GW Views Issue 7 - Mar '17

See and hear more

Your open window on today’s garage market

Reader Reviews

Mini-Ductor Venom induction heater

Plus:Winntec turbo-lift trolley jack

Issue 7, March 2017

Industry unites to fight ‘ludicrous’ 4-1-1 MOT plans

PLUS How digital training is bringing a new level of flexibility

Everything you need to know about brake pad quality

We test the BG Products DPF and emissions system service

Caroline Lake: Why is our industry still totally unregulated?

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1

Your news CONTENTS your VIEWS your magazine 17 Industry unites to fight ‘ludicrous’ 4-1-1 MOT plans

THE independent aftermarket is showing fierce opposition against government plans to extend the period before the first MOT test is needed from three to four years.

However, a recent GW poll suggests that 40 per cent of independent garages are unaware that the consultation is currently open and that the government is calling on both industry professionals and the public to respond to its official survey.

With that in mind, this issue’s ‘hot topic’ brings you all you need to know about the proposals along with key arguments and how you can make your views heard before the consultation closes on 16 April, 2017.

Sticking with MOT-related deadlines, time is running out for MOT managers and testers to complete the DVSA’s newly enforced MOT training and assessments.

The aim is to raise standards across the board but some of those who have already completed their assessments have expressed some serious concerns, as we reveal on page 17.

Elsewhere in GW Views we visit the TMD Friction manufacturing facility to speak to the experts about the dangers of counterfeit brake pads (page 24).

We also test out the BG Products DPF and emissions system service in a GWTV video feature (page 27) and GW readers try out the Mini-Ductor Venom induction heater and Winntec turbo-lift trolley jack in reader reviews (page 32).

Keep your news and comments coming in, you can tweet us @GarageWireUK or email me directly.

Mike Ruff | Editor michael.ruff@garagewire.co.uk

Everything you need to know about brake pad quality

BG Products DPF and emissions system service

Reader reviews: Mini-Ductor Venom induction heater

How digital training is bringing a new level of flexibility

24 27 32 44

News................................................. 5 GONE TO THE POLLS ........................... 8 OFFBEAT NEWS ................................ 13 TRAINING ........................................ 44 Products and services .............. 47 DRIVING FORCES ............................. 60 VIEWING WINDOW............................ 65 3

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NEWS

The news that’s got everyone talking

Industry shock as gov officially proposes four-year MOT exemption FULL STORY...

New cars and motorcycles may no longer require an MOT for the first four years under proposed plans.

“In my experience as an MOT testing station owner of 22 years, there are very few vehicles that pass their first MOT after three years. It is not uncommon these days for a vehicle to have covered more than 100,000 miles in the first three years. Service intervals are far greater and there is an awful lot that can and does go wrong in this period.” Nigel Tye of Tyetune Auto Services in Kettering.

“To even mention that it will save the motorist a million pounds a year in the same sentence as road safety sums up the idiotic thinking behind this. If we have the safest roads in Europe why has it entered anyone’s head?”

Kevin of Chetwode Motors in Crewe.

FULL STORY...

FULL STORY...

HOT TOPICS: MOT CONSULTATION “Unfortunately a large proportion of motorists do not see the MOT as a minimal safety standard and when they are given the pass, they have no intention of checking their vehicle for lights, brakes, tyres or steering components for another 12 months. I cringe when I hear them say ‘great, that’s it for another 12 months’. To have a vehicle that does not get checked for four years is ludicrous.” Simon Draper of Quicksave Motorist Centre in Lytham St Annes.

Kwik Fit charges for unnecessary work in undercover sting National fast-fit shamed following an investigaprompted by company whistle-blower.

FULLtion, STORY...

FULL STORY...

FULL STORY...

“I worked for Kwik Fit about six-years ago, as an assistant manager and the pressure the big bosses put on me was ridiculous. The manager at the time went AWOL and I was left to run the place for six months. I thought I did really well but the staff were whinging because there was no bonus each month, although the figures were all fine. After sixmonths they employed a bakery manager from Sainsbury’s to be the manager and my boss. Go figure.” Adam.

“This is a problem that will only get worse for fast-fits. Vehicles are now very complex systems and you need to understand how they work in order to repair them. Some fast-fit centres turn over staff rapidly and it’s hard for them to train and keep technicians.

I have worked in fast-fits and main dealers in the past. I now own my own independent workshop and believe a good independent is where you will find the best people to work on your vehicle.

Reputation and personal service is everything.” Scott of JMS Automotive in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

5

NEWS “We all know diesels have been killing people. I can remember a decade or more ago, mechanics working in London bus garages were awarded compensation for health problems caused by their work, so that’s a given. Any garage worker will agree that modern diesels are so loaded with technology that they are prone to expensive issues. For years now, I have been telling my customers to buy petrol cars.

They’re cleaner and have become far more efficient, so even the mpg figures are far closer than they ever were. Yes, hydrogen or electric cars are the future but, as I see it, we’re not quite in the future yet.” Peter Miles of Polson Hill Garage in Crediton.

Gov now likely to introduce diesel scrappage scheme

FULL STORY...

FULL STORY...

A scrappage scheme for diesel FULL cars STORY...could be introduced within months, according to officials, despite the DfT previously denying plans last year.

“What happened to LPG at the beginning of the noughties? It was supposed to be cleaner for the environment and the engine and manufacturers were making dual-fuel cars. Was it a case of more people making money out of diesels so LPG went out of the picture? I think it’s the same for electric cars.” Trevor Ross.

Rising concern as MOT training FULL STORY... completion is ‘lower than expected’ FULL STORY...

FULL STORY...

MOT stations that fail to com“New-fangled ways need time to sink in. There will be a huge influx of exams that will crash the system nearer the plete DVSA enforced training by cut-off date and then they will have to extend it anyhow.”

31 March, 2017 may be vulneraPaul Robbie of Paul Robbie Motor Services in Hexham. ble to sanctions.

Nissan faces pressure to recall Navara after dozens snap in half

STORY...

Worried owners are left in theFULL dark as up to 35,000 UK Navaras could be affected by chassis rust. FULL STORY...

FULL STORY...

“We have one in the workshop at the moment, a Pathfinder. The customer has just had their second child. I dread to think what may have happened.” Anon.

“My Nissan Navara D40, 2006 nearly snapped in half. I had to rebuild the chassis all the way back from the cab.” Michael John Owen of Norwich Motors.

6

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GONE TO THE POLLS

Reader views in numbers

Response to the government’s official survey about 4-1-1 MOT proposals • 43 per cent have or will be completing the survey.

• 40 per cent didn’t know there is consultation survey.

• 17 per cent fear their opinion will not make a difference.

DIDN'T know about the survey

How should the UK tackle the diesel emissions problem?

35%

• 35 per cent think VM’s will need to make diesel technology cleaner.

• 28 per cent argue VM’s should invest more in alternatively fuelled vehicles.

• 23 per cent say the government should introduce a scrappage scheme.

• 14 per cent think VM’s should invest more in the petrol engine.

Part-worn tyres

73%

• 73 per cent believe it should be illegal to fit part-worn tyres.

• 19 per cent say we need tougher enforcement of existing regulations.

SAY IT SHOULD BE ILLEGAL TO FIT PART-WORN TYRES

• 8 per cent say part-worns are an affordable alternative for customers.

Join the debate and share your views with GW 8

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GONE TO THE POLLS

MOT training and assessments GW readers share their views on the newly DVSA-enforced MOT training and assessments…

90 PER CENT of independent garages know about the requirements of new MOT training and assessments but many are concerned about how effective these changes will be when it comes to improving testing standards, a GW reader survey has revealed.

One respondent said: “I could not believe how easy it was to pass.

“I was expecting a bit of a challenge but completed the first attempt in seven minutes, completely unaided, and my score was 83 per cent.”

Another commented: “How can this possibly be construed as training?

“If a question is wrongly answered you are given the correct answer.

“It is purely and simply a cost-cutting exercise for the DVSA, nothing else.”

Almost three quarters of the survey respondents would agree.

Just two in ten believe the new system is a ‘skills investment’ while the majority showed strong opposition to the increased tester costs, including one respondent who argued that it’s “another nail in the coffin for small independent operators”.

A number of respondents claimed that some of the assessment questions were either incorrect or irrelevant.

One said: “The questions were vague and sometimes contained two possible answers.

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“Advisories are optional, so how can you possibly have a multiple-choice question containing the answers ‘pass’ and ‘pass and advise’?”

The findings also highlight concerns that the new system could be open to abuse.

One respondent wrote: “I heard of a garage that was going to get the apprentice to spend a day completing the training and assessments for the whole team.”

Another said: “This new system is crazy.

“Before you had to physically attend a course put on by the very people who monitor it.”

What you need to know MOT managers and testers should complete and record at least three hours of training every year before booking the assessment.

Both the training and assessment must be completed before 1st April, 2017.

The current pass mark is 50 per cent but the DVSA has confirmed that it will be raised in the coming years.

For 2017-2018 assessments, it’s been proposed that the pass mark could be raised to 60 per cent.

By the 2019-2020 assessments, it may be raised to 70 per cent and then raised again to 80 per cent for the 2021-2022 assessments.

New training topics will be set each year, based on the latest tester error rates.

The DVSA has suggested that next year’s subjects are likely to include tyres and corrosion.

90%

ALMOST

of independent garages are fully aware about the requirements

10% say they are now able to invest in their own skills

believe the changes are overdue

64% 25%

COMPLETED OR will complete the assessment with a training provider *Survey results compiled in February 2017

8% argue that the changes do not go far enough to improve standards

HAVE completed training and assessment so far

17%

COMPLETED or will complete training with a training provider

say the new MOT training and assessments are ‘another DVSA cost-cutting measure’

The vast majority COMPLETED or will complete both the training and assessment individually

View the full survey results...

11

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OFFBEAT NEWS

And in other news…

Embarrassed Halfords technician loses customer to independent GW reader and technician of more than 30-years, Stan spotted a Halfords technician outside the front of a store, struggling to fit a bulb to a customer’s Ford Mondeo Mk3.

Feeling sorry for the concerned looking owner of the car, Stan asked the technician if he needed help and explained that he’s able to change the bulb in just a couple of minutes with minimal fuss.

The Halfords employee told Stan that there’s no room to work and that he’s had to dismantle various parts to try to gain better access.

Frustrated, the fitter then offered to pay for the part Stan had just bought from the store if he could indeed replace the bulb in under two minutes.

Up for the challenge, Stan quickly removed the two holding pins behind the headlamp and disconnected the plug before removing the complete headlamp unit from the car to swap the bulbs and reassemble.

Stan said: “He told me that he got trained on a Vauxhall and that he had no idea the headlights could come out like that.

“The Halfords customer thanked me and asked where I worked so I’ve got a new customer now.

“I asked the Halfords technician if he was going to pay for my part as promised but he nearly cried.

“I just smiled and said no need, as long as he’s learnt how to do it properly.”

Why it’s best left to the experts RICHARD Walford of Newcastle upon Tyne recently took delivery of a Vauxhall Vectra 1.9CDTi after it cut out at 70mph on the motorway.

Just a few days earlier the owner of the car had a friend replace the belt but he had neglected to tighten the tensioner.

Richard said: “The pistons took a hammering, it’s smashed most of the rockers and even bent the valves, it wasn’t pretty.

“The guy who put the belt on didn’t tighten the tensioner, it continued to run badly before the belt completely disintegrated.”

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HOT TOPICS

Have your say on the news

Industry unites to fight ‘ludicrous’ 4-1-1 MOT plans Proposed options

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

GW reveals the key arguments the aftermarket is making against government plans to extend the MOT exemption period for new cars.

PROPOSALS to extend the period before the first MOT test is needed from three to four years has met fierce aftermarket opposition.

The extended exemption, which could come into effect as early as next year, has been pitched as a ‘money-saving’ move for owners of the 2.2 million cars that undergo their first MOT test each year.

Stuart James, director of the Retail Motor Industry Federation, told GW Views that the plans would see 400,000 unroadworthy vehicles remain on our roads for another 12 months.

“22 per cent of cars fail their first MOT at year three, that’s over 400,000 cars per year,” he explains.

“Let’s face it, at year three 17 per cent of cars are repaired because they fail.

“If a number of those cars are not repaired between the three and four-year period, you have a projected 19 per cent at year four, plus the 17 per cent from year three.”

What’s more, many believe the government figures used to promote the 4-1-1 system are flawed because new vehicles are often serviced ahead of their first MOT to ensure a pass.

Commenting on GW, Colin Gossage of the Independent Vehicle Test Audit Service said: “The information that the Great Minster House is using to qualify this change, is skewed.

Option one: Keep the current period for vehicles requiring a first MOT at three years, with no change.

Option two: Increase the age all vehicles get their first MOT from three to four years.

Option three: Increase the age cars and motorcycles get their first MOT from three to four years, but keeping it at three years for vans in classes four and seven.

The government’s preferred choice is option two or three.

It is anticipated that option two would result in 8.3 per cent fewer tests while option three would result in 7.5 per cent fewer tests.

The consultation closes at 11:45pm on 16 April, 2017.

You can respond to the official government survey online.

Alternatively, you can email your concerns to MOT411consultation@dft.gsi.gov.uk “The real condition of three-year-old vehicles is never seen by the politicians making this change.”

Chris Cross of Auto Technics in Merseyside said: “The government’s findings are wrong but unfortunately they don’t see the big picture.

“All MOT testers do is keep the roads safe, just wait until death rates increase on our roads.”

Claims made by the Department for Transport that 4-1-1 would save motorists

17

HOT TOPICS

Test stations are being encouraged to respond to the consultation survey and forward examples of MOT failures.

to much debate in recent years and many GW readers are questioning why the aftermarket’s concerns are not being heard.

Jeffrey Morris of Nations Garage Ltd in Birmingham said: “We see the state of these cars so why not take our advice?

“4-1-1 will kill more on our roads without a doubt.”

Similarly, Neil Backhouse argues that the government’s plans “rely heavily on consumers maintaining their vehicles”.

“We know that most only pay for vehicle maintenance as a last resort,” he explains.

over £100 million a year have also been brought into question.

GW reader, Lee Heywood said: “We see the state of these cars so “Where will this money be saved?

“If anything, the extended use of a why not take our advice.” defective vehicle is likely to increase repair costs and negate any saving “I have been in the motor trade for 25 years from the lack of MOT cost. and I have seen some diabolical repairs and “Add to that the three-year warranty that failures, the majority are down to a lack of will have expired and no formal inspection maintenance. undertaken, the sale value of the car is likely to “I have seen vans coming in for the first test reduce.” where the rear trailing arm mounting points Stuart James believes vehicle owners rely on have snapped away. the MOT to underline any potential defects that “Leaving these to progress for another may become more severe and costly to rectify at year is going to result in more road traffic a later stage. collisions and increased death rates.”

“The only outcome that can come from this is a significant increase in failure rates, an increase in driver prosecutions for driving unroadworthy vehicles and increased repair costs at year four,” he adds.

“If a set of brake pads are worn down and there’s an advisory at the MOT, the consumer A number of trade associations and bodies, can get those brakes pads changed before they including the Independent Garage Association run metal-to-metal on the discs.

(IGA) and the Independent Automotive “The MOT at year-three can save consumers Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), are working money because they will have that chance to together to argue against an MOT extension, change the brake pads before they damage the warning that the change would be detrimental discs.” to drivers and will have serious safety Another key claim made in the consultation implications. document is that “modern vehicles have become The ProMOTe campaign has also been generally more resilient to wear and tear with improvements in manufacturing techniques established in response to the government’s and materials” but the industry has been proposals. quick to point out that tyres, brakes, steering It is a broad-based coalition representing and suspension components will always be road safety groups, motoring organisations vulnerable to wear. and industry bodies all opposed to what are “What the government does not understand dangerous, expensive and unnecessary plans. is that the people in our industry are the experts The advice for test stations and garage on motor vehicles, we know that motor cars go owners is to respond to the consultation wrong,” Stuart explains. survey, forward examples of MOT failures and “Components that wear on those cars have to raise awareness among customers about nothing to do with the manufacturing techniques the dangers of extending the first MOT. of today.”

MOT testing frequency has been subject

What is the industry doing to fight the proposals?

18

Four years until the first MOT Dangerous

Expensive

y r a s s e c e n Un The Government is planning to reduce the frequency of the MOT test. This backwards step in road safety will cost lives, so the is lobbying on behalf of the industry to ensure our roads remain safe.

Visit www.ProMOTe.org.uk to find out why the proposals are dangerous, expensive and unnecessary, and respond to the consultation.

Discover the many benefits of IGA membership at:

www.IndependentGarageAssociation.co.uk Or call our friendly helpline team on 0845 305 4230

19

Automechanika Birmingham 2017 launches ‘workshop training zone’ for garages The UK’s biggest aftermarket event is set to get bigger with more on offer for the independent garage owner and technician.

AUTOMECHANIKA Birmingham will be back from 6-8 June, offering workshop visitors the opportunity to discover, network, learn and be inspired.

More than 800 exhibitors, including the who’s who of the aftermarket, will provide product launches, great deals on garage and diagnostic equipment, parts and tools at an event which will be 70 per cent bigger than in 2016.

New for the this year, the workshop training zone will offer technicians, garage owners and all technically minded visitors practical tips, technical know-how and live demonstrations from leading industry experts.

The new offering for workshop attendees is the perfect opportunity to get hands on with some of the latest technologies and learn best practice from the experts.

In association with Autotechnician and sponsored by AcTronics, the workshop training zone provides two exciting elements for visitors; technical talks and the interactive workshop.

Industry experts including Frank Massey, James Dillon, Andy Crook and Peter Coombes will spearhead a programme of technical sessions, training and advice to address the most pressing issues facing workshop technicians.

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Mega macs diagnostics device has DoIP covered Diagnostics over Internet Protocol (DoIP) allows vehicle manufacturers to manage the ever-increasing amount of data generated but where does it leave the independent sector? Neil Hilton, head of business development for Hella Gutmann Solutions reports.

“...capability to diagnose vehicles equipped with an ethernet interface for DoIP compatibility...”

WITH many workshops already feeling the pressure when it comes to the bottom line, particularly in light of forthcoming legislation such as compulsory pension provision, the spectre of further investment in diagnostic tooling to cater for either of these developments, is far from welcome.

For those workshops relying on a Hella Gutmann Solutions Mega Macs diagnostic device, the picture is altogether more positive.

Providing they regularly update their tool, there is no need for workshops to make any additional investment, as the Mega Macs range already has the capability to diagnose vehicles equipped with an ethernet interface for DoIP compatibility and are also fully passthru enabled.

Our software developers were able to implement the new requirements in the diagnostics software.

All diagnostic functions right through to calibration/adjustment and coding can be carried out on current vehicles – such as the Volvo XC90 or the 2016 models of the Audi A4 and the BMW 5 Series – which communicate via ethernet.

Our developers have even made preparations in the event of VMs introducing additional, currently unknown ethernet transmission protocols, in the future.

In this eventuality, Mega Macs users will simply use an optional universal adapter, which is coupled with the VCI or the OBD interface and functions like a switch to take on the task of protocol manager and will even automatically detect if the vehicle is working with DoIP. Individual adaptations take place entirely in the background thanks to the Mega Macs software’s ability to handle specific requirements.

For the technician, this means that vehicle diagnostic procedures remain unchanged.

01295 662402 22

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23

ON THE ROAD

LISTEN NOW

Aftermarket features worth reading

Braking standards: Everything you need to know about brake pad quality

LISTEN NOW

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

GW uncovers the research, development and testing behind every box of Mintex brake pads.

LISTEN NOW

WHEN was the last time you looked at the labelling and closely inspected the finish on a set of brake pads?

If it’s been a while, you might want to double check that what you’re fitting is in fact what you think you’re fitting.

Regulation 90 (R90) specifies the design, construction and performance requirements for brake friction material and should guarantee that replacement pads will provide equivalent performance when compared to the original.

However, Ian Featherstone of global OE manufacturer, TMD Friction, told GW that technicians should be vigilant to ensure the parts they’re fitting do indeed meet this standard.

24

He said: “R90 is a minimum standard and is really good legislation, providing everybody is actually meeting it.

“We all need to ensure that the parts that are out there in the field today do meet that standard and that the guys that are actually fitting them to vehicles are ensuring those pads and lined shoe products do have that regulation on them.”

During an interview for a GW podcast, he explains how TMD Friction helped Trading Standards to uncover a counterfeit part, which was marked with TAXTE T490 FF as opposed to TEXTAR T490 FF. Highlighting the risks involved for an independent unknowingly fitting such parts, he advises technicians to ensure the box is sealed and that the contents match the description on the label.

Should you have any suspicions about the authenticity of parts, the majority of manufacturers will be able to confirm if the part you’ve got is genuine – to check the authenticity of Mintex brake pads, email uktechnical@tmdfriction.com.

ON THE ROAD

Behind the Mintex brand Part of TMD Friction, Mintex has supplied the aftermarket with braking solutions for over 100 years.

In addition to pads, discs, shoes and drums, the brand’s product range also covers accessories, ensuring technicians are able to replace worn or damaged clips and springs.

MORE DETAILS TWITTER 01274 854000

TMD Friction helped Trading Standards uncover counterfeit pads.

Extensive testing ensures quality and reliability.

While automotive technology has changed dramatically since 1908, when Mintex first made its commitment to safe braking, the brand’s reputation has stood firm.

With Mintex brake pads, garage owners and technicians can be safe in the knowledge that

“... we’ll go through a two to three-year cycle of product testing in labs, on dyno machines and out on the road ...” they’re fitting a reliable brake pad that not only meets R90 but exceeds it, Mintex UK technical sales manager, Scott Irwin told GW. He added: “We manufacture everything, we don’t buy from third-party sources so you can be sure that everything in that box has gone through a life cycle of research, development and testing.

“For a new vehicle that’s coming out, we’ll go through a two to three-year cycle of product testing in labs, on dyno machines and out on the road and then during the manufacturing process there is a series of quality control checks.

“Should a sample fail any of the tests, the entire batch is recycled.”

25

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ON THE ROAD

BG Products: Complete DPF and emissions system service

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

REPORTS suggest that the number of vehicles suffering DPF-related issues is still on the rise and while there are a variety of different solutions available for such problems, BG Products say its approach is “unique”.

CURIOUS to find out more, GWTV joined BG Products at Springbok Garage in Chesterfield, where a Vauxhall Insignia was to be treated with the BG DPF and emissions system service.

Paul Dobbyn, director of BG Products explained that while other options tend to tackle the symptom of a blocked DPF, BG Products attacks the cause of soot build-up by additionally restoring poor combustion.

The service cleans from the air intake, through the engine and on to the DPF. Paul said: “The less efficient the combustion, the more soot is produced and deposited

down into the DPF. “If you’re going to clean the DPF, you need to restore the engine as well.

“What we’re doing is restoring the three vital components of a diesel engine.

“If we restore atomisation of the injectors, if we restore compression and if we restore good air flow, then we’ll have good combustion, minimising soot production and therefore prolonging further DPF blockages.”

After explaining the science behind service, the BG team got to work cleaning the Insignia’s air inlet and DPF. The DPF was held at regeneration temperature and fed four litres of BG’s atomised cleaner, through the air inlet manifold.

27

ON THE ROAD Craig Reed of BG Products said: “It’s designed to cause a restriction on the inlet, generating a vacuum to bring the DPF temperature up to about 350ºC and spray an additive in to bring it up to the burning point of soot, 550ºC.” The pre-service differential pressure readout was 12 kilopascals at 2500rpm. This was

The pre-service differential pressure read-out was 12 kilopascals at 2500rpm. reduced to just over half a kilopascal after a 20-30 minute service.

To minimise the risk of further soot accumulation, the car was treated with BG’s fuel system cleaner and was left to run for 20 minutes with BG’s oil flush before the oil was drained, replenished and treated with BG’s diesel oil conditioner.

Paul added: “There’s going to be an everincreasing number of DPFs that require cleaning so there’s a big opportunity here for independent garages to not only clean the DPF, as opposed to sending it away to be cleaned, but also give their customers a better running car too.”

28

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29

Comline focuses on copper-free friction British brake pad manufacturer Comline has announced that it is to remove copper from its allmakes brake pad range.

ENVIRONMENTAL concerns in both California and Washington State have led to a clampdown on copper and other toxic materials contained in brake pads, after it was found that these materials have been polluting streams, rivers and the wider marine ecosystem.

New regulations are to be implemented in both states.

Effectively banning the use of copper in brake pads altogether.

By 2021, all manufacturers and importers must self-certify that their brake pads contain less than 5 per cent copper.

And by 2025 that figure must be lower than 0.5 per cent – effectively banning the use of copper in brake pads altogether.

Whilst these regulations are only applicable in these two US states, Comline has said it

30

will remove copper from its brake pads and is “already well-ahead of the curve” with a copper-free, R90-compliant range.

Comline director of braking product development, Dr. Keith Ellis said: “Comline is aiming to be at the leading edge on copper-free solutions for the independent aftermarket in Europe.

“We already have our range in place for passenger cars and LCV with a similar copperfree offering for commercial vehicles – trucks and trailers – nearing completion.

“There may not be any direct, regulatory need for Comline to go copper-free here in Europe, but we cannot rule out the possibility that such laws might – and I emphasise might – be introduced here in the future.

“In addition, now that we are aware of the potential negative impact on the environment, we are obviously keen to eradicate copper from all Comline pads at the earliest opportunity.”

Comprehensive range covering all popular European, Japanese and Korean vehicles Pads manufactured by Comline and offer full ECE R90 compliance Hassle-free installation and consistent, reliable performance Comline coated brake disc reduce installation times and ensure corrosion-free appearance throughout the life of the part

“Comline continues to establish itself as one of the fastest growing automotive brands in Europe.

Braking is at the forefront of this success.”

“Our commitment to delivering consistent, reliable quality and genuine value-for-money has seen technicians in over 40 countries place their trust in Comline braking. This, coupled with a string of recent awards and accolades, has seen Comline ‘braking’ new ground across the globe.’”

Dr Keith Ellis Comline Director of Braking Development

31

READER REVIEWS

Have your say on the latest products and services

Mini-Ductor Venom induction heater 4.0

Key features and benefits • Angled design with trigger: The lightweight, ergonomic design makes it easier to access hard to reach areas.

• Coil twist lock: The coils lock down with one turn.

• LED usage indicator: A red LED will light under fault conditions and a green LED lights while the trigger is active and the tool is heating properly.

• Fault override delay: Any event that causes the red LED to illuminate will protect the tool by starting a three second lock out.

• Fan operation enhancements: The fan continues to run after the trigger is released to aid in thermal cycle time reduction, and will stay powered when the thermal switch opens to aid in cooling the tool.

• Two-year parts and labour warranty.

AVAILABLE FROM THE INDUCTOR

01953 859138 32

Induction heating tool proves itself to be a handy workshop addition and is more than capable of dealing with stubborn nuts and bolts.

DESIGNED to improve workshop health and safety and get the job done faster, the new Mini-Ductor Venom induction heating tool has a long list of potential uses.

READER REVIEWS

From releasing ABS sensors and brake bleeder nuts to freeing corroded exhausts and manifold bolts, this tool makes for a handy addition to your kit.

GW reader, Jason Smith of JGS Autos in Redditch put the Venom through its paces at his garage and told GWTV that it has proven itself to be more than capable of releasing heavily corroded parts without the risk of a naked flame or other, more dangerous methods of heating.

He said: “It’s a doddle to use.

“You just plonk the electrode coil on the fastener, pull the trigger and wait, that’s it.

“When it starts to glow, go for it.

“There’s a standard fitting that goes on your average bolt and then you’ve got a couple of coils that you can make up to get into awkward spaces.

“It’s awesome for exhausts, manifold down bolts and exhaust clamps, especially if you’re working by the fuel tank.

“It’s spot-on and a lot safer than oxyacetylene.”

Where he couldn’t normally use oxyacetylene, Jason said he would struggle

The Venom can turn a threequarter inch nut red hot in under 15 seconds

33

with grinders and bolt extractors to remove troublesome fixings.

The Mini-Ductor Venom generates invisible heat to release ferrous and some nonferrous metals from corrosion and thread lock compounds without the dangers of open flame – and up to 90 per cent faster too.

The Venom can turn a three-quarter inch nut red hot in under 15 seconds.

Jason explained that while it’s difficult to stick a value on the majority of tools because you can’t guarantee how much use you would realistically get out of them, the Venom’s ability to cut the time of a job makes it worthwhile having.

He said: “If you can do the job without breaking the bolt, it’s saving you minutes if not hours.

“Sometimes, if you do break a bolt, you find yourself having to remove even more components to get the job done but the Venom makes the job that much easier, and that’s the value of this tool.”

The tool is supplied in a durable carry case, comes with three coils and features a two-year parts and labour warranty.

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READER REVIEWS

Winntec three tonne turbo-lift trolley jack

Designed to make light work of vehicle lifting, Car Care Services has its say on how the Winntec jack performs in a busy workshop environment.

WINNTEC is an established manufacturer, developer and supplier of garage equipment.

It aims to make work more efficient with innovative and unique features, such as the ‘turbo-lift’ system on its three-tonne trolley jack, which GW reader, Mark Tranter of Car Care Services in Halesowen offered to review for a three-week test period.

With big promises of quality and reliability, Mark’s initial expectations were met.

He said: “When I first unpacked it, I could see that it looked a decent quality unit.

“It’s well put together and looks pretty robust.”

However, Mark’s workshop staff told us that they are wary of any jacks that claim to offer a so-called ‘turbo-lift system’.

4.0 SPEC SHEET • Three-tonne lifting capacity.

• ‘Turbo-lift’ pump system for rapid saddle to chassis positioning.

• 120mm to 450mm lifting range.

• PU wheels minimises noise and risk of floor damage.

• Rubber pad/grip.

• Chrome plated main ram.

• Three-year manufacturer warranty.

AVAILABLE FROM SIP 01509 500500 35

READER REVIEWS

“The Winntec jack is so much easier to locate and get it to exactly where you need it.”

36

Vehicle technician, Lee Chater explained: “A lot of them say they’ll be a quick lift when in reality, they’re terrible but we haven’t done too bad with this Winntec one.

“It takes a bit of effort but it goes up pretty quickly.

“The other thing I’d say, with some jacks when they’re jacked up there can be a lot a travel in the arm but when this one is in use there’s no movement at all, it feels solid.”

For Mark, it was the PU wheels that truly impressed.

He said: “It might sound daft but if you’re on the phone in the workshop and someone else is dragging a metallic jack across the floor, it can be really noisy.

“The wheels on this jack aren’t too noisy at all, they also spin around well too.

“We’ve got another jack with similar wheels but it seems to be much more difficult to manoeuvre.

“The wheels seem to stick to the floor so you can’t guide the jack to where you want it.

“The Winntec jack is so much easier to locate and get it to exactly where you need it.”

The three-tonne turbo-lift trolley jack was rated a four out of five by staff at Car Care Services who would recommend it as a “good all-rounder” for other workshops.

What’s particularly attractive is a three-year Winntec warranty – applied across the range – which includes wear and tear.

The complete Winntec lifting equipment range is exclusively available from SIP Industrial Products.

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PROBLEM JOBS

Head scratching nuisances

Volkswagen Toureg loses engine power Diagnostic tool points to air mass sensor fault but investigation reveals air supply system is to blame.

A vehicle technician has reported an issue with a customer’s Volkswagen Toureg suffering with a loss of engine power and poor acceleration.

Job SHEET Vehicle: 2008 Volkswagen Toureg TDI. Problem: Loss of engine power and fault code reading P0100.

History: Air mass sensor has already been replaced.

38

The car was initially thought to have had an air flow circuit malfunction but after replacing the air mass sensor the warning light still appeared on the dashboard and the symptoms remained.

After further investigation, it was discovered that the turbo actuator was intermittently

The turbo actuator was intermittently malfunctioning. malfunctioning, causing the same symptoms that a faulty air mass sensor would experience.

To rectify the situation, the actuator was replaced in order to prevent the fault becoming permanent over time.

According to Cambiare, VAG TDI engines rely heavily on the turbo at low-revs, which is why the turbo actuator is likely become worn.

Checking that all turbo air pipes are clean and free from any kinks or clogging will help ensure the turbo isn’t put under too much pressure.

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For more information: Contact your local Cambiare representative.

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39

Ford C-MAX 1.6-LITRE TDCi timing belt kit installation A step-by-step guide to help technicians through the process, avoiding complications and ensuring a first-rate professional job.

REMOVE the cowling from within the front wheel arch of the driver’s side to expose the auxiliary belt system.

Slacken the auxiliary belt tensioner with a spanner and hold the tensioner in position with a 6mm pin (figure 1) to take off the belt, then the tensioner, followed by the crankshaft pulley.

This will reveal the phonic sensor and the RPM sensor connector, which needs to be disconnected.

Remove the lower screws of the timing case and then move the coolant reservoir to one side to gain access to the engine mount, which once the engine has been suitably supported from below, needs to be removed, along with the engine mount flange.

Then remove the timing case to expose the timing drive system.

Using a suitable pin, such as a drill bit, hold the camshaft pulley in its timing position.

The crankshaft timing must be carried out with a pin inserted in a hole in the engine block (figure 2), Dayco recommend painting a mark on the crankshaft pinion and engine case.

Loosen the bolt on the timing belt tensioner and remove both bolt and tensioner, followed by the timing belt.

40

Job SHEET Engine: 1.6-litre TDCi with belt driven water pump.

Vehicles: Ford C-MAX, as well as several Citroën, Mini, Peugeot and Volvo models.

Notes: As replacing the belt also requires the auxiliary drive system to be removed, Dayco recommends that all the systems’ components – timing drive and auxiliary drive – be replaced at the same time.

Replace the idler with the new one from the Dayco kit KTBWP4930 and tighten the nut to 35Nm. Using another suitable pin, hold the fuel injection pump pulley in the correct position and then remove the water pump.

Ensuring that the cooling system has been flushed through and no debris is present, install the new Dayco water pump, complete with its seal, followed by the new tensioner, taking care to position it as shown (figure 3).

Install the new HT timing belt, with its slack section facing the tensioner.

With an allen key, rotate the tensioner anticlockwise to tension the belt correctly and tighten the bolt to 25Nm and then rotate the engine and check the timing.

The correct belt tension has been achieved if the tensioner is positioned as indicated (figure 4).

Refit all the components in their reverse order, but check, and if necessary, replace the crankshaft pulley with Dayco DPV1068, the fastener for which should be tightened to 30Nm + 180, and the auxiliary belt tensioner APV1076.

Dayco recommend the auxiliary belt 6PK975 is always replaced.

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Visit the Dayco virtual garage at www.dayco.com for technical information.

The original power in motion 41

Your Borg & Beck brake questions answered First Line’s brake brand manager, Len Finlay responds to some of the most frequently asked questions.

What are the benefits of complete braking kits for technicians?

Parts are supplied with all the necessary accessories for complete ease of fitment, as well as the additional benefits that the BECKTEC coated discs and double rubber Wolverine shimmed pads provide.

Brake kits enable technicians to fit parts that are sourced from the same supplier, therefore preventing potential issues that can arise with mixing and matching.

Backed up with a comprehensive two-year/24,000-mile warranty against manufacturing defects, technicians can have complete confidence when installing any Borg & Beck product.

All relevant components are supplied by Borg & Beck, so there will be no need to re-use worn parts.

Where do you see the market going for braking?

How do BECKTEC discs differ from other coated discs?

Some manufacturers offer a coating on the hat and rim of the disc arguing that coating the friction surface can reduce efficiency.

This is only the case for coated discs with a painted finish, which is oil based and cannot be applied to the friction surface, as this can adversely affect friction performance due to its organic content.

The coating on Borg & Beck’s BECKTEC discs is a water based product, which is designed exactly, not to reduce but improve efficiency via heat dissipation.

42

and pads, ensuring that all components meet the high standards expected for safety critical items.

The latest technology in the braking world are the bi-metal discs, also known as the semi compound discs, found on high end BMW applications.

These discs have aluminium hub joined ring by special steel heat generated during preventing distortion.

a corrosion resistant to the cast iron friction pins, which allows the braking to spread freely

The use of aluminium in brake discs makes the discs lighter, helps with fuel consumption and provides a smoother drive.

Intelligent thermal management is key to disc design, as it avoids overheating.

For a technician who hasn’t fitted Borg & Beck, what are the advantages?

MORE DETAILS

The Borg & Beck product team specify the exact material makeup of the Borg & Beck discs

01869 248484

43

TRAINING

Digital training brings a new level of flexibility

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

Technicians and workshop owners are praising Our Virtual Academy for its innovative approach to technical training.

GW Views finds out why.

WHILE you’re likely to understand the importance of training to update your knowledge and ensure you’re able to efficiently work on today’s vehicles, you’re also likely to recognise the difficulties many independent garage owners face when it comes to taking the time out of the workshop to invest in worthwhile training courses.

It’s a predicament that an innovative new digital training concept hopes to eliminate.

Our Virtual Academy gives 24/7 access to interactive video content, designed to save garage owners and technicians time and money while also improving workshop productivity.

44

Since its launch late last year, the online training service has already attracted more than 2,000 registered users.

Andrew Ferris of Ferris Bros in Cardiff has completed a number of modules and told GW Views that it’s “a streamlined new way of training”.

“It’s cost effective and extremely flexible because it allows me to do a bit as and when I want to,” he explained.

“Only the other day, I had an email advertising a smart charging training course but it’s covered over three evenings and I can’t guarantee that I’ll be available for those dates.

“If I went ahead and booked the course, I could find that I’m ill or that something else has come up and I just can’t make it, in which case I’ve not only lost the training opportunity but I’ve also lost my money.”

Flexible training Alan Markworth of Our Virtual Academy told GW that it’s all about training “little and often” rather than in one big burst.

He said: “Our training model allows technicians to complete training during the natural down-time in the workshop.

“Traditionally, garages have had to face the expense of lost revenue and then there’s the cost of the training course itself plus the travel and accommodation.

“There’s always something new to learn but with Our Virtual Academy you can learn where you want, when you want.

“It’s an on-demand service so you don’t

have to schedule your work around your training, you can actually schedule your training around your work.

Technician, Glenn Norris has praised Our Virtual Academy for its refreshing approach to training.

He told GW Views: “The way it’s all been put together makes it easy to understand and follow.

“Some of the classroom-based courses are so full-on that you just can’t take it all in at once, you need time to absorb it and that’s what Our Virtual Academy allows you to do.”

Course coverage Training is available 24/7 through an easy-tonavigate dashboard, which allows users to select a category and module.

A report feature allows users and managers to track the training progress and gives details on completed courses.

The content covers a wide range of topics from the core fundamentals through to more complicated subjects such as hybrid and electric vehicle technology.

What’s more, Our Virtual Academy say it will continually add more content at no extra cost to subscribers.

Glen added: “I’ve just done the hybrid and electric course.

TRAINING

“It’s an on-demand service so you don’t have to schedule your work around your training..."

“Each module shows visual pointers and they’re referred to throughout the course.

“It helps you to remember the bits that you’ve done before and helps visualise why certain things are happening, like the electron flow for instance.

“I’m 40 now and the memory has started to go a little, especially with a million and one other things going on in my life.

“The way Our Virtual Academy puts it all together really helps me get to grips with the latest developments.”

MORE DETAILS 020 3286 2228

45

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ULTRASONIC CLEANING TANKS Ultrasonic cleaning is based on the cavitation effect caused by high frequency ultrasonic wave vibration in fluid.

Microscopic bubbles are formed and they implode violently causing the cavitation, creating an intense scrubbing action on the surface of the item being cleaned.

46

Strength in Quality

PRODUCTS & SERVICES MECH5 cloud diagnostic savings ‘Leap forward in professional diagnostics’ enables garages to deliver new levels of service and efficiency for their customers.

Hickleys MORE DETAILS

New VAG diesel fuel filter compressor

A glance at the best products, services and offers

2017 Autodata wall charts Technical information includes exhaust emission data, diesel engine speeds, catalyst emission data, MOT warning lamps and brake testing weights.

Autodata

MORE DETAILS

Claim your free coil kit on Mini-Ductor Venom Orders Save £125 + VAT in March and get a free coil kit when you place a Mini-Ductor Venom order.

Induction Innovations

Locate the filter correctly and ensure a fuel-tight seal.

Laser Tools MORE DETAILS

MORE DETAILS

Colour rendering index inspection lamp New tech makes work easier for mechanics and body shop technicians.

Ring Automotive

MORE DETAILS 47

Damper Timing and auxiliary tensioners

Clutch Release Bearings

Transmission Bearings

Air Conditioning Bearings

Suspension Arm Kits

Brake discs with integrated bearings Water pump kits Timing belt kits

Conception et réalisation Service publicité NTN-SNR -© NTN-SNR 07/2016- Crédits : Visuelys - Pedro Studio Photo

Constant Velocity Joint

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Speed Sensor

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The Parts Alliance and Delphi to send garages on USA ‘dream drive’ A new promotion from Delphi and The Parts Alliance will see six lucky garage customers enjoy the road trip of a lifetime, along America’s iconic Route 66.

THE ‘dream drive’ promotion will run for two months from March 1st across The Parts Alliance’s south west branches and through members Allparts, CES, GMF, SC Motor Factors, Dingbro, BBC Superfactors and BMS Superfactors.

Throughout the campaign a scratch card will be included with all sets of Delphi brake pads.

These offer not only the six road trips but over £16,000 worth of Love2Shop vouchers, which can be spent at a huge selection of leading retailers.

Further prizes include a ‘taste of America’ where winners will eat for free at McDonalds, Burger King and KFC and Delphi branded beanie hats, thermal mugs and baseball caps too.

Delphi pads are manufactured to meet OE standards, with heat absorbing underlayers, noise reducing chamfers and dampening shims as well as pressed steel back plates.

Julian Goulding, UK marketing manager at Delphi, said: “Triple British Touring Car Champion Matt Neal will be helping get the ‘dream drive’ message out.

“It’s an exciting initiative that we hope will really capture the imagination of garages that place their trust in Delphi brake pads.”

For the six lucky main winners, the delights of Route 66 await; the all-American road trip starts in Chicago and finishes at Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles – travelling across eight states.

The winners will visit landmarks including Lake Michigan, cowboy culture capital Oklahoma City, Grand Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, steakhouse centre Amarillo, the Hoover dam plus iconic stops like Cadillac Ranch, Midpoint Café and the Route 66 Auto Museum.

The panoramic views in between can be enjoyed from the comfort of a Ford Mustang.

The prize includes personalised itinerary, flights, hotel accommodation and car hire, with the road trip taking two weeks to complete.

“We’re delighted to be working with Delphi on such a high profile national promotion,” said Simon Moore, head of marketing at The Parts Alliance.

MORE DETAILS 49

Thousands of prizes to win!

Purchase Delphi brake pads during March and April* and you have the chance to win amazing prizes, including the trip of a lifetime along America’s iconic Route 66. *Through participating distributors

Chicago

St. Louis

Grand Canyon

dreamdriveusa.com for more information delphiautoparts.com

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Las Vegas

Los Angeles

Philips partners with Euro Car Parts for limited time lighting offer Exclusive Philips has launched a limited run of workshop lights in Edd China’s celebrated orange and green colours.

THE Philips multi-directional lighting system (MDLS) has won both plaudits and equipment tests in the three years since its introduction.

The MDLS consists of three independent LED modules.

Thanks to their 300-degree easy-rotating head and the tilting 120-degree lens, each module can be placed virtually anywhere.

The MDLS module features a rugged housing in which the high-LUXEON Rebel LEDs are located.

Each has two light modes: 120 lumens and 200 lumens.

The simultaneous operation of all three modules is unique in creating a shadow-free work area, which therefore ensures optimum safety, efficiency and flexibility.

GW reader offer Euro Car Parts (ECP) is running a short promotion, until the end of March, where the Edd China limited edition MDLS is available at just £99.99+ VAT. To make the offer even more tempting ECP will include a free set of Philips Vision Headlamp bulbs too.

The +30 per cent brighter than standard headlamps have long been regarded as a great combination of performance and length of lifetime.

What’s more, if you mention GW during the offer period, you’ll stand a chance of winning one of five pairs of tickets for the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) round of your choice.

Philips sponsor rising race star, Tom OIliphant is driver of the Philips Racing Vision Porsche – named after the headlamp bulb that Philips launched at the end of 2016 – which is competing in the Porsche GB championship that forms part of the BTCC meetings.

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52

Any Part For Any Car

Stockport garage reports on its business success Joint workshop owners share their story with GW and explain how they have grown successfully with Longlife exhausts.

LONGLIFE Stockport is one of just three 'centres of excellence' in the Longlife network.

Technicians, Craig Baxter and Andrew Smith launched the business in September 2007 selling just custom exhausts, alloy wheels and tyres.

They’ve since expanded the business to include Longlife stainless steel exhausts and complementary services including suspension, brakes, ECU tuning and turbo chargers.

Craig said: “We build at least one full exhaust system per day and that's alongside walk-in work and long-term projects.

“We get a lot of returning customers, especially those with race or track cars that are constantly trying to progress.

“In 2011 we invested in the latest ECU tuning equipment and in 2016 installed a 2WD 1200bhp rolling road, which is a great tool for showing the gains from the exhausts we build.

“We now host our own monthly rolling road power league days too – many customers return to modify their vehicles to climb higher up the league tables.”

For Craig and Andrew, it was the “superior quality” of Longlife products that appealed to them and their customers.

What is a Longlife exhausts franchisee?

Manufacturer and supplier, Longlife boasts a wide range of custom build stainless steel silencers, tailpipes and other exhaust components.

Longlife currently has a network of around 30 ‘franchisees’ across the country, ranging from small one ramp operations right up to much larger businesses with multiple bays.

Franchisees benefit from being able to design and fabricate an exhaust for any vehicle using the finest quality 304 grade stainless steel.

MORE DETAILS 01308 422282 53

Garage Owner?

Looking for a complimentary service to add to your existing business?

As a Longlife Franchisee, you could produce bespoke, 304 Grade Stainless Steel Exhausts for any vehicle - see our build process video below...

Enquire today about the benefits for your business: www.longlife.co.uk | 01308 422282 | franchising@longlife.co.uk 54

CAROLINE LAKE OPINION

Why is our industry still totally unregulated?

GW columnist, Caroline Lake expresses anger over the government’s reluctance to consider licensing.

TWITTER A few weeks ago, I had my boiler serviced and the nice engineer duly showed me his ID and Gas Safe certificate.

A few weeks before that, I had my chimney swept and the lovely young chap proudly showed me his accreditations.

I previously had no idea there was such a

thing as a Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, but I tried to look suitably impressed.

So what, I hear you cry, has this to do with the garage industry?

Well, I am amazed and shocked – in fact horrified – that our industry is still totally unregulated.

Any Tom, Dick or indeed Harriet, can set up a garage with no qualifications, experience or knowledge of anything.

No licencing or regulation required.

Anyone can work in a garage and private punters can happily, and often dangerously, work on their own cars.

My Mother, could set up in her garden shed tomorrow and call it ‘Mum’s Motors’ – no problem.

Except there is a huge problem.

55

A car is a potentially lethal weapon and growing increasing complex by the day.

And with over 30 million of them on our roads, surely it is of paramount importance

let alone fiddle with my brakes, steering or suspension.

Most importantly, voluntary means only if you want to, which means that a lot of the excellent garages out there will join but that will do nothing to stop the rogue traders and cowboy outfits, who are after making a fast buck with little or “My Mother, could set up in her no regard for the quality of their garden shed tomorrow and call it work.

The IMI work tirelessly to ‘Mum’s Motors’ ...” improve standards within the industry and offer an impressive range of qualifications and accreditations. that they are safe and therefore, the people But I bet that the bloke who fitted the carrying out repairs, know what they are wrong brake pads to a BMW I serviced last doing and are answerable for that? week has never even heard of the IMI or any Not according to the government. other garage industry organisation.

I wrote to the Transport Minister a few And if he has, would he join? years ago, and received a reply (probably Highly unlikely I think. written by his secretary), which stated that the Surely motorists need to be protected government had no intention of introducing from the likes of our BMW cowboy but scarily any form of licencing but were encouraging studies have shown that many assume that ‘voluntary schemes’. the industry is regulated and that, as with my Yes, there are several ‘schemes’ which boiler man, their mechanic will be qualified pertain to provide customers with a reputable and licensed. garage.

However, from my own personal experience these schemes are run by “Surely motorists need to be protected from companies who are more interested in the likes of our BMW cowboy...” you selling their products than checking whether you can do the job properly.

So, what to do?

There are a couple of garages in my local There are some fantastic garages out area who are members of such schemes, and there, who have a wealth of knowledge, do I wouldn’t trust them to blow up my tyres a professional job and really care about their customers.

Hopefully some of them will be reading this article.

But I feel that until the government realises the seriousness of the situation and how many dangerous cars may be on our roads, our industry will be tainted by the unscrupulous outfits that are allowed to trade.

I had thought of writing to parliament again, but fear at the moment they are so wrapped up in Brexit and Trump, that even the secretary might not have time to reject my ideas.

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Turbo experts reinforce the importance of diagnosis

A blocked filter or intercooler, obstructions, leaks or splits in any hoses or pipes, or even using non-OE spec parts, can lead to turbo failure.

A split air intake hose can make the turbo over-rev and overboost.

Is the engine modified or worn out with low compression?

“... it’s vital to change the oil, and replace the oil and air filters, when you fit the new turbo."

A diagnostic fault code that points to the turbo could be highlighting the result and not the cause, explains BTN Turbo.

If the turbo isn’t receiving the amount of energy it was designed for, it won’t perform properly or may fail prematurely.

REDUCED power, excessive noise and smoke are often blamed on the turbo, but figures suggest that just one per cent of socalled turbo failures are due to a fault with the turbo itself.

More than 90 per cent of turbo failures are oil related: either oil starvation or contamination.

The turbocharger is an integral part of the engine’s air, fuel, cooling and oil systems, which means any problem in these systems will have an effect on the turbo.

To ensure the problem doesn’t return, BTN Turbo say it’s essential to find out what caused the turbo to fail.

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BTN Turbo tech advice

Even simply overfilling the engine oil can over-pressurise the system and damage the turbo – or suggest there’s a turbo problem.

Always examine this area first when you’re searching for a fault.

Remember it’s vital to change the oil, and replace the oil and air filters, when you fit the new turbo.

MORE DETAILS

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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DRIVING FORCES

Protecting the future of the independent aftermarket

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

The IAAF’s chief executive, Wendy Williamson speaks exclusively to GW Views about the federation’s latest lobbying efforts.

THE Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) promotes the independent aftermarket as a credible alternative for vehicle service and repair.

"... securing the future of the independent automotive aftermarket."

Through its links with government departments, regulators and allied trade associations, the IAAF tackles a wide range of

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industry threats including eCall telematics and the connected car, technical data access and type approval on aftermarket parts.

It’s a busy agenda, but for the woman behind the lobbying strategy, Wendy Williamson, it’s all about securing the future of the independent automotive aftermarket.

In an exclusive interview with GW Views, Wendy said: “Our prime focus is on the parts supply chain.

“It’s one of their biggest expenditures for garage owners which is why it’s important that we engage with them so that we can represent their views when it comes to parts.

“One of the campaigns that we still advocate is advising garages not to purchase parts that they haven’t sourced themselves.”

It’s a subject that often prompts much debate here on GW. While some garage owners would argue that it’s turning away business, others would say it’s not worth the risk and happily turn down any work that involves parts of unknown origin.

Industry expert and former owner of Brunswick Garage, Andy Savva has recently been appointed as the vice president of the IAAF, and actively discourages independent garages from dealing with risky parts.

Wendy said: “It’s down to the individual garage but it becomes very complicated if there is an issue.

“The garage has got to be absolutely sure that it’s of the right quality and that it’s the correct part for the application.

“From all of the work that I do in accessing technical information, I know how difficult it is even for experienced parts suppliers to sometimes know the exact part that’s needed so for consumers to go online and google the part, it’s likely they may end up with the wrong part.”

Industry threats

Other challenges that the industry is to face in the coming months include type approval and the connected car.

DRIVING FORCES

Wendy told GW that the IAAF has recently welcomed many of the amendments approved by the European Parliament’s Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee (IMCO), as part of the forthcoming type approval legislation.

It relates to the diagnostics, repair and maintenance of vehicles and is an important step towards improving the legislative framework for independent operators.

Wendy told GW that the most immediate threats that the IAAF is working on include the government’s proposals to extend the first MOT from three years to four years.

“Over 184 amendments were approved but the most important one is keeping the OBD port open and accessible because under current legislation the OBD port only has to be accessible for emissions data so to have that as an amendment is a key early success.

“I’m working on a response both individually and from the IAAF but I’m also working with my colleagues from the Automotive Aftermarket Liaison Group (AALG).

“We have played an active role in achieving these amendments and have written to and met with UK MEPs to request support on a number of key changes.

“Myself, Stuart James from the Independent Garage Association and Dave Garratt from the Garage Equipment Association are all attacking this both individually and from an industry stance.”

“Whilst there is still a long way to go, this is a great result for the independent automotive aftermarket.”

HOT TOPIC: TAP HERE FOR THE LATEST ON 4-1-1 MOT PROPOSALS.

When it comes to the connected car threat, the IAAF is calling for a standard interoperable platform” to ensure independent operators get unmonitored remote communication with the vehicle and its data.

She

said:

“The

independent

61

aftermarket must be given the same access to data as the dealer network will have.”

While the connected car is not a new challenge, Wendy says the pace of change is accelerating and that the aftermarket must adapt.

Wendy’s headline views Diesel demonisation The government has encouraged us all to buy diesel engines but we’re now getting evidence that NOX is damaging.

The Euro Six cars that are increasingly coming into the market place are certainly far better for the environment but I think we’ll see more radical change in the future.

I would argue that the future of cars as we know it today is very much up for debate.

There’s the development of hybrids, electric, hydrogen, and probably technologies that we don’t yet know.

I think these will become the dominant force in the future so we need to make sure garages are geared up to repair these vehicles.

We need training courses and we need parts availability so it’s a huge body of work that needs to be done.

We are facing some tough challenges but I think we’ve got a support structure

around the aftermarket to help garages, factors and distributors throughout the network to survive and compete in the future.

“There’s the development of hybrids, electric, hydrogen, and probably technologies that we don’t yet know."

Brexit It’s too early to really understand what the full implications of Brexit are.

The only impact we’ve seen so far have been economic factors, with the fall in the pound against the dollar and the Euro.

Until we understand what the shape

“It’s important for us to keep free and fair competition "

of Brexit means for the country, hard, soft or something in between, it’s very difficult for us to really gauge what the concerns may or may not be.

From my point of view, block exemption underpins a lot of what we do in the aftermarket.

It guarantees that the consumer has got the choice of where to take their car to be serviced at any stage.

Wendy warns that the aftermarket must be prepared for the rising number of alternatively fuelled cars.

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It’s these sorts of rights that I’ll be making sure get flagged up.

It’s important for us to keep free and fair competition in this country.

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Ring Automotive to reinforce commitment to European markets Henry Bisson of Ring Automotive explains how the vehicle lighting and accessories aftermarket supplier will “take control of its own destiny” come Brexit.

PRICES are already rising at the pump as people try to recover the gap caused by buying in dollars.

the reaction of those it works with and has therefore also given the business a chance to step-back and consider what its own response will be.

Business across Europe has reported growth year-on-year as we offer an alternative to the traditional markets.

In order for us to build on this success, and to reinforce our intentions and commitment to Europe, we will be investing in these markets.

Far from waiting to see what happens, we are budgeting to invest in Europe and very much see the markets as an opportunity for further and future growth.

In the wider automotive market, with more

This means logistics and distribution costs are rising, so eventually “... opportunity to strengthen the business in prices for aftermarket products will too. what will inevitably become an increasingly Conversely, in competitive and turbulent marketplace."

Europe, sales volumes are rising as they benefit from the increase in the value than 30 million cars on the roads in the UK, the of the euro against the pound. industry is not going to disappear overnight.

It can be argued that this does bridge the However, as an industry that relies heavily gap short-term but we have to consider the on export, predictions may signal the end for longer-term impact of Brexit. some foreign businesses that could simply Working with distributors and retailers feel it is too expensive to produce in the UK. across Europe, Ring has remained close to We can only predict what foreign owners contacts since the European referendum to will do and use past-experience to influence monitor the changing reaction as Brexit talks this. progress.

We are hopeful that production will not be Following the initial announcement, and moved from the UK, which would result in the the headlines that ‘vote out’ created, contacts loss of skills and jobs. have become cautious.

We can’t change it but we can plan for In the short-term it’s business as usual but change and use this as an opportunity to how long this continues is unpredictable. strengthen the business in what will Having such a strong network across inevitably become an increasingly Europe has given Ring a greater insight into competitive and turbulent marketplace.

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VIEWING WINDOW

A candid glimpse into the mind of a vehicle technician

Patrick Heaher of Interserve Auto Repairs in Swansea sits in the hot seat for GW’s Viewing Window What was your first job?

Well it was at the same place as I am now, funnily enough.

I started 35-years ago after I went to a careers event.

I told them what I was good at and what I was interested in and they told me to be a mechanic.

I wanted to go into electronics but they said I’d find mechanics a lot easier than electronics – how foolish was that?

"I wanted to go into electronics but they said I’d find mechanics a lot easier than electronics."

What was on your last job sheet?

What's the best car you’ve worked on?

I’ve just finished up with an Audi TT. I’ve also changed a fuel tank on a Peugeot 406 and now we’re doing a turbo on a Toyota Rav 4 and we’re servicing two Isuzu pick-ups.

So, not a lot really!

That would be my mark one Escort 1300e.

It was voted seventh best in the country and I owned it from 1984 to 1994.

I let it go just before they started fetching good money.

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VIEWING WINDOW And the worst car?

Zastava Yugo 311, what dreadful cars they were!

What's the most useful garage tool you have used?

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What's the most useless garage tool you have ever used?

There’s too many of them but I’d have to say the pneumatic brake caliper ‘pusher upper’, can’t stand them.

They just don’t fit in the caliper.

People swear by them but I just don’t get on with them at all.

I would say the tool that holds the bottom suspension arms down, the ones that you actually wind.

What do you listen to in the workshop?

Absolutely fantastic bit of kit!

Especially when you do the Peugeot 206s, it’s superb for that job.

It’s been on constantly for the past two years but I’ve no idea what station it is – too busy working!

VIEWING WINDOW

Patrick Heaher (third from left) with his colleagues at Interserve Auto Repairs.

"... technologies will come and go."

What's your ideal day off?

It would have to be more than a day.

I’ll take a week in Mexico because I’ve been there before and absolutely loved it.

What was the most embarrassing moment of your career?

Perhaps as an apprentice, when I put pistons in a Transit van backwards.

It lasted about 500 yards before the engine seized up.

It taught me a valuable lesson about which way pistons go in.

What is the highlight of your career so far?

Well, I work miracles every single day in here.

What is the biggest challenge the industry faces at the moment?

Biggest challenge at the moment is hybrid and electric vehicle technology, making sure that we don’t kill ourselves when we’re working on them.

We’ve got six hybrids in the fleet but we haven’t done any training yet but we’ll have to eventually.

I think these technologies will come and go but it’s very similar to what’s been happening to the turbo diesel technology at the moment.

It’s OK when it’s new but then it doesn’t work ten years down the line – try finding a BMW diesel that hasn’t blown up yet.

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RIGHT CHOICE.

Vehicle manufacturers choose DMF for a reason.

So should you.

The DMF has been originally fitted for more than 30 years to over 100 million European vehicles because it is the best solution for damping drivetrain vibration in today’s smaller, lighter yet more powerful engines.

As well as helping vehicle manufacturers meet ever more stringent emissions targets, the DMF is also the only technology that delivers the performance, economy and comfort benefits that modern drivers demand.

In reality there is only one guaranteed choice: Fit a genuine Dual Mass Flywheel from LuK. You need more? We can help! www.repxpert.co.uk | REPXPERT Hotline 01432 264264 |

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@REPXPERT_UK

Castrol makes further investment in CarVue parent company GW speaks to Autino's chairman, Geoffrey Finlay, following the lubricant giant’s announcement earlier this year, to find out what it means for the industry.

Why is this announcement so significant?

It’s not only significant in the history of Autino, but we believe it will also prove to be significant for the motor industry.

We’re enormously proud to be strengthening our partnership with one of the biggest names in the industry BP, who’ve reinforced their belief today that Autino and our products are set to play a big part in the digital consumer revolution gathering pace in automotive.

What part are you playing in this consumer revolution?

You only need to look at Uber with taxis, Deliveroo with food delivery and Expedia or AirBnB with the travel and hotel industries to see how the need for convenience and a better customer experience have driven huge change in a short space of time.

The automotive industry is not delivering this level of convenience and experience when consumers go to get their car repaired, and that’s what our products address.

From the point of booking in to dropping your car off at a garage, there’s very little availability and pricing information and communication; it’s still very much on the consumer to see when their car is ready to be collected.

How are your services helping to improve the motor industry’s customer experience?

CarVue, which we released in 2014, is a globally-available workshop system

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for garages, mobile mechanics, bodyshops or any other type of service and repair outlet that can be tried on any device free for 30-days.

CarVue allows these businesses to step up from paper or old-fashioned installed software systems and manage their bookings, customers, jobs and invoices easily whenever and wherever they want, and with a minimum investment of only a month at a time.

Taking the IT worries away from garages was a big motivation behind CarVue. Our newest product is in the final stages of development and we’re really excited about releasing it this year.

BayConnect is an advanced platform that sits between the big automotive supply chain companies, and the garages, dealers and DMS systems.

It can pull and push data from a wide range of software systems, websites, data providers

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and services which we use to power online booking systems, customer communication portals, upsell and cross-sell solutions and a lot more.

As cars become increasingly more connected, and as car drivers demand more

“Taking the IT worries away from garages was a big motivation behind CarVue." insight and better experiences, big brands, manufacturers and garages alike need to be delivering the same kind of consumergrade experience they are getting in other walks of life, and that’s what BayConnect can do.

Sogefi cabin filter available for Citroen C1, Peugeot 108 and Toyota Aygo Sogefi has released aftermarket cabin filters for Citroen C1 II VTi, Peugeot 108 VTi (1.0 and 1.2) and Toyota Aygo VTi (1.0 and 1.2).

“... activated carbon filter stops all particles as well as odours."

THE new pollen cabin air filter stops all particles bigger than 40-microns, including surrounding dust, pollen, bacteria, brake residue, mould, sulphur oxides and exhaust gases.

Through the IAM brands Purflux, FRAM and CoopersFiaam, Sogefi offers two types of filters to the aftermarket that protect against external pollution as well as any bad smells: pollen and activated carbon filters.

The activated carbon filter stops all particles as well as odours.

In addition, it reduces the likely concentration of noxious gases inside the car that could cause both headaches and coughing.

Sogefi’s design of this type of filter consists of three filtration layers: one active carbon layer between two layers of non-woven fibres.

In a statement, Sogefi said: “The longer cabin air filters remain in the car, the worse the accumulation of bacteria inside the vehicle becomes, which lowers the flow of fresh air into the cabin.

“In an urban environment, filter efficiency reduces even faster, especially in traffic jams and at low speeds when exhaust gases can create a dangerous gas tunnel in the cabin.”

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