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As longest day dawns tool up for summer!

Where has the year gone? It seems only the other day that I was packing the Christmas tree away and now summer is officially here.

The longest day of the year whizzed by in June and we are now entering what is known to the media world, particularly the national press, as the ‘silly season’.

Journalists often turn their attention in these summer months to more trivial and frivolous stories to make up for a lack of ‘hard news’.

This is prompted by institutions such as parliament going into recess and the onset of the traditional summer holiday season for industry, with the daily diet of news to feed a hungry media reduced Depending on which newspapers or online platforms you get your information from you might not notice much of a difference in terms of trivia!

However, I can of course assure you that Aftermarket magazine is certainly not straying over to the silly

Editor

John Shepherd

john@aftermarket.co.uk

+44 (0) 1732 370 345

Head of Sales

Angela Lyus

angela@aftermarket.co.uk

+44 (0) 7823 736 629

Managing Director

Ryan Fuller ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk

Marketing Manager

Hope Jepson

hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk

side. And why would we? Our industry is always a hive of activity — even if some of you are preparing to take your own summer break away from the workshop.

This double issue is packed with all the latest industry news and up-to-the-minute insight you can rely on, including topical business and informative technical articles, plus our regular features section spotlighting the innovative products and services being rolled out for the aftermarket.

Looking ahead, the next edition will be out in time for the start of September — when our search to find the nation’s Top Technician, Top Garage and Top Apprentice for 2025 really heats up.

We will be preparing for the semifinals of Top Technician, which take place in October, followed in November by the finals of all three contests, and of course the awards evening and gala dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Coventry.

For those of you who have entered,

Production Design

Anthony Wiffen

production@aftermarket.co.uk

+44 (0) 7851 612799

Finance Department

accounts@dfamedia.co.uk

+44 (0) 1732 370 340

Contributors

Martin Brown | Patrick Faulkner

Bill Fennel | Simon King | Phil Peace

Jay Wheatley

I wish you the best of luck and hope that, in between preparing for the competitions and getting on with the day job, you have a chance to take a summer break.

Whatever you are up to in the weeks ahead, don’t forget to get in touch and tell me more about you and your business. It’s always good to get out of the office and visit garages to find out more about what makes your business tick. You and your team could be featured in a future edition of the magazine.

Enjoy the issue!

John Shepherd Editor

Published by DFA Media Group 192 High Street Tonbridge Kent TN9 1BE

+44 (0)1732 370340 ISSN 2516-9149

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

focus on training and support

LKQ Academy has announced several open day events designed to highlight the “realworld value” of its training, products and services.

Each event, aimed at existing and prospective customers, will provide a hands-on introduction to how LKQ supports the skills development of technicians throughout their careers.

Following events in June, the remainder are in Avonmouth (July 24) and at its flagship training centre at T1 in Tamworth (July 14).

Parts supplier APA says Leonardo contract Academy open days

Events start in the early afternoon, with attendees being taken through a presentation on the courses available through the LKQ Academy before touring the training centre at their chosen location.

Events will also feature products and demonstrations from suppliers including Autel, Texa, GYS, Autoclimate and REM. Additionally, Kielder

and Autowave will exhibit at all six events, while Laser Tools will showcase its products at Tamworth and Avonmouth.

A networking session will round out each event, offering customers the chance to engage with local LKQ ECP sales teams and branch representatives.

More than 90 in-person LKQ Academy courses are available and range from delivering the skills needed to service hybrid and electric vehicles, to helping support staff become more adept at handling customers’ queries.

Alongside its inperson training, the LKQ Academy provides more than 300 e-learning courses, and recently introduced bespoke, oneday customer courses for garages with unique requirements.

For locations, dates and booking details contact your local LKQ branch or account manager.

Replacement car parts manufacturer APA Industries has announced a major warehouse expansion that the firm said will directly boost supplies for the UK and other markets.

APA said it has completed a 40,000 ft2 expansion to its existing 100,000 ft2 warehouse in California to speed-up orders of more than 9,000 SKUs, supporting its ÜRO Parts and Autotecnica brands and products.

Unipart has won a three-year contract with Leonardo, a £17.8 billion global industrial group building technological capabilities in aerospace, defence and security.

Under the terms of the deal, Unipart will be responsible for warehousing and logistics services, contributing to Leonardo’s support of the UK & Irish fleet of commercial and public service helicopters.

Darren Leigh, CEO of Unipart, said: “In an industry facing a number of challenges, ranging from production demands to sustainability targets, it’s crucial for Unipart to provide best-in-class supply chain performance improvement solutions that deliver sustainable growth.”

The announcement came

Drew Persson, APA’s director of brand strategy, told Aftermarket magazine that while the expansion is in the US, it is a key part of the firm’s global strategy as it serves customers across the UK, Europe, US and Asian markets.

“This investment directly benefits them by allowing us to expand our inventory of exclusive and hardto-source SKUs. This means faster fulfilment, greater depth of range, and stronger supply continuity — all of which are increasingly important for UK distributors and garages looking for reliable sourcing partners.”

just weeks after Unipart reported an increase in turnover to more than £1 billion last year, a 3.2% yearon-year rise. Meanwhile, underlying profit before interest and tax increased 29.5% to £28.1 million.

The company also celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Unipart brand in 2024 — a year in which the business said it also extended supply chain partnerships with a number of automotive OEMs across operations in the UK, US and Asia-Pacific.

Ben unveils shake-up of leadership team

Automotive industry charity Ben has announced changes to its senior leadership team as part of its new strategic direction.

Martin Smith has been appointed as director of finance, governance & impact. He will oversee Charitable Impact on an interim basis and work closely with CEO Rachel Clift.

Smith has over 20 years of experience in the charity sector, primarily as a finance director for benevolent fund charities.

Other changes include: Matt Wigginton, part of

Ben’s former executive team, who is now director of growth & development; Ellen Plumer has moved into the newly created role of head of awareness & experience. She will still lead marketing, communications and outreach and have additional responsibility for significantly raising awareness and enhancing the user experience of Ben; Sarah D’Addio has been appointed head of HR. She has served as interim HR manager since 2023 and now formally joins the senior leadership team.

Gary Burgham, HR director,

Ecobat Battery acquired by UK investor Endless

UK and European automotive battery

major Ecobat Battery has been acquired by private equity firm Endless for an undisclosed sum.

Ecobat, a leading specialist supplier of batteries and energy storage solutions for a wide range of applications, has a network of 23 distribution hubs in the UK, Ireland, France, Netherlands, Belgium and Spain.

Endless, a UK-based private equity firm, has acquired the battery maker

and Zara Ross (former CEO who moved into the role of transfer programme director) have now left. Ben said they had been pivotal in supporting the organisation’s strategic direction to transfer its care and village services to suitable, alternative operators; Jonathan Cox, finance director, has also stepped down but will remain with Ben for a period to support the transfer process.

CEO Clift said: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Gary, Zara, and Jonathan for their outstanding contributions to Ben, especially during a time of immense change and transition.

“With our new senior leadership team in place, we are now very well-positioned to grow our impact and support even more people in our automotive family.”

King’s Lynn franchise milestone for Revive!

Mobile repairs network

Revive! Auto Innovations has announced the launch of its latest franchised business in Norfolk.

from the US-based Ecobat group.

The acquisition will provide Ecobat Battery, which has turnover in excess of £200 million, with the capital and strategic support to accelerate its growth plans and invest in bolstering its commercial platform, Endless said.

Endless investment partner Andy Ross said Ecobat had a strong heritage, talented team, and a clear role to play in the battery distribution market.

The King’s Lynn business will provide mobile bodywork and alloy wheel repairs to car dealerships and private vehicle owners across the town and surrounding areas.

Revive! King’s Lynn owner Jake Neadley said he expected to be running multiple vans and technicians from the facility

within five years.

“We’ve already started building up some great relationships with local car dealers and we’re on the lookout for our second technician.”

Neadley, who has always aspired to start his own business, ventured into mobile repairs after he said he was unable to find a quality local service when his own car was damaged.

King’s Lynn marks the brand’s fourth new franchisee of 2025.

Start with the end in mind…

…why exit planning should start now, advises Jay Wheatley AAE MIMI, business coach and mentor at Absolutely Automotive

Ialways knew I would sell my business.

Not because I was burnt out or desperate, but because it wasn’t just a job I owned, it was an asset I was building. Something that could one day be passed on or sold, but on my terms.

That meant I had to run it with the end in mind. From the beginning, the decisions I made weren’t just about getting through the week, they were about creating something someone else might want to own.

That mindset shaped everything for me. It meant that when I did eventually decide to sell, I wasn’t starting from scratch. I didn’t need to fix a business in a rush.

I’d already spent years improving the accounts, tightening processes, and moving things away from always depending on me. Because when you’re looking at a business through the eyes of a buyer, you see things differently.

But let’s be clear: exit planning isn’t just

about selling.

There are only a few ways to exit a business. You can sell it. You can pass it on. Or you can close it and walk away.

That’s it.

One

of

the most

misunderstood parts of exit planning is valuation

Selling might mean finding an outside buyer, but sometimes the best buyer is right under your nose. A trusted manager, or even a couple of key staff members, may be interested in taking it on.

Often, they won’t have the money up front, but with the right plan and structure, a deal can be done that works for both sides. You just need time and

clarity, because unless you plan ahead, your options at the end might be fewer than you’d like.

Why you should think about exit long before you want out

There’s a common pattern in this trade: garage owners only start thinking about exit when they’ve had enough. That’s often when I get a call.

They’re tired, worn out, and not enjoying it anymore. But here’s the harsh truth, by the time you feel like that, it might already be too late to make the good decisions. Exit planning isn’t something you do when you’re ready to go. It’s something you do so you can go when the time is right.

That doesn’t mean you need to know when you’ll sell. It just means you need to act like you might. Because what you build today shapes the choices you’ll have tomorrow.

So ask yourself: if a buyer walked in tomorrow, what would they see?

Would they see a business that looks professional, with clean accounts, tidy systems, and a strong team? Or would they see something that only works because you’re there to hold it together?

What’s it worth? A question with more than one answer

One of the most misunderstood parts of exit planning is valuation. Most owners have a rough idea what they think their business is worth, but very few actually understand how that number is calculated.

Is it based on turnover? EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation) or net profit?

You might hear terms like ‘3x net profit’ or ‘4x adjusted net’, but ask yourself: Three times what, exactly?

If you’ve never been through a business sale, this stuff can feel like the language of demons. And while you don’t need to become a financial expert, you do need to be aware that the way something is valued affects what you’ll be offered.

Some agents will base it on turnover, which can sound impressive, but we all know that turnover is vanity, and profit is sanity. Others suggest a multiplier. But again, is it on net profit, or adjusted net? Are they counting your salary and other benefits? Or removing them to show what profit the business would make without you?

Many owners don’t realise there are different definitions of ‘net profit’ in relation to a sale, and which one a buyer or seller might be using. Even the

accountants and brokers don’t always agree.

If someone gives you a number, ask what they are basing it on. Any serious buyer certainly will.

Preparing for a sale (even if it’s

years away)

Once you start seeing your business as something someone else might want to own, it changes the way you run it.

You realise that ‘being busy’ isn’t the same as being valuable. You stop thinking just about how hard you’re working, and start looking at whether your business can still run when you’re not around.

Would a buyer see a workshop with clear systems? Staff who know their roles? Or a place where every customer, complaint, and parts problem ends up on your plate?

Presentation matters too. Are your accounts tidy? Are things recorded and traceable? Or is the knowledge still locked inside your head, or someone else’s?

If your business is leasehold, here’s another factor people often forget: the lease itself.

A serious buyer investing their own money will want security. A long lease, or at the very least the option to secure one, is critical. If the premises arrangement is short-term or vague, the deal becomes riskier, and the offer might reflect that.

None of this is about perfection. It’s about confidence.

You don’t need to wait until you’re ready to sell to start making those improvements. In fact, it’s far better if you don’t.

Vendor finance – a useful option, but know the risks

Here’s something that never came up in most of my agent conversations, but it should have.

It is becoming more common, or should I say expected. Put simply, it means you agree to accept part of the sale price over time, rather than everything up front. It can help get a deal over the line, especially when a buyer can’t raise full funding. There are a multitude of ways to do this, far too many

for this article. But let’s just say I have seen most of them.

However, here’s the catch, you’re taking the risk. If the buyer struggles, you might not get paid. Worse, you might find yourself being asked to step back in just to protect what you’re still owed.

That’s not to say it’s a bad idea. In the right situation, with the right buyer, it can work.

You don’t need to use vendor finance. But you do need to know what it is and that there is more than one way to do it if the conversation comes up.

Not just a sale — a strategy

The whole point of exit planning is this: it gives you options.

Whether you’re thinking about selling to someone new, passing it down to a family member, doing a staff buyout, or walking away, you’ll only be able to do that well if the business can survive without you.

That doesn’t happen by accident. And it’s why exit planning is just another way of saying ‘building a proper business’. Because a business that doesn’t rely on you every day isn’t just easier to sell, it’s easier to live with while you still own it.

It gives you more time, more choice and more freedom.

Will someone want what you’re building?

Most garage owners I speak to haven’t ruled out selling. They just haven’t really thought about it either. By the time they do, they’re often on the back foot.

So, here’s a better way to look at it: you don’t have to decide when to exit right now.

But you do need to start making your business something someone else would want to own. Because even if you don’t know the date yet, the destination is still the same.

That journey starts today.

Want to take the first step? Get our free quick guide which includes information on exit planning. Written for garage owners, it will help you plan now, not when it’s too late.

Jay Wheatley AAE MIMI, business coach and mentor

OSteering your business through the digital maze

Repairify Innovations director Martin Brown highlights the efficiencies and challenges of garage digitisation

ver the past few years, we’ve seen a clear shift from paperbased systems to digital solutions. This development is being driven by suppliers, software providers, and vehicle manufacturers pushing digital options.

The new digital tools are seen as providing faster turnarounds, clearer reporting, and unprecedented access to the wealth of data embedded in modern vehicles.

The potential is there, but in the automotive sector, the challenge comes in the adoption of digital because processes are ingrained and businesses need to adapt to change while also integrating these ‘new’ technologies into their daily operations.

These systems are an asset; we have the ability to churn out a vast number of reports that range from revenue per technician, job turnaround times and MOT conversions.

These reports are designed for management teams to review and aid in the efficient running of the business, whether it is a one-site or multi-site operation and are not usually intended for those on the workshop floor.

However, all this data can just become a jumble of numbers unless it can help in the decision-making process; it just becomes clutter and

worthless information.

This is why it is still important to use the human element (seeing what is actually taking place on the floor and talking to technicians) to counterbalance the digital system because a human eye can witness what is actually happening and decisions can be made based on experience rather than rafting through a load of data and graphs to make it.

The best tools help technicians do jobs faster and better without getting in the way

With digitisation comes the word accessibility. It refers to customers checking their booking online. However, for businesses, it means a different thing. We see that accessibility is not all it is cracked up to be for independent workshops.

This is because they are often stuck behind paywalls, multiple logins, and locked-down manufacturer systems, so their technicians and management teams find that getting hold of the

correct ECU data for a 2020 BMW, for example, can feel like trying to hack into MI5.

It is why the ‘right to repair’ campaign is vital, because if garages can’t properly access technical data and diagnostics, how can they compete fairly with the main dealers who have access to more data and can repair vehicles that the aftermarket may not be able to do?

Alongside accessibility, digital tools speed up processes, but only if they are integrated correctly and businesses do not take the short-term view on them rather than being able to understand the benefits the systems bring to calibration and diagnostic work as the number of jobs continues to grow over time.

We know digital systems support the workshop, but they do not run it. As an industry, we know that the best tools are the ones that help technicians perform the job faster and better without getting in the way.

This means quick access to information and reports that help with business decisions and employing systems that work in step with the workshop.

If providers give businesses these three things, they will be happy to go digital, but what they don’t want is more complexity, cost and clutter because they will push back to send the message ‘we don’t want this system’.

Photo: Steve Johnson / Pexels

www.klipboard.com

Aftermarket driving increased lead battery sales and revenue, says Banner

Lead battery giant Banner has announced increases sales and revenue, noting that lead acid technology continues to be a mainstay for the industry — and the aftermarket in particular.

Banner said in June that sales of lead batteries in the 2024-25 financial year were in excess of four million — an increase of more than 200,000 over the previous year.

Revenue increased by €312 million (£266 million), an increase of over €10 million compared to the previous year.

Banner said the results reflected the success of investments totalling €25 million over the past three years, a consistently high export share of 95% and a dedicated team of 760 employees throughout Europe.

With increasing electrification of vehicles and structural change, it is becoming clear that lead acid batteries are retaining their relevance – whether as starter and on-board power supply batteries or in applications with customerspecific energy solutions, Banner said.

Meanwhile, the firm

forecast the “stable development” of lead batteries in the European market up to 2030, although declining production of new vehicles in the OEM sector is set to realise a slight fall in demand as the market shifts significantly towards supplying the aftermarket.

One of the reasons for this is the increasing average vehicle age, which has now increased by almost two years in Europe, Banner said.

This trend is having a positive impact on demand in the replacement business, as older vehicles require new batteries more frequently. In addition, the lead acid battery remains indispensable even in modern electric vehicles.

More than 90% of all electric cars are currently equipped with a 12V onboard power supply battery based on proven and environmentally friendly lead acid technology, Banner said.

The robustness, recyclability and costeffectiveness of lead batteries continue to make them the first choice for numerous systems.

The outlook for the firm’s energy solutions business unit is also positive, supplying

The UK is a key market for the lead acid battery giant

batteries for applications including traction batteries for electric forklifts to energy systems for golf carts and UPS facilities.

Austria-headquartered Banner invested €10 million in its Leonding site in the past financial year, including a major maintenance construction project that was completed in April 2024 at a cost of around €3.5 million.

The project included establishing a tool shop to help reduce external costs by producing more spare parts in-house.

The company is also investing in apprenticeships and a training centre. Banner said it is currently supporting 10 apprentices — five each in the electrical engineering and commercial sectors.

Earlier this year, Banner has announced that Werner Töpfl had become the first

externally-appointed CEO in the company’s history, after more than three decades of leadership by owners Andreas and Thomas Bawart.

Töpfl took over operational management of the firm on April 1, supported by two long-standing managers, Franz Märzinger and Florian Steinhart, who act as members of the management board.

The UK is a key market for the battery giant and Aftermarket reported earlier this year that Andrew Russell had been appointed business development manager, with the task of boosting the firm’s presence in the automotive aftermarket across the north of England and Scotland.

Russell, who has more than 23 years’ experience of the UK aftermarket and is a former business development manager with Ring Automotive, has a reputation for developing strong customer relationships and identifying new business opportunities, Banner said.

Russell, who reports directly to country manager, Lee Quinney, is responsible for targeting Banner’s growing customer base of motor factors, garages, independent distributors and other specialist automotive parts outlets.

Andrew Russell

Seeing through complaints

Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman and MD at The Motor Ombudsman, looks at effective ways for garages to navigate the personal burden of receiving complaints from customers

It can be disheartening for a garage to hear that something has gone wrong from a customer’s perspective, and to be on the receiving end of a complaint, despite the best efforts being made to deliver the highest level of work and service.

This can have an adverse effect on staff morale and mental health, impact performance, promote stress, and be a time when employees may turn to others for emotional support to work through the issues raised.

The following are some key considerations to take into account when a dispute arises, to help minimise the personal impact of complaints.

From public to private

With the prevalence of online feedback forums and social media platforms, the name of a staff member, as well as that of a business may be cast into the spotlight if a consumer deems to have received a sub-standard level of service.

This may also be the first time that you hear of a complaint or an expression of dissatisfaction, with social media channels, such as Facebook or X, often providing consumers with the opportunity to voice an opinion to a wide audience, and where individuals, might similarly, ‘hide’ behind a pseudonym in a bid to preserve anonymity.

In these circumstances, it is important to look to bring the conversation behind closed doors as quickly as possible via direct messaging, for example, to discuss and better understand the reasoning behind the complaint.

Don’t take it personally

Customer complaints may carry an element of emotion, and a dismissive or negative tone of voice, whether written or verbal. This could be driven by various factors, such as mood, their own circumstances – both financial and personal, and how much money is

at stake in terms of the spend required on their vehicle, whether it’s for a repair or maintenance, for instance.

It is, however, important to remember that when presented with this type of scenario, a dispute most often stems from a business activity or concern, rather than it being a direct personal ‘attack’.

It’s good to talk

Being customer-facing and dealing with complaints may prove a challenge for some, and how they are processed and felt by an individual ultimately comes down to personality, sensitivity and character.

For certain people, a complaint can be left at work and not brought home at the end of the day, whilst for others, they can be very closely interlinked and promote an element of an anxiety, worry and disappointment.

offered to further assist others with getting the right help that they need.

Where professional life interacts with family life, the burden of complaints can affect relationships, mood, sentiment, stress levels, and sleep patterns, and it is crucial that individuals never feel alone, and have the security to open up without any fear of judgement.

Men can appear typically less open than women, as this could imply, in their mind, a sign of weakness or vulnerability in the eyes of others from their perspective, and subsequently may find it hard to talk to either a friend or family member or a manager.

On this point, this is where it is important to know how to identify the signs of any personal struggles being experienced by colleagues, to be a source of support where possible, and to have an understanding of the professional resources that can be

This was a key driver for The Motor Ombudsman partnering with Ben, the automotive charity, to create ‘Steer’, a quick-reference guide recently launched at the Automechanika show in Birmingham, to help automotive businesses recognise and support their workers encountering mental health and wellbeing challenges.

In summary…

Complaints are generally of a temporary nature (i.e. they come and go), but the impact on an individual when experiencing this type of negativity can have a longer-lasting effect.

Staff are the most valued asset in business, and the primary takeaway message from here is that, cared-for employees provide a springboard to drive positive customer relationships and performance in the workplace.

Visit www.TheMotor Ombudsman. org/Steer to read the new ‘Steer’ guide.

‘Brands at TPS’ launches

TPS has launched ‘Brands at TPS’, boosting its parts offering and leading to the biggest range of products ever made available to its customers.

‘Brands at TPS’ will expand the range of products available through TPS’s 83 UK Centres by partnering with industryleading third-party brands renowned for producing high-quality mechanical parts.

In the initial phase, ‘Brands at TPS’ will offer six well-known aftermarket brands into the TPS product family.

Mahle - specialists in cleaner engines, it will supply parts for filtration

SKF - the world’s largest bearings manufacturer will supply wheel bearings, engine belts as well as steering and suspension

ZF - a global leader of tier one quality products, bringing braking, shock absorbers, steering and suspension through their sub brands: Sachs, TRW and LEMFÖRDER

Bosch - a household name that will bring engine belts, filtration and braking products

Hella - global experts in electronics, bringing engine electrics products

Valeo – TPS’s current Group-wide supplier of wiper blades, bringing even more of their range of fly wheels, clutch kits and hydraulics

The Mahle and SKF brands are available to customers now, with product ranges from the four additional Phase One suppliers on board by the end of July. For the initial launch, TPS will offer around 2,000 third-party parts, with

Catherine Baker

plans to increase this to over 10,000 as the ‘Brands at TPS’ range develops with new third-party brands being added to the portfolio as well.

Alan Povey, Mahle Quality and Technical Manager, said: “We have our full range of air, oil, fuel, and cabin filters available to TPS customers.

“For quality assurance, our products are developed and tested to rigorous standards and manufactured with high quality and durable materials.

“There is also technical support available, which includes brand specific QR codes on our products, which verify them as ours and give information about each product, plus tips and advice on how to best fit them.”

Gavin Dixon, SKF Vehicle Aftermarket Sales Manager, said: “The range of products being made available to TPS customers are already proving popular with garages.

“The chain kits are a big seller to garages. We know how difficult it is when you’re trying to just sell a loose chain with all the guides, oil seals and the tensions that go with it. As part of our range, we offer a kit with all the components in it.

“We also do a full kit with the oil seals in as well. There is also everything related to the wheel bearing up to the suspension, wishbone arms, stabiliser links. We’ve now moved into coil springs and braking parts, which will be available from TPS going forward.”

‘Brands at TPS’ will expand TPS’s current parts offering and increase its coverage of the UK car parc, with a focus on older vehicles.

The latest Motorparc data published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows the average age of a car on UK roads is now 9.5 years old and with nearly one in four cars on UK roads a Volkswagen Group vehicle, it’s a timely launch.

TPS is already the UK’s leading supplier of Volkswagen Group Approved Genuine Parts and with the new ‘Brands at TPS’ parts offering, customers will have even greater choice of quality parts to fit their Audi, SEAT, Škoda, Cupra, Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles models.

Catherine Baker, Head of TPS, said: “We are proud to launch ‘Brands at TPS’ and in doing so boost our parts offering to our customers.

“We’ve always been Genuine first and that doesn’t change. We remain dedicated to Genuine as our primary offer, but we can now offer a one-stopshop for our mechanical customers’ needs, including a wide-ranging selection of third-party branded parts.

“So, whether it’s Genuine Parts for a five-year-old car or reliable, affordable parts for a 10-year-old one, we aim to become the trusted one-stop-shop for keeping vehicles on the road –quickly, efficiently, and with unmatched expertise.”

She added: “We also offer Quantum Oils and Consumables which are hugely successful and well loved by our customers.

“This new development means a wider range delivered through our existing network and helps to make TPS the parts supplier the aftermarket trade can trust for pretty much everything they require.”

The new ‘Brands at TPS’ range will also be supported by the technical knowledge and advice of the staff teams at TPS centres, who know Volkswagen Group vehicles better than any other parts supplier.

TPS customers can also count on up to five deliveries a day, Monday to Saturday, helping to ensure that parts can be dispatched when they are required.

Technicians turn detective with inside intelligence

How workshops turned to ALLDATA Repair to find solutions to two different vehicle problems

Adiagnosis was required for a 2020 Škoda Karoq 1.0 TSI after the vehicle’s owner brought an unusual problem to the workshop.

Problem

The customer reported ‘jerking’ when accelerating but, despite clear symptoms, the vehicle’s fault memory did not show any corresponding indications.

The workshop technician took the vehicle out for a test drive, where it was confirmed that, at higher speeds, the driver would feel significant vibrations throughout the vehicle, particularly in the steering wheel.

A quick diagnosis would be tough because there were no error codes or messages displayed on the dashboard — but the technician was confident that the cause would be mechanical, rather than electronic.

Solution

Rather than guess, wasting time and frustrating the customer in the process, the technician turned to ALLDATA Repair. This is a portal that grants independent workshop and bodyshop professionals instant access to genuine repair and maintenance instructions from 41 vehicle manufacturers (VMs).

A targeted search for “vibrations” led the professional to the appropriate, unedited technical product information from the VM. The

data showed ‘incorrect wheel balancing’, ‘rim damage’ or ‘tyre deformation due to prolonged inactivity’ as common causes of wheel vibrations.

Consequently, the workshop technician inspected the wheels and tyres, with a measurement showing that two wheels had a significant radial and lateral run-out — a problem that is not immediately visible but can cause severe vibrations.

The professional was able to balance the two affected wheels and position the tyres accurately. Upon another test drive, the jerking had stopped, and the vehicle ran smoothly once more.

Problem

In a separate case, a workshop faced a tough ask when the injectors of a 2017 Vauxhall Movano B Combi needed to be serviced — but the cylinder numbering was not visible on the vehicle’s documents, so how did the technician count the cylinder sequence?

Without the correct information, the technician would likely have disconnected the injectors or dismantle

them — a risk that could have exacerbated the issue to the detriment of the motorist.

Solution

To provide the motorist with the best service and quickly return their vehicle to the road, the workshop technician contacted the ALLDATA Info Centre. An expert guided them to the correct information in ALLDATA Repair.

A targeted search for the relevant VM schematics for the engine control and glow plugs showed that one glow plug was equipped with a combustion chamber pressure sensor, a clear indication of cylinder one. With this crucial information, the technician was able to determine the correct cylinder sequence.

Correct cylinder numbering is essential for accurate fault diagnosis. In modern engines with common rail direct injection, each injector is individually programmed to its corresponding cylinder. Incorrect assignment can cause misfiring, rough running or power loss.

The ALLDATA Repair Info Centre Service is an invaluable

tool, with a team of master technicians ready to resolve queries within four hours — often faster! Subscribers can access this service whenever they need assistance.

Professionals may need this service when they have difficulty locating specific information that has not yet been uploaded to ALLDATA Repair, need tailored service and maintenance schedules, or are unfamiliar with a VM’s repair information.

With the ALLDATA Info Centre, workshops can save time, avoid costly mistakes and ensure accurate repairs — keeping motorists safe on the road.

ALLDATA Europe is a leading provider of original VM, repair maintenance and diagnostic data and is the company behind ALLDATA Repair, a single, easy-to-navigate information portal that allows independent workshop.

ALLDATA Repair comprises more than 90 million articles, nine million technical drawings and wiring diagrams with electrical connector views — that’s procedures for 145,000 year, make, model and powertrain.

With an ALLDATA Repair subscription, users can utilise the ALLDATA Repair Info Centre Service too.

Visit https://www.alldata. com/eu/en/repair-europe for more information about subscriptions to ALLDATA Repair and to sign up for trial use.

Titanium shows it mettle for the auto sector

Patrick Faulkner, lead engineer at Huddersfield-based precision engineering components supplier, Accu, on the importance of the metal for fasteners and fixings used in the aftermarket

Titanium is an exotic metal that has a unique combination of mechanical, chemical and physical properties. No.22 on the periodic table, titanium is a naturally occurring, silvercoloured metal.

It is the ninth most abundant element, but it is only in the last 20-30 years that it has been used in the high-performance automotive aftermarket industry.

Titanium delivers outstanding mechanical performance, making it a goto material for applications where weight, durability and reliability are critical. Precision-engineered titanium fasteners offer an exceptional strength-toweight ratio and inherent corrosion resistance.

Titanium screws feature precise threading and material compatibility, allowing seamless integration with surrounding components.

In the aftermarket industry, titanium cap head screws are crucial in the repair and reassembly of vehicles. Their lightweight and robust nature can handle the rigours of speed and impact. The material’s natural resistance to corrosion, especially in harsh environments, such as when affected by road salt/ grit or acidic conditions, makes it a preferred choice for many applications.

When installed in engines,

titanium screws provide strong, secure connections and maintain structural integrity under extreme conditions. These properties, combined with high tensile strength, make them ideal for aerospace and other demanding engineering applications.

Titanium fasteners are available in several grades, each tailored to the particular demands of different applications.

Grade 2 is categorised as a commercially pure titanium, which means it contains a minimum of 99% titanium with small amounts of oxygen and other elements. This grade offers an excellent balance of strength, weldability and corrosion resistance.

The most common titanium alloy used in automotive applications is grade 5. Combining high strength and corrosion resistance, titanium grade 5 contains 6% aluminium and 4% vanadium, making it suitable for high-

performance applications where fasteners need to maintain integrity under high stress and extreme temperatures reaching over 316°C.

Accu’s range of metric titanium screws is manufactured from grade 5. We offer a comprehensive range of titanium machine screws to meet different needs, with pure titanium bolts available in sizes ranging from M2 (2mm) to M10 (10mm) in thread diameter and lengths from 3mm to 100mm.

Grade 7 titanium fasteners are the most corrosionresistant and are suitable for advanced applications, such as in high-performance motorsports.

The drive type for these screws is a hex socket, providing a secure and reliable fastening method whilst the head type is typically a cap head, designed for applications requiring balanced load distribution. Variants include

fully-threaded and partiallythreaded options.

In terms of mechanical reliability, titanium’s inherent hardness means its threads are highly resistant to stripping under normal use. That said, as with any fastener, correct installation and the use of suitable tools are key to preventing thread or head damage.

Though titanium screws cost more compared to stainless steel, their performance advantages often justify the investment.

One of the most notable advantages of titanium fasteners is their strengthto-weight ratio; titanium is around 45% lighter than steel, enabling significant weight savings without compromising strength.

An example of titanium’s ability to achieve weight savings is its use by Switzerland-based AMZ Racing, formed by engineering students dedicated to designing, building and racing highperformance electric cars.

AMZ, a sponsored team of Accu, earned a Guinness World Record with its Mythen WR 2023 electric race car, achieving the fastest 0-100 km/h acceleration for an electric vehicle. Titanium components were critical in reducing the car’s overall weight from 162 kg to 137 kg. Visit www.accu.co.uk for more information.

Technology in the fast lane

Repairify international MD Phil Peace answers some key questions about what the rapidly-evolving ADAS market means for workshops

Q. What are the latest advancements in ADAS technology?

A. While ADAS technology is constantly evolving, there are several advancements that are currently sitting front and centre. The first is the integration of Vehicle-toEverything communication. This enables real-time data exchange between vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians, and is a full circle communication.

The second is secure gateways. As vehicles become more connected, there is a goldmine of data within vehicles that are behind secure gateways. Manufacturers are implementing robust cybersecurity regimes to protect against hacking and unauthorised access.

The final advancement comes in the form of sensor fusion. Currently, modern ADAS solutions use a combination of sensors such as cameras and lidar (laser light tech). In 2025 we are seeing these systems being integrated to enhance accuracy, reliability, and adaptability in adverse driving conditions.

Q. What innovations are driving cost reduction in ADAS hardware?

A. The biggest driver of cost reduction is competition, and there are numerous organisations providing extremely good ADAS products and services.

Q. What are the latest trends in overthe-air (OTA) updates for ADAS?

A. Trends include access to security gateways, new protocols which require OE tools, and new diagnostic equipment with faster processors, which enable work to be completed more quickly.

Q. Where do you see the market heading?

A. ADAS continues to grow as a proportion of the car parc, so bodyshops will need solutions to calibrate vehicles. However, in terms of OTA, we are also seeing increased programming work. We anticipate this will continue for a

couple of reasons: bodyshops do not have enough trained staff for ADAS and, due to vehicle complexity, staff are often not trained for some electrical work required. As a result, OTA is really important as part of a bodyshop’s toolkit.

Changes in European legislation are due later in the year. It will be interesting to see how this is adopted in the UK. We anticipate the introduction of SERMI later this year too, which will also have an impact.

The big change over the next few years will be the technical changes and the way we communicate with the vehicle.

Q. What are the emerging trends in dynamic vs static ADAS calibration?

A. Both have their place. I’m not sure how true it is, but there are various established voices that question where the liability sits and if dynamic is not

more prevalent due to the liability. If the system fails and is dynamically calibrated, does the liability lie with the manufacturer? I don’t know, but it is suggested that this is why there aren’t more vehicles being dynamically calibrated. Either way, the job should be done properly.

Q. What training is being developed to help technicians calibrate ADAS systems?

A. IMI-run training programmes have been developed to ensure technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct ADAS repairs safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with industry standards.

Q. What is changing in legislation and how will that impact repairers?

A. One of the major changes is the introduction of SERMI. This follows legislation approved by the EU parliament which requires vehicle manufacturers to provide unrestricted and standardised access to repair and maintenance information to independent operators and remote service suppliers. In layman’s terms, repairers will need SERMI certification to undertake certain actions or access certain manufacturer information.

Game-changer tech for

There are lots of garage software solutions to choose from in the aftermarket today. Some help you manage your business, some help order parts and invoice your customer or maybe help you diagnose a problem.

But do any genuinely help grow your business and make more profit? Auto3iii’s approach is simple yet powerful. We help you meet the needs of your customers today, while anticipating their future needs. This enhances the customer experience, drives revenue an turns potential into profit.

We put workshops — and your customers — in complete control through our unique electronic vehicle health check (eVHC 2.0) technology. This next-generation AI-powered solution standardises processes and creates additional revenue streams, whilst elevating your workshop’s reputation.

Here are five compelling reasons to choose Auto3iii…

Repeat business through mileage-based follow-ups Auto3iii’s Intelligent Technician solution is the only one to offer mileagebased advisory maintenance schedules with follow-up appointment opportunities available monthly.

Any workshop can open-up a pipeline of potential business, with customers flowing back into the workshop. Tyres Northampton reaped the rewards from our amber work maintenance schedules, which identifies vehicles due for

follow-up work based on their daily mileage. A whopping 51% were booked back into the workshop, up by 27% on an industry average of 24%.

Crucially, 98% of all Tyres Northampton’s customers who received a digital report already understood what work was needed and when, and welcomed the follow-up phone call.

Tyres Northampton owner Malcolm Andrew said: “We were absolutely staggered by the 51% conversion rate. It’s a no brainer to adopt the technology.”

To video or not to video?

Our powerful mobile app prompts technicians to follow your customised vehicle health checks or services on vehicles. It also allows them to add notes and measurements and take photos (or short videos). Intelligent Technician can also identify and document any existing damage to mitigate false claims.

We understand that video has its place, but it shouldn’t be seen as the beall and end-all for customer communication. Our studies have found that customers’ attitudes are changing towards video updates, with no guarantee of them watching it at all — even if it is recorded perfectly.

Other variables — such as technicians feeling self-conscious, a lack of consistency and no sense of standardisation — make photo content a much safer option with higher levels of professionalism and consistency.

We also use our large language model in another argument for photo capture. This allows us to use AI to compare car defects and vehicle damage with images from millions of other vehicles from around the world.

As Elite Autocare’s director Charlie Allum said: “There are garage management solutions in the marketplace, but I haven’t come across any with an eVHC as flexible and powerful as this.

“There is nothing else out there that can forecast future work like Auto3iii. For example, if a customer comes in with tyre tread levels at 3.5mm, we can predict when they might be nearing the legal limit and in need of replacement.”

Fully customisable solution

No eVHC solution should be a one-size-fits-all product. Auto3iii’s software is fully customisable to meet whatever your bespoke needs might be.

If you’re focusing on winter health checks or summer air conditioning re-gas work, these elements can be added too. And no eVHC solution would be complete without an electric vehicle element, allowing for quick and easy EVrelated checks to open-up yet more revenue opportunities.

Auto3iii’s Intelligent

Technician app streamlines the vehicle check process, allowing technicians to complete inspections in as little as two minutes and is compatible with Android and Apple devices.

Working with good people

A key factor that sets us apart from our competitors is our ability to respond to any queries in a matter of moments.

David Leighton and Ben Smith are the driving force behind Auto3iii. They work with a 30-strong team of developers and customers to make sure Auto3iii fits perfectly into their business seamlessly and effectively!

As easy as 123

We make is easy for technicians to identify and prioritise the vehicle’s needs, also for service advisors to communicate clearly what needs doing. It’s also easy for customers.

Trusted by over 9,000 workshops globally and partnered with OEM and major brands plus key partnerships with Keyloop, Castrol and Hunter you won’t be stepping into the unknown. Contact David Leighton on 03301 332120 or visit https://auto3iii.com for more information.

Damaged wheel reporting via the IT App

And they’re off!

As the entries deadline for all contests closes, the heat is on for our would-be garage champions as they prepare to be put through their paces in the initial stages of the Top Awards races

Excitement is mounting as we look toward the initial qualifying rounds of this year’s contests to find the UK’s Top Technician, Top Garage and Top Apprentice.

The entries deadline closed for Top Garage and Top Apprentice on June 30, following the closure of entries for Top Technician earlier this year.

Now garage owners and rising stars of the trade are all set to showcase their skills to win national recognition and join a celebrated network of industry leaders.

Aftermarket magazine will be interviewing contestants in the weeks ahead and asking the judges what they are looking for.

Ryan Fuller, managing director at the Top Awards, said: “The Top Awards are about more than trophies, they’re about shining a spotlight on the skill, dedication, and innovation that drive our industry forward.

“Whether it’s an experienced technician, a thriving independent garage, or an apprentice just starting out, these competitions celebrate excellence at every level and provide a powerful platform to raise standards, inspire others, and showcase the very best.”

Top Garage is considered one of the industry’s ultimate benchmarks for professionalism and performance. Open to businesses of all sizes – from solo mobile mechanics to large, multisite operations – the competition offers insight, feedback, and the opportunity to stand out on a national stage.

Additional categories include Top Service Advisor and the Ben Workplace Health & Wellbeing Award, recognising those who go above and beyond in customer care and staff wellbeing.

Top Apprentice, new for 2025, turns

Top Awards about shining a spotlight on skills, dedication and innovation

the spotlight on the next generation of technicians. Open to Level 2 and Level 3 apprentices based in the UK, the competition is designed to celebrate talent, technical ability, and real-world problem-solving skills.

Top Garage and Top Apprentice each begin with two online rounds, featuring a mix of multiple-choice and open-ended questions designed to test industry knowledge, decision-making, and practical insight.

Finalists from both competitions will then come together with Top Technician contenders for the grand finals at the Delphi Academy, Warwick, on November 15.

Finals Day will see the industry’s

top talent put through their paces in a series of interviews and hands-on challenges, overseen by a panel of respected experts.

The excitement will build to a fitting climax later that evening, with a gala dinner and awards ceremony where this year’s champions will be revealed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Coventry. This year’s guest speaker will be Colin Denton, CEO of North London Garages GTA.

“The Top Garage, Top Apprentice, and Top Technician competitions are truly unique in the industry,” said Luke Garratt of the Delphi Academy.

“These competitions demand real commitment and hard work from all entrants. The rigorous testing, the practical challenges, and the expert evaluations bring a rare opportunity for individuals and businesses to truly prove themselves, and that’s what makes these awards so special.”

This year’s fantastic event sponsors are listed on the facing page, together with latest competition details.

National Refrigerants’ systems solutions Stellantis workshops

National R456A, a new lower global warming potential (GWP) alternative to R134a in the automotive aftermarket, was among products showcased by National Refrigerants at the recent Automechanika Birmingham show.

National R456A has almost the same capacity and efficiency compared to R134a while having only half the GWP.

With over a 30% quota reduction compared to 2023 from January 2024, R134a will have reduced availability and become much more expensive.

For details about R456A and other solutions for

www.nationalref.com

ACs, contact National Refrigerants.

Hella Gutmann spotlights mega macs S 20

Hella Gutmann’s recently launched mega macs S 20 was in the spotlight at the recent Automechanika Birmingham show.

Designed to accelerate fault-finding and reduce diagnostic bottlenecks, the mega macs S 20 supports advanced communication protocols such as

diagnostics over internet protocol and CAN-FD, while offering built-in access to vehicle manufacturer security gateways.

Mega macs S 20 also integrates cyber security management for seamless, one-time authentication across OEM-secured platforms at no extra cost.

UK workshops servicing Stellantis-group vehicles throughout June and July can receive free MAGNATEC lubricant when bulk buying above a certain volume, thanks to a summer promotion launched by Castrol.

Castrol said the campaign celebrates its long-standing partnership with workshops across Europe that service

and maintain Stellantis vehicles.”

Castrol MAGNATEC clings like a magnet to critical engine parts and locks in place to deliver 50% better engine wear protection, the brand said.

Businesses should contact their local distributor for offer details

www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html

Summer brands expansion from TPS

TPS has announced the launch of ‘Brands at TPS’ this summer.

In the initial phase, the campaign will offer six wellknown aftermarket brands from the TPS product family. They will include Bosch, ZF, Mahle, SKF, Hella and Valeo.

For the initial launch, TPS will offer around 2,000 thirdparty parts.

Catherine Baker (pictured), head of TPS, said: “We remain dedicated to genuine as our primary offer, but we can now offer a one-stopshop for our mechanical

www.hella.com/techworld/uk/workshop-equipment/diagnostic-solutions/ https://tps.trade/

customers’ needs, including a wide-ranging selection of third-party branded parts.”

Ivor Searle unveils ‘E-Cat’ as turnover increases

Automotive remanufacturer Ivor Searle has launched a website e-catalogue capable of looking up vehicle registrations across multiple countries.

The launch came after the company reported another record 12-month trading performance, reflecting a further 8% increase on its previous record turnover in 2024.

E-Cat is linked to the global TecDoc aftermarket database. Customers can enter vehicle registration details to identify product codes for a specific model and check availability.

Commercial director David Eszenyi (pictured) said: “We continue to innovate to support a wider aftermarket community in the UK and internationally.”

Citroën DS3 parts feature in Klarius range

Klarius released 25 new aftermarket emissions control components last May, delivering coverage for more than 1.4 million vehicles in the UK.

James Ellison, sales director at Klarius, said the range included components for the Citroën DS3 1.6 Blue HDi (2014-2019).

https://www.ivorsearle.co.uk/Ecat www.klarius.eu

When released, the DS3 brought a welcome dose of style and flair to the compact hatchback segment, Ellison said.

Ecobat charged up for EVs’ future

Latest components for the model ensure motorists can keep their DS3s running cleanly and efficiently, with all parts meeting or exceeding OE standards.In common with every EV, the ultra-popular pre-2022 Tesla range incorporates a 12V battery.

This powers essential low voltage systems such as the lights and the onboard computer and diagnostic systems and plays a role in starting the main high voltage battery pack. Despite EV tech advances,

batteries still have a finite lifespan. This is a sales opportunity for garages, particularly when partnering Ecobat Battery, and specifically with pre-2022 Tesla applications.

Irrespective of the model, Ecobat includes the OE equipment fitment battery in its extensive range.

CIN MONOPOL makes UK coatings debut

European coatings specialist CIN MONOPOL launched its products in the UK at the recent Automechanika Birmingham, marking a major milestone in its international growth strategy.

The company, which operates from France, is a

www.ecobatbattery.com/applications/electric-vehicle/ https://cin.com/performance-coatings/en

leading supplier of industrial paints, coatings, and varnishes for automotive and industrial bodywork applications.

CIN MONOPOL showcased five key products, including Cromatic UHS Speed+, its rapid-drying, high-gloss

polyurethane clearcoat. Marketing manager Jonathan Frappier said: “From energy-saving UVcured clearcoats to longlasting protective finishes, we’re confident our solutions will resonate strongly with garages, bodyshops and distributors.”

Trailblazers’ fire limitation blanket has safety covered

How a UK company’s innovative EV fire limitation product can benefit the auto business

Prosol UK has announced it has secured a groundbreaking standard for its pioneering ‘Fire Cloak’ — launched after many months of R&D and testing — to help prevent collateral damage to surrounding property when an EV car fire event occurs.

Fire Cloak has secured the DIN SPEC 91489 standard, recently introduced in Germany as the first official proposed standard for fire blankets designed to combat EV fires.

The standard came about after lengthy discussions and consultations with fire safety professionals, emergency responders, vehicle manufacturers and others and is the first regulated testing framework for fire limitation blankets specifically for EVs.

Sheffield-based Prosol’s fire blanket weighs just 28kg, measures 48m2 and can be deployed by two people for a car of any size.

The company said it believes the new standard will provide reassurance, confidence and recognition that Fire Cloak meets the quality and performance parameters demanded by safety professionals in critical situations.

“In a hitherto free-for-all market, it gives regulatory assurance and transparency to those individuals who are most likely to use a fire

MD of Prosol UK Andy Coulton, student placement Jack Butcher, sales and marketing manager Matt Butcher and digital marketing executive Becky Stoakley

blanket that they can trust the product when they need to. It also helps to officially verify both the efficacy and quality of the fire blanket.”

Highlights of key test criteria demanded by the new standard include thermal resistance, when the blanket is exposed to temperatures ranging between 7001,000°C for varying periods to replicate an EV battery in thermal runaway — one of the primary risks related to lithium ion batteries. It is a phenomenon in which the lithium ion cell enters an uncontrollable, self-heating state.

In addition, the standard involves testing mechanical stability, including the tensile strength of the blanket and loop handles, using a weight loading of 100kg for 30 seconds, then

a further 25kg is dropped onto a load platform from 30cm and evaluated after 30 seconds. No tears, fraying or detachment can occur.

General requirements include the ability of a maximum of two people to deploy the fire blanket within 30 seconds, on both a wet and dry vehicle of specified dimensions.

A report on the DIN thermal resistance test must contain an expert opinion that the product is suitable for use as an EV fire limitation blanket.

Since launching Fire Cloak, Prosol said the company has been at the forefront of proving the fire resistance of the product and wholeheartedly supports DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11.

Prior to the publication of this standard, Prosol conducted a great deal of research to determine fire resistance testing relevant to the end use and successfully submitted the product to a

series of independent tests

The safety of the general public, fire and emergency services crews, recovery personnel and EV service technicians is paramount to the sustainable growth of the entire automotive industry, Prosol said.

Anyone using any type of car park, travelling on a vehicle ferry, working on the repair of an EV or anywhere in which EVs or lithium ion batteries are stored, needs to know they will be safe should the worst happen.

“Having the DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 in place goes a long way to achieving this. We will continue to work with our peers in the industry as well as the most respected experts and regulatory organisations concerned with fire safety to share our knowledge, exceed expectations and provide unrivalled solutions to overcome the significant challenges that lithium ion battery fires pose.”

Visit www.prosol.co.uk or call 0114 255 7700 for more information.

From right:

Survey highlights EV battery health concerns

Nearly two-thirds of UK motorists have no plans to buy an electric vehicle and concerns about battery technology are a key factor, according to a survey commissioned by insurance company AXA UK.

Battery health certificates could be crucial in stimulating the second-hand EV market, where there is currently no standardised measure of battery health or barometer for vehicle value, AXA said.

The new research, conducted by Stack Data Strategy among a representative sample of 1,501 motorists, indicates motorists don’t plan to buy EVs because they believe they are too expensive (61%) and because there is a lack of charging points in their local area (36%).

Alongside the research, AXA published a report, ‘Sparking Change — the case for delivering EV battery health certificates’, which highlights the benefits of standardised battery health information for all makes and models of used EVs to give consumers more confidence in the longevity of the vehicles they are buying.

Certificates could have a positive impact on insurance premiums by making it easier for insurers to accurately assess the value of second-hand EVs in a similar way that mileage is used for vehicles with an engine, according to the insurer.

The research also reveals there is a clear lack of public awareness around the used EV market, with nearly two-thirds (64%) of those questioned saying there is not enough public information on how to buy a used electric vehicle.

In the UK, new EVs and their batteries must have manufacturer warranties of eight years or 100,000 miles but these are often not passed on to subsequent owners of the vehicle. There is currently no standardised method in place for the owners of second-hand EVs to track the vehicle’s battery health or performance.

AXA is now calling on the government to publish guidelines supporting standardised battery health testing.

Separately, Schroders Capital has agreed a £20 million investment partnership with Be.EV, one of the UK’s leading EV charging networks, which will see more than 200 ultra-rapid charging bays installed across 22 Schroders Capital-managed retail and leisure properties.

Be.EV will install ultra-rapid Kempower chargers (up to 300kW) capable of delivering up to 325 miles of range in as little as 20 minutes on some of the UK’s most prominent retail and leisure parks.

Be.EV is majority-owned by Octopus Energy Generation’s £1.5 billion Sky Fund, which has pledged £110 million of funding.

New safehandling service launched for repairers

Automotive risk intelligence company Thatcham Research has launched an EV Alert service to support the safe and efficient repair of electric vehicles.

The service will be accessible via ‘escribe’, a leading UK repair methods platform, which provides insurance engineers, vehicle damage assessors (VDAs) and repairers instant access to methods, recommendations, technical information, times, parts and ADAS fitment information.

Dean Lander, head of repair sector services at Thatcham, said the service enables accurate decision-making during the assessment phase, helping repair teams identify critical steps for safe handling of EVs.

“It also offers unmatched efficiency as repair technicians and VDAs can access crucial high voltage system information in just two clicks, avoiding hours of trawling through complex manufacturer documentation.”

The service also covers a wide range of EV types, including full electric, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, fuel-cell electric, and rangeextended EVs.

Lander said: “Safety is paramount. Many bodyshops have already invested heavily in the skills and equipment needed to handle EVs correctly. EV Alert reinforces these investments, enabling repair teams to take on HV component jobs with confidence.”

Visit https://www.thatcham. org/pf/escribe/ for more information.

Innovation boost for EV battery safety

Battery tech and manufacturing company 24M Technologies has warned that as the number of EVs worldwide and cell energy densities grow dramatically, thermal incidents are set to increase, with a significant potential impact on public safety and OEM profitability, unless battery cell design is reimagined.

The total number of EVs on the world’s roads is forecast to reach 250 million in 2030, up from around 40 million vehicles today, and with some markets already experiencing a 33% increase in thermal incidents involving EVs, the problem is only going to increase.

While these are far less frequent than fires involving ICE cars, 24M said they still pose major safety concerns as they are much more dangerous, and more likely to take place when a vehicle is parked or during charging — presenting concerns for workshops and motorists alike.

Even at a conservative rate of one fire per 10,000 EVs, thermal incidents could reach 25,000 per year worldwide by the end of the decade.

In addition to EV volume growth, cell energy density is another factor that affects battery safety. Energy density has been continuously increasing over time, providing longer ranges and enabling greater EV adoption.

But despite manufacturers’ best efforts, process failures, particularly contamination risks, cannot be completely avoided. These issues, as well as the growth in ever faster charging capabilities, increases the threat of internal short circuits.

Although systems exist to contain a fire once it has started, 24M believes EV fires can be prevented in the first place by properly addressing and preventing root causes.

Among potential risks within a car, battery safety and health need to be paramount. The automotive industry today utilises the established ‘design failure mode and effects analysis (DFMEA) process to identify critical risks, where the highest rating of 10 has the potential of a serious, adverse effect on consumer safety, including catastrophic damage, major system failure, life-threatening injury or death.

When a DFMEA rating is assigned a severity rating of 9 or 10, only a design change can mitigate the risk and reduce its severity. 24M believes batteries and their inherent safety concerns should be treated as a severity 10 rating, like steering system pressure, anti-lock brake defects and airbag malfunctions. Fires in lithium batteries often occur because of dendrite growth in cells. Dendrites are inevitable over a battery’s lifecycle as it ages and undergoes thousands of charge/discharge cycles. They can also occur through overcharging, charging at very low temperatures or frequent fast charging/ discharging.

This can create a short circuit or ‘thermal runaway’ where the cell overheats, releasing flammable gases which then ignite. It only takes one cell to overheat, which can happen in milliseconds.

24M said its pioneering Impervio system is uniquely capable of suppressing dendrites and neutralising thermal runaway before it can start. Unlike other technologies, Impervio not only monitors individual cells but

prevents thermal incidents.

Ulrik Grape, president, European operations, at 24M, said: “Controlling the cell at the individual electrode level, the Impervio separator actively suppresses dendrite growth within cells while enabling sophisticated monitoring capabilities for early fault and shortcircuit detection. It can shut down a cell that is at risk – monitoring, preventing, containing – and represents a step change in safety while offering the capability to massively reduce risk and financial exposure.”

As an example, in a side-by-side test of two NMC/graphite cells, one with Impervio, the other with a conventional separator, charged to 100%, then to 100% overcapacity, non-Impervio cells saw dendrite growth-induced micro shorts after 15 minutes, with the cell forming a hard short, catching fire and then exploding after 38 minutes. However, cells with 24M’s Impervio technology saw negligible temperature increase, did not short and did not catch fire.

Integrating seamlessly with conventional lithium-ion, lithium metal, and 24M’s proprietary LiForever cells, and providing continuous cell monitoring, Impervio enables OEMs to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into safety hazards. It also allows OEMs to target recalls to specific affected units rather than recalling an entire model line.

Impervio can improve battery stateof-health and end-of-life predictions, influencing overall battery life and potential reuse.

Ulrik Grape

Charging ahead to keep up with change

Neil Gibbs, head of Eurorepar Car Service network UK, says EV training is key to futureproofing workshops

The automotive industry is experiencing its most significant transformation since the invention of the internal combustion engine.

As we navigate through 2025, the pace of technological change has never been more rapid, and the need for comprehensive, up-to-date training has never been more critical. It is often the case that workshops who invest in training frequently outperform those who don’t.

The statistics paint a compelling picture of an industry in flux. With battery electric vehicles (BEVs) capturing 21% of new car registrations in January 2025 and used EV sales surging by 57.4% yearon-year, the shift towards electrification is accelerating faster than ever. Workshops need to adapt quickly to service this growing market.

According to the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) latest ‘Automotive Education Report’, EV and hybrid qualifications made up 44% of all automotive certifications in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The IMI Level 3 award in electric/hybrid vehicle system repair and Replacement topped the list, representing 17% of all certifications in the sector.

At Eurorepar Car Service, we ensure that each of our centres’ skilled technicians have access to up-to-date training programmes, allowing

them to stay in touch with the latest technical developments.

Additional data from the IMI reveals the scale of the challenge. 58,800 technicians are now qualified to work on electric vehicles, representing 24% of the UK automotive workforce. However, the IMI is predicting a shortfall of 3,000 technicians by 2031, with the gap expected to reach 16,000 by 2035. This skills gap represents both a challenge and an enormous opportunity for technicians willing to invest in their development.

Our network of service centres has long been able to access electric and hybrid training. However, while EVs dominate the headlines, the reality is that technicians need to maintain competency across a broad spectrum of technologies.

Certified EV training courses are designed to cater to a wide range of experience levels and career aspirations. The Level 1 award in electric/ hybrid vehicle awareness provides an introductory course that imparts a fundamental understanding of EVs, encompassing safety

protocols and high-voltage systems.

ERCS members also become part of the Independent Garage Association, giving them access to wider industry support and advocacy. As part of this commitment to standards, we’re proud that many of our centres are now TMG approved through the IGA’s Trust My Garage scheme.

Membership of the scheme is awarded to those with the highest standards in working practices, training and customer service.

An investment in training pays dividends in multiple ways. The UK automotive sector is experiencing robust growth in EV sales, with more than 300,000 EVs sold in 2024 — the best year for EV sales on record. For businesses that invest in proper training, this expanding market translates

Neil Gibbs

into sustained growth and profitability.

Enhanced earning potential comes with specialised EV knowledge, as qualified technicians can command competitive salaries within the industry, reflecting the value that proper training brings to both individuals and businesses.

As we move through 2025, the pace of change will only accelerate. Artificial intelligence tools are starting to transform vehicle repair. To operate these systems requires competency in efficiency and accuracy in the diagnosis of certain problems.

At Eurorepar Car Service, we’re committed to supporting our network through this transformation. Our comprehensive training programmes, combined with our parts supply network and business support services, provide independent workshops with the tools they need to succeed.

Training investment will determine which workshops succeed in the coming years. Those that act now will be better positioned as the market continues to evolve.

Eurorepar Car Service is backed by Stellantis and operates a fast-growing allmakes servicing and repair network in the UK, with over 300 centres nationwide.

Visit www.eurorepar.co.uk for more information about training opportunities and network membership.

BORG steers into a reman range century

Within just a year, BORG Automotive Reman, a leading independent remanufacturer of used automotive parts in Europe, has increased its steering range to a greater extent than ever before.

Including the releases from January 2025, a total of 101 new references were added to the range. They include 89 steering racks, 40 of which are electric — a type which is being ever more relevant for distributors and workshops.

The already well-positioned steering range of BORG Automotive Reman has become even more attractive for dealers and workshops. After the expansion, it includes more than 1,350 steering racks and over 578 steering pumps.

This translates into a European market coverage of 86% for steering racks and 82% for steering pumps.

In addition to the width of the range, its depth is also impressive. The portfolio includes steering racks for rare or old vehicles such as the Renault 5 as well as fast-moving items for popular models such as the Ford Fiesta MK VII.

Highlights of the latest additions to the range include manual steering racks for

three best-selling vehicle applications of the Toyota Yaris and Toyota Yaris Hybrid from 2020 onwards, as well as an electric steering rack for various BMW models produced between 2012 and 2020, including the BMW 118d and BMW 330d. Together, these two items alone cover more than 750.000 vehicles in Europe. As remanufactured products, they are currently offered by only a few companies.

Another new item in the range is a hydraulic steering pump for 17 BMW vehicle applications. It is the ideal spare part for various BMW models built between 2004 and 2013 with a 3.0-litre diesel engine — such as the BMW 325d, 325d Coupe, 330d and 330d Coupe.

Electric steering racks are becoming crucial for the aftermarket. However, only a few remanufacturers have the know-how to remanufacture them.

As with all remanufactured parts from BORG Automotive Reman, the steering racks and steering pumps are used original parts that have been returned to as-new condition in a complex process.

Remanufacturing takes place in production plants certified according to the ISO 9001:2015 quality standard in

Reman award winner — again

BORG Automotive Reman has won the Rematec Remanufacturer of the Year Award for the second time since 2015. The Danish firm saw off competition

earlier this year from six strong competitors in the ‘best reman company’ category.

Rematec has been honouring individuals and companies that promote the reuse of products through innovative business models, to promote resource efficiency and sustainability.

The latest award was announced earlier this year at the Rematec expo in Amsterdam.

BORG Automotive Group chief commercial officer Kaper Thomsen said: “This is a great confirmation of our holistic business approach.

“We are also working to reduce the environmental impact of our production and place great importance on transparency — for example, by

Remanufacturing of a steering pump at a BORG Automotive Reman facility, restoring original parts to as-new condition

Europe. Each part undergoes a six-stage process. It is disassembled, cleaned and thoroughly inspected.

Then, the replacement of small and wear parts follows, which are obtained exclusively from renowned suppliers. After reassembly, each steering rack and steering pump undergoes an individual function test according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

All new steering pumps and steering racks can be found in TecDoc and the electronic catalogues of the BORG Automotive Reman brands Elstock, DRI and TMI.

publishing life cycle analyses for our products. This makes us both a reliable partner to the aftermarket and a tireless ambassador for the circular economy.”

STEERING & SUSPENSION ALWAYS IN CONTROL –WITH MEYLE

When the spirit of innovation combines with solution-oriented product development expertise, the result is MEYLE steering and suspension parts.

These optimally coordinated parts are not only optimised, but are also often better made. Because our passion is our driving force, we can continue to develop the company and our products and work just like they do: with precision, reliability and a focus on safety. LEARN MORE

MRacking up cost of steering into disaster

Shock survey reveals the financial impact of poorly-maintained roads on steering, suspension and other repairs tackled by workshops

otorists are forking out thousands of pounds to repair pothole-related damage to their vehicles, according to new research by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart.

A survey of 1,855 IAM RoadSmart members, the results of which were published in June, found that 5% of motorists spent more than £1,000 on repairs to damaged tyres, suspension, and steering, due to poor road conditions over the past 12 months.

A quarter (26%) of respondents said they stumped up to £200, and a further quarter (24%) spent between £300 and £600 on repairs.

Based on the survey, drivers spent an average of £320 in between 2023 and 2024.

Over a fifth (22%) of motorists reported needing repairs at least once a year due to pothole damage, often discovered during routine servicing or MOT checks.

The state of the UK’s roads is also affecting safe driving, the survey indicated.

Three quarters (74%) of motorists admitted to braking sharply to avoid potholes on journeys in the last 12 months, while almost all motorists admitted they were frequently forced to

Financial burden due to pothole damage can be substantial

drive or ride in the middle of the road to avoid potholes or crumbling surfaces within their path.

The same proportion were found to have swerved at the last minute to dodge potholes, and 94% confessed to taking their eyes off the road ahead over the last year looking out for potholes.

Unsurprisingly, the survey revealed that more than half (52%) of motorists think roads have deteriorated in the past 12 months.

Earlier this year, the government announced a £1.6 billion investment to improve road conditions and repair seven million potholes by 2026.

However, research published earlier this year by the Asphalt Industry Alliance revealed a one-off cost of £16.8 billion was needed just to bring UK roads up to an adequate condition. Even worse, it found that 52% of local roads have less

than 15 years useable life left in them.

IAM RoadSmart policy and standards director Nicholas Lyes said: “Potholes are not just a costly inconvenience; they pose a danger to motorists and cyclists alike.

“The financial burden on motorists due to pothole damage can be substantial, with many facing unexpected repair bills of hundreds of pounds. In 2023, there was a 12% year-on-year increase in the number of casualties, where defective road surfaces where identified as a contributory factor.

“Addressing this issue is crucial to ensuring the safety of our roads and reducing the economic impact on motorists and businesses alike.”

IAM RoadSmart is the UK’s largest road safety charity providing advanced driver and rider training.

The organisation was formed in 1956 and has around 70,000 members and 5,000 volunteers that support its campaigns on road safety. At any one time, there are more than 7,000 drivers and riders actively engaged with IAM RoadSmart’s courses.

The charity also delivers courses in the workplace. Visit www.iamcommercial. co.uk to find out more about how IAM RoadSmart can help with fleet and work training.

XE37/270 (OL)‡* 36270ltr 000112370 £1459.00 £1750.80 SE46C270‡ 40270Ltr 000114905 £2199.00

LUTON, LU4 8JS 01582 728063

MAIDSTONE, ME15 6HE 01622 769572 MC CENTRAL, M8 8DU 0161 241 1851

OPENSHAW, M11 1AA 0161 223 8376 MANSFIELD, NG19 7AR 01623 622160 MIDDLESBROUGH, TS17 6BZ 01642

LN5 8HG 01522 543036 LIVERPOOL, L3 5NF 0151 709 4484 LONDON CATFORD, SE6 3ND 0208 695 5684 LONDON EDM'TON, N18 020 0208 803 0861 LONDON LEYTON, E10 7EB 0208 558 8284

As technologies advance the future is now…

The automotive industry is undergoing a technological transformation, and this will have an impact on the aftermarket.

Nissens Automotive knows the writing is on the wall and is developing and preparing for the future as car manufacturers are in the process of investing heavily in new technologies.

Basically, there are two main technology streams that will, eventually, also affect the international aftermarket and Nissens Automotive. As a result, the technological transformation of the automotive industry is being studied closely.

A Nissens Automotive spokesperson said: “Currently, the automotive industry focuses their investments in two areas. One, they are looking into replacing traditional diesel- and petrol-driven cars with EVs or hybrids.

“This trend is getting more and more visible in the global car parc, where more and more EVs and hybrids are getting on the roads, although the share of traditional cars is still by far higher.

“Two, they are developing and launching electrical components for their car models, such as turbochargers with electrical actuators, electrical water pumps.

“This transition is already well underway. To Nissens, both streams are crucial. Although the aftermarket is

traditionally three-to-five years behind in launch mode, when it comes to new technologies, we will not stand a chance, if we do not develop with the industry.”

Just as the car manufacturers make business critical decisions in their industry and businesses now, Nissens is doing the same.

Studies show that numbers of traditional cars will continue to grow until 2027-2030.

From 2030, cars with new technologies will drive the growth, but traditional cars will still play a significant role.

However, right now, the NOx requirements and the European Vehicle Emissions Standards drive the significant investments in the electrification of components in existing cars.

We see that the electrification of components take place in each of the three product categories that Nissens works with: EC, AC and efficiency and emissions.

We are ramping up significantly in our R&D and technology department to ensure the right competences and knowhow needed to develop electrical components for our different product categories.

We are also working with leading experts and partners to ensure the right capabilities within high voltages systems, software design and LIN/CAN protocols to develop the best product range for customers.

Development also brings about opportunities. When we developed our product strategy, we made an in-depth analysis of the new drivetrains and trends coming from the leading OE car manufacturers, and we quickly found out that the amount of components requiring thermal management in these EV models is significant.

This means that there is a market for Nissens, but only if we grow and develop with the market.

Although, when it comes to the means of vehicle propulsion, the landscape is changing from combustion engine technology to electric solutions, the fact remains that the mainstay of the service and repair work undertaken in the typical workshop for at least the next 15 years, will be on petrol and diesel vehicles.

With this in mind, but also being sympathetic to the environmental reasons for the shift towards EVs, independents have a responsibility to ensure that the diesel cars they service are running to their optimum efficiency.

An efficient diesel engine relies on the many elements within the system working in unison, which means that in addition to the obvious things like the correct valve timing and fuel injection, exhaust gas recirculation and sensor operation, the performance of the turbo and thermal management, for example, need also to be considered.

TExpansion offers a breath of fresh air

Summertime boost for genuine air and cabin filters brands

PS, supplier of Volkswagen Group approved genuine parts to the independent motor trade, has boosted its range of filters with the largest ever selection available to its customer network.

The current VW range offers a comprehensive selection of air, cabin, fuel and oil filters and with them the benefits and quality reassurance that comes with all approved genuine parts.

The filters range has been further boosted by the launch of ‘Brands at TPS’. Arriving this summer, Brands at TPS will see an expansion of the range of products available through its 83 UK centres — by partnering with industryleading third-party brands renowned for producing high-quality mechanical parts.

In the initial phase, six well-known aftermarket brands will be introduced into the TPS product family. They include Bosch and Mahle, who will both make their range of filtration products available to TPS customers.

As with all genuine products, the TPS genuine filters range is manufactured to the highest quality standards and in accordance with VW’s Formula Q quality assurance system.

Designed to fit first time, they help save time and money in the workshop and are identical in quality to the parts used in new vehicle production. They are designed to high quality, made with

premium materials that ensure a high degree of servicing reliability and come with a warranty.

Along with quality assurance, there are many benefits to using genuine air and cabin filters. These include performance, both in terms of cabin comfort and engine efficiency, air quality, and increased protection and longer service life.

Premium materials ensure high degree of servicing reliability and come with a warranty

Genuine air filters are engineered for reliable performance, their uniform air flow characteristics, a high retention capacity, and an ability to precisely regulate air flow resistance.

They are perfectly adapted to their respective engines as they are set up to interact with other engine components to supply a particulate-free, precisely measured air-fuel mixture. This helps guarantee maximum engine performance and fuel efficiency, while complying with strict emissions requirements.

The high-grade moisture resistant filter paper and flame-retardant materials used in production help to ensure a longer service life. This also contributes to driving comfort by dampening air intake sounds and ensuring proper noise protection during journeys.

Genuine cabin filters offer a high degree of safety and occupant protection by feeding only clean fresh air into the vehicle. They also reduce the likelihood of window fogging.

They achieve this by removing nearly 100% of pollen spores and contaminant particles from the filtered air, helping in turn to reduce allergy symptoms and enhance the wellbeing of occupants in the vehicle.

In addition, due to a large filtering surface and an optimised folding technique, genuine cabin filters are particularly resistant to high and low temperatures, humidity and chemical agents, resulting in an increased service life.

Furthermore, the high-grade activated carbon in the filters converts harmful ozone almost completely into oxygen, making for a cleaner and fresher cabin environment and more enjoyable journeys.

Visit https://tps.trade/ for more information on the complete TPS genuine air and cabin filters range.

GSF launches Lucas compressors

GSF Car Parts has announced that it will now stock Lucas-branded aircon compressors, adding to its expanding range of premium remanufactured products.

Ahead of the summer season, which sees an increase in demand, GSF will stock the Lucas air-con compressors range initially with 335 SKUs for a wide range of passenger car and LCV applications.

This number will eventually rise to 500 SKUs to cover more than 85% of the UK car parc.

Lucas has a 40-year history of producing remanufactured air conditioner compressor systems for the European

market. Every part is remanufactured from OE cores and are extensively tested to ensure they match the same manufacturer standard.

Critical components such as rubber seals, washers,

bearings, direct clutch, and O-rings are replaced with brand new OE-equivalents. Furthermore, an installation guide, including a link to a video tutorial, is included in the box to give workshop professionals extra support.

Each unit is backed by a three-year or 36,000-mile warranty, giving motorists and garages peace of mind and assurance of quality.

Viral Modha, senior business manager for GSF Car Parts, said: “We have launched Lucas aircon compressors to coincide with the seasonal demand for air conditioning servicing and repairs.

“Through GSF, workshops have access to an extensive range at great prices from one of the industry’s most respected brands.”

GSF is the No.1 supplier of Lucas products in the UK, with a line-up that already includes the brand’s starter motors, alternators, turbo chargers, diesel fuel injectors and diesel pumps.

Simplifying the busy AC season

Among the seasonal tasks facing the typical workshop is the service and repair of aircon systems, as owners find they have problems when they switch on and expect a rush of cool, fresh air, only to be greeted with a lukewarm and stale smelling one!

To maintain a going concern, workshops need to have a broad range of skills and knowledge to service and repair vehicles. However, partly due to its traditional seasonality, which means it’s not a daily job, and also due to its inherent complexity, working on an AC system can often be a challenge.

Fortunately, workshops are not left to flounder as AVA, part of the Nissens Group, is on hand with its Clever Fit concept to help simplify work for technicians.

AVA has directly addressed one of the primary irritations for those that

actually have to fit replacement parts, namely to have at hand all of the related components needed in a single box.

Although an AC system comprises many important components, the condenser is one of the most critical and needs to be checked regularly and carefully.

The condenser is relatively fragile, and its position at the front of the vehicle exposes it to harsh conditions,

Top tips for technicians

New for this summer, Nissens Automotive has released the most important AC service and diagnostics procedures in a 10-point checklist post for workshops.

Basic function check: Measuring the air temperature at the air vents in the cabin using a thermometer. A healthy system should generate 5-10°C / 4050°F at an ambient temperature of 15-30°C / 60-90°F.

Visual inspection: Before considering a complex repair and possible invisible problems, this initial control focuses

on the visible, and it is highly efficient initial troubleshooting. It is often disregarded, but it can quickly reveal the root cause of severe malfunctions. System charge/static pressures: Check the system is charged correctly. The correct refrigerant charge is a key requirement for the optimal operation of the system and the health of the components.

Operating pressures: This is one of the critical test procedures that reveals typical system failures, including malfunctioning key

such as de-icing salts used in the winter, which can quickly lead to corrosion. Furthermore, mechanical damage from careless service, insects, dust and other debris, can limit the condenser’s heat exchange performance.

Even if the part seems to be okay and is still partially working, a condenser in poor condition can lead to costly system failure.

components and clogging.

Operating temperatures:

Temperature based component diagnostics is one of the basic methods for troubleshooting the system as it is easy, reliable and costeffective. Depending on the pressure side where AC loop components are located, each element has a nominal range of temperatures in which it operates properly.

Loop inner cleanliness & flushing: The AC system must be clinically clean inside the loop to perform correctly.

DENSO warns on fakes

Counterfeit products are a problem in many industries, but when they are fitted to a car, the dangers they pose can be amplified, particularly when it comes to driver comfort features, such as the air conditioning system

Due to the central role that the AC compressor plays, it is often described as the heart of the AC system, which means it must operate correctly, and if it needs to be replaced, only a like for like unit is acceptable.

However, how do technicians fitting a DENSO compressor know that the part really is genuine and of the highest quality and not a counterfeit product?

In response, the brand is highlighting

several of the features that technicians need to be aware of to ensure they are fitting a genuine replacement.

Using real world examples, DENSO stresses that although counterfeits might be supplied in the traditional blue boxes, that is where most of the similarities to the genuine products can end

DENSO’s products are naturally well-engineered but are also uniform in their fixings. One of the most obvious signs that the component could be counterfeit, is a lack of consistency when it comes to the fixings used on the unit.

Using one example, the genuine compressor relies upon 8mm

Refrigerants and lubricants work at high temperatures and pressures, and components with precise mechanisms require cleanliness for optimal operation.

Electrical components: The system consists of input collecting and signal generating sensors for performance control or protection. So, inspect for malfunctions within the electricity system and electrically driven AC components.

Components replacement: Even if some of the components in the system demonstrate an apparent malfunction,

hexagonal flanged bolts for its assembly, whereas the counterfeit product uses a variety of different fixings – hexagonal and Allen bolts, neither with flanges.

Furthermore, as shown in the photos, DENSO compressors also usually use Torx bolts for securing the inlet and outlet caps used to protect the ports pre-fitment, but the counterfeit product uses Allen bolts.

Labelling is another area that provides clues to the unit’s authenticity. Things to look out for are the consistency of design, font size and appearance. For example, does the labelling match the layout and style of other DENSO products?

never skip thorough and methodical diagnostics, before their replacement. This will help to eliminate the root causes of malfunction.

Leaks & tightness: Tight joints within the system are necessary to maintain the correct charge and its efficient operation. Besides lower system performance and refrigerant losses, leaks expose other system components and the AC compressor to premature wear. So, leak detection is of the highest priority when servicing or repairing.

System charge: Pulling a vacuum

is a crucial service procedure. If pulled correctly, it removes possible moisture from the system and reveals its tightness, preparing and facilitating the charge of the refrigerant into the system. Recommended time and pressure - 60 minutes ( by ambient temp > 25°C / 77°F), 90 minutes (by ambient temp < 25°C / 77°F), 29.5 in.Hg/-14,2 psi/ -0,98 bar or deeper. When charging the system, use only refrigerants and additives approved for automotive climate systems and strictly observe the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.

Mounting bolts discharge manifold are always 8mm flange bolts

Allen mounting bolts are used for the discharge manifold

Time to tool up for the season ahead

Jefferson Tools’ spring-summer campaign focuses on cleaning, cooling and cutting

As the weather warms and workloads ramp up, Jefferson Tools — a leading supplier across the UK and Ireland — is showcasing its latest Tool Up products.

The latest edition of the Northern Ireland-based tools brochure is all about helping workshop professionals and others gear up for a productive spring and summer, with standout offers on everything from pressure washers and portable air conditioning units to powerful cut-off saws and precision-engineered TCT blades.

At its core, the new Tool Up offers are a focused response to the needs of workers in hot, high-demand environments — whether it’s clearing a yard, prepping equipment, cutting through heavy steel, or simply staying cool while doing it.

One of the latest standout features is the selection of pressure washers. Designed for both domestic and industrial cleaning tasks, models range from the compact 150 BAR electric washer — ideal for light-duty use around smaller sites — to the petrol-powered 13HP washer, which boasts a maximum pressure of 3200psi and a flow rate of 21 litres per minute.

With electric start, thermal protection, a 20-metre steel-braided hose and a gun pressure rated to 5000psi, it’s a powerful option for the

dirtiest jobs in the toughest conditions. Every detail has been considered to ensure the machines are ready for realworld use.

Cooling is another major theme in this 12th edition of Tool Up, with the firm’s range of portable air conditioning units and high-velocity drum fans offering welcome relief for workshop and garage environments where airflow matters.

The 4-in-1 air conditioner delivers both cooling and heating with a 12,000 BTU/hr output, along with a softtouch LED panel, remote control, and energy-efficient R290 refrigerant.

Meanwhile, the 18” and 20” drum fans — running at speeds of up to 1,354rpm — ensure fresh air is always on tap, whether in a paint shop, loading bay or factory floor.

Cutting tasks are equally well catered for, with the 14” cut-off saw featured prominently. It has a 2,480W motor, adjustable clamping angles and a spindle-lock

mechanism for fast, safe blade changes, making it ideal for professionals working with box section, steel pipe, angle iron and bar.

Also included are discounted TCT blades from the MAKO PRO range. Available in 7”, 9”, 10” and 12” diameters, they come with bushings for compatibility across a range of saw types and offer hardened durability for accurate, consistent cutting.

While not compatible with the Jefferson cut-off saws, they provide excellent value

for tradespeople seeking precise performance on other machines.

Darren Binns, national sales manager at Jefferson Tools, said: “These are well-thoughtout offers, based on what our customers are genuinely working on right now.

“We’re focused on helping tradespeople stay productive in the heat, clean up properly after a job, and get the right kit for serious cutting and fabrication. This is all about delivering the right tools at the right time.”

Adding even more value to this edition is a new Jefferson Tools competition, offering the chance to win one of three Spring Cleaning Bundles worth over £300 each. Entry is free. Simply scan the QR code inside the brochure before the competition closes on August 31. The prize draw takes place on September 1.

Elsewhere, the latest Tool Up includes greatvalue bundles for welders and mechanics, with kit combinations featuring autodarkening helmets, TIG gloves and ARC inverter welders.

Impact socket sets, airline hoses and digital tyre inflators round out the edition, making it a useful guide for anyone equipping a van, garage or mobile repair service.

See Jefferson’s online brochure at www. jeffersontools.com or pick up a copy of Tool Up 12 from any Jefferson Tools stockist.

Products and tips for

As temperatures rise, automotive refinishing becomes more challenging. High heat can impact everything from product performance to application results.

To help refinishers maintain top-quality results through the summer months, Sherwin-Williams has compiled some essential tips and practices to keep your finishes flawless and your shop efficient, even in the hottest conditions.

Choose the right hardener and thinner

One of the most critical steps in summer refinishing is selecting the correct hardener and thinner based on ambient temperature. Slow hardeners and thinners are specifically formulated for higher temperatures, allowing for proper flow and levelling without rushing the cure process.

However, consistency is key. If you opt for a slower hardener, always pair it with the matching thinner. Mixing mismatched components can lead to gloss retention issues or undesirable surface imperfections. Be sure to consult the product’s technical data sheet (TDS) if unsure.

Minimise thinner use in clear coats

When working with clear coats in high heat, it’s best to use the minimum amount of thinner permitted by the mixing ratio. Excessive thinner, especially in hot conditions, can cause the clear

coat to dry too quickly, leading to dry spray or poor flow. Staying within the lower range of the TDS-specified ratio helps to maintain better control and finish quality.

Avoid direct sunlight on products

Never store paint products, thinners, or hardeners in direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and UV rays can change a product’s viscosity and chemical balance, affecting its performance. Always keep materials in a cool, shaded storage area, ideally within the temperature range specified by the manufacturer.

Also, remember to replace the lid on hardeners as soon as possible after pouring.

Cool down spray booth between jobs

Spray booth temperatures can rise significantly after each job, especially during back-to-back work in the summer. Cooling down the booth between cycles is essential to avoid carry-over heat affecting the next application. Overheated panels can make it difficult for the paint to stay wet, leading to uneven finishes or dry spray.

Use larger nozzle at high temperatures

In hotter environments, switching to the largest nozzle setup recommended in the TDS can make a noticeable difference. A larger nozzle allows for greater material output, which helps the paint remain wet

on the surface and improves coverage. This is especially important for basecoats and clear coats where a consistent, wet film is crucial.

Use an anti-static cleaner for final wipes

Summer heat often comes with dry, dusty conditions. Static charges on panels can attract fine dirt and debris, compromising the finish. Using an antistatic cleaner as a final wipe reduces the attraction of dust and results in a cleaner, more professional outcome.

Mix per layer for larger repairs

For larger repairs in high temperatures, we recommend mixing product per layer rather than preparing a full batch. Heat accelerates curing, shortening pot life and changing viscosity mid-application. By mixing fresh product for each coat, you maintain the correct consistency and avoid issues like clumping, uneven coverage, or product waste.

Sherwin-Williams offers a full range of temperature-appropriate products and expert support, no matter the season.

Visit www.sherwin-williams.com for details.

Ambassador Ant steps up for garages

How garage owner Ant Jhally, a familiar face to the aftermarket, is now working to champion the whole sector in cooperation with LKQ

Ant is already well known to fellow industry professionals, not least through his popular social media video posts.

By his own admission, nothing is sugar coated and his perspectives of the aftermarket are a hit as he ‘tells it like it is’.

But now the established influencer intends to raise the profile of garages to new heights after being named as LKQ Brand Ambassador for the UK and Ireland. He took up the post earlier this year, but he told Aftermarket magazine that he’s still “just a bloke that fixes cars” at heart.

“I’m just a mechanic,” Ant said — sitting down for an interview about his new role just 20 minutes after completing an MOT.

“I still run an independent garage. I’d say we’re a reasonably sized, normal garage but on steroids! Instead of having two ramps, we’ve got 15.”

On his ambassadorial role, Ant says: “I’m working with them not for them — but it’s great to be dealing with a company who we already have a lot to do with.

“As AAK we buy a lot of their parts, we use a lot of their training and buy their equipment. Now I’m acting as a kind of mediator, feeding back the ideas and practical things needed by

everyday garages.

“LKQ is a massive company but, ultimately, it sells car parts. Bringing the two together — our platform as an independent garage and a high footfall with their massive operation — means we can tackle challenges effectively, whether that’s stock or training.”

Ant said the everyday issues he encounters means he can discuss them with LKQ and Euro Car Parts for the benefit of other garages.

AAK started off as many garages do. Ant’s dad was a good mechanic who gradually managed to set up

his own, rented unit. “He was 11 when he opened AAK, then called AAK Tyres.”

If the young Ant wanted to see his dad, the best place for a catch-up was always at work. That’s where he saw the struggles of starting a small company and the work required to become an independent.

“All the jobs you take on have to get done, but just because you’re a good mechanic doesn’t mean you know how to do all the other things that are needed in running a business.

“I stood there when he was working on cars, holding

the light, and listened how he dealt with customers. In fact, the garage was closer to my school than our house, so when I finished, I usually went to the garage and got a lift home from there. It was quicker than walking!”

Over time, the garage grew by several additional units. Today, all 10 units are on the same industrial estate in Whitstable.

From AAK Tyres to AAK Auto Services to AAK Autos the brand is now simply ‘AAK’. And now the business is bigger it’s been split into specific areas of competence. “Whatever needs to be done on a car can be done here.

“We’re big on teamwork which is needed in dealing with cars that have become more complicated,” Ant said. AAK was also an early investor in EV tech, which Ant said was the right thing to do.

But it’s still very much a family-run business. “I’m there on the tools, mom does the paperwork and my dad still comes in and does things.” There is also another father-and-son mechanic team working in the business.”

Ant said one of the keys to business success is selecting the right team member for specific jobs that they enjoy doing and through which they thrive.

AAK has 17 staff at present and its own training

Ant with Andy Hamilton, president and executive MD LKQ Europe, and Ellen Plumer, head of awareness and experience at Ben.

programme, through which it also shares LKQ training, and staff are encouraged to discuss their goals.

“The LKQ Academy helps massively, and they are listening to ideas we send them.”

Talking about issues affective garages was how Ant started with social media about 18 months ago. “There are so many cool things happening with independent garages that I was talking to people about – then I thought better to put stuff out there. I personalise it as a normal garage man and that’s how I approach things.”

On the future of the industry, Ant said it’s important to remain positive.

“If we keep talking negatively about skills gaps and so on then it will feel negative.

“There are so many cool things about cars that people like. No one is getting into the business to make money — they are doing it because they like cars. It’s a vocation.

So, it’s important to look after, invest in and nurture staff and to give them a good workplace.”

Ant said AAK is always reinvesting in the business.

“If the garage earns £1,000 that’s for the garage. Then if we need new equipment or to invest that in staff, that’s what we do. You need to do that because if you don’t

have the best people to work on the cars, you don’t have a business.

“I’ve got really good technicians and we deal with a lot of breakdown services. We know money is tight, but our customers also appreciate dealing with familiar faces who can talk them through what work needs to be done now to

avoid a potentially bigger bill later.

“We also now have a third front-of-house person to help that process and spend time with customers discussing work that might be needed and why.”

He is also always keen to put his garage’s skills to the test. The former Top Garage winner said: “If there is an award out there we’ve won it at some point, I like challenging ourselves with those competitions.”

“But there are a lot of cars on the road and the ratios in terms of garages is good, so if you’re doing a good job there are enough cars out there for your business to survive.

“And, with LKQ, I hope I can represent the average garage and help us all grow our businesses.

“I’m just someone who fixes cars, but we now have the ear of the biggest aftermarket seller in the UK if not in Europe. It’s not been done before and it’s definitely something special.”

Showtime curtain falls after another busy year

This automotive jamboree is always the industry equivalent of a child being let loose in the proverbial sweet shop. So much to see and plenty of products and tempting technical innovations on display!

Here is just a snapshot of activities from the three-day event held in June — which rounds off Aftermarket’s extensive pre-show coverage.

ALLDATA Europe put the spotlight on the next generation of automotive professionals and its launch of support across Europe offering colleges direct access to the same OEM repair data used in professional workshops.

The firm also hosted live demonstrations focusing on diagnostics, repair accuracy and skill-building, bringing its commitment to education to life on the show floor.

Auto3iii’s commitment to turn ‘potential into profit’ for workshops helped to generate a wave of new interest with workshops exploring the full potential of the firm’s electronic vehicle health check solution.

The system delivers mileage-based predictive maintenance and intuitive digital reporting, all backed by proprietary AI trained on more than 250 million vehicle part images — with data collected from over 9,000 workshops and 100,000 health checks daily.

Brembo showcased its

entire range of replacement solutions segmented into five product families: Brembo Essential, Prime, Beyond, Extra and Upgrade.

Brembo said its carbon ceramic material brake discs are now available in its aftermarket portfolio. Offered as standard or optional on the market’s leading supercars, the exclusive disc is now available as a spare part.

Matt Cleevely, founder of Cleevely EV, drew crowds to the Workshop Hub where he urged independent garages to take practical, proactive steps to make the most of the EV market.

He shared the story of how his family-run garage transformed into a nationally recognised EV service centre by committing early to electric. Cleevely covered everything from setting up a basic EV service operation to scaling up mobile support.

Delphi UK & Nordics technical services manager Luke Garratt welcomed a fantastic turnout for a snapshot training session on Tesla service and maintenance and praised

Philip Mitchell for his presentation.

Meanwhile, Duckhams announced its new directto-market approach in the UK and Ireland, with new distributor partnerships for workshops and retail outlets.

CEO Mike Bewsey said the recent investment by entrepreneur Zuber Issa signalled continued strong confidence in the 125-yearold brand.

Bewsey talked to workshop owners about the brand’s range of products for passenger cars, from the iconic QXR oils for modern cars to the Duckhams Classic oils range.

For the first time in the UK, HELLA showcased its braking range, featuring OEquality pads, discs, calipers, drums, shoes, and cylinders,

engineered for durability and performance, and is complemented by HELLA electronics, including brakeby-wire pedals and ABS sensors.

With 6,000 parts currently available in the UK and plans to expand beyond 9,000, the brand combines competitive pricing with full ECE R90 approval.

The brand also announced its official return to thermal management, with plans for an initial range of 1,200 OEquality air conditioning and engine cooling components, set to grow to 6,000 by 2027.

Niterra MD Marko Wowczyna reflected on the firm’s 50 years of business, noting that the show was a celebration for its Niterra UK, NGK Ignition Parts and NTK Vehicle Electronics brands, as well as the company charts

At a glance…

The show delivered over 150 hours of free training, live demonstrations and thoughtleadership sessions;

More than 15,000 visitors welcomed over the course of the show;

Over 550 exhibitors, with more than 150 garages and bodyshops represented, in addition to five content hubs and over five feature areas.

Henry Bisson: Ring

the course for the future.

NGK Spark Plugs motorsport ambassador Charlie Martin make a special guest appearance, as did ambassador Max Coates.

Ring and its parent company OSRAM took part in a Workshop Hub seminar, with its experts discussing vehicle lighting and the impact of glare on the roads.

Henry Bisson, marketing director at Ring, said: “Lighting is a hot topic at the minute as there’s a lot of misunderstanding around dazzling light and the cause of this.”

Bisson said the seminar tackled the problem head on and gave technicians the

details needed to discuss the topic with customers.

Supertracker launched its next-generation spacesaving, tablet-controlled CCD aligner. “This launch is all about listening to our customers and delivering a smarter, faster and more flexible alignment solution tailored for the modern workshop,” said Andrew Bates, Managing Director of Straightset.

“By reducing the footprint of the system and integrating a handheld tablet for readings right at the vehicle, we’re offering a space-saving and convenient option, without compromising on accuracy or performance.”

Thinkcar UK said it had record interest at this year’s show, thanks to live tool demonstrations and a clutch of exclusive offers.

The diagnostics specialist showcased its most extensive line up to date, led by popular models such as the Thinktool Expert 391, Euro Max, and

Awards time for winners

There was also an opportunity to acknowledge industry’s finest at the Automechanika Birmingham Garage Awards 2025, hosted by the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation.

Comedian Stephen K Amos was the special guest speaker at the event, for which the headline sponsor was LKQ Euro Car Parts, on the second evening of the show.

This year’s winners were:

Garage of the Year – Oldfields Garage. Highly commended: Ferdotti Motor Services.

Multi-site Garage of the Year – EAC Telford. H/C: Tustain Motors.

Best Single-Site Garage – Markhams Garage. H/C: Atkinson Autotech.

Best Community Initiative – Hillclimb Garage. H/C: AG Motors.

Best Marketing Award – Mini Repair Shop. H/C: Cleevely Motors.

Best Customer Service Award – James Price Garage. H/C: Mouths Motor Company.

Auto-Mechanik of the Year – Edd Hunt. H/C: Anthony Jhally.

Content Creator of the Year – Marvelous Lara. H/C: Louise Baker.

Young Mechanik of the Year – finalists: Cody Price, Josh Ross, Remo Virgilio, Stewart McIlwraith, Thomas-Jay Davies.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Bryan Swales (Bryan Swales Auto Repairs); Steve Heath (Moseley Autocentre).

Euro 399, alongside new EVfocused solutions including the Master CE EVD and BoltOn EV Kit.

Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS) welcomed workshop owners and representatives from across the industry o discuss the complexities of the lubricants market and its work to protect workshops and end users by investigating and resolving product complaints.

Charman of Trading Standards-backed VLS,

Harald Oosting, said: “Workshops face many challenges. Economic pressures are hitting garages and fleet operators hard. Workshops are trying to save money wherever possible by reducing ranges while maximising the number of specifications claimed. However, using cheaper, poorer quality oils or ones that do not meet the correct specification risks the protection needed for owners’ vehicles.”

Simon

Aworkshops need to welcome next generation professionals

the skills

Driving change to welcome next generation of professionals Driving change to welcome next generation of professionals

King, CEO of specialist automotive industry employment and training consultancy Autotech Group, on securing

sk any garage owner what their biggest operational challenge is in 2025, and most will say the same thing: finding — and keeping — skilled vehicle technicians.

We’re in the middle of a workforce crunch. Vehicles are becoming more complex, yet garages are struggling to recruit and retain the people with the right skills to keep up.

Recent research supports this concern. A nationwide Autotech Recruit survey found that 70% of vehicle technicians are considering leaving their current roles — some for new jobs, some for selfemployment, and others for a different industry altogether.

From a workshop perspective, this isn’t a future issue — it’s happening now. Recruitment and retention are no longer separate challenges. They’re two sides of the same coin, and solving one means rethinking both.

Back potential, not just experience

Many workshops are still hunting for the perfect technician: fully qualified,

Progression and skill-building top motivators for younger technicians

years of experience, ready to hit the ground running. The truth is, that person is increasingly hard to find — and holding out for them could be costing businesses more than they think.

It’s time to back potential. Newly qualified technicians are entering the trade with strong technical knowledge but little hands-on workplace experience. They don’t need years of training — just a few weeks of real support to get up to speed.

This is where garages can make a real difference. Mentoring a new technician and giving them the confidence to apply what they’ve learned can be the

difference between losing and retaining future talent. These individuals are ready to work; they just need a path. Interestingly, the survey revealed that progression and skill-building are top motivators for younger technicians. Yet, without a visible route to grow, frustration can quickly build. Garages that offer structured support will find themselves ahead of the curve when it comes to attracting and retaining this generation.

Retention: growth and culture matter

Keeping hold of good people isn’t just about wages - though being competitive certainly helps. More often, technicians leave because they feel stuck, undervalued, or underutilised. Retention starts with development. Are your staff learning? Are they being challenged? Are there opportunities to step up, grow, and take on more responsibility? Whether it’s EV training, ADAS systems, or developing leadership skills, clear development plans show your team they have a future with you.

Workplace culture also plays a major role. Respect, flexibility, and reducing unnecessary admin are surprisingly effective at keeping staff satisfied. The little things often make the biggest difference.

According to the survey, working hours are now the most important factor for technicians across all age groups — more than pay. Flexibility, fewer weekends, and better holiday allowances were consistently rated as top priorities. Garages willing to listen and adapt to these expectations are more likely to hold onto their workforce.

Reimagine workforce models for today’s reality

Long-term workforce planning is vital, but garages must also deal with immediate pressures. Skills shortages are leaving workshops underresourced, reducing capacity, delaying repairs, and impacting customer satisfaction.

Strategic use of temporary technicians can help fill gaps and keep operations running smoothly. It’s not about firefighting — it’s about building resilience. With every empty bay potentially costing thousands per month, using flexible labour to maintain productivity is often the smarter financial decision.

But this is also an opportunity to

rethink what the future workforce could look like. The pandemic permanently shifted workplace expectations. Today, many skilled professionals are looking for part-time roles, more autonomy, or seasonal work. Semi-retired technicians, for example, want to stay active but avoid full-time hours. Others seek a better work-life balance.

Embracing flexible working models and building long-term relationships with skilled, part-time professionals enables businesses to retain experience without long-term overhead, while establishing a more resilient staffing approach that addresses current pressures and future demands.

Technology can make a difference

Technology isn’t just about vehicle diagnostics anymore; it’s also becoming a tool for recruitment and retention.

For example, tools like assisted reality headsets allow technicians to access remote expert guidance or repair data hands-free. That not only improves efficiency but can reduce the pressure on less experienced staff and help them learn on the job.

Technology can also help retain older technicians in the industry for longer — as mentors or remote experts — and make life easier for neurodiverse workers or those who find paperwork

Assisted reality headsets enable real-time support and help upskill technicians in the flow of work

a barrier. Automating admin tasks can free them up to focus on what they’re great at: fixing cars.

Think ahead and act now

The best garages don’t just find good people, they build them. That requires a shift in mindset: from firefighting staffing problems to building a longterm workforce strategy.

Mentor the new, develop the experienced, plan for peaks and embrace a more flexible way of working. Because the workshops that thrive in the next decade will be the ones that don’t just adapt to vehicle technology — but to the changing needs of the people who work on them.

On the move

Our round-up of the latest industry appointments. Send your people and recruitment news to the editor: john@aftermarket.co.uk

O’Neill joins BM Catalysts’ marketing team

BM Catalysts has bolstered its marketing team with the appointment of Joe O’Neill as marketing executive.

O’Neill will help shape and deliver marketing strategies

that promote BM Catalysts’ range of hot end emissions products and services.

BM said his responsibilities will include campaign execution and content development to performance monitoring and collaboration.

leadership appointments

Amanda Webb and Isaac Hughes have been confirmed as CEO and chief product & technology officer (CPTO) respectively of WhoCanFixMyCar, the company behind the FixMyCar platform.

The appointments follow a period during which the pair held the posts on an interim basis.

Webb (pictured), who joined WhoCanFixMyCar as CFO in April 2024, is a CIMAqualified finance director with over 20 years of experience across sectors including renewable energy services, telco, professional services, software and financial services.

She took over as interim CEO in August of that year, leading the transformation of

the business and growth of its B2C car repairs platform FixMyCar.

Hughes took on the position of interim CPTO in November 2024 and has since led the transformation of the brand’s technical infrastructure and key product improvements for driver, garage and B2B customers.

Hughes has almost 10 years of product leadership experience across B2B, B2C SaaS and e-commerce sectors.

WhoCanFixMyCar’s parent company, Niterra, formally known as NGK Spark Plug, acquired the UK business in June 2023.

He will also play a major part in event planning.

O’Neill, who has a background in journalism and event marketing, said:

“I’m excited to play a part in pushing the business forward as it embraces the opportunities brought about by the ageing vehicle parc by continuing to be Europe’s leading provider of hot end emissions solutions.”

Andrew named CEO of NTDA

The National Tyre Distributors Association has announced the appointment of Ian Andrew as its new CEO.

Andrew joined the NTDA in June and will succeed Stefan Hay, who will leave in July following a handover period. Andrew brings with him vast experience in membership, business development, training, qualifications and governance, having also held several key roles at the Chartered Management Institute.

He is an association professional of nearly 20 years’ standing and was most recently CEO at the Derby-based British Pest Control Association. Prior to that, he was governance and

partnerships director at the Beech Centre in East Yorkshire, responsible for securing government approval to set up the new Institute for Organisational Development.

Andrew said: “My intention is to work closely with members and key partners to ensure that, as a sector, we continue to develop confidence and trust in NTDA members for the professional management of tyres, ensuring we develop better qualified tyre technicians and promote their expertise alongside the highest levels of motorist and tyre safety.”

O’Neill joins BM Catalysts’ marketing team

European automotive distribution software company Nextlane has appointed Bobby Brown as chief customer officer.

Nextlane said Brown, who took up the post in April, has more than 25 years of leadership in customer

success, global operations, and post-sales strategy.

He was most recently global VP of customer experience at Bird (formerly MessageBird) and he was a also a founding team member of Google News.

In his new post, Brown will

focus on scaling Nextlane’s post-sales organisation to deliver consistent, repeatable, and first-class customer experiences across Europe and beyond, the company said.

CEO Hartmut Wagner said: “His leadership will help

us deliver even greater value to our customers and strengthen our position as the preferred digital partner for the automotive industry.”

Joseph O’Neill

Amanda Webb

Ian Andrew

Bobby Brown

To ensure your company name is “in the mix” when customers are looking to buy, contact: angela@aftermarket.co.uk for details of the promotional packages available.

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