Garage Wire Views - Feb '20

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

DVSA

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

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4

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

FULL STORY 5

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

FULL STORY 7

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

FULL STORY 9

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

FULL STORY

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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

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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.

FULL STORY 13

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

FULL STORY 15

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.

FULL STORY 19

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

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20

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

FULL STORY

Financial returns await garages that go ‘paper-free’, says TechMan Electronic vehicle health check remains key pull for garages switching to TechMan

FULL STORY 21

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.

FULL STORY 23

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

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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

FULL STORY

Servicesure celebrates the New Year in style thanks to darts champ partnership Peter Wright wins world championship for first time

FULL STORY 25

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.

FULL STORY 27

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.

FULL STORY 28

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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.

FULL STORY 30

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

31

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

FULL STORY

Yuasa named double British Rally Champion Matt Edwards sponsor at new car launch Team confident about competitive season ahead

FULL STORY 32

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.

FULL STORY 36

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