NEWS Garages are seeing access to data and repair and maintenance information (RMI) become increasingly restricted, according to ongoing research from UK AFCAR. The coalition which includes sector trade associations the GEA, IAAF, NTDA and UKLA among others, has asked independent garages to record and report any restrictions they face. Marques that keep coming up include Mazda, Hyundai, BMW, Audi, Range Rover, Porsche, Citroen, Bentley, ALFA ROMEO, Mercedes, Peugeot and Vauxhall. One garage was unable to access a Hyundai online service record, meaning they could not record servicing or repair work. Another had difficulty finding information to update a Citroen vehicle’s digital service records, and this problem was never solved. The same issue was described on a Mazda CX-5. Mark Field, UK AFCAR Chairman and IAAF CEO said: “The findings have confirmed what we already knew; Independent garages are being locked out of repair and maintenance activities by some vehicle manufacturers. It’s imperative that the independent aftermarket works on a level playing field – as detailed in legislation – and can provide drivers with an effective choice of where they take their vehicle to be repaired or serviced, and it’s clear that as it stands, this is not the case in a number of instances." Mark added: “We encourage technicians to continue to come forward so we can continue to collate solid evidence and lobby the government to ensure this ongoing issue is resolved and the aftermarket remains protected.” To log an issue with access to data or RMI, please use the UK AFCAR report form: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/UKAFCAR 4 AFTERMARKET APRIL 2023 www.aftermarketonline.net Access to data: Independents increasingly shut out UK MVBEO: Make motorists aware of their rights, IGA urges With vehicles increasingly able to direct drivers to VMpreferred service points, motorists will need to be made much more aware that via the upcoming UK Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MVBEO) they will be free to choose where they get their vehicle repaired, the IGA has warned. IGA Chief Executive Stuart James observed: “While the draft MVBEO legislation strengthens many areas of the existing MVBER, there are several areas which could be detrimental to consumers unless further clarifications are made. “Of particular concern is the lack of requirement for in-vehicle messaging to inform customers that they have an alternative solution for servicing via an independent operator. We would also like to see a requirement for authorised repairers to make it clear to consumers that they can choose who services, maintains and repairs their vehicle without invalidating its warranty.” Another major concern is access to information for repairers, as Stuart noted: “In addition, the MVBEO makes no reference to a mechanism for independent operators to access security related information for repairs. Whilst we understand access to such sensitive information needs an element of control, it is vital that there is a recognised system in place for vetted businesses or individuals to provide these services to consumers to ensure fair competition and timely access to vehicle repairs.” He added: “As the voice of the UK’s independent garage sector, the IGA has responded to the MVBEO technical consultation with a comprehensive set of recommendations and will continue to provide feedback at every step to ensure that the MVBEO safeguards freedom of choice and fair competition for UK motorists.” For more information, visit: www.gov.uk/government/consultations/draft-order-thecompetition-act-1998-motor-vehicle-agreements-block-exe mption-order-2023-mvbeo
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