and suppliers were at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole hotel in February for the group’s two-day Leadership Conference.

VIP speakers helping to drive home the key themes of delivering leadership and the highest quality of service included Olympic rower Ben Hunt-Davis and global customer service guru Geoff Ramm (pictured).

Ramm in particular treated the conference to a barnstorming performance. It was my first encounter with this truly inspirational keynote speaker who is perhaps best known as the creator and author of Celebrity Service & Celebrity Service Superstars. It’s a no brainer that some of the world’s top brands including Emirates, Warner Brothers and McDonalds trust Ramm for his insight, guidance and no-nonsense advice on how to take customer service to the highest level — and then some.

Ramm’s presentation, which was peppered with jokes and anecdotes, was a hit with the packed main conference hall. But all the punchlines

had a serious message… ‘are you getting the very best out of yourself and showcasing your company, products and, most importantly, service in the best possible light’. His inspiration was infectious, and it

Ramm with Kevan Wooden

would be interesting to see a snapshot of sales and performance figures in the aftermath of the conference.

It’s also easy to understand why Kevan Wooden, chief executive of LKQ UK and Ireland and group motivator-in-chief, is a Ramm fan.

Chatting to Wooden on the side lines of the event, he stressed his commitment to increasing customer connectivity and outstanding service through one engaged team — delivering market-leading profitable growth across the aftermarket.

Each of the four businesses within the LKQ UK and Ireland group — LKQ Euro Car Parts, LKQ Bodyshop, LKQ Leisure and Marine and LKQ Digraph — is the leader in its respective market, Wooden said.

The group-wide conference focussed on supporting customers through unrivalled service and best-in-class product ranges, to deliver first time, on time, every time — while supporting colleagues by recognising their success and cultivating an engaged and supportive culture.

In his own keynote speech, Wooden said the conference’s ‘Growing Together’ theme underlined the importance of nurturing every stronger links and sharing insights for the year ahead.

“With our industry-leading logistics capabilities and the best team in the business, we’re making it easier than ever to trade with us. ‘Growing Together’ means listening to our customers, understanding their needs, and delivering the best service.”

Growing together means listening, understanding customers’ needs and delivering the best service

Wooden said each of the trading brands plays a crucial role in expanding the size, capability, expertise and market influence of the group as a whole.

“Our winning formula of combining our culture and values with our plan to invest in our proposition and streamline the way we work will see us continue to deliver market-leading profitable

growth as one engaged team.”

This is especially important as the group has entered 2025 with a new operating structure, which Wooden said brings LKQ closer to our customers and allows colleagues to “play to their strengths”.

Andy Southby, chief commercial officer for LKQ UK and Ireland, recapped the key milestones of the past year and gave branch managers and teams a glimpse of what’s in store for 2025.

Donna Fearnley, group HR director at LKQ UK and Ireland, highlighted the business’ peoplefirst approach, including the group’s annual engagement surveys and ‘people adding value everywhere’ (PAVE) internal taskforce, which is responsible for the firm’s internship and apprenticeship programmes, as well as its community and charity work.

The conference came hot on the heels of LKQ unveiling its “evolution” plans, at the start of the year, which it said will see an increase by a third of customer-facing account manager positions.

The move underpins the firm’s aim of providing even more frequent face-toface contact and expert guidance in solving customers’ business challenges and facilitating growth.

In addition to the expansion of its account management teams, LKQ is introducing dedicated operational roles to further strengthen its market dominance.

On the move

Our round-up of the latest industry appointments. Send your people and recruitment news to the editor:

john@aftermarket.co.uk

Fadool named BorgWarner president and CEO

BorgWarner’s executive VP and chief operating officer, Joseph Fadool, took over as president and CEO on February 6. He is also a member of the board. He succeeded Frédéric Lissalde, who has retired and stepped down from the board, but will serve in an advisory role until August 30 to support a seamless

transition, the company said.

Fadool joined BorgWarner in 2010 and has held a number of top positions across the company.

Prior to joining, he worked at Continental Automotive Systems as VP for North American Electronic Operations and at Ford.

Alexis Michas, nonexecutive chairman of the

Rybanska in driving seat for new Auto Windscreens post

Auto Windscreens has appointed Mima Rybanska to the newlycreated post of head of strategic partnerships.

Rybanska, who has a decade of experience in the automotive industry, joins the business from WhoCanFixMyCar.

She is a former supercar instructor for Everyman Racing and has previously worked with the AA, where she launched the AA Approved Garage Network. She has also worked for Comline Auto Parts.

Rybanska will be at the helm of Auto Windscreens’ new Auto

Calibrate service, which is designed to support garages and bodyshops with a remote solution for diagnostics and programming, as well as ADAS calibrations.

Shaun Atton, Auto Windscreens’ business development director, said: “This is the first time we’ve introduced a new product, a remote solution for diagnostics and programming, as well as ADAS calibrations which represent a growing market.”

board, said Fadool has been a trusted member of the leadership team for 14 years.

“Having served as a president of four business units, Joe has an incredibly deep understanding of our industry, technology focused product portfolio, operations, culture and strong customer relationships.

“We believe Fred’s passion for our business and

customer focus have positioned the company for success for years to come. We look forward to celebrating his career over the coming months as we transition to our next CEO and send Fred off to a well-deserved retirement.”

Joseph Fadool

Ann-Marie Dean takes the Dayco helm

Dayco UK has promoted Ann-Marie Dean to provide the new leadership for the team serving the UK and Ireland, following the retirement in December of long-term national sales manager, Steve Carolan.

Dean joined Dayco in early 2018, when she moved from the dealer side of the industry to take on roles in parts operations and business-tobusiness sales for both cars and commercial vehicles, to transition to the independent aftermarket.

Carolan said: “Ann-Marie has an obvious enthusiasm for the industry and that’s a great attribute to have when you also have an understanding of the challenges technicians face.”

Dean said: “Over the last six years, I have benefited from working with a great team, under dependable leadership, during which the business has grown in both its reputation and market share.”

“Although the trade is sensibly looking at how to benefit from the growth in electric vehicles, it’s also wise to remember that the vast majority of the vehicles that will enter the independent workshop for the next decade will have an internal combustion engine, whether petrol or diesel.”

Dean said this meant the automotive sector would continue to need Dayco.

Mima Rybanska

Ann-Marie Dean

Tenneco appoints Perrin as VP for DRiV EMEA

John Perrin has been appointed VP and general manager of Tenneco’s DRiV replacement parts distribution and wholesale business for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Perrin, who started his career in 1996 as an aftermarket territory sales manager for Tenneco, will be based at DRiV’s European HQ in Belgium.

Tenneco is a leading supplier of replacement auto parts through its established aftermarket brands across Europe including the UK market.

DRiV president Chintan

Sopariwala said Perrin had the ideal background to lead the DRiV EMEA team in accelerating product innovation and value creation for businesses and individuals at every level of the automotive and commercial vehicle aftermarkets.

New chapter for Page at Imexpart

Imexpart has announced the appointment of Mark Page as its new sales director.

IMEX said Page, who has a strong background in sales and a proven track record of driving business growth, officially joined the company in December.

Perrin joins DRiV EMEA as the business launches an allnew line of Wagner Sensors and the introduction of new product ranges under the Monroe and Walker brands.

Walters and Barnie join PACT sales team

PACT, the exclusive distributor of TecCom and eparts in the UK and Ireland, has appointed Andrew Walters and Sean Barnie as sales managers.

and supplier partners to help streamline their operations.

Walters has more than 25 years of industry experience, bringing a wealth of sales and technical expertise. He was previously Northern sales and key account manager at Schaeffler VLS UK and will focus on engaging with PACT’s buyer

PACT said Barnie adds significant strategic and operational experience to the team, having launched Fil Filter in the UK and managed Pipercross Performance Air Filters across the UK and EMEA region.

Mark Rudge, director at PACT, said: “We’re pleased to welcome both Andrew and Sean to the team.”

Page’s career over the last 15 years has been focused on the automotive sector, working with manufacturing and distribution organisations, and representing global brands in both OEMs and the aftermarket.

Page said: “The

aftermarket is ever-evolving, with innovation, efficiency, and technical support driving success – and I am excited to be part of the industry at IMEX. I am also looking forward to exploring IMEX’s diverse markets, including LVs, CVs, and the rapidly growing agricultural sector.”

IMEX said the appointment comes as it expands its product range including car and van parts, new parts to cover the agricultural market.

Langford appointed MD of Unipart’s MetLase

Dean Langford has been appointed MD of MetLase, the Unipartowned engineering, manufacturing and assembly company.

Unipart said Langford, who was most recently MD at Safetykleen, has more than 20 years’ senior engineering, manufacturing and supply chain management experience.

He has held senior posts in businesses including McLaren Racing, Cullum Detuners and Ishida Europe.

At MetLase he will lead the development and growth of engineering solutions for safety and mission critical industries.

Unipart Technologies Group MD David McGorman said Langford would support the ongoing development of MetLase’s smart manufacturing and optimised tooling and assembly solutions in a range of target markets including automotive, technology and rail.

Sckuhr named CEO in Freudenberg shake-up

Sealing expert Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has announced a management team shake-up, with Matthias Sckuhr appointed CEO.

Sckuhr was previously

CTO and COO and succeeds Claus Möhlenkamp, who has become deputy CEO of the management board of the Germany-based Freudenberg Group — which includes several UK companies

supplying the automotive aftermarket.

Gary VanWambeke (above, right) has been appointed CTO and he will take over tasks formerly assigned to the COO.

Meanwhile Kerstin Borrs continues as CFO, the post she has held since January 2024. Before joining Freudenberg in 2018, Borrs worked in the consumer goods industry for 25 years.

John Perrin

Mark Page

Dean Langford

Andrew Walters

Sean Bernie

Solutions to all of the puzzles on this page can be found in the Features/Tea Break section of Aftermarket online, see the link below. But no peeking until you’ve put your word and numeracy skills to the test first. Good luck! https://aftermarketonline.net/category/tea-break/

Across

1 Eg sketches (8)

5 Eager; keen (4)

9 Piece of broken pottery (5)

10 Eg primrose and lemon (7)

1-Openingofasubjecttodebate(13)

2-Inflexibleandunyielding(7)

3-Freedomfromcontrol(12)

4-Hotspring(6)

6-Musicalinstrument(5)

11 Something showing a general rule (7)

12 Walk heavily and firmly (5)

13 Meaning; purpose (6)

14 Recreate (6)

17 Stroll casually (5)

19 Item used by asthma sufferers (7)

20 Impinges upon (7)

21 Large crow (5)

22 Dons (anag) (4)

23 Having no worries (8)

1 Opening of a subject to debate (13)

2 Inflexible and unyielding (7)

3 Freedom from control (12)

4 Hot spring (6)

6 Musical instrument (5)

7 Act of vanishing (13)

7-Actofvanishing(13)

8-Frameworkforwashedgarments(7,5)

15-Finished(3,4)

16-Afternoonsleep(6)

18-Animalthatusestwolegsforwalking(5)

8 Framework for washed garments (7,5)

15 Finished (3,4)

16 Afternoon sleep (6)

18 Animal that uses two legs for walking (5

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