The digital home for independent garages Issue 1, February 2020
IGA to give independent garages "well-deserved recognition�
MOT chaos continues in Northern Ireland Tony Vincent: Let's not get complacent about health and safety
Hayley Pells: Why I'm not ready to risk employing already skilled technicians (yet)
EVERYTHING CONNECTED UK’s only supplier of ‘one-key’ connection
One control station One control software First-class support
DVSA
DVSA
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Class 4 & 7 Brake Testers
Gas Analysers Smoke Meters
Wireless Decelerometers
APPROVED
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Headlamp Aim Testers (Awaiting DVSA Specifications)
Simple, seamless connectivity for your MOT equipment Industry leaders for over 35 years. Trusted by over 5,000 businesses, Boston products are manufactured in the UK or EU. With full nationwide agent support, we provide invaluable advice on the latest DVSA regulations and offer FREE, no obligation site surveys.
T: 0800 085 0620 E: sales@bostonequipment.com W: bostonequipment.com
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IGA to give independent garages "well-deserved recognition�
17
Hayley Pells: Why I'm not ready to risk employing already skilled technicians (yet) MOT chaos continues in Northern Ireland Tony Vincent: Let's not get complacent about health and safety
23 27 30
News in brief......................... 5
Tech tips ............................. 21
Gone to the polls ...............11
Products and services .... 34
BRAND NEWS ........................ 15
HOT TOPICS ........................... 27
t c u
ewrod N p ec p A
Our cables are made to take the strain. Apec brake, clutch and gear control cables are precision made for smooth operation with long-lasting reliability and durability. • All cables are made with galvanised or nylon coated inner wires and strand design to match OE specification, and are pre-lubricated. • Brake cables are 100% proof loading tested, up to 800 lbs. • Highly resistant to extreme environments and guaranteed for 2 years/24,000 miles. • All steel parts are surface protected with RoHS and EU compliant zinc trivalent plating. • A fast-growing range covering numerous applications.
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NEWS IN BRIEF
AA no longer stopping on smart motorways to assist members over safety concerns
Roadside technicians told to head to safe location and wait for the driver's car to be moved by Highways England
More mechanics and recovery staff are killed every year. Mick N Lesley Fleet on Facebook.
Not safe for breakdown organisations to recover vehicles, says AA president Patrols told to go to a safe location and wait for stranded car to brought to them by Highways England Nine people died on smart motorways in 2019
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S M ee u ec ha s at ne x!
Get on board with BG Products today! • Increased Customer Visits • Customer Retention
• Customer Satisfaction • Increased Profitability
Standard car servicing simply can’t remove the power & MPG-sapping deposits that accumulate in an engine Long-term fuel test
Smart ForTwo, 19k miles MPG before Service
42 MPG
Fill-up 1 - 260 miles later
43 MPG
Fill-up 2 - 277 miles later
48 MPG
Fill-up 3 - 219 miles later
46 MPG
Fill-up 4 - 129 miles later
45 MPG
Fill-up 5 - 276 miles later
49 MPG
Fill-up 6 - 220 miles later
52 MPG
• 42 MPG before Service • MPG readings after each fill-up demonstrate long-term improvement
Result:
10 Miles Per Gallon improvement
Intake Cleaning for Direct Injection • Proven Air Intake Cleaning Service from BG Products • Direct Injection engines particularly susceptible to intake valve deposits forming Did you know... BG’s Air Intake Service Tool Rental prices start at just £16 per month!
To find out more speak to your BG Rep or call 01284 777934
Leaders in automotive solutions and improving garage profitability www.bgprod.co.uk | T: 01284 777934 | Email: info@bgprod.co.uk
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Garage customer demands compensation for car theft Business owner admits dropping car keys but says case is closed after owner received car insurance settlement
The garage concerned in my humble opinion must have an obligation to stand by their customer. Customers are not easily found, but easily lost. Graham Clark on GW forum.
Ford Focus stolen while under care of garage Garage owner admits he dropped keys outside workshop Customer calling for compensation following insurance pay-out
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NOW AVAILABLE ANYWHERE
The next dimension in aftermarket support goes mobile! The REPXPERT online portal has always offered everything to make life for an independent workshop mechanic that little bit easier - so how could we make it even better? Simple. By creating a mobile version with new, exciting and unique functionality! Whether you need to find the right part, would like more information about our chassis, drivetrain and engine products, or even detailed repair instructions REPXPERT still has it all. Designed by experts - for experts. Download the free REPXPERT app now, or visit www.repxpert.co.uk.
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Recovery and repair firm fined over death of mechanic Cable reel drum jack used to support vehicle was not appropriate for the job, deems Health and Safety Executive
A £20K fine for sombody’s life does not seem right or enough. Anthony Roe on GW forum.
Business sentenced after mechanic suffered fatal crush injuries Vehicle fell suddenly from inadequate axle support prop Company fined £20,000
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www.dayco.com
Only the right partner gives the right solution.
Poly-V Belt
Timing Belt
Dayco, the full system supplier and partner of choice of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers. Fit Dayco with confidence and give your customers the aftermarkets OE solution.
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GONE TO THE POLLS
Hybrid and electric vehicles in independent garages
57% 22% 10% 3% 8% “hardly ever� have at least get them in one in every their workshop month
get them in on work on them turn the a weekly basis on a daily basis work away
In the news Bucking the overall trend, combined alternatively fuelled vehicle registrations surged in 2019 to take a record 7.4 per cent market share. HEVs continued to dominate the sector, with registrations increasing 17.1 per cent but it was BEV registrations which experienced the biggest percentage growth, rising 144 per cent
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PROVIDING THE PRODUCT KNOW HOW Shock Absorbers, Coil Springs, Batteries, Starter Motors & Alternators available! Shock Absorbers Over 250 parts Warranty: 36,000 miles / 3 years
Coil Springs Over 160 parts Warranty: 36,000 miles / 3 years
Batteries Over 130 parts Warranty: LV: Standard 5 years, AFB/AGM: 3 years. CV: 2 years
Rotating Electrics Over 550 parts Warranty: 36,000 miles / 3 years
The most recognised auto-parts brand in North America
UK website NAPAautoparts.eu
Technical Hotline now live
03333 136597
Visit www.NAPAautoparts.eu to find your local stockist. 12
GRAHAM STOAKES OPINION
The future's electric because there's no denying climate change Industry author, lecturer and GW columnist explains why he's bought a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Home charging should give me a fully electric commute, with a combustion engine as backup for occasional longer journeys.
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Vi or sit i c vo to all 0 rse da 13 ar y f 53 le. co or a q 720 .uk uo 531 te
every engine in our vast range
is built to last cost 40% less our superior quality remanufactured engines
than buying new NEXT DAY DELIVERY ON ALL STOCKED ITEMS, BACKED BY A 12-MONTH UNLIMITED MILEAGE, PARTS AND LABOUR WARRANTY.
Contact us today on 01353 720531 or visit www.ivorsearle.co.uk for a quote Ivor Searle Ltd, 2 Regal lane, Soham, Cambridgeshire CB7 5BA Tel. +44 (0)1353 720531 Fax. +44 (0)1353 727661 Email. info@ivorsearle.co.uk www.ivorsearle.co.uk
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BRAND NEWS
Boston ‘connected’ decelerometer stores service and parking brake data in single road test Connected MOT equipment rules now extended to now include decelerometers
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WIX FILTERS FOR THE FUTURE
SPECIAL FILTERS
70% DRIVERS ON THE ROAD IN THE UK TRUST INDEPENDENT GARAGES WIX HAVE OVER 150 EV/HYBRID FILTER APPLICATIONS MAKE 2020 THE YEAR YOU GET TRAINED ON HYBRID VEHICLES
With growing Pressure on Vehicle Manufacturers to reduce emissions, along with the continued rise in Hybrid and EV sales. It is important not to be left behind, so get trained on servicing hybrid vehicles in 2020 by booking a course with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).
DID YOU KNOW?
70% drivers on the road in the UK trust independent garages over main dealers*. To maintain this statistic, and with increases of hybrid and electric vehicle production, it is important to get the rel FOUR levels of EV and Hybrid vehicle qualifications, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
*am-online.com
Part of the MANN+HUMMEL Group Check out the latest WIX Filters Hybrid video www.wixeurope.com facebook.com/wixeurope
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BRITISH INDEPENDENT GARAGE OF THE YEAR AWARDS
IGA to give independent garages “well-deserved recognition” Entrants to face tough auditing process and mystery shops before panel of industry experts make judgement Entries open now 12 awards up for grabs Friday 19th June 2020 ceremony
FULL STORY
This is going to be massive. Stuart James, IGA director
ENTER HERE 17
BRITISH INDEPENDENT GARAGE OF THE YEAR AWARDS
2020
ENTRIES ARE OPEN FOR THE BIG AWARDS! A night of well-deserved recognition for Britain’s best and brightest independent garages and technicians. It’s your time to shine - enter today!
It’s time independent garages received the recognition they deserve with high-profile awards truly created by the industry, for the industry. All shortlisted garages will win two tickets to an extraordinary evening of celebration, fine dining and entertainment hosted by actor and comedian Hugh Dennis on Friday 19th June 2020 at the Hilton DoubleTree, Milton Keynes.
You’ve got nothing to lose! Enter today to raise the profile of your garage and be part of an event that truly celebrates Britain’s best garages.
•
Independent Garage of the Year - Overall
•
Independent Garage of the Year - Large
•
Independent Garage of the Year - Small
•
Customer Service Award
•
Communication Award
•
Community Engagement Award
•
Innovation Award
•
Outstanding Achievement Award
•
Training & Development Award
•
Consumer Choice Award
•
Business Improvement Award
•
Individual Contribution Award
ENTER NOW AT:
theBIGawards.org.uk 18
ANDY PARSONS OPINION
This is why customer communication is essential for your workshop's reputation GW columnist Andy Parsons discusses servicing schedules and menus I do find it frustrating that so many garages offer servicing deals.
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The first dedicated online battery training platform
GS Yuasa Academy is a cutting edge online learning platform, purpose built to deliver professional battery training and certification. • • • •
Over 20 detailed training courses More than 100 dynamic videos Downloadable certificates Tailored learning for your job role
Learn at your own pace. Wherever. Whenever.
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TECH TIPS
Volvo D5 engine timing belt installation guide Step by step process avoids complications and ensures a first-rate, professional job
FULL STORY
Everything you need to know about brake system lubricants Braking experts share essential tips and advice for technicians
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Financial returns await garages that go ‘paper-free’, says TechMan Electronic vehicle health check remains key pull for garages switching to TechMan
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All Under Control febi supply a range of over 1,500 Engine Management components, including EGR Valves, Pressure Sensors, Crankshaft & Camshaft Sensors, Air Mass/ Flow Meters, Ignition Coils and Throttle body parts.
Covering more than 65,000 European and Asian vehicle applications, febi is your no. 1 in the Automotive Aftermarket for Engine Management replacement parts. All parts are tested and verified in-house and manufactured to meet or exceed OE standards to provide high-quality and optimum performance. When you want to be sure of quality and fitment, choose febi.
SOLUTIONS MADE IN GERMANY
www.febi.com
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HAYLEY PELLS OPINION
Why i'm not ready to risk employing already skilled technicians (yet) GW columnist, Hayley Pells reflects on industry training and business strategy
I've seen many workshops open and enjoy rapid growth only to disappear just as quickly.
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EXCELLENCE in every blade
Global leaders in wiper blade technology since 1917 For more than 100 years, TRICO® has been trusted to deliver premium wiper blade products to almost every major vehicle manufacturer worldwide. Today, we use this original equipment expertise to bring you reliable, innovative wiper blade products that come through at the moment you need them most.
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER
OEM SINCE
1917
OEM SINCE
1917
trico.eu.com +44 (0)1495 767700
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BRAND NEWS
Further reman engine growth expected after record sales in Europe, reports Ivor Searle Benefits of more sustainable remanufactured components continues to gain traction across aftermarket
FULL STORY
First Line continues range expansion 1,188 new references for passenger cars, light commercial vehicles and trucks added in 2019
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Servicesure celebrates the New Year in style thanks to darts champ partnership Peter Wright wins world championship for first time
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The turbocharger people
BTN Turbo is the only UK supplier of all major turbocharger brands. Technical helpline available for diagnostic information on 01895 466663 or www.btnturbo.com.
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HOT TOPICS
Northern Ireland MOT chaos continues MAHA Ireland scissor model DUO+1 revealed as affected lift Signs of cracking found in 48 of Northern Ireland’s 55 testing station lifts
Testing suspended for cars and light vehicles at all 15 MOT centres
DVA has said it could take months to resolve the situation
I cannot give a date as to when we will have the MOT centres fully and safely operable. Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon.
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HOT TOPICS
Driver and Vehicle Agency faces heavy criticism for MOT lift failures
RMI advises garage owners on what to do to ensure their lifts don't suffer same fate as Northern Ireland's MOT centres Serious health and safety concerns raised about NI’s inspection process thorough lift examination should take place every six months Additional more-frequent inspections and regular preventative maintenance recommended by RMI
Why weren't inspections carried out to the same standard as the rest of the UK? Stuart James, director of the IGA.
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TONY VINCENT OPINION
Let's not get complacent about health and safety GW columnist, Tony Vincent shares his 'Fredin-the-shed' concerns as vehicles become increasingly dangerous to work on
We've all used a tool that's not specific for the job but this really makes you think.
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FULLY WIRELESS DECELEROMETER Connected equipment approved Tests all MOT classes Wireless operation Large colour LCD display Windscreen attachment and storage case included Optional motorcycle handlebar clamp A4 printed results if required All tests uploaded to online customer database
LEADING THE WAY! With Boston’s DC-7500, completing a decelerometer test couldn’t be easier. Service and parking brake results are automatically transferred to the control PC via Bluetooth once the device is within range, and the data is then seamlessly uploaded to the MOT Testing Service.
At the forefront of industry changes, the DC-7500 is part of Boston’s Connected MOT Equipment range of products.
WATCH THE VIDEO bostonequipment.com/dc7500
Simple, seamless connectivity for your MOT equipment Industry leaders for over 35 years. Trusted by over 5,000 businesses, Boston products are manufactured in the UK or EU. With full nationwide agent support, we provide invaluable advice on the latest DVSA regulations and offer FREE, no obligation site surveys.
T: 0800 085 0620 E: sales@bostonequipment.com W: bostonequipment.com
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BRAND NEWS
Auto transmission cleans are an “untouched market”, says expert EDT Automotive automatic transmission cleaner flushes and conditions
FULL STORY
New equipment and savings featured in SIP 2020 winter promotion Limited-time deals available until 31 March
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Yuasa named double British Rally Champion Matt Edwards sponsor at new car launch Team confident about competitive season ahead
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N O I T O M O NEW PR LE NOW! AVAILAB Contact: 01509 500500 | email: new@sip-group.com and quote ref: GW for more details
www.sip-group.com | machinery specialists since 1968
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PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Clean DPFs in the workshop from £29 a week with DCS-16 machine Machine promises to remove up to 100 per cent of carbon, soot and ash
MORE DETAILS
FROM: Carbon Clean
Pass wires through bulkhead grommets with ease thanks to new kit Wire insertion set and guide tool now available
MORE DETAILS
FROM: Laser Tools
Save on this 70-piece insulated tool kit VDE certified tools for safe working up to 1,000 volts
MORE DETAILS
FROM: PROSOL 34
Number 1!
From way out west to the far east, LuK is far and away the world’s favourite clutch. As a world leader in transmission technology, LuK doesn’t just make OE clutch systems for European vehicle manufacturers. As the aftermarket’s number one clutch brand we supply complete repair solutions for almost all Japanese and Korean applications too. Benefit from Schaeffler’s original equipment experience and engineering excellence wherever it’s made and whatever the application, fit a LuK clutch. www.repxpert.co.uk | www.schaeffler.co.uk/aftermarket
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TIM BENSON OPINION
Oldfields Garage explains why it says no to customer supplied parts Tim Benson calls for support from customers and explains why garages shouldn't be afraid to make profit from parts This isn't unusual or a terrible thing, every business needs to make a profit to be able to grow.
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